Ljubljana
A romantic tale.
The town square has a statue of France Preseren, a writer and poet, famous now but not so much when he was alive. He was in love with a wealthy merchants’ daughter so naturally it could not be. After the couple died, the towns folk erected a statue of their now famous author and a smaller one of the girl who just happened to be called Juliet, facing him from her house across the square so he could look longingly at her for eternity.
It is known throughout Europe and beyond that rubbing a statues particular parts gives you luck. It appears that Slovenians needs a lot of luck.
Ljubljana is a picturesque town with a relatively small population. An artistic hub with fantastic sculptures both old and new.
The only place in Ljubljana that was empty was the area that houses all the museums, perhaps because the art is on the streets. Otherwise it is a thriving place filled with history, cafes and beautiful bridges. Not to forget the kranjska sausage that Slovenia and Croatia take the credit for. Always thought it was the Polish Kransky.
Lake Bled
Grizzly name, gorgeous place.
The church stands high up on the little island in the middle of the lake. Ninety nine steps gets you there.
It is tradition that if the groom can carry his bride up the 99 steps before his legs give way, then ring the bell and make a wish inside the church, his marriage will be a long and fruitful one. Sounds exhausting before the marriage even begins!
There is a castle on the mainland that is 11th century and the lake looks like you can scoop up the colour of it in your hands. In the Winter, the mountains and island are covered in snow and it becomes a very popular and expensive ski resort.
Little row boats called Pietna take you around the lake. No motorised craft to ruin the ambiance!
Vintgar Gorge was another lovely stop which wasn’t on the agenda but our fantastic driver took us there as a treat.
The trip back from Lake Bled to Zagreb took about 2 ½ hours including the border stop.
Slovenians are very proud of their Prosciutto as it is cured by the wind called Bora that carries the salt in from the sea giving it a unique flavour and then………they put it on chocolate along with figs and a bay leaf thrown in.
Who would have thought!
Two Travelling Bags 