The adventure begins in Ljubljana, one of Europe’s smallest but most beautiful capital cities. Spend a couple of days exploring the picturesque streets and eating outside at one of the many bars and bistro’s lining the Ljubljanica river. Check out the famous 11th century Ljubljana Castle for some fantastic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Hire a car and head south-west along the E61 highway to Postojna, where you can view the magnificent caves that stretch so deep, a small train is required to ferry people deep into the caverns. Stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years provide an impressive display of nature’s craft. On the same day, it’s easily possible to visit the outstanding Predjama Castle, an 800-year old medieval marvel built into the side of a 123-metre cliff. The tales told on the walking tour are excellent. If you think the scenery you’ve seen so far has been wonderful, you haven’t seen anything yet. We’re going to Bovec, the adventure capital at the heart of the stunning Triglav National Park and on our way, we’ll stop at Kobarid. Take the pleasant walk along the River Soca and into the forest to discover the restored World War One bunkers before arriving at the charming waterfall,  Slap Kozjak.

Ah, Bovec. The small sleepy village from which I could easily spend weeks traversing the alpine trails and marvelling at the wonders of Mother Nature. Surrounded by the mighty mountains, it’s hard not to gaze in awe at the phenomenal landscape this country has been blessed with. Take the Kanin Cable car 2,202 metres high up Mount Prestreljenik for some incredible views, hike through the Great Soca Gorge or don your wetsuit to go white-water rafting. 

The journey from Bovec to Kranskja Gora is an experience itself as you climb the Vršič Pass up to 1,611m. The highest road in the Eastern Julian Alps, you’ll twist and wind along 50 hairpin turns, many of which have locations worth stopping for including the Russian Chapel, the Pagan Girl and the summit itself. If you’re in the passenger seat, there’s no need for a book or an iPad as the views are enough to keep you mesmerised for the entire journey. Visit the wonderful alpine town of Kranjska Gora before heading on down to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s premier attractions. Don’t rush straight there though. Leave early and stop off for the short 1.6km hike through Vintgar Gorge, one of the most magical locations I’ve ever had the pleasure to visit. Just 10 minutes drive from Bled, it’s well worth the time.

You’ve seen the pictures on Instagram and Pinterest. The wooden boat out on the lake in front of the island with the snow-capped mountains in the background. A picture of serenity. Not quite so, as Bled is a hugely popular destination in the summer for tourists from around the world. That’s no reason not to visit though; the lake is every bit as stunning as the pictures suggest. If you want the views to yourself and you’re willing to put in the effort to get them, set off early for the 20-minute hike up to Ojstrica Viewpoint. You won’t regret it. Otherwise, visit the castle high above the water, rent a boat for a few hours and relax.

The final stop before completing our circular route around north-west Slovenia is the pristine Lake Bohinj. Quieter than it’s more popular cousin, it offers a wealth of activities such as wake boarding, swimming and hiking. Head up into the hills on the Peč and Rudnica trail for amazing views of the lake and surrounding valleys.