Travel Inspiration: Slovenia's sustainability stance

The first country in the world to have been declared a certified Green Destination, Slovenia prides itself on its sustainable ethos, seen through its pristine green environment and eco-initiatives. Below are some of Slovenia’s sustainable highlights that travellers to the country can experience.

Eco-friendly holiday ideas

Spend time on green beaches

Ensuring locals and future generations can enjoy a clear serene beach experience, numerous beaches in Slovenia focus on sustainability. The Grajsko Kopališče (Castle Bathing Site) in Lake Bled holds a Blue Flag certificate which guarantees clean water, whilst holding a Slovenia Green Beach certificate for its sustainable approaches. Here, travellers can experience the solitude of the crystal waters and take in the picturesque views Lake Bled has to offer.

Visit a green park

Triglav National Park Travel Inspiration Slovenias sustainability stance holidays 13 percent of Slovenia’s territory is protected including the only national park in the country, Triglav National Park, which is widely regarded as one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Europe. Encompassing the Julian Alps, the park stretches across the northeastern part of Slovenia and boasts both unspoiled beaches and serene lakes. On the other hand, Kozjansko Park, one of the oldest and most protected areas in the country, presents a mosaic of mountain ranges, hills and plains along the River Sotla. There's plenty of adventure to be explored in these beautifully reserved areas.

Explore Ljubljana on foot

Ljubljana Travel Inspiration Slovenias sustainability stance Proving its status as one of the greenest cities in Europe, Ljubljana is a car-free central zone. By introducing new technology, improving public spaces, and upgrading the bus network, the city received a greater increase in public transport use and sustainable activities such as walking and cycling. Must-visit sites in Ljubljana include the Odprta Kuhna – an open kitchen filled with authentic foods in Pogacar Square – and the many works of the beloved architect Jože Plečnik such as the Triple Bridge and the Central Market.

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine

Farm to table is highly regarded in Slovenia, with many restaurants having their own circle of local suppliers or even their own fields where they directly source ingredients for their dishes. At Atelje, located in one of the most prestigious Ljubljana hotels, Grand Hotel Union, Chef Jorg Zupan knows no limits. Finding inspiration in traditional Slovenian recipes, 90 percent of the food is prepared in-house from local ingredients, they make their own yoghurt, breads, and cheeses. Michelin-starred restaurant, Hiša Franko, buys from local producers, as well as having a highly sustainable wine menu, featuring mostly natural biodynamic wines. The Slovenia Green Cuisine label spotlights the restaurants, cafes and bars that put sustainability at the forefront of their cooking.

Impressive initiatives

Less Plastic, More Sustainability

Acting in line with the Global Tourism Plastic Initiative, Slovenia is encouraging all tourism businesses to eliminate problematic, single-use plastic by the end of 2022. Its ‘Less Plastic, More Sustainability’ initiative has seen restaurants, accommodation, travel agencies, tourist attractions and destination organisations sign an online commitment to eliminate unnecessary plastic packaging and start using reusable materials.

Promoting Zero Waste

Large quantities of waste posed a challenge for popular tourist destinations so nine Slovenian municipalities joined the Zero Waste Initiative to combat the issues. As a result, Ljubljana now recycles 68 percent of its waste, making it one of the top, green capitals in the world. Visitors can also see the Zero Waste Initiative in action at Hotel Ribno near Bled, the first Slovenian hotel to have obtained the title of a zero-waste property.

Where to stay

From city hotels to countryside and boutique stays, various accommodations in Slovenia boast sustainability labels for those travellers who care about being environmentally responsible.

For more information about Slovenia, visit www.slovenia.info