Slovenia Lakes, Mountains & Sea Horse Riding Holiday
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7 Nights From: GBP £3,692 pp sharing
Head Out On A Slovenian Horse Riding Adventure
Ride from the peaks of the Julian Alps to Slovenia’s Mediterranean trails, discovering Lake Bled, Triglav National Park and the heritage of the Lipizzaner horse.
This eight-day horse riding holiday in Slovenia offers a fantastic way to experience one of Europe’s most varied destinations from the saddle. Ride from the shores of Lake Bled and the peaks of the Julian Alps to the Mediterranean countryside, combining great riding with local culture, food and some of Slovenia’s most famous sights. It is ideal for confident intermediate to experienced riders looking for a small-group riding holiday with plenty of time both in and out of the saddle.
The journey begins around Lake Bled, riding through forests, meadows and traditional villages with the Julian Alps providing an impressive backdrop. You’ll also explore Triglav National Park and the beautiful Lake Bohinj before heading south, where the scenery changes to rolling hills, vineyards, forests and Mediterranean trails. Along the way, there is plenty to experience beyond the saddle, including a traditional Pletna boat trip, Bled Castle, Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and the lively capital of Ljubljana.
A visit to Lipica Stud Farm is a particular highlight. The historic estate is the birthplace of the famous Lipizzaner horse, offering an opportunity to learn more about Slovenia’s long-standing equestrian traditions. Optional experiences include riding Lipizzaner horses, wine tasting and a mushroom and medicinal herb foraging experience, adding plenty of variety to the riding itinerary.
Riding ranges from around two to six hours a day, with opportunities for longer canters, making this a rewarding and fun European riding holiday. With groups limited to 10 guests, carefully selected accommodation and a good balance of horseback riding, sightseeing and local experiences, it is an excellent choice for riders wanting to explore Slovenia in a more active and personal way.
Quick Facts
Location:
Julian Alps & Adriatic Coast, Slovenia
Airport:
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Ljubljana)
Month:
April – October
Duration:
7 Nights
Group Size:
Min 2 / Max 10
Riding Level:
Intermediate Plus & Above
Weight Limit:
105kg / 231lbs
Accommodation:
Hotel, Local Guesthouses
Solo Traveller Friendly:
Great for solo travellers who are willing to share. A single supplement applies if you prefer your own room.
AN IDEA ON WHAT TO EXPECT
This itinerary is designed as a guide rather than a fixed schedule, and daily routes, riding times and activities may vary depending on weather, ground conditions and local opportunities. Trails are chosen each day to make the most of the conditions, so a little flexibility helps ensure you get the best possible riding experience.
Welcome to the beautiful Lake Bled region, one of Slovenia’s most iconic destinations and a wonderful introduction to your riding holiday.
After settling into your accommodation, enjoy a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride around the lake, taking in the spectacular Alpine scenery. Following lunch and a taste of the famous Bled Cream Cake, it’s time to meet your horse and head out on your first ride. Spend around two hours exploring the countryside surrounding Bled, riding through forests, meadows and traditional villages while getting to know your horse and fellow riders.
This evening, enjoy a traditional Slovenian dinner in the medieval town of Radovljica, where you can discover the region’s rich heritage of beekeeping and gingerbread craftsmanship. Overnight in Bled.
After breakfast, head out for another ride through the picturesque countryside surrounding Bled. Enjoy a relaxed morning in the saddle as you continue getting to know your horse and take in the scenery of the Slovenian countryside.
This afternoon, explore the legendary Lake Bled. Visit the iconic Bled Castle, perched high above the lake, and enjoy panoramic views across the emerald waters, island church and surrounding mountain peaks. Dinner is served overlooking the Alpine landscape before returning to your accommodation. Overnight in Bled or the Pokljuka region.
After breakfast, enjoy a longer ride through the rolling countryside and forest trails of the Bled region. Later, board a traditional Pletna boat and cross Lake Bled to visit the famous island church. According to local tradition, ringing the wishing bell is said to bring good fortune.
Continue to nearby Lake Bohinj and deeper into Triglav National Park, where towering peaks, pristine forests, alpine meadows and crystal-clear waters provide a spectacular backdrop to the day. Enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by Slovenia’s beautiful mountain scenery. Overnight in Bled or the Pokljuka region.
After breakfast, guests looking for a different perspective on Slovenia may choose to join an optional foraging excursion with Dr Fungi, learning about medicinal herbs, wild mushrooms and traditional forest knowledge.
Then, travel south towards Slovenia’s Mediterranean region, where the landscape begins to change from Alpine peaks and forests to rolling hills, vineyards, ancient villages and dramatic viewpoints. Enjoy time in the saddle exploring a varied network of trails, with routes selected according to local conditions and opportunities. This lesser-visited side of Slovenia offers a wonderful insight into the country’s rural traditions and diverse landscapes. Dinner and overnight in the Mediterranean region.
Spend another rewarding day exploring Slovenia’s Mediterranean countryside on horseback. Ride through landscapes shaped by centuries of farming traditions, local culture and a deep-rooted equestrian heritage, enjoying a different side of the country from the Alpine scenery of the earlier days.
Later this afternoon, continue to Lipica, the birthplace of the world-famous Lipizzaner horse. Settle into Hotel Maestoso, located within the historic Lipica estate, before enjoying dinner. Overnight in Lipica.
Today is dedicated to one of Europe’s most celebrated horse breeds. Explore the historic Lipica Stud Farm and discover the fascinating history of the Lipizzaner, whose heritage stretches back more than 400 years. Visit the stables, learn about the breeding programme and gain an insight into the traditions that have made these horses famous around the world.
Guests wishing to enjoy additional activities can choose from optional experiences including riding Lipizzaners, wine tasting or an excursion to the Adriatic coast. Later, continue to Slovenia’s vibrant capital, Ljubljana. Overnight in Ljubljana.
After breakfast, visit the spectacular Postojna Cave, one of Europe’s largest and most impressive cave systems. Continue to nearby Predjama Castle, dramatically built into the mouth of a towering cliff and steeped in local legend.
Later, explore the natural beauty of the Ljubljana Marshes and scenic Iški Vintgar Gorge, a peaceful area of forests, walking trails and crystal-clear waters. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner and reflect on a memorable journey through Slovenia’s diverse landscapes, rich culture and remarkable equestrian heritage. Overnight in Ljubljana.
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and some free time to explore Ljubljana’s charming Old Town, browse the local markets or enjoy a final coffee beside the river. Depart with wonderful memories of Slovenia, from the shores of Lake Bled and the Julian Alps to the Mediterranean countryside, Lipica’s famous horses and the historic capital of Ljubljana. Depending on your onward travel arrangements, transfer to Ljubljana Airport or continue your journey through Slovenia and beyond.
ACTIVITIES ON THE SLOVENIA LAKES, MOUNTAINS & SEA RIDING HOLIDAY
Here are some of the unforgettable activities you can do while on the Lakes, Mountains & Sea Riding Holiday in Slovenia
HORSES & TACK ON THE SLOVENIA LAKES, MOUNTAINS & SEA RIDING HOLIDAY
THE HORSES
Slovenia’s diverse landscapes call for surefooted, experienced horses that are comfortable navigating everything from alpine trails and forest tracks to gentler routes towards the Adriatic coast. As this is a multi location riding holiday, you may ride different locally based horses in different regions, giving you the opportunity to experience Slovenia’s varied equestrian traditions while allowing each horse to work within terrain it knows well. The horses are carefully selected according to their temperament, fitness, experience and suitability for the day’s terrain and pace. Where possible, you are matched with a horse that suits your riding experience, confidence, height and weight, helping you feel comfortable and secure in the saddle.
THE TACK
The tack is selected with the comfort and wellbeing of both horse and rider in mind. Saddles are checked for correct fit and condition, with equipment chosen appropriately for each individual horse and the demands of the terrain. This is particularly important on a journey that takes you through such varied landscapes, where riding conditions can change from mountain trails and forest paths to more open countryside. Tack is kept clean and well maintained, with saddles and other equipment regularly inspected to ensure they remain comfortable and secure. Horses may be barefoot or shod depending on the individual horse, the terrain and their workload, while hoof care is carried out regularly to support soundness throughout the riding programme.
GET INSPIRED TO RIDE THE SLOVENIA LAKES, MOUNTAINS & SEA RIDING HOLIDAY
RATES & DATES
Open from April to October each year, with Sunday to Sunday departures throughout the season. Exact dates and availability vary, so early booking is recommended as groups are limited to ten riders and popular departures can fill quickly.
2027 SEASON:
Available April – October 2027, Sunday to Sunday departures
Example departures:
04 – 11 April 2027
02 – 09 May 2027
06 – 13 June 2027
7 Nights From: GBP £3,692 per person sharing + transfers
Note: Departures run Sunday to Sunday throughout the season. Exact dates are confirmed on enquiry.
2028 SEASON:
Not yet released, please enquire for details.
Single Supplement if not willing to share From: GBP £558 for the duration of the trip
Suggested gratuity for the Tour Director: GBP £21 – GBP £26 per guest per day
TRANSFERS
Airport transfers are not included in the rate. Fly into Ljubljana as the nearest international airport, from where a short transfer runs to the Lake Bled region to start the ride. Exact transfer details and costs are sent on confirmation of the booking.
Arriving a day early is recommended, allowing time to explore Ljubljana’s Old Town before the ride begins. This additional night is at your own expense
WHERE YOU'LL STAY ON THE SLOVENIA LAKES, MOUNTAINS & SEA RIDING HOLIDAY
LAKE BLED
The first nights are spent in the Lake Bled area, with comfortable accommodation offering a relaxed base for exploring the region. Rooms are simply furnished with private bathrooms, while the surrounding Julian Alps and beautiful lake scenery provide a memorable setting. Breakfast is included, with relaxed evenings to unwind after a day in the saddle.
POKLJUKA & TRIGLAV REGION
Depending on the departure, a night or two may be spent in the Pokljuka and Triglav region. Accommodation is typically in welcoming local properties surrounded by alpine scenery, forests and meadows, offering a peaceful setting and a taste of traditional Slovenian hospitality. Expect comfortable rooms, hearty local food and a relaxed atmosphere.
MEDITERRANEAN REGION
As the itinerary moves south, accommodation changes to welcoming local properties in Slovenia’s Mediterranean region. Comfortable rooms and a relaxed setting provide a good base for exploring this quieter part of the country, with vineyards, karst villages and rolling hills replacing the Alpine scenery of the first few days.
HOTEL MAESTOSO, LIPICA
Set within the historic Lipica estate, Hotel Maestoso offers a comfortable base in the birthplace of the famous Lipizzaner horse. Rooms are spacious and well appointed, with private bathrooms, while the hotel also has a restaurant, bar and swimming pool. Staying within the historic estate adds a special equestrian element to this part of the journey.
LJUBLJANA
The final two nights are spent in Ljubljana, staying in a centrally located hotel close to the Old Town and riverside cafés. Comfortable rooms provide a relaxing base for discovering the city on foot, with plenty of time to explore the historic centre, browse the local shops and enjoy the atmosphere before your journey comes to an end.
THE DESTINATION
LAKE BLED
Lake Bled lies in north-western Slovenia, at the foot of the Julian Alps and close to Triglav National Park. This beautiful glacial lake is home to Slovenia’s only island, crowned by a historic church, while Bled Castle sits dramatically above the water on a rocky cliff. Traditional Pletna boats have carried visitors to the island for centuries, adding to the area’s timeless character. Beyond the lake, forests, meadows and traditional villages create a peaceful setting for exploring this scenic corner of Slovenia.
TRIGLAV NATIONAL PARK
Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park and covers much of the Julian Alps, including Mount Triglav, the country’s highest peak at 2,864 metres. The park is characterised by alpine meadows, dense spruce and beech forests, glacial valleys and clear mountain waters, with Lake Bohinj and the emerald Soča River among its highlights. Protected for more than a century, it is a remarkable area of unspoilt landscapes and some of Slovenia’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
LIPICA & THE KARST
Lipica lies on Slovenia’s Karst plateau in the south-west of the country, close to both the Adriatic coast and the Italian border. Founded in 1580, the historic Lipica Stud Farm is the original home of the famous Lipizzaner breed and remains closely linked to its long equestrian heritage. Beyond the estate, the Karst landscape is shaped by limestone, oak woodland, stone villages, vineyards and an extensive network of underground caves. The region’s distinctive red soil and dry climate also make it an important wine-producing area, with several well-known local varieties.
LJUBLJANA
Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and main transport hub, set along the Ljubljanica River between the Alps and the Adriatic. Its compact Old Town is largely car-free, with elegant Baroque buildings, lively riverside markets and distinctive bridges designed by renowned Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. Rising above the city is Ljubljana Castle, offering views across the rooftops and surrounding landscape. Beyond the city, highlights such as Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and the Ljubljana Marshes are all within easy reach.
HORSE CARE & WELFARE IN SLOVENIA
Our horseback adventures are carefully selected not only for the quality of the riding experience, but also for the care and wellbeing of the horses. Slovenia’s multi-location riding journeys work with trusted local horse owners and equestrian partners, allowing guests to experience different horses, landscapes and riding traditions while ensuring that the welfare of the horses always comes first:
- Horses are regularly groomed, observed and checked for injuries, soreness or any changes in their general wellbeing.
- Feeding and nutrition are adapted to each individual horse according to its age, condition, workload and specific requirements, with regular access to forage, pasture or hay.
- Horses receive regular rest days and adequate recovery time between longer rides and multi-day programmes.
- Wherever possible, horses enjoy turnout and social contact with other horses, allowing for natural movement and herd interaction.
- Hooves are professionally maintained on a regular schedule. Horses may be barefoot or shod depending on the individual horse, terrain and workload.
- Saddles and other riding equipment are regularly checked for correct fit, comfort and condition.
- Tack is kept clean and well maintained, with equipment selected appropriately for each individual horse.
- Horses are selected for each ride according to their temperament, fitness, experience and suitability for the terrain and expected pace.
- Riders are matched with suitable horses according to their riding experience, confidence, height and weight whenever possible.
- Routes, pace and riding duration may be adapted according to weather, terrain, ground conditions and the wellbeing of the horses.
- On our multi-location journeys, different locally based horses are used in different regions. This means that the same horses are not required to travel with guests or complete the entire journey from the Alps to the Adriatic.
- Our local horses know their home terrain well, helping us provide both a safer riding experience and a more natural, sustainable workload for the horses.
- The wellbeing of the horse always takes priority over following a fixed itinerary, distance or riding pace.
Please get in touch if you have any more questions about horse care
Slovenia Lakes, Mountains & Sea Horse Riding Holiday
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