Striking Slovenia blew me away. No matter how highly hyped Lake Bled is these days, nor how many Instagram photos I’d seen in advance, it didn’t underwhelm.

Destinations including Lake Bohinj, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle are also worth visiting. I spent almost a week in Ljubljana discovering the main attractions, hidden gems, food, wine and craft beer.

Central Slovenia feels distinct from Istria, the peninsular also home to parts of Croatia and Italy. If visiting, don’t miss Piran, my first destination in Slovenia and one of my favourites.

Fast facts

Capital city: Ljubljana

Currency: Euro (€)

Population: 2.1 million

Official languages: Slovenian