Stylish Ljubljana and mediaeval Motovun

A new five-night self-drive itinerary from specialist tour operator, Just Slovenia, combines two nights in Slovenia’s cosmopolitan capital, Ljubljana, with a trip to the Istrian region of Croatia, home to the highly esteemed white truffle, during the autumn/winter harvest. Visitors may even have the chance to witness specially trained dogs as they search for the precious gastronomic delicacy!

The trip begins at Ljubljana’s only boutique hotel, the stylish Antiq situated in a quiet square in the old quarter of the capital, conveniently located for the shops, restaurants and main sights at the bottom of the castle hill.

Exquisitely furnished and offering the highest standards of service and accommodation, the Antiq Hotel provides an excellent base from which to explore this compact city. Sights include a mediaeval castle offering panoramic views across Ljubljana, stunning architecture, museums, an art gallery, colourful fruit, veg, fish and flea markets, antique shops and boutiques, plus cosmopolitan pavement cafes and restaurants lining the pretty Ljubljanica River.

After two nights in Slovenia, visitors cross the border into Croatia where they may sample the distinct flavour of the prized white truffle in a variety of Istrian dishes, including fritaja, a traditional egg dish cooked with the wild ‘underground mushrooms’, and gnocchi filled with truffles and scampi.

During the whole of October, ‘Days of Truffles’ are held throughout the Mirna Valley, with tastings, truffle searches, fairs selling local produce, and exhibitions of the largest and most beautiful truffles.

Three nights are spent at the Hotel Kastel, once a 17th century palace, with stunning views from its vantage point high up in the mediaeval hill town of Motovun, which overlooks the River Mirna and Motovun Forest, home of the Istrian truffle.

Attractions include Venetian colonial architecture, the late-Renaissance St Stephen’s church, with its numerous works of art, plus Teran and Malvasia wines produced from grapes grown on the slopes below the town.

The price of £577 per person, based on two people travelling in October, includes flights from Gatwick to Ljubljana, airport transfers, five nights’ b&b accommodation and four days’ car hire.

For further information, visit Justslovenia.co.uk.