From Ljubljana: Velika Planina Tour with Meal & Photos

Exploring the Velika Planina Tour from Ljubljana: A Practical and Enjoyable Day Out

If you’re looking to escape the city and experience Slovenia’s natural beauty while tasting authentic local flavors, the Velika Planina Tour with Meal & Photos could be just what you need. This tour promises a scenic ride up to the high-altitude plateau, a hearty shepherd’s meal, and plenty of opportunities to snap memorable photos of the breathtaking surroundings. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want an authentic, manageable day trip with a dash of nature and culture.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it all comes together—starting from the convenience of pickup from Ljubljana, to the scenic gondola and chairlift rides that make the journey itself feel special. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional meal and professional photos adds a layer of value that makes the tour feel thoughtfully curated. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour involves quite a bit of walking on uneven ground and some altitude, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

This tour seems ideal for anyone craving a slice of rural Slovenia, especially if you enjoy picturesque mountain scenery and local cuisine. It’s not designed for travelers with mobility issues or very young children, but for those who want a manageable yet immersive experience, it hits many right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and panoramic views of the Kamnik Alps are a central highlight.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a stress-free journey from Ljubljana to Velika Planina.
• Authentic shepherd’s meal offers a taste of Slovenian mountain traditions.
• Professional photos give you lasting memories of your visit.
• Walking through traditional wooden houses provides a glimpse into local mountain life.
• Limited group size means more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What Makes the Velika Planina Tour Stand Out

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, culture, and practical comfort. Starting with a pickup from Ljubljana’s train station, the experience feels designed for ease. Traveling in a cozy minivan, you’ll enjoy a roughly an hour-long drive through the Slovenian countryside before reaching the gondola station. From there, a 30-minute gondola ride takes you high into the mountains, with views that quickly remind you why this spot is so cherished.

Once at the top, you’ll transfer onto a chairlift that whisks you closer to the heart of Velika Planina. The ride itself is picturesque, giving you sweeping vistas of the Kamnik Alps. The ascent is a highlight—be prepared for some incredible photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear. The plateau is expansive and full of tradition, with wooden houses that seem to belong to another time, and cows roaming freely across the grass.

The Walk Through Traditional Wooden Houses

Walking among these humble mountain dwellings is one of the most charming parts of the tour. These structures have been preserved, and you’ll get a sense of how local shepherds once lived and worked here. It’s a peaceful, almost timeless landscape that makes for fantastic photos and a real connection to local life. Some reviews note that the paths are grass and gravel, so decent walking shoes are important to enjoy the relaxed stroll comfortably.

The Shepherd’s Meal: Simple, Genuine, and Tasty

The meal included is straightforward but meaningful—a typical shepherd’s fare of sour milk and buckwheat ganci with cracklings. We love that this isn’t a fancy restaurant experience but rather a chance to try authentic local foods in their natural setting. It’s hearty, filling, and gives a real taste of mountain life. Many visitors find the meal satisfying and enjoy the relaxed, rustic atmosphere of the mountain huts.

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Professional Photos to Remember Your Trip

One unique aspect of this tour is the professional photography service. Your guide will use a high-quality camera to capture images of you and your surroundings, saving you the hassle of taking souvenir photos yourself. You’ll receive these snapshots the following day, making for a thoughtful keepsake. Several reviews mention how much they appreciate this extra touch, especially since the scenery lends itself well to memorable shots.

The Journey Back and Overall Timing

After the 3-hour stop at the plateau, you’ll descend via the same scenic route, riding the chairlift and gondola back down. The total experience lasts around 6 hours, including pickup, transportation, and free time at Velika Planina. The timing is well-paced, giving you enough opportunity to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Some travelers mention that the tour’s small group size—limited to 8 participants—adds a more intimate, personalized feel. It’s a good setup for those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed trip compared to larger, more commercial tours.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $293 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but considering the included transportation, meal, professional photos, and the overall experience, it provides solid value. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local experiences and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning logistics yourself, this could be well worth the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy moderate walking, scenic mountain views, and culture in a rural setting. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind some uneven terrain but are not looking for strenuous hikes. Since the tour involves a fair amount of sitting and walking on grass and gravel, it’s best suited for people with good mobility. Not ideal for very young children or travelers with health issues, but perfect for those wanting a relaxed day immersed in nature.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, preferably hiking shoes, as you’ll walk through grassy, gravelly paths.
• Bring a camera—although photos are taken professionally, having your own encourages extra snapshots.
• Dress for the weather, especially if it’s cooler at higher elevations or if rain is forecasted.
• Arrive early at the meeting point, which is at the far right of Ljubljana train station, under the linden trees next to the bike racks.
• Prepare for some physical activity, but keep in mind it’s manageable for most people in decent shape.

Final Thoughts

If scenic mountain views, authentic Slovenian mountain culture, and a relaxed pace appeal to you, this Velika Planina day trip is a solid pick. The combination of easy transportation, beautiful nature, and the chance to enjoy a traditional meal makes it a well-rounded experience. Plus, the professional photos give you a lasting memory of this unique mountain landscape.

However, if you’re looking for a more active or longer hiking adventure, this might feel a bit limited in scope. It’s best suited for those who prefer a manageable, scenic outing rather than a rigorous trek. Still, for many, the views alone justify the cost—especially when complemented by the cultural experience and the simple pleasure of a mountain meal.

In the end, this tour offers a thoughtful glimpse into Slovenia’s rural charm, making it a memorable part of any Slovenian itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Ljubljana train station, as well as gondola and chairlift rides, are all part of the tour.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 6 hours, including travel time, free exploration, and the meal.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and maybe a hat or sunglasses for sunny days.

Can I expect a lot of walking?
There’s some walking through grassy and gravel paths, but it’s generally manageable for most people in good health.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for very young children, especially those under 3, due to walking and terrain considerations.

When will I receive my photos?
The professional photos will be sent to you the day after your visit.

This tour offers a lovely blend of natural beauty, culture, and practical comfort—perfect for travelers wanting a genuine taste of Slovenia’s mountain life without too much fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: