Savouring Slovenia: A Culinary and Wine Journey Through the Heart of Europe
Join The Adventurous Ewe’s, women only, small group tour in October 2025, visiting stunning Slovenia, a land of rolling hills, alpine peaks, and sun-drenched vineyards. Slovenia remains one of Europe’s most delightful secrets. Nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, this small yet diverse country offers an extraordinary culinary and wine experience.
Every region tells a different story, woven with tradition, local ingredients, and the warmth of Slovenian hospitality. Whether wandering through bustling markets, dining in a centuries-old gostilna, or sipping wine on a sunlit terrace, travellers will find themselves immersed in flavours that are deeply rooted in history and terroir.
To truly understand Slovenian cuisine, one must explore the country’s varied landscapes. In the northwest, the Julian Alps frame postcard-perfect villages where hearty mountain fare warms both body and soul.
A dish of štruklji, delicate rolled dumplings filled with cottage cheese, nuts, or fruit, provides a comforting taste of tradition. Kranjska klobasa, the celebrated Carniolan sausage, is a rustic delight, best enjoyed with tangy sauerkraut and a dollop of strong mustard.
Further south, the Adriatic coastline whispers of Mediterranean influences. In the Venetian-style town of Piran, the scent of freshly grilled seafood drifts through narrow alleyways. Here, the prized Piran sea salt, harvested from centuries-old salt pans, enhances the natural sweetness of local fish, mussels, and squid. A simple yet exquisite plate of buzara-style mussels—bathed in white wine, garlic, and parsley—is a true taste of the sea.
Venturing inland to the Karst region, the air changes, carrying the scent of dry-cured pršut, Slovenia’s answer to prosciutto. Aged in the powerful burja wind, this delicacy develops a depth of flavour that pairs perfectly with a glass of deep, ruby-red Teran wine.
The Karst’s rugged terrain also yields an unexpected treasure: rich, earthy stews like jota, where sauerkraut, beans, and potatoes come together in a symphony of simple yet robust flavours.
In the far northeast, where Slovenia brushes against Hungary and Austria, the landscape softens into rolling hills and sunflower fields. Here, Prekmurska gibanica reigns as the region’s crowning dessert—layer upon layer of poppy seeds, walnuts, apples, and cottage cheese wrapped in delicate pastry. This indulgent treat, best enjoyed with a cup of strong black coffee, tells a tale of Slovenian resilience and culinary ingenuity.
But the true soul of Slovenia’s gastronomy is found in its wines. With a viticultural history stretching back over 2,400 years, Slovenia’s wine culture is as rich as its landscapes. In the Podravje region, nestled along the Drava River, aromatic white wines flourish—Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and the indigenous Šipon offer a crisp elegance that reflects the cool climate. The town of Maribor is home to the world’s oldest vine, a living testament to the country’s enduring winemaking heritage.
In the Primorska region, where rolling hills extend into Italy, winemaking is an art form. The Vipava Valley surprises with little-known yet remarkable varieties like Zelen and Pinela, while the Goriška Brda region rivals Tuscany with its golden Rebula wines. Meanwhile, the iron-rich soil of the Karst produces the bold, full-bodied Teran, a wine so deeply connected to the land that each sip feels like a journey through time.
Wine lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice, whether tasting at intimate family-run wineries or celebrating at Slovenia’s vibrant wine festivals. St. Martin’s Day in November marks the transformation of grape juice into young wine, a joyful occasion filled with feasting and music. Maribor’s Old Vine Festival in September honours Slovenia’s ancient viticultural roots with tastings and cultural events that bring the community together.
Slovenia’s culinary excellence has not gone unnoticed. The country’s commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients has earned international acclaim, culminating in its recognition as the European Region of Gastronomy in 2021.
Restaurants such as Hiša Franko, led by the world-renowned chef Ana Roš, have elevated Slovenian cuisine to new heights, blending tradition with innovation in unforgettable tasting menus. Michelin-starred establishments like Gostilna Pri Lojzetu and Vila Podvin continue to showcase the country’s dedication to quality, creativity, and authenticity.
For travellers who seek an immersive gastronomic adventure, Slovenia offers an experience that lingers long after the last bite or sip. From the rustic charm of alpine inns to sunlit vineyard terraces, every meal is a story, every glass of wine a reflection of the land. Slovenia is not just a destination—it’s a feast for the senses, waiting to be savoured, one delicious moment at a time.
Come join The Adventurous Ewe on our tour to Slovenia to experience this for yourself.