Family Adventure in Triglav National Park

A Day of Nature's Wonders and Human Feats

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of serene natural beauty and awe-inspiring human achievement. We explored the tranquil Zelenci Nature Reserve and felt the rush of adrenaline at the Planica Nordic Centre. It’s amazing how much variety this corner of Slovenia offers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Gostilna Metoja Božo Bradaškja s.p.. I had read some great reviews about their traditional Slovenian dishes, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The portions were generous, and the cozy atmosphere made it a delightful start to the day. I especially enjoyed the *jota*, a hearty sauerkraut soup, which the owner was kind enough to share the recipe for. It reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking back in Croatia, a comforting taste of home so far away. Greta and Marko enjoyed their schnitzels, setting the tone for our day of adventure. We made sure to have cash on hand, as they don't accept card payments.

With our bellies full, we drove to the Zelenci Nature Reserve. I had seen pictures of the emerald-green lake, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. The vibrant color of the water was mesmerizing, a stark contrast to the surrounding landscape. The reserve is located in the far northwestern corner of Slovenia, near the borders of Italy and Austria. The Sava Dolinka River originates here, its source bubbling up through the porous bottom of the lake.

We strolled along the wooden footbridges that crisscross the marshy terrain. Marko was fascinated by the diverse plant life, including carnivorous sundews. Greta, ever the observant kindergarten teacher, pointed out various bird species nesting in the area. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the sounds of nature. I took a moment to appreciate the tranquility, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Heidelberg. The reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, and serves as a Natura 2000 site.

The beauty of Zelenci lies not just in its vibrant colors, but in the serene sense of peace it instills in every visitor.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Zelenci, we drove to the Planica Nordic Centre.


Discover the ultimate alpine adventure at Planica Nordic Centre, where sports, scenery, and culture come together in Slovenia's breathtaking Julian Alps.

The contrast was striking. From a quiet nature reserve to a hub of athletic activity, it was like stepping into another world. Planica is renowned for its ski jumping hills, and I was eager to see them up close. The center has one ski flying hill, seven ski jumping hills, and a cross-country skiing track.

We explored the complex, marveling at the sheer scale of the ski jumps. Marko was wide-eyed, imagining himself soaring through the air like a ski jumper. I learned that Planica has a rich history, with numerous world records set at the venue. Toni Nieminen was the first person to jump over 200 meters here in 1994. The Nordic Centre is a training ground for young Slovenian athletes.

We visited the Planica Museum, which showcases the heritage of Slovenian Nordic skiing. Marko enjoyed the jump simulators, pretending to be a ski jumper. I found the exhibits on the technical development of the ski jumping hills fascinating. It’s amazing how much engineering and innovation goes into these structures. There is also a zip line at the centre.

For lunch, we stopped at Divja Jaga near Lake Bohinj.


Discover authentic Slovenian cuisine at Divja Jaga by Bohinj Lake, where every dish tells a story amidst stunning natural beauty.

This place had a reputation for fresh, local street food, and it didn't disappoint. I opted for a pork sandwich, while Greta and Marko enjoyed the chicken bowl. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the flavors were vibrant. The portions were generous, perfect after a morning of exploring. It was a good spot with a peaceful atmosphere.

In the late afternoon, we took a detour to Boutique Gooda Bled.


Discover unique fashion finds at Boutique Gooda Bled, where style meets the charm of Slovenia's enchanting Bled.

Greta wanted to check out their collection of fashionable apparel and accessories. The boutique had a charming atmosphere, showcasing local designers and international brands. Greta bought a beautiful scarf made from recycled materials, a perfect memento of our trip. The staff was friendly and helpful.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to our campsite, reflecting on our experiences. For dinner, we decided to try Gostilna Murka in Bled.


Experience authentic Slovenian cuisine at Gostilna Murka in beautiful Bled - a culinary gem with stunning views.

This restaurant is known for its traditional Slovenian dishes and cozy atmosphere. I ordered the mushroom soup, while Greta chose the sausage with apple sauce. Marko, of course, went for the *čevapčiči*, a Balkan classic. The food was hearty and delicious, the perfect way to end a day of adventure. The staff was friendly and the service was fast. Gostilna Murka has a rustic feel and offers traditional Slovenian dishes.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Laghi di Fusine and the Great Soča Gorge. I’m looking forward to more breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. It’s hard to believe our trip is coming to an end. I’m already planning our next family adventure, perhaps exploring the Croatian coast. Until then, *nasvidenje* from Triglav National Park!


Explore Triglav, Slovenia's highest peak, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Julian Alps with breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.

I'm starting to feel like I'm getting the hang of this travel blogging thing. It's a great way to document our adventures and share them with the world. Plus, it gives me an excuse to take lots of pictures, which Greta appreciates. She always says I have a good eye for detail, a skill I honed during my software engineering days. Speaking of which, I need to check my emails and make sure everything is running smoothly back at the office. Even on vacation, the responsibilities of a renewable energy specialist never truly cease.

As I sit here, the gentle sounds of the Slovenian night surround me, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share these experiences with my family. It's moments like these that make all the hard work worthwhile. And who knows, maybe Marko will be inspired to become a ski jumper or a nature conservationist. The possibilities are endless.

And it is with that thought that I am signing off for the night.