5 superb experiences in Skofja Loka, Slovenia

From Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, many different excursions await the tourist. Our first choice for a trip down Slovenia’s memory lane was Skofja Loka, the 1000 year old town that lies snugly in the confluence of two rivers. Considered one of the most beautifully preserved medieval towns in Slovenia, Skofja Loka provided many superb experiences. Look at Loka Castle, a remnant from the past Skofja is as picturesque as one could wish for and has deserved the names of “Gallery in Nature”, or “Bishop’s Meadow”.  Loka Castle was once the seat of the bishopdom. The two Dei Cappuccini bridges across the Sora River are the welcoming rendezvous and photographic points in Skofja. From here the elevated Loka Castle immediately catches the visitor’s eye. The tree-lined walk uphill rewarded us with wonderful views of the countryside and the city profile of old Slovenian red-tiled homesteads below. We spent some time at the castle museum to view its selection of medieval crafts and paintings, archaeological and ethnological displays. It gives a full overview of the country’s history, art and culture. Weddings held at this picturesque castle on Saturdays would be a bonus! Saunter through an ancient city The Old City is mainly for pedestrians and opens a window on the Slovenian architecture and history of ages gone by. As we entered throught he Old Town Gate, and strolled leisurely along the main cobblestone thoroughfare, we came aross an ancient drinking fountain (1881) and the pillar altar ,”The Mark of Mary” (1751) erected by inhabitants as protection against plagues and fires in olden days. Taste Slovenian delicatessen As it was a Saturday, we fortunately also came across a lively handicraft market with Slovenian handmade items and products. We bought some of the special Slovenian honey and cinnamon biscuits (carved designs in dough molds). In the centre of the old town, a massive old chestnut tree offered shade for pedestrians relaxing at the circular open-air coffee shop around its trunk. Mestni Trg  is the main ‘ lower’ square where we saw some old medieval homes, the town hall and a variety of old “vintage” and antique shops. Feel the spiritual vibe of Skofja We ventured inside the St Jakob’s church with its Bell Tower, to get a glimpse of the ornate black marble altar, chandeliers and ceiling paintings. This is where the Slovenian Passion Play is performed by over 600 local inhabitants over Easter. I still clearly remember the clock striking twelve as we sat there; it contributed much to the almost sacred ambience we felt in the heart of the old town. Relax in the countryside around Skofja From the ‘upper’ square in Skofja, a small tourist train departs to the areas surrounding the town. Row upon row of cultivated vineyards, lush green forests and wide open fields paint a beautiful environment around the town. At the well-located meeting point for visitors, sits the Vinotheka Lontrg, a small wine tasting boutique for the recommended selection of Slovenian wines – the perfect ending to a good day of sightseeing in Skofja. Celine Renaud is Head of Sales for Leo Trippi. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.