Traveling from Ljubljana to Velika Planina offers a mix of stunning scenery, authentic mountain culture, and memorable moments—all for around $294 per person. This tour, organized by All About Slovenia, takes you high into the Kamnik Alps, where you’ll ride a gondola and chairlift, explore traditional wooden houses, enjoy a hearty shepherd’s meal, and get professional photos of your day.
We especially appreciate how this experience combines natural beauty with cultural charm. The scenic gondola and chairlift rides offer breathtaking views that make the cost worthwhile, and having a guide capture your moments with a professional camera adds a personal touch you’ll cherish long after the trip.
One potential consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking over grass and gravel paths—so sturdy shoes are recommended. Also, if you’re traveling with young children, those with mobility issues, or anyone sensitive to altitude or walking, it’s good to weigh this before booking.
This tour suits travelers who want a blend of adventure, authentic rural life, and picture-perfect scenery. If you love outdoor activities and capturing beautiful landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a great choice for those who value a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights.
Key Points
- Breathtaking views of the Kamnik Alps from the plateau.
- Authentic experience walking among traditional wooden houses and free-roaming cows.
- Scenic transportation with gondola and chairlift rides.
- Cultural flavor with a hearty shepherd’s meal of sour milk and buckwheat ganci.
- Professional photography capturing your memorable moments.
- Convenient logistics with door-to-door pickup and drop-off from Ljubljana station.
Exploring Velika Planina: What You Can Expect
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The Journey Begins in Ljubljana
The tour kicks off with a pickup from the far right side of Ljubljana train station, conveniently located under the linden trees near the bike racks. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable minivan with other travelers, heading toward the mountain. This initial part of the trip is straightforward, and the driver guides you smoothly through the scenic countryside.
Ascending the Mountain: Gondola and Chairlift Rides
Once at the gondola station, you’ll board a gondola that lifts you up into the mountains, offering panoramic views of the lush Slovenian landscape. When you arrive at the top, a chairlift takes you even closer to the plateau, providing a fun and efficient way to reach the heart of Velika Planina.
Travelers describe the ride as “scenic” and “breathtaking,” noting the way the view opens up as you ascend. The height and expansive vistas are a highlight, making every moment of the ride worth the trip. Be prepared for some cool mountain air and dress accordingly.
Walking Among Wooden Houses and Cows
At the summit, you step into a village-like setting with traditional wooden huts—some centuries old—spread across the grassy plateau. You’re encouraged to wander freely, soaking in the rural atmosphere. The cows roam freely, adding a lively, pastoral vibe that makes the scene feel authentic and unspoiled.
The walk is mostly on grass and gravel roads, so comfortable hiking shoes are advised. It’s a relaxed environment, but you should be mindful of uneven terrain and the presence of animals—so children and those with mobility concerns might find parts of this a bit challenging.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Shepherd’s Meal: Authentic and Hearty
After exploring, it’s time for the highlight of the culinary experience—a traditional shepherd’s meal. You’ll sit at a mountain hut and enjoy sour milk and buckwheat ganci with cracklings. This simple yet hearty dish offers a taste of mountain life, with flavors that are both rustic and satisfying.
Guests frequently mention how satisfying the meal is, and some note the warmth of the hospitality. It’s a genuine taste of Slovenia’s pastoral traditions, offering more than just a snack but a cultural experience.
Capturing Memories with Professional Photos
One of the tour’s special features is the professional photography by your guide. They’ll take high-quality shots of you and your group amid the stunning scenery, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment. The photos are delivered the following day, providing a tangible memory of your adventure.
Guests have appreciated this service, with one noting, “Having someone capture our moments made the experience even more special.” It elevates the tour from a simple excursion to a cherished keepsake.
Return and Reflection
At the end of the day, you’ll descend back via the chairlift and gondola, returning to Ljubljana with a camera full of photos and a heart full of memories. The entire process is designed to be smooth, with the same meeting point as pickup.
The Experience in Detail: Why It’s Worth It
Transportation and Logistics: The tour’s inclusion of pickup, gondola, and chairlift rides means you don’t need to worry about planning or navigating yourself. It offers a comfortable, seamless way to reach high mountain scenery without the hassle of driving or hiking long distances.
Scenic Beauty: The views of the Kamnik Alps are genuinely spectacular. Visitors often comment on the “breathtaking” vistas, which provide a perfect backdrop for photos or quiet reflection. The combination of mountain, grass, traditional houses, and roaming cows creates a scene straight out of a rural postcard.
Cultural Authenticity: Walking among original wooden houses and tasting traditional mountain fare gives you a glimpse into rural Slovenian life. This isn’t a staged tourist attraction but an actual mountain settlement with ongoing shepherding traditions.
Photography Service: Having a professional photographer on hand means you get high-quality images—something many travelers find invaluable. It’s especially useful for those who want to share their experience on social media or keep a lasting souvenir.
The Meal: The shepherd’s dish is simple but hearty, offering a taste of local flavors that you might not find elsewhere. It’s a real, filling meal that complements the outdoor experience.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Bring comfortable shoes: Expect to walk on grass and gravel paths.
- Dress appropriately: Mountain weather can change quickly; layers are recommended.
- Capture memories: Bring your camera or smartphone to take your own photos, in addition to the professional shots.
- Weather awareness: The tour is outdoor-focused, so check the forecast and prepare for possible rain or cool temperatures.
- Accessibility note: The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or severe health concerns, given the walking and altitude.
- Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, offering some peace of mind in planning your trip.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?
This Velika Planina tour is perfect for travelers wanting a photo-worthy mountain escape close to Ljubljana. If you appreciate scenic rides, rustic charm, and authentic local food, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace—ample time to walk, eat, and take photos—without feeling rushed.
However, it’s less ideal for families with very young children, travelers with mobility limitations, or anyone sensitive to altitude or strenuous walking. If you prefer a more active or less structured adventure, you might consider other options.
This tour offers a good balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenient logistics—all wrapped in a memorable mountain day. You’ll leave with stunning photos, a full belly, and stories that will make your Slovenian trip even more special.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, your tour includes pickup from Ljubljana station, plus gondola and chairlift rides to reach Velika Planina.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grass and gravel, and dress in weather-appropriate layers. Mountain weather can change quickly.
Will I get photos of my trip?
Absolutely. A professional guide will take high-quality photos, which you’ll receive the next day.
How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a full day including transportation, sightseeing, and meals.
Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, bring your own camera or smartphone to capture additional photos besides the professional ones.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old, or for those with mobility, health, or altitude concerns.
What should I bring for the walk?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are best.
Is this tour private or group?
It’s a group experience, but the size isn’t specified, and the focus is on sharing the scenic adventure with others.
Whether you’re after stunning mountain vistas, a taste of Slovenian pastoral life, or memorable photographs, this Velika Planina tour delivers a delightful escape just outside Ljubljana. Perfect for those who love nature, culture, and a touch of rustic charm—all in one memorable day.
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