A Q&A with Nicole about her recent trip through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia with Guided by Nature. 

Slovenia may be small, but it’s packed with alpine peaks, turquoise rivers, and charming villages that make it a dream hiking destination. We caught up with Nicole, who recently joined a Guided by Nature journey through Slovenia, to hear what made the trip so special.

Q: What made you pick Slovenia as a hiking destination?

I’d actually looked at the walk before heading to the Dolomites – I always need to be planning the next adventure. On the Dolomites trip I met Viv, and we decided it would be fun to meet up again and hike together. The start date was also my birthday, so it was a sold deal – and what a fabulous birthday it turned out to be! The whole trip was an amazing gift to myself.
 

Q: What was your favourite moment (or three!)?

It was all amazing – such beautiful, ever-changing countryside. From the gorgeous city of Rovinj (what an absolute treat that little place was), to a fabulous Julian Alps hike, to the picture-perfect Soča Valley and a stunning hut-to-hut adventure.

If I really had to pick just one moment, it would be the afternoon walk out to the Blue Lake. It was spectacular – no one wanted to go back. It was just so peaceful and beautiful. 

Q: What was the yummiest thing you ate or drank?

The food was amazing. Being a gluten-free pescatarian, I sometimes struggle with food options in foreign countries – but in Slovenia, I was overwhelmed by the attention to detail. I never missed out, and everything was delicious.

The fancy dinners and surprise lunches were not only a treat, but also wonderfully tasty!

Q: Did anything surprise you about the journey?

Guided by Nature always surprises me with their attention to detail in every aspect of the journey. Our guide was fabulous – so knowledgeable about the area, and always ready to help, whether it was choosing meals or organising a tour when we had a free afternoon.

He really went above and beyond.

Q: How would you describe a group hiking journey to someone new?

It’s the best thing you will ever do. You’re so well looked after – all you have to do is show up and enjoy the gift you’ve given yourself. And there will be no regrets!

Q: Top tips for anyone considering hiking in Slovenia (and surrounds)?

• Go with Guided by Nature – that’s a no-brainer!
• Spend some extra time in Trieste.
• Don’t miss Piran, a gorgeous seaside town that’s not at all touristy.

Q: Where to next for you, Nicole?

I’m off on the Guided by Nature France trip in just six days – very excited! Then I’ve got some wonderful adventures planned for next year, one of which (of course) is with my favourite company, GBN xx

Inspired by Nicole’s journey? Explore upcoming Slovenia departures with Guided by Nature.

Photo credits: All photos taken by Nicole on her guided Slovenia hiking adventure in 2025.