The Julian's Log

Julians Log, Autumn in Slovenia

2009-11-27T04:12:00.000-08:00

THE JULIANS LOG

Twentieth Post

AUTUMN HOLIDAYS

Autumn is now well and truely here, with our first snow on the mountains. Slovenia remains as beautiful in the Autumn as in the other seasons and with clear blue skies, golden Larch and colourful Beech trees, the scenery has been stunning this Autumn….

FOCUS ON AUTUMN SCENES

Mojstrana sits nestled under awesone mountains and the view down from across the valley is stunning at the moment as in the photograph.

The mountains provide peaceful haven for walking. The locals are getting ready for winter and the carefully arranged wood piles are like spectacular sculptures in peoples gardens! If you are looking for a city buzz, then Ljubljana is a beautiful capital city with street cafes, bars and bustling markets. There are always art exhibitions and things to see in this prosperous city.

Nature is pretty at this time of year, with berries, fruit, flowers and fungi filling the land and trees.

The forests are a mixture of Larch and Beech, so the colours are amazing, especially set against the blue skies and limestone mountains.

Alternatively a trip to any of the Lakes, Bohinj, Bled or Fusini in Italy will not disappoint you, as the colours are reflected in the clear waters.

If you feel like a break before winter, visit our website and learn more about our apartment on www.mojstrana.co.uk

Next Blog focus: Ljubljana, Slovenia´s Capital City.

Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

2009-09-07T02:24:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Nineteenth Post

"SUMMER/AUTUMN HOLIDAYS”

There are still flowers in the meadows, but we have had the first snow up in the mountains and the mornings have that Autumnal chill now. There is still plenty of sun and blue skies and the nearby lakes of Bled and Bohinj offer great days out, at all times of year…

FOCUS ON LAKES BLED AND BOHINJ

Lake Bled is only a 20-30 minute car journey from us, or a superb 22km cycle ride through the pretty Radovna Valley. Bled has to be one of the most photographed and well-known destinations in Slovenia. It boasts Slovenia’s only island and is very picturesque. The island can be reached by boat, or, for the more adventurous, by swimming! There are always plenty of the traditional “Pletna” boats on the lake or you can row yourself.
The island has a beautiful approach of romantic steps, sweeping you up to the idyllic church, where you can toll the haunting bell.

From the island you can look back to the craggy rock face on which the castle proudly stands.

The castle is worth a visit…for the awesome view and the pretty ramparts, museum and wine cellar. There is also a Herbal Gallery, Printing works and several medieval events all worth visiting.

Bled lies nestled between the Karawanke and Julian Alps, so it’s setting is stunning and if you go up the small chairlift, the view of the Lake and it’s setting is awesome. In the summer you can make the journey back down on the summer toboggan or, in the winter, ski down. There are plenty of lake -side cafes and bars and places to sit, swim, and admire the unique scenery. The lakeside path takes you 6km round the lake, where you will pass joggers, roller bladders and horse- drawn carts…there is something for every one here.

A little further on the valley from Lake Bled, you come to Lake Bohinj. A circular tour of which is 11.5km. Bohinj sits in a glacial basin amidst the Julian Alps. It feels more serene than Bled, and with cloud or clear skies it has a magical and mysterious atmosphere with stunning reflections of the mountains in the lake.

At one end is the cable car to Vogel, providing magnificent views and experience either for summer walking or winter skiing.

The skies around Bohinj are often filled with paragliders in the summer and tandem jumps are available for a reasonable price.

As at Bled, there are many opportunities to travel by boat on Lake Bohinj, rowing or canoeing by yourself, or on the organised touring boat which crosses the lake regularly in season. The lake has many opportunities to land with the boat or simply to walk to and set up a picnic place for the day, on gravelly beaches with plenty of safe swimming for everyone. The water is so clear in the shallows that you can watch the fish swimming around you.

As you walk round Bohinj, you pass traditional, alpine houses and as you sunbathe on the beaches you can hear the sound of the tractor cutting the hay in the pastures. These are constant reminders of the unspoilt nature of Bohinj and the surrounding area.

The bars and cafes are subtle at Bohinj so you can sit and enjoy the unspoilt view across the lake.
At the end of the lake you can climb up to the Savica waterfall…. Which is spectacular most of the year round. Bohinj can also be a start/finish point for climbing Triglav and walking in the high mountains. There is also a climbing wall and high rope activity centre on one side of the lake, both of which are built in keeping with the surroundings and blend into the natural surroundings. As with Bled, there is something for everyone at this magnificent lake.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog will focus on AUTUMN SCENES.

Fishing Slovenia

2009-09-01T01:13:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Eighteenth Post

"SUMMER HOLIDAYS"

There are many opportunities for summer fishing in Slovenia. All waters can provide prolific catches, whether on Lakes Bled or Bohinj or the emerald rivers, where you can see the fish in the crystal clear water.

FOCUS ON SUMMER FISHING

LAKE FISHING
Lake Bohinj:

This is Slovenia’s largest, natural lake and Char can be caught fly fishing or by deep fishing from boats. For the casual fisherman or children, Chub and Perch can be caught from the bank. All you need is a locally bought license, which is 25€ per day.

Lake Bled:

This beautiful lake has Slovenia’s only island and is a stunning location to fish. You can fish for Pike, Perch, Zander, Lake Trout, Carp upto 20kg and Catfish. Licenses start at 13€ for one day.

RIVER FISHING:
The Sava Bohinjka:

This river is fed directly from Lake Bohinj and the water is rarely anything but crystal clear. It offers some of the best fly fishing for Trout and Grayling, upto 3-4lb, in Slovenia. Rainbow and Brown Trout can be caught to 5-6lb, or sometimes even bigger. The Rainbow Trout are generally stocked into the river for sport, but you may be lucky enough to catch some which have, unusually, bred in the river. The Sava Bohinjka is a fly fishing only river and licenses cost from 40€ per day.

Radovna River:

This is a beautifully clear river, flowing through incredible scenery. It is a small river and requires the real “J R Hartley” approach: stalking through the trees and undergrowth to try and surprise the flighty fish. It offers great fly fishing for Rainbow Trout and the aggressive Brook Trout. Licenses start from 39€ per day.

Soca River:

The Soca is an awesome mountain river flowing south towards the Adriatic Sea. The upper reaches around the Lepenica tributary, offers superb sport; fly fishing only for Rainbow, Brown and the rare Marble Trout. The largest Marble Trout was caught measuring around 4 feet long! However, a more realistic catch of all the trout, is about 2-5lb. Good sized Grayling can also be caught in the Soca, to around 2lb. Licenses start from 59€…not cheap, but worth every penny, as fishing the Soca is memorable, even if you have a “bad day”!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog will focus on Lakes Bled and Bohinj.

ACTIVITIES, SUMMER MOJSTRANA

2009-08-05T02:56:00.000-07:00

JULIAN'S LOG

Seventeenth post

"SUMMER HOLIDAYS"

Mojstrana is busy with tourists at the moment…hiking, sight seeing, cycling and enjoying the natural beauty of the Vrata Valley. Mojstrana and Dovje offer many activities and facilities on the doorstep…..you just need to know where to find them…

FOCUS ON FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES IN MOJSTRANA

Sport:
In the heart of the village nestles an idyllic tennis club, with three clay courts and great clubhouse. This is a stunning place to play, surrounded by the peace and tranquillity of the mountains.

As already described in previous blogs, the cycling in the area is extensive and if you can’t manage to bring your own bike, there is local bike hire in Dovje. www.juhej.net. Here you receive a warm, friendly welcome, often with an early morning schnapps, and well maintained and equipped bikes. There is also good bike hire at Sportpoint in Kranjska Gora.

For the more adventurous, there is quad bike hire here in Mojstrana.

Mojstrana is lucky enough to have a local sport and activity company, Kofler Sport, www.kofler-sport.si This is a reputable and local family run business, offering a variety of summer and winter activities: climbing, mountaineering, water activities, skiing, sledding.

Tourism:

Dovje and Mojstrana have an active and enthusiastic Tourist Board, the local tourism office has great local information and is well stocked with leaflets, maps and gifts. www.mojstrana.com They promote local accommodation, including the lovely campsite, camp Kamne, www.campingkamne.com and, of course, our own apartment which sleeps up to six, www.mojstrana.co.uk

In Dovje is a converted Blacksmith’s which is run as a community project, selling local produce, a perfect place for local food and gifts; www.pr-katr.dovje.net

For those seeking a more cultural experience, Mojstrana has a Museum of Alpine Life, and currently, an impressive, new museum is being built.

Food and Drink:
Again, Mojstrana has a variety of bars and places to eat. There is a relaxed atmosphere at Bar Time Out, and the Hot Chocolate there in winter is to die for! The Kot Pizzeria serves great Pizzas and Pr’ Zelezn’k, the local Tourist Farm provides excellent food, drink and views! Just down the road is Villa Rosa, offering an extensive menu. There are also the Aljazev Hram and Laika bars.

Tempted?….then come and visit us!!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog will focus on Summer Fishing

Summer Holidays..Wildlife

2009-07-18T00:18:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Sixteenth Post

“SUMMER HOLIDAYS”

Wherever you go in Slovenia, you are likely to see wild-life; at the coast, in cities or villages, by and in rivers and in the meadows. Here are just some descriptions and photos we have collected on walks and trips.

FOCUS ON WALKS AND WILDLIFE

There’s always a great variety of birds in the skies and woodlands. On walks in the mountains, one of the nicest sights is a group of Alpine Choughs appearing to literally play on the thermals and join you for your picnic.

We have seen Golden Eagles soaring regularly on the Slovenia/Austria border and above Lake Bohinj. In Tivoli Park in Ljubljana, you can see Hooded Crows proudly strutting their stuff!!

Over in the east of Slovenia, you know winter is over when the Storks return and nest in the man made platforms on telegraph poles, or chimneys.

In the damp conditions after the rain, it is common to see a Spotted Fire Salamander

and in ponds left after the snow in the mountains, we have been lucky enough to see the Alpine Newt.

In the summer heat, reptiles bask; lizards on the walls in Ljubljana
and a black form of Adder in scrubland in the mountains.

The summer time and flower filled meadows attract butterflies. There are many varieties of Fritillary and Blue and lots of Painted Ladies.

On Grancisce, just above Mojstrana there are always Swallowtails fluttering gracefully on the grassland at the summit in May. Some of the less common sightings have been of a Poplar or Summer Admiral, a Striped Hawkmoth and 9 Spotted Moth.

As for Mammals, in the mountains it is common to see Chamois and Ibex feeding or sleeping.

The squirrels are red but look almost black and are really quite difficult to photograph! Marmots live on grassy and rocky higher ground and their alarm call is more likely to be heard than a sighting, as they remain quite timid.
So far a bear has been elusive to us, but as the snow starts arriving in late Autumn, always look out for a Snow Cat!!
snowcat sculpted by Kevin Pegram
Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog will focus on facilities and activities in Mojstrana

Julian's Log. Summer Holidays

2009-07-09T01:17:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Fifteenth Post

"SUMMER HOLIDAYS"

Traditionally, every village has a “village day” called “Vaski dan” which appears to be organised by local groups; fire brigade or tourism group. The main aim is to have fun, the other name for the day being “Vesilica” which means “Festival”, deriving from the word “vesel”= “happy”

FOCUS ON....... VASKI DAN

In our valley, we have experienced the “Vaski dan” in the villages of Ratece, Podkoren and Dovje-Mojstrana. They are colourful times. The day in Ratece presents the most traditional activities, with presentations of music, dance, and local customs and crafts. It’s the first time I ever watched every part of the process of shearing a sheep right through to holding pair of socks knitted with it’s wool. All the participants wear full traditional costumes and in 28 degrees they have my admiration!

Dancing is a common theme at all Vaski dans. Podkoren presents a variety of music, with local groups ranging from Traditional to Rap. Generally the music is traditional folk music with dancing…which I have yet to learn but I am trying, and appear to be entertaining the locals in the process!

Of course, the other common factor is drink! Copious amounts of beer, schnapps and wine are consumed and the nights party on into the early hours.

If you happen to be in a Slovenian Village and you see adverts for a Vaski dan or Veselica, then go along and enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere and party with the locals!!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. The next Blog will return to walking and focus on: Walks and Wildlife.

2009-06-29T02:16:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Fourteenth Post

"SUMMER HOLIDAYS"

The summer meadows have now been cut and the grass is hanging over the traditional hay -racks to dry, so summer is really here. The treks and hikes in this week’s edition can all be achieved from our door, with no need for transport. They vary from valley walks to high level treks and the scenery, flora and fauna reflect the diversity of the terrain….

FOCUS ON HIKING AND TREKKING: FROM THE DOOR

Mojstrana is situated in the Vrata valley, so the most obvious and accessible walk is that up the length of the valley, about 16km each way if you want to do the whole walk! The majority is off road, along the banks of the river, with strategically placed benches and information boards. About half way is the Pericnik Waterfall, which has already been featured in previous Blogs and is well worth a detour up, or a walk to, in its own right. There are two falls, the lower and upper and you can walk behind either one and generally be rewarded with a refreshing shower and view into a cauldron of water, especially in the Spring with the snow melt.

Near the end of the valley is the Aljazev Dom, a beautiful example of a mountain dom and also a small chapel where services are held regularly in the summer. Here are many places to relax and gaze up at the awesome North face of Triglav.

Another 45 minutes walk takes you to the head of the valley, the snow line and amazing oasis of rock garden flowers and opportunity to see Ibex or Chamois.

On another day, you can extend the walk from the Dom, up into the higher mountains, up Stenar, at 2501 with a tremendous view back down the length of the Vrata valley and across to Triglav, or up to Luknja at 1758m, which is a natural watershed for our water, that flows eventually to the Danube, or down into the South side of the mountains and into the Adriatic. Of course, from Vrata you can ascend Triglav and there is a range of other high -level mountain tours from here.

On the other side of the road from us is the Karawanke mountain range and from the door there are easy and challenging routes. The best three are Kepa, 2139m, Dovska Baba, 1891m and Borovlje, 1476m. All have stunning scenery and views from the top on one side into Austria and the other, across to the Julian Alps and Triglav.

From the centre of Mojstrana, you can do a great “warm up walk” up Grancisce, 844m which provides a stunning view of the village and it orientates you to it’s location in the valley and in respect to the Alps. There are also walks up Sleme, 2077m and Jerebikovec, 1593m, both of which have lovely Planinas and history; with memorials to Partisans and reminders of the sadder days of war.

The local tourist board also marks 4 short, tourist walks around the village ensuring there is something for everyone!
The best guide-books for all the walks mentioned are:
-Cicerone Guide: “The Julian Alps of Slovenia” J. Carey and R.Clark
-“Walks and climbs around Dovje and Mojstrana A tourist Guide” Stanko Klinar

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog will take a break from walking for a week and focus on:

"VASKI DAN" A VILLAGE DAY

SPRING/SUMMER HOLIDAYS. TREKKING

2009-06-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Thirteenth Post

“SPRING/SUMMER HOLIDAYS”

Being located on the edge of the Triglav National Park, there is a wealth of hiking from our door. There are walks for all levels, but being situated at the start of the Vrata Valley, which leads to the North face of Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak at 2864m, suggests this is where I should start….

FOCUS ON HIKING AND TREKKING: TRIGLAV

At 2864m, Triglav stands imposingly in the Julian Alps and all Slovenes endeavour to summit out and experience the ritualistic lashing of your back- side with 3 ropes! It would be rude to live here and not reach the summit of this revered mountain.

There are many routes up Triglav, all are secured and require us to use via ferrata harness. A helmet is particularly necessary in the limestone environment. There are also climbing routes up the North Face.

The best time of year to ascend is between late June and September. This year, there is still snow up to 2000m, so ice axe and crampons are still necessary. The best times of day to top-out are early morning to lunch - time or in the evening, in order to avoid the potentially lethal electric storms which can unleash in the afternoon. There are small commemorative plaques lining the secured path that act as timely reminders to respect the power of nature.

There are several mountain doms/kocas providing food, lodging and entertainment, which help break up the trek and plan your ascent times. Breakfast at 5am and an early departure from the Kredarica Dom was an unforgettable experience!
The scenery, views, flora and fauna are stunning and constantly changing as you climb. One route passes through the Triglav Lakes Valley, where you take in seven beautiful lakes each providing endless photo opportunities.

The best rock garden ever is near the summit of Triglav and we were privileged to see magestic Ibex and more timid Chamois.

The weather conditions can change quickly and on one summit, Mark was lucky enough to experience a brocken spectre on the ridge, making the experience even more unique.

Maybe one of the best memories and experiences from the trek however is the camaraderie and respect for the beauty of the area that you experience from the Slovenians you meet on the route and in the Doms. Triglav is more than a trek; it is really a pilgrimage.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus will be on
MORE HIKING AND TREKKING

2009-06-07T02:32:00.000-07:00

JULIAN'S LOG

Twelfth Post

“SPRING HOLIDAYS”

“When sugar was hard to come by, there wasn’t a Slovene farm that didn’t keep bees alongside other domestic animals. Honey was the only sweetening agent and wax an indispensable material for making candles…”

FOCUS ON SLOVENIA, HONEY AND BEE KEEPING

Slovenia has a rich beekeeping tradition and the colourful beehives can be seen in many meadows and gardens. The Gray Bee, Carniolan Bee, has adapted to the alpine climate and is well known for its gentleness, hence the hives often being seen on peoples’ balconies. The home of Mihael Ambrozic is here in Mojstrana. He was one of the first exporters of this Gray bee and his property used to be home to thousands of bees, the walls of the house still have plaques depicting the export destinations.

The Bee Museum in Radovljica is excellent and presents the history of apiculture and current beekeeping in an interactive and interesting manner. Bees were kept in low wooden beehives and the museum has examples of old wooden logs that were used initially by farmers.
In the mid eighteenth century, a unique folk art of painting the beehive fronts with religious, funny or folklore tales began, and a range of such fronts can be seen at the museum and locally in Dovje.

Honey is an important food here in Slovenia. Slovene beekeepers collect 2000 tonnes of it annually. It can be seen for sale at many markets, and honey products are popular gifts for tourists to take home. The flower meadows and forests provide excellent foraging for the bees, which results in a variety of “pollen flavour” honeys: flower, fir and spruce, wild cherry, alongside propolis and Medica (honey liqueur)

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus will be on
HIKING AND TREKKING

Spring Holidays

2009-05-20T04:32:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Eleventh Post

"SPRING HOLIDAYS"

For those of you out there who enjoy activity breaks and holidays, Slovenia is definitely not just a one- season destination. The winter sports are fantastic, but the mountains, rivers and lakes lend themselves to all year round sports and activities. We are happy to help you organise your activities when you are here, if for a one/two week stay or just a long weekend. Here is just a summary of some of the activities on offer…….

FOCUS On……….ACTIVITY BREAKS

As you can see from the Ninth posting, our area is great for cycling. In Kranjska Gora there is also a downhill mountain bike course for adrenalin junkies. With the bikes, you are transported up the mountain by the summer chair lift, and then the rest is down to you!! You can race the "summer toboggan" down, which if you aren't up for the cycling, is a great blast down the mountain!!
A chairlift at each of Bled and Vogel also run in the summer, so high -level walking routes are accessible.

For walkers, there really is something for everyone, from low level flower filled pastures, to easy and more demanding high mountain summits. The mountain huts (doms or kocas) are now open until Autumn. They provide a welcome stop, where you can eat, drink and soak in the atmosphere and admire the views.

There are endless horse riding trails through the meadows and in the local area, with schools at Bled and Bohinj.
For water lovers, there are many lakes for swimming and now the fishing season is open, the rivers offer themselves to fishermen. The rafting on the Rivers Soca and Sava is popular and the rivers provide a variety of courses/levels to suit everyone.
If the sky is the limit for you, then locally in near Bled are opportunities to Parascend and Glide, where you can calmly look down upon the activities and life below in the mountains, rivers and lakes.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus will be on

SLOVENIA, HONEY AND BEE KEEPING

Spring Holidays

2009-05-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

THE JULIAN'S LOG

Tenth Post

"SPRING HOLIDAYS"

The end of April, beginning of May brings with it a holiday atmosphere in Slovenia. April 27th is a Public holiday, celebrating the Day of Uprising against Occupation in 1941 and is closely followed by May 1st and 2nd, Labour Day holidays. People celebrate with friends, family and have short holidays at home or at the sea.

FOCUS ON……….MAY DAY CELEBRATIONS

On April 30th, the night before May Day, bonfires are lit like beacons around Slovenia, to remind people of looting from the Turks, which happened for 2 centuries. When there was danger of an attack, the fires were lit as a signal.
The fire in Mojstrana was huge this year, helped by our apple tree prunings. However, as locals gathered and the schnopps and beer were flowing, the fire was very slow to burn due to the rain over the previous 5 days, it was probably at it’s best as we left at 11.30!
We celebrated May Day itself, by walking up above Mojstrana to Borovje, a small mountain nestling on the Karawanke mountain range. We’d only ever walked up once before in thick cloud in November and in the wooden summit box we had discovered a full bottle of Schnopps. We had vowed to return and replenish it’s stocks! The view was much clearer this time round and the birds and flowers were in abundance to remind us it was Spring. There was still a welcome bottle of schnopps at the summit, and we left some Orehovec, walnut schnapps, as promised. Our friend Roman and his band “The Party Kings” played live in our local pizzeria in the evening, so we danced the night away, just in case we hadn’t done enough exercise for one day!

On May 2nd, we went to Kranjska Gora. Here it is traditional for horse riders from Slovenia, Italy and Austria to meet and “ride beyond the borders” The horses and riders created a colourful scene in the centre of this pretty alpine village, with it’s craft market stalls and outside bars hosting a friendly family day.

So, all in all we have enjoyed our truly Slovenian May Day Celebrations

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus will be on
ACTIVITY BREAKS

Spring Holidays

2009-04-28T04:28:00.000-07:00

The Julian’s Log

Ninth Post

"SPRING HOLIDAYS"

With the snow melting down here in the valley, but still deep snow lying up in the high mountains, the best form of exercise and way to see the scenery at the moment is by bike. When we bought our bikes, I thought that mine wouldn’t be used too much, as I’ve never found a bike and a hill go together very well. However, there are many accessible and enjoyable routes from our apartment and many more for us to aim towards another time….including the 50 hairpin bends up and down the Vrsic Pass…

FOCUS On……….LOCAL CYCLE ROUTES

Mojstrana lies on the disused railway through Kranjska Gora and on to Tarvisio in Italy. With the aid of European funding, this has been converted into a fantastic 33km cycle path, taking in meadows, local villages and cycling under some of the biggest alpine peaks in the Julian Alps. One option is to cycle 12 km then, diverting from the track, leave the bikes at the bottom of the Gozd Martuljek Waterfalls and hike up right alongside these awesome falls, arriving at a typical alpine pasture with superb hut and outside kitchen.
From Kranjska Gora, you can cycle across the border into Italy and if you want to take in a small challenging hill and be rewarded by stunning lakes surrounded with a backdrop of the Julian Alps, then cycle on to Laghi di fusini. Here you can enjoy food from one of the lakeside bars or take a picnic whilst admiring the view.
Another route from the apartment is up the Vrata valley, a 16km track with a couple of testing of climbs; total ascent 300m. Cycle past the spectacular Pericnik waterfall and through shady forest glades, with wild flowers all around and nearer the top, some alpine cows wander amongst the small summer- houses. If you don’t see them, you may hear their cowbells. Again, at the top there is a superb Mountain Dom, serving traditional food and the view is one of the best, as you are literally at the base of the North face of Mount Triglav. There are plenty of opportunities to have a refreshing paddle in the crystal clear water of the River… you follow it for the whole route.

For a more pastoral route, cycle from Mojstrana to Bled, along a 22km track through the pretty Radovna valley. Small farms, hamlets and lakes lie nestling in this green valley. En route, stop at the “Kreda Lake” and enjoy a swim in the peaceful, natural surroundings.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. The next Blog focus will be on

May Day Celebrations

Spring in the Julian Alps

2009-04-16T02:39:00.000-07:00

The Julian’s Log

Eighth Post

“SPRING HOLIDAYS”
The snow is finally melting and the weather has been fantastic now for 10 days. The grass is beginning to recover from being under snow for 4 months. Spring in the Alps is beautiful as the contrast in colours between the blue sky, white snow capped mountains, greening trees and blossoms is so clear. There are now people out and about walking, roller blading, running and cycling as we all endeavor to get fit again!

FOCUS On……….EASTER AND EMERGING FLOWERS

The Slovenian people enjoy this time of year for both it’s religious importance and as a time to anticipate Spring and celebrate the awakening of nature. This is evident as they
place decorations of catkins and decorated eggs outside their homes. On the Saturday before Easter Sunday, an Easter basket is taken to church to be blessed. The basket may comprise of cured meats such as sausages, salamis and ham, potica (traditional cake) horseradish root that is then grated on the meats and, of course an Easter egg for each member of the family. The eggs are hard boiled and decorated with patterns having been cooked in onion skins.

On Easter Sunday we visited Ljubljana with friends and the children enjoyed a street fair and painted eggs using melted wax. This decorating of eggs is an old tradition here in Slovenia.
With the sun, have come the early flowers; hellebores, primroses and hepatica which lighten the forest floors and violets, coltsfoot, anemones, Spring Horsetail and toothwort on the banks of the paths. The pastures are full of Purple crocus, which are generally white, and, at first glance, look like sprinklings of snow on the grass. This is just the beginning

we look forward to the rest….

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus will be on
LOCAL CYCLE ROUTES

Winter Activities

2009-03-31T01:23:00.000-07:00

The Julian’s Log

Seventh Post

“WINTER HOLIDAYS”

This weeks blog was going to be focussing on Spring in the Alps, and after a couple of weeks of sunshine with the bulbs all emerging, we had thought Spring was here….but how wrong we were! Here in the mountains we have been treated to another dump of snow, and with family here on holiday, we’ve been able to make the most of a final winter walk….

FOCUS On……….SPRING SNOW

What do you do when you’re on holiday and the whole of Slovenia is shrouded in cloud and everywhere has either rain or snow?? We decided to make the most of the snow and trek once more up the Tamar Valley with the toboggan. The car parking which had been overflowing last weekend at Planica was inaccessible as 50cm fresh snow had fallen. All of a sudden, the toboggan was looking less and less likely as we all wished we had snow- shoes. The walking was a real work out as we walked the 5km through virgin snow, which in places was knee deep. It was a great opportunity to make Snow Angels and Body Prints.
As we walked up the valley, the almost constant rumbling of small avalanches could be heard. We stood and watched them, the snow pouring off the mountains down gullies around us, looking like waterfalls. The noise was awesome and echoed all round the valley.
After a phone call to a friend in the Mountain Rescue Team, to check if we were stupid even being there, we learned the avalanche rating was high, at 4, but in this valley we should be fine, so we carried on like intrepid adventurers!! The snow was getting deeper and the sight of the Dom at Tamar was really welcome, but not as welcome as the bowl of Jota (bean soup) and the hospitality we received, Happy Birthday, John!!

This walk really was an added bonus to what has been a fantastic winter and we feel really lucky to be living in such an amazing country.

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Current Snow Conditions:

Resort Upper Slopes Lower slopes Last snow and current conditions

Kranjska Gora 40cm 15cm 30/03/09 very good snow

Vogel 320cm 120cm 30/03/09 wet, packed snow

Krvavec 280cm 75cm 30/03/09 very goods snow

The skiing conditions remain very good across Slovenia, with resorts extending their season through to Easter this year due to the excellent snow.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus really will be on
Spring in the Julian Alps

Winter Activities

2009-03-23T03:22:00.000-07:00

The Julian’s Log

Sixth Post

“WINTER HOLIDAYS”

Although Spring is definitely in the air, this weekend was still celebrating winter, as Slovenia hosted it’s biggest annual sporting event: Planica Ski Flying. It’s like the Oktoberfest but with Sport. We went to watch alongside 26,000 others on Saturday….

FOCUS ON……….SKI FLYING

There are only 3 ski flying competition venues, and Planica is one of them. It is here where the ski jumping competition is decided annually and where the world record of 239m is held. Planica is situated in the Tamar valley, just 17km from us and people in the whole valley help in the organisation of this massive 4 day event. Thursday sees the qualifying rounds and the local school children are bused in to enjoy the spectacle of these crazy guys flying through the sky. Sponsors of the event ensure the children are fed and given “goodie bags” free of charge and there is a family atmosphere. On the other 3 days the atmosphere is more charged with alcohol and a party feeling, with instruments, costumes, hats and hams (as seen in the picture!!) Each day thousands of patriotic fans congregate in the amphitheatre of mountains. This weekend was no exception and despite some rounds being cancelled because of the wind, the level of flying was awesome. The Norwegians each flew over 200m to win the team event, however, Slovenia was cheering the loudest as Robert Kranjec brought home joint third in the individual event. We still celebrate Eddie the Eagle and flew a banner in his name!!

REGULAR FEATURE:
Current Snow Conditions:
Resort Upper Slopes Lower Slopes Last snow and comments
Kranjska Gora 80cm 45cm 10.03.09 variable conditions
Vogel 320cm 120cm 18.03.09 good skiing conditions
Krvavec 310cm 75cm 18.03.09 good skiing conditions

The skiing conditions remain very good across Slovenia, with resorts extending their season through to Easter this year due to the excellent snow.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next Blog focus will be on
Spring in the Julian Alps

Winter Holidays

2009-03-11T02:05:00.000-07:00

The Julian’s Log

Fifth Post

“Winter Holidays”

This winter in Slovenia has really been very special…lots of snow, sun and visitors!! We have loved tobogganing on the long trails, walking in the fresh mountain air and skiing on groomed pistes. Our first winter with guests is fun, sharing our knowledge of the area and seeing them enjoying themselves. One sport that Mark has enjoyed in the winter is Fishing for the Hucho, or Danube Salmon and although the season is now closed, maybe this can tempt you for next year!!!

FOCUS On……….winter fishing

The rivers keep their beautiful green colour all year round and this contrasts strikingly with the white snowy river- banks. The best rivers are the tributaries to the Sava River, which ultimately flows into the Danube. One of the best of these rivers in Slovenia for Hucho is the Sava Bohinjka, our local river. Circling above it, we have regularly seen a pair of Golden Eagles, making the experience complete!
Although a sociable sport, the conditions are not always ideal, when snow on the river- banks can be thigh deep, and over hanging branches can make casting a challenge. The Hucho can be fished using a fly or spey casting rod although traditionally here a lure or spinning rod is used. Flies, spinners, plugs and lures have to be bigger than 8cm. The Hucho grow to over a metre and on most trips you can stand on the banks and look down onto these fish and watch them in the clear water. The season for Hucho fishing is from 1.11 to 14.02 day tickets can be bought from Fauna Fly Fishing Shop, in Bled and prices start at €45 per day. A holiday fishing for Hucho can easily be combined with skiing and winter sports.

REGULAR FEATURE:

Current Snow Conditions:
Resort Upper Slopes Lower Slopes Last snow and comments
Kranjska Gora 80cm 45cm 05.03.09 Good skiing
Vogel 320cm 120cm 05.03.09 Very good skiing
Krvavec 310cm 75cm 05.03.09 Very good skiing

The skiing conditions remain excellent across Slovenia.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next weeks focus will be on
Ski jumping

Julians Log Fourth Post

2009-03-02T11:27:00.000-08:00

The Julian’s Log

Fourth Post

"WINTER HOLIDAYS"

A recent quote from a friend in England was, “You do know you could have stayed here if all you wanted was ski conditions, don't you?” I guess this winter England has had really good snow!! However, there is still the awesome view of the mountains from our living room window, which we never got in Suffolk.

FOCUS ON.....CARNIVALS AND SKI RACING

Half term brought with it sun, snow and costumes. Pust is celebrated (shrove weekend) with donuts and masks, and the streets are a colourful array of costumes and carnival floats. The snow conditions have been awesome for skiing, tobogganing and this weekend, the Vitranc Cup Men’s GS and Slalom were held from the Podkoren run in Kranjska Gora. Ted Ligety successfully defended his GS title from last year and Julian Lizeroux put down a great second run to take the Slalom. We managed to stand in the Reinfred Herbst fan club area and literally got wrapped up in Flags and deafened by horns and sirens! With temperatures rising to 12 degrees, the feeling of Spring is round the corner, the snow is becoming softer, the birds are singing and the Hellebores and primroses are flowering on the sunnier side of the valley.

REGULAR FEATURE:

Current Snow Conditions:
Resort Upper Slopes Lower Slopes Last snow and comments
Kranjska Gora 120cm 45cm 22.02.09 Machine groomed slopes
Vogel 320cm 120cm 22.02.09 Good skiing
Krvavec 310cm 75cm 22.02.09 Good skiing

The skiing conditions remain excellent across Slovenia.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this edition. Next weeks focus will be on Winter Fishing.

Ruth

Julian's Log Third Post

2009-02-02T05:17:00.000-08:00

The Julian’s Log

Third Post

“Winter Holidays”

With continuing low temperatures and more snow, this last weekend’s ice climbing World Cup was an awesome sight. Mojstrana was full of lean looking climbers from all over Europe, but the Russians dominated.

FOCUS ON..... TOBOGGANING

This week, we focus on tobogganing. Being from Yorkshire, I always felt sorry for Mark’s sledging experiences as a child in Norfolk …the bunkers at the local Golf course were the best slopes around for him.
However, out here in the Alps, I can honestly say I have never pelted down a hill for as long and as fast as I do now! There are many different slopes to tackle on the traditional wooden sledges, or “sanke” as they are known in Slovenia. Every village has meadows transformed into toboggan slopes, where children and adults alike congregate and experience the buzz of speed.
Up the road in the Tamar Valley, there is a stunning 4km walk in an amphitheatre of limestone mountains, where you can tow your sledge to the comfort of a “Mountain Dom”, enjoy a gluwein (kuhano vino) before taking the return journey in record time, shouting “Pazi” to any slow moving on- looker
Across the road from us, weaves a small lane, which in the summer takes you zigzagging up the local mountain (1891m) and now it provides the ultimate toboggan run, complete with hair pin bends and long glides through the snow covered trees. If you dare to look up, you can see Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain at 2864m towering above Mojstrana and on a clear day, up the valley you can see the Italian Dolomites.

There are also Organised Night Toboggan runs in a nearby village, where a local minibus will transport you up the hairpin bends and provide you with head torches and sanke, and the run is lined with burning torches, (Bakla)

REGULAR FEATURE:

Current Snow Conditions:
Resort Upper Slopes Lower Slopes Last snow and comments
Kranjska Gora 120cm 35cm NOW! very good skiing conditions
Vogel 290cm 60cm NOW! very good skiing conditions
Krvavec 270cm 30cm NOW! very good skiing conditions

With more snow forecast for 2nd and 3rd February, with 30cm due to fall, the skiing conditions remain excellent across Slovenia.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this second edition. Next weeks focus will be on “Carnival Time” and ice skating.

Ruth

Julian's Log

2009-01-26T06:48:00.000-08:00

The Julian’s Log

Second Post

“Winter Holidays”

What comes to mind when you think of a winter holiday??? Snow, sun, gluwein, skiing??
The Julian Alps offer all of these and much more……

Being situated 12kms from Kranjska Gora, this is ultimately our nearest resort and it’s great for couples in search of something different or families. This area offers great alpine skiing, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, tobogganing, winter walking and ice climbing. Slovenia remains passionate about it’s heritage and there are many seasonal carnivals and events which can add a colourful element to any holiday.

FOCUS On……….ICE

This week, we are going to focus on ice! With record low temperatures recorded this winter of –49 at 2000m, it’s a great year for ice climbing and the spectacle of frozen waterfalls.
For those experts amongst you, there are many “ice falls” within easy access (within an hours walk from a main road) For those wanting to learn, we can organise winter climbing and ice climbing lessons through our local family business “Kofler Sports” www.kofler-sport.si

Mojstrana is hosting the Ice Climbing World Cup this weekend, 31/01-01/02/ 09 at the Mlacca Ice Fall, so great entertainment just a walk away from the apartment, with plenty of Kuhano Vino (gluwein) on tap to keep you warm! See www.lednoplazanje.com for more details and pictures!

For a more leisurely day, take an hours walk up the “Narnia” like Vrata Valley and be rewarded with the awesome sight of the frozen Pericnik Waterfall. (see photo at top)

REGULAR FEATURE:

Current Snow Conditions:
Resort Upper Slopes Lower Slopes Last snow and comments
Kranjska Gora 90cm 35cm 24/01/09 good skiing conditions
Vogel 280cm 60cm 24/01/09 good skiing conditions
Krvavec 210cm 30cm 24/01/09 good skiing conditions

With more snow forecast for 27/01/09 the skiing conditions remain excellent across Slovenia.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this second edition. Next weeks focus will be on Toboganning

Ruth

Our first post...

2009-01-17T06:54:00.000-08:00

Where are we?
We want to share information about Slovenia with you, especially from the area where we live, bordering Austria and Italy in the North West corner of the country, in the Julian Alps.

Who are we?
Mark and Ruth, an English couple, from Norfolk and Yorkshire, who decided in January 2006 that Slovenia was the place to live a relaxed, alpine life. So, by May 2007 we were here, in Mojstrana. With many people to help us on our way, we made a smooth transition from a conventional 9-5 life in Suffolk, to a new life, in order to run holiday apartments.

Why Slovenia?
Forest, Mountains, Vineyards, Winter Sports, Fly fishing and Water Sports, Clean air and low population: 2 million in a country roughly the size of Wales. Why not?!

What do we offer?
Currently, a spacious, ground floor apartment and storage for sporting/family equipment. Suggestions and help for you to make the most of your alpine holiday.

When to come?
Slovenia is a “four season” destination and in our log we shall update you and share information about activities, weather and offers at any time of year.

Winter brings with it the snow, any time from late November. The scenery adopts a look of “Narnia” and, with the high pressure weather system, we generally enjoy the perfect combination of sun and snow. There is a huge variety of winter holiday activities, from alpine skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, winter fishing for Danube Salmon, sledding, ice climbing, ice skating to stunning winter walks, with many other seasonal activities.
Spring offers alpine meadows full of stunning flowers, fantastic walking/hiking and the opening of the fishing season in April, with clouds of May fly til early June on most rivers. The meadows are a great place to trek on Icelandic Ponies or Lippizanner horses.
Summer brings heat and welcome cooling in the crystal rivers and lakes, trekking in the Julian Alps, climbing, cycling on a variety of marked paths and mountain bike routes, fishing for four species of trout and Grayling, sight seeing in picturesque towns and cities, white water rafting/canyoning and parascending on the thermals.
Autumn colours in the mixed larch and beech forests are stunning, with spectacular waterfalls and the chance to catch beautiful marble Trout in the River Soca.

Interested? Then visit next week for details on Winter Holidays.