Day 1: London to Kaminik
So there’s a large purple blob in my almost green Europe, and the need to resolve this has become a challenge. Having been told by some it’s a reported stunning country but most have not actually made it there as yet with very few having Slovenia on third hit list of countries. Time to find out if it’s a worthy recommendation or not!
Having spent the night getting to and chilling out but not sleeping in Luton Airport the plane is a fast pass out making it pass fast. Power nap of sorts 1.5 hours, and I’m ready to tick off country number 63!
I arrive early and immediately I’m struck by the beauty. I feel like I’m in Innsbruck or Cortina. Flying in it’s snow covered mountains and the stunningness continues even leaving the airport.
So it’s time to start the exploration, after a quick coffee to keep me going and off to source transport.... With no information area at the airport and everyone offering trips to Ljubljana, kamnik was slightly unusual option it appears. I find that the bus is due in 1 hour so I ask about a taxi. First person offers me €35 euros to Kamnik however someone jumps into his Taxi and so I’m approached and spoken to in German about my wishes trip. He offers me €50 telling me it’s a great price and special one for me. I point out his colleague offered me for less and he tells me it’s impossible price. I tell him the bus will be fine, and decide to have a sit in the sun! The menu offers me a local red wine and I feel it’s rude not to!!! I get to the bus stop on the opposite side of the road in plenty of time to ensure I don’t miss the bus....... after 30 mins after anticipated departure time I guess that the 1227 bus to kamnik is not coming so the bus driver that eventually comes proposes the bus to Kranj then take bus to kamnik. In the bus I meet a girl who is over for a conference at lake Bled working with the Austrian European government. She and I depart abruptly on arrival at Kranj mainly due to the chaos of finding our way around!! Eventually having tried at what I thought was the information / ticket counter (which seemed to spend a long time with 2customers), I decide to go ask a driver, I can do that in german if needed. Ironically I get the bus driver that doesn’t speak much german but is much better with English! He will be my driver and leaving in 10 minutes from ‘platform 17’ Which is a sign post down the road!!! It has a group of teenagers at it also, scooters in hand! It’s a busy wee route and takes me through lots of small towns, all with their churches prominent from the route. overall it’s a very agricultural area with lots of small holding type fields and crops everywhere, of maize and what appears to be sweet potato and salads although not too easy to tell from the bus. Occasional fields of cows and occasional horses are noted also but not in large quantities. |
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After about 30 minutes the bus stop at edge of Kamnik old town (stari grad). I head straight up the road noticing the narrowness of the streets and the lack of business despite being mid afternoon.
I find in the square, the tourist information and gain a good source of information from the lady in there including that the Taxi should have cost no more than €15 and has given me a number for the future for Taxi Alma (+38641686520) informing me additionally that from Kamniska Bistrika to Bled will be around €45, plus buy that post card for Alice just incase I forget later. Unfortunately the post office is not open for another hour, so lunch it is then! I’ve been recommended a local restaurant for typical food. Although not done much it feels like, I head round the corner. The waitress suggests the local salad and it doesn’t disappoint for a mere €6. After lunch it’s time to explore this quaint quiet little town. Back round the corner is the old castle which boosts a good view of town and shows a birds eye view of a lovely little park opposite. Ice cream shop makes its own ice cream and worth a (large) scoop at €1! Staying slightly out of town opposite the sports park which for a tiny town is well provided for: basket ball, water polo, beach volley ball, tennis and soccer all in one row. Skal pod is lovely b&b and only €34 for the night. I wish to leave before 7 so a packed breakfast will be left in the common room fridge the next morning and I can leave by the back door in the morning. There’s a bar next door too serving dinner if the walk back into town(5mins) is not fancied. I think an early night is certainly in order. |
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Kaminik Sept 2018
Day 2:
Plaines to Lakes
Breakfast retrieved from the fridge, I aim to take early bus to velika planina at 0720 from bus station but ensure you get off at the stop where you see a picture of the cable car and not at the last stop (kamniska bistra, Which turns out to be the name for the whole valley), however if you do either ask the driver (Who is leaving 1 minute later) to drop you off, alternatively it’s a 1.7 mile walk back down the road, Which in itself is nice enough in the early morning light.
Be aware the cable car does not open until 0830 so perfect time to enjoy coffee (with the staff who will be running the cable car and the chair lift)! Tickets can be bought at the kiosk for return trip to the top at €15.
I had the fun of only these guys and the one in local dress in the car with me meaning when I got to the top I had the place to myself and really it had not work up yet! View from the top of cable car is stunning and the mist was still lying in the low land /plain while the sun shone and highlighted the snow topped mountains surrounding you. There’s a slight holdup at the top while the cable car workers get up to their stations on the motorbike! Plenty of photo opportunities of the view. They all know you are there and as you progress up on your journey they radio to the next stop..... ‘here comes the tourist!’
The cable car thankfully does not go too high from the ground on its journey and again the view behind you is stunning and I was very glad of the ability to do “selfie” pictures so as not to have to turn round too far!! Option to get off at the first stop but just as well stating on as you can walk back down to this stop and also the cafe is still not open!! However this is where you will find the local shepherd dressed man that may also have been on the first cable car with you!
Getting off on the right you will see a rocky mound with a stone on top. This is the highest point and well worth the clamber up as great panoramic views are gained from here. The church is quaint on the hill top and again gives lovely views down to the settlement area. There are fences for the pastures and the sound of cow bells occasionally ring out. It’s lovely
being able to wander with no others in your sights. Coffee at Domžski Dom was a welcome decent toilets stop and time to sit and enjoy the peace and quiet and send some pictures by WiFi.... until the army arrived for their exercise! Suddenly about 1015 people started to appear from the local hostels and the place starts to have colourful walkers (and blended in army staff) dotted all around.
It slightly Changes the atmosphere as you can hear chatter along with the cow bells! Wander around as you wish, there are roaded areas but you don’t feel obliged to keep to them which is nice. You’ll also see in the settlement few new huts / houses going up along side the old. No WiFi around here though or 3G service although the Phone mast at the top allows for basic phone service throughout. The wild flowers are still in bloom but only just and not in abundance.
Heading down to the second / middle station of chair lift and the restaurant Zeleni Rob has the shepherd outside, if you wish the pictures, and more variety of food. The shepherd hut serving their delicacies appeared to be closed however as I was leaving there was a large influx of walkers arriving by chairlift and suddenly looking back as I got on the middle station the place seemed to be crawling with colour...... with an empty cable car return journey (a lovely chat with the driver) I had been glad to be able to enjoy it as a piece of serenity that may not last much after 1130am!
The public bus back at 1207 goes just down the road from the exit. You dmust turn right along the road, pass the bus park (already 2 tour busses parked up) and round the corner you will see the bus stop. Busses are punctual so don’t delay. I was advised also to talk to the information about Taxi however this was closed! So bus to kamnik (€2.3) and then on to Ljubljana (€3.1) was the decision! Getting on the bus in kimnik the driver gave me a speel about something, when I asked for it in german or English he shrugged his shoulders and took my money...... intriguing what he’d said. 2 others didn’t get on when given same talk while 2 did so decision to stay was made.... Keep your wits about you, the drivers don’t tell you where you are and there’s no pre-stop information given so access to downloaded google /Apple maps can help to keep you on track however they do stop at Ljubljana station and the signs above the bus easily indicate the direction of travel. These buses to Bled are busy and at €6.30 it seems a long way round for a short cut is not travelling alone (Taxi from plains to Bled circa €30!). The journey is fine, although rather warm with the sun streaming in my window seat however all smooth until hitting 1.5 miles from Bled and the queue of traffic commences.......... it’s moving but I’d probably walk as fast! No escape.... continue melting! People around have been snapping frantically on their cameras. Think maybe Israeli as told they are second nation for visiting after the Austrians! It is beautiful though and looking forward to seeing the next section!
Oh and what an arrival!
The sun is not right for the castle on the lake but hopefully tomorrow all will be perfect!Still have the snow in the background and a lovely Slovenian Sauvignon blanc (Gomila) for tasting and it’s very palatable! What I do notice is the lack of motorised water vehicles. The boats are rowed over to the island laden with tourists; then suddenly I realise I sadly understand all conversations!
The sun is not right for the castle on the lake but hopefully tomorrow all will be perfect!Still have the snow in the background and a lovely Slovenian Sauvignon blanc (Gomila) for tasting and it’s very palatable! What I do notice is the lack of motorised water vehicles. The boats are rowed over to the island laden with tourists; then suddenly I realise I sadly understand all conversations!
Wandering to the hotel on the outskirts of town (0.6 of a mile!) the steam of traffic just filters on in! On another strange observation I notice the pedestrian crossings similar to in kamnik (where I thought it was unique) are every 50 - 100m along the road. People must hate walkers!!!
Check in and time to get out the hiking gear and pop on a dress to go back out. This mission is for the local cuisine having not eaten more than the rice crackers and banana I took from my pack brekki. First stop is for the pudding......interesting..... puff pastry, egg custard and cream sandwich. Would be better with espresso but 6 today probably is the max so mixed with the local vino choice of the House...... not the best mix, eating first to establish if the wine is decent this time!
The experience just adapted a bit as a stag party speaking English and laden with blow up instruments have gone past. Certainly plenty of activities for adrenaline junkies here but think I’ll avoid the night life!! Having said that I can say this wine is ok but preferred the other, however for €1.8 (was the only choice for wine too) it’s 1/2 the price so taste in line with cost!!
On to the local Top restaurant for dinner, not too hungry and the pictures on the outside look like nouvelle cuisine but I’ve been recommended it for local food. Sadly they refuse to give me tap water and it must be bottled. With that said the fact that I’m to eat fast as the 15 tables (circa 50 head) are all booked from 1930: must be a good sign of things to come...
Seeing my fellow diners plate the pictures maybe misleading!! They are playing some great cheesy 80s music though!! I’ve chosen čevapcici, think I had them also in Montenegro otherwise I have no idea what shall appear shortly!
Well it’s what I thought and retrospectively not too exciting!! The sauce is served in the outer skin of an onion. Overall nothing exciting for €12 I really should have gone for a fancy fish thing, but still a little nervous of them!! Love the Table to my side, think it must be an interesting booking:
The toilets however once you find them through the back of the restaurant, are clean and offer a great selection of smellies, always a great sign!!
The wander back takes me to venture into the supermarket. Having seen fields and fields of strips of corn, I find none in the supermarket and lots of brit guys trying to find the strongest and cheapest beer!!! I notice the number of clubs and bars with offers along the strip down to the lake so no doubt it’ll be a nightmare later!! Although I do find a bike rental for potential tomorrow and for not much either!!
Time to chill and plan tomorrow. Postcards in the post so one aim achieved!!
Turn in the TV and find tartan making in the Scottish Borders as tonight’s featured slot!!!
Check in and time to get out the hiking gear and pop on a dress to go back out. This mission is for the local cuisine having not eaten more than the rice crackers and banana I took from my pack brekki. First stop is for the pudding......interesting..... puff pastry, egg custard and cream sandwich. Would be better with espresso but 6 today probably is the max so mixed with the local vino choice of the House...... not the best mix, eating first to establish if the wine is decent this time!
The experience just adapted a bit as a stag party speaking English and laden with blow up instruments have gone past. Certainly plenty of activities for adrenaline junkies here but think I’ll avoid the night life!! Having said that I can say this wine is ok but preferred the other, however for €1.8 (was the only choice for wine too) it’s 1/2 the price so taste in line with cost!!
On to the local Top restaurant for dinner, not too hungry and the pictures on the outside look like nouvelle cuisine but I’ve been recommended it for local food. Sadly they refuse to give me tap water and it must be bottled. With that said the fact that I’m to eat fast as the 15 tables (circa 50 head) are all booked from 1930: must be a good sign of things to come...
Seeing my fellow diners plate the pictures maybe misleading!! They are playing some great cheesy 80s music though!! I’ve chosen čevapcici, think I had them also in Montenegro otherwise I have no idea what shall appear shortly!
Well it’s what I thought and retrospectively not too exciting!! The sauce is served in the outer skin of an onion. Overall nothing exciting for €12 I really should have gone for a fancy fish thing, but still a little nervous of them!! Love the Table to my side, think it must be an interesting booking:
The toilets however once you find them through the back of the restaurant, are clean and offer a great selection of smellies, always a great sign!!
The wander back takes me to venture into the supermarket. Having seen fields and fields of strips of corn, I find none in the supermarket and lots of brit guys trying to find the strongest and cheapest beer!!! I notice the number of clubs and bars with offers along the strip down to the lake so no doubt it’ll be a nightmare later!! Although I do find a bike rental for potential tomorrow and for not much either!!
Time to chill and plan tomorrow. Postcards in the post so one aim achieved!!
Turn in the TV and find tartan making in the Scottish Borders as tonight’s featured slot!!!
Day 3: Kranj and my view of 1/5th Slovenia
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So the sunrise was the plan but a quick look out of the window showed it in the distance as uninspiring and weak for what I hoped so pack and off for brekki.
Good breakfast was provided with omelette and coffee alongside some basics. I’ve taken a banana for later and decide to final explore Bled. First stop is the ice rink, do they or don’t they curl?? I know there been a WCF conference here last week so there must be some activity. Outside there are 4 women stretching and doing yoga type moves..... must be a warm up..... I wander in and through into the bar area Which over looks the rink..... full of skaters!!!! Despite a disappointment I also notice the rink does contain rings for 4 sheets and go to the bar to ask the staff about this. He explains that there is very little curling from Bled with, like England, skating and hockey being the main activities. The rings were used at the conference but rarely otherwise although they have some stones still. Ah maybe there is hope for me yet!! So time then to hear back to lake for couple more pics with the different sun angle and contemplate the cycle round option. However on arrival at the shop I’d earlier seen it was not open until 09:30 and so I would have to wait over 1 hour. Ah, pop it on the ‘next time’ list. I wandered down to the lake side and am very impressed by the clarity of it and the tranquility, which is being broken by the annoying loud speaker person giving instructions for stretches in English! I notice banners further along the lake and a finish area so guessing there’s some race round the lake on but can not find anything telling meg! It’s stunning view over the lake but trying to get all 3 buildings in is impossible but does take time trying to find a position. I can maybe on my camera but not on my iPhone, just slightly too small field of view. I wander through the ‘finish area’ with lots of promo on healthy snack bars and juices, still no clearer on its purpose but a variety of people are hanging around with walking poles so maybe that’s a sign but most of the announcements are done on english Which maybe an indication of the local clientele?? Time to head for a check up with WiFi on the bus options and a quick coffee and search indicates there’s a bus in 15 mins to Kranj so off up the slope to catch it otherwise it’s an hour wait! At the bus stop I meet a couple of Aussie ladies travelling around and an American couple all heading to Ljubljana. Their trip has taken them to Bled and Ljubljana (recommendation and itinerary suggestions from Home) so I tell them about yesterday experience and try to help promote it a bit, although counteracts on what I’d prefer, being the only person there!! The bus is due at 0931 but doesn’t arrive until 0937. There’s a bit of worry amongst all, and relief when one actually stops for us (3 tour busses whizzed past first!) Off to Kranj...... So whizzing along I'm watching my google maps for where to get off. I’m guessing at some stage it will stop at the main bus station and there it will be simple to find my way.... but no. It stops at a couple of road side places and goes straight past the bus station road.... now im going off the route. We leave Kranj and to the right the view suddenly goes and it is mist all around. I check and hope to be able to get off at Mevode. Ah well quick adjustment!! How to sneak off as I have gone past my paid for stop...... theres a back door thankfully just in front!!! The temperature has dropped to 12 degrees from 16 in the sun so thankfully tights are in my bag! I’m going to have to buy a ticket back I expect so all much of a muchness! Drop off is at the station and the info place also there. The man has basic English so I can establish that there is a train to Škofja Loka at ‘5 minutes after 13’ Which means a 2.5 hour wait or 1 hour to the bus. He kindly prints off 2 colour pages with a picture and schedule and provides me with a booklet on the area and a map including Loka on it recommending I have coffee in the cafe opposite (I notice he has couple espresso cups on his desk so likely a personal experience recommendation!! I assure him I’ll read the booklet and return it as it’s a little bigger than I wish to carry! The town is central to much history (maybe I could tell as its a link to my next destination, which has a river fed from the Dolomites....lovely, and is starting to promote the outdoor lifestyle to visitors in form of cycling (very flat!), fishing rafting and swimming during Summer, and cross-country skiing and sledding, offering the children an escape from their busy school lifestyle into the outdoors. May is the best time for a diverse range of flowers. By the time coffee and my reading is done the sun is out although its still a little misty! Off to return the brochure and clarify if the bus stop is opposite, 45 mins to explore a bonus destination. Weather poor for tomorrow so thinking it’s a slow start, and still trying to decide if I’m hiking up that hill to my hotel!! Off to see the town, there’s 2 shopping area and that’s about it he has told me first I am at and second is over the river. The map shows a possibility of a circular route or a little detour to see the larger river which I decide to take. Its not far, maybe a mile there and back, so will be perfect for the bus. There what I expect is a lake at the back of it on the map, however sadly it’s a damn with a power station beside, not the spectacle surprise I have been used to of last couple of days!! Although having seen the force of the water in the smaller river and the surroundings coming into and feeding into this small town I can see why they’ve made the most of it! I wander back towards the bus stop and find a local market.... and a milk machine both of which would interest Mum and Dad! Passing an ice cream shop, I ca't resist......... I am on holiday after all!! As I leave this town I feel it’s very much a centre for the region rather than a tourist place. There is no English in any of the menus etc but they have little to promote in comparison to the surroundings and as Slovenia is such a small country everything is so close by which also could be its appeal! |
Bled area activities
My hotel on the hill........
Traffic jam!!! :)
So many fields of corn, and none to eat!! Dad reckons its cow fodder, not human!! Later confirmed by locals!
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The mountains are clearing as I start another bus trip (€2.3). Its not a long one this time and will be into the old part of town I'm seeing by the route, just best get off at the correct place!!! Thankfully its a large central station, and theres a load of us getting off, so I'm back on track!!
I cross behind the bus station and over a river and immediately can see from the small, narrow cobbled streets and the building styles that this is a typical old town. Its quite busy, but then its 1130 and the sun is out. There are a few shops but not a large amount, mostly restaurants and such here, but having come through a larger modern city I guess this is the tourist part and not requiring much in the way of amenities otherwise! The bar in the sun in one of the squares seems like a perfect stop... and with wine glass at €1 it’s cheaper than coffee!! Wander up to the castle which it seems it rebuilt and now housing a museum which doesn’t intrigue me, so I have a read of the plentiful information about the area being a key place for milling and decide that’s enough! So couple of photos a wander down what I think is a pathway to town but ends up looking more like a mountain bike path results in a climb back up to the castle and the following of a route more convincing for a return. I have to admit that most roads as expected, run to the river or centre, and both are easy to re-estabilsh from so it would be difficult to get too lost!!! Slightly disorientated I find the old mill area and head towards the bus station to check the time for my bus, 1410 so time to meander back and enjoy the sun! meet couple of English girls driving for day from Ljubljana to Bled with a stop off for lunch. I notice in the bar I’m sitting another mini climbing wall. I seem to have seen them everywhere! Mark would be impressed but guess climbing in this country / area is just basics. Time for another expensive glass of wine...!! Back to bus and temperature is a mere 24.5 degrees, and I have that hill to climb!!!! Departing on time and nice drive back through the agricultural area. I notice many more small flies than previously noted and lots of pumpkins for sale on edge of road. Škofja Loka |
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Kranj
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Arrival in Kranj and it’s empty for Saturday at 2:30pm!
Totally spoke too soon.... just down the road there’s a kids event on encouraging a range of sports including cross country skiing, biking, skate boarding (ramps provided for the promotion). As I chose the side street to go down, I am met by a wedding party I assume, although not a clear bride and groom they are all wearing small yellow ribbon with a heart in the middle, later I find a corresponding look on a doorway with names of a couple on, I can only guess will be the location of the after party. Not the one in my Hotel I’ve been warned about already in an email! I continue down the main streets as I am allowed as much is blocked off for this event and find a nice e little cafe in a church yard which is perfectly positioned for the sun. The view point over the river catches my attention so off I go. I notice I trust the rusty metal more than the reinforced glass panels, silly really! Then it wobbles!! I’m off! Sun beaming down so quick vino to enjoy it and the suggestion I could wine taste with them too. Tempting but think not and so back up the street. It’s still hot and I’m thinking that the opportunity to see the Hotel view is worth an early arrival from what if planned also it has gardens so can hide in them if the wedding is not taking it over completely. Taxi!! Maybe some food too. Only had breakfast and still not had my banana!! A race is starting and even more of the town is cornered off so i miss the main area as I am unable to access this. I’m noticing the clouds coming in over the hills and think I need to get to the hotel to make the most of the view before it’s spilt by weather! Ok decision made having seen the glimmer of a car heading up the road, to take a taxi..... now to find one in a town that’s quieter than Kelso in a Sunday morning! I wander to centre, and nothing, so after a trundle towards the road I notice the train station, there’s bound to be one there....... only you figure out how to cross to it, there’s none, there a bar though and so if it’s open I get a taxi if not i suck it up and walk the 1.5 hours. Yeah... the lovely lady orders me a taxi after advising it’ll take at least 1 hour to walk up Which with sun going and clouds coming and rain tomorrow..I want to see the view I craved and made me book this hotel. and I but a coffee while waiting. Also I learn that the trains run from here and I photograph the time Table and Taxi arrives. He speaks no English and is referring to ‘šmarjetna gora (St Margaret’s hill)‘ Which I don’t recognise so it’s back onto the maps. I try german but to little benefit.... he has a few key words but no sentence ability of comprehension however we appear to go the correct way so fingers crossed. I notice the meter had started at €6 so going to be expensive although probably same as lunch would have been so it evens out!! We head on up and wow the climb is good and loads of people waking and running it, turns out to be a favourite fitness climb with various car parks for different levels of madness!! Arrival at the top and i think the guy is offering to take me down tomorrow morning.... let’s see what weather is like and if the rain promised arrives! I pay €15 and head straight to the edges camera in hand and take it all in. The mountains are slightly capped on most but still it’s stunning view and easy to see the hug plains and field makeup. Reception is closed but I had said i'd arrive about 6 so 1.5 hours eat but the girl is unphased a finishes serving some of the more deserving walkers (and cyclists!). Check in and I’m on the top floor on the corner. It’s a small room with everything u could need and a view to stun anyone as soon as you walk through the door. I decide to put the pillow at the opposite side to where it is now so in the morning I can open my eyes and see directly out the window. More photos and messages to people to show the beauty, and its off to enjoy the (possible) last of sunshine if weather tomorrow correct. On way down satires I meet the biker guy who had checked in at the same time as me. We both decide it’s time for a drink and order accordingly while enjoying the photo opportunity. It’s a lovely evening watching the sun go down and enjoying the wine. The girl behind the bar suggested a semi-dry local wine and it’s a great choice. After a nice chat and the watching of the start of sunset, I head to get a photo from the far side of the park area, passing the waitress, she asks if I had found the Top terrace, I tell her being in the 3rd floor I am on the top, but no there’s another even further up at the top of the stairs and we should go up and see it from there. I surly take a picture thank her and go grab my companion telling him about it, strangely no persuasion needed and we climb up the 4.5 stair flights finding an inconspicuous door at the top that as informed opened into the platform with all the antennae etc and a full view (past the poles etc!). More pictures and then it’s clear to see the rain incoming, so time to go get food!!
Time to get dinner before the wedding party arrives and there’s an additional need to warm up. It’s not too expensive so guessing small portions so soup (beef noodle) and pork in gin sauce sounds like a good option, but I need additional salad, starved of my 5 a day!!! A glass of the other wine to wash it down too. The bridge and groom arrive, all very young and even my dinner companion (I never found out his name) agrees. They all look stunning as expected and the jaegermeister (the usual welcome drink in Slovenia!!) goes fast in the welcome drinks! They all head into the area behind us and the party and music starts. It’s an interesting mix of music.... there’s the wedding music which is local sounding Slovenian music and in the area in which we sit we have the obligatory it appears 80-90s mix blaring out with the TV showing the german election debates. I’m glad I only hear things!!! |
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There’s no rush this morning, I wake for sunrise at 6:20 but it’s very misty so not ideal and turn over and back to sleep til 9 waking to a message from Mum which starts my day nicely. Dads has had the kids bailing! The wedding had been going til 4 and despite not being too loud I was aware of it on waking! Breakfast is good but I’m late so miss out on a variety of things but if had been desperate could have asked for them, however ample there to satisfy after a large dinner! I fill a couple of rolls for lunch or nibbles, I have 9.5 hours still to fill, then the flight home and 2 hours back at least to House when very little will be open.
Shower repack and throw time then check out and off down the hill. Overall view was poor and rain was on its way so fast walk down that hill.. 39 mins maps tell me, I have 45 til Train so next get marching!! Still pass plenty of people including kids, hiking up the road, and the occasional spot of rain increases the pace...... 1/4 way down and it starts. Trees provide a certain amount of cover but umbrella is on standby! I’m down in 15 minutes but need to go round in a bit of a circle to get to train station and no footpath but very considerate drivers. The rain is now a light drizzle and so brollie down and fingers crossed that’s it for the day, although weather is 40% - 50% chance all day. Arrival at the station and it’s all closed so I hope she was correct on times on sundays. Oh someone else arrives so makes me feel reassured. Can’t see where to buy tickets etc and an open door leads up a narrow staircase which is not inviting!! Hang around I guess, even my cafe is not open! More cars arrive so relieved!! The platform has a good 10 people in it and 11:58 on the timetable to Ljubljana and no other trains around this time means I should be able just to follow the pack!! They get up at an announcement and cross the rail tracks...... the train arrives......... being late would be interesting trying to run in front of it to get to this side. But it drives past and stops further down platform. It’s a nice clean train with toilets. Graffiti on outside but almost looks like it’s meant to be there! There’s only 4 carriages and I’d been told it’s cheaper than the bus so wait for conductor to arrive to find out. Much of the view is going with most but the mountains can just be seen and sun looks like it’s fighting through. Corn (maize) harvesting continues! Conductor arrives and time to find out : €2.58. Not bad, I think the bus would have been a challenge to find the correct stop etc at least with a train you have only a limited amount of options for getting on! The decision yesterday paid off I feel! We pass through Skofka Loka again and whizz on. I review my bill from last night trying to find out the wine, my room €38, dinner €14.5 then €3.18 x 1 for something I can only assume was the wine, suddenly I realise there’s no charge for the 2 other glasses. I’ll have to message when I get the chance. Oooops, the girl was lovely and I did ask for everything to be put on my tab so I don’t want to get her in trouble either. |
The rain continue on my window as we trundle through the countryside passing the local bus (yeah!!). Now hopefully I can get off at the correct stop!! I’m wondering if I lived here today what would I be doing??? It’s been magical in the sun but today...... it’s a diy day hmmmm!
Arrival now to find nap and get going!! No rain currently so bonus! Maybe first establish route to airport......! A quick stop off for sustainence and avoid the rain and I’m off on the wander with a last bus at 1910 now I have a rough schedule. As my phone battery is not hold good charge I Can head back and charge in the bar by the bus station if needed but for now I have 5.5 hours to wander.
The pedestrian zone is quiet and nothing open so perfect to brouse! Good old no prices on the window indicate it’s maybe just as well!! Music draws me into a alleyway through shops but it’s just recorded music from a close shop. Out the other side and it’s the street fashion outlets: mango H&M and such. Some open and abundance of burger and bakers open with welcome smells!! I hit the square below the castle and feel like I’m back in Vilnius! There’s an intriguing group of bridges 3 spanning across the river. A plan to walk one way through town and up to the. Stale then down onto the other end has an abrupt change of dues film when the rain starts and I realise that while retrieving something from my bag I’d dropped my umbrella.... retrace steps and hope it’s not been ‘borrowed!’ A luck would have it it’s still beside the bookshop where I had stopped so direction determined I head along admiring the more expensive restaurants but not hungry then turn up a narrow passageway and start the winding climb to to the castle. Photo ya make great excuses for stops!! The view at the top will be worth it when the mist clears so I Wander round the Top noticing everyone arriving on the furnicular, and I head down the walking route to stare maestro. It’s a slippy path with wet leaves, tree roots and rain mixing to the challenge but I make it in one piece with only 1 minor slide! 4 hours til bus.... dry out and WiFi time! It’s still spitting so brollie retrieval was good option!! Once down the coffee stop sourced and a plug for a quick recharge to allow photo editing and some more writing I’m thinking it’s time maybe to source something more substantial to eat...... I’m starting to notice the aching of the back pack carrying for 4 days! Patients will be easy tomorrow!!
Arrival now to find nap and get going!! No rain currently so bonus! Maybe first establish route to airport......! A quick stop off for sustainence and avoid the rain and I’m off on the wander with a last bus at 1910 now I have a rough schedule. As my phone battery is not hold good charge I Can head back and charge in the bar by the bus station if needed but for now I have 5.5 hours to wander.
The pedestrian zone is quiet and nothing open so perfect to brouse! Good old no prices on the window indicate it’s maybe just as well!! Music draws me into a alleyway through shops but it’s just recorded music from a close shop. Out the other side and it’s the street fashion outlets: mango H&M and such. Some open and abundance of burger and bakers open with welcome smells!! I hit the square below the castle and feel like I’m back in Vilnius! There’s an intriguing group of bridges 3 spanning across the river. A plan to walk one way through town and up to the. Stale then down onto the other end has an abrupt change of dues film when the rain starts and I realise that while retrieving something from my bag I’d dropped my umbrella.... retrace steps and hope it’s not been ‘borrowed!’ A luck would have it it’s still beside the bookshop where I had stopped so direction determined I head along admiring the more expensive restaurants but not hungry then turn up a narrow passageway and start the winding climb to to the castle. Photo ya make great excuses for stops!! The view at the top will be worth it when the mist clears so I Wander round the Top noticing everyone arriving on the furnicular, and I head down the walking route to stare maestro. It’s a slippy path with wet leaves, tree roots and rain mixing to the challenge but I make it in one piece with only 1 minor slide! 4 hours til bus.... dry out and WiFi time! It’s still spitting so brollie retrieval was good option!! Once down the coffee stop sourced and a plug for a quick recharge to allow photo editing and some more writing I’m thinking it’s time maybe to source something more substantial to eat...... I’m starting to notice the aching of the back pack carrying for 4 days! Patients will be easy tomorrow!!
Ok 4pm and 80% it’s maybe time to wander further!! I head into Pay and get caught by a guy at the bar (Andrew). He lives 10 min walk away and has lives here 10 years. Coffee and a chat later he’s filled me with advises on place to visit and also where is good to live!! He also informs me that all that size I’ve seen is solely for cow consumption. Wow the cows are lucky!! Count down to 2 hours til bus and ongoing rain I decide to head on while Andrew goes to do some work. Bonus of the rain is that very few people are out and about. I see a couple of your groups but that’s it so I’m wondering how a sunny day would look!!
I need a dry out so eager looking for inspiration to stop off, still 1.5 hours. I stumble across ‘cacao’, it’s enticing ice cream piles say “Come try me” so it’s again rude not to. Tiramisu and Sacher scoops later and that’s filled a gap of sorts!! And dried out my jacket a bit, 20 mins killed!!!
1 hour to go and I do need something more solid to do me, so I wander into a place serving soup...... a nice warmer! I’m now starting to clock watch. Although I’m informed a taxi is €9 only to the airport I’m not hoping to try it!!!
Plenty of time but fast a queue forms.... going to be a squeeze. I know there little at the airport so maybe a long wait! One thing.... the locals don’t queue, standing straight in front of me to get on the bus, the Brits are in a typical string style! It’s not a straight bus to the airport so many getting off on the way. Information warms it may take 50 mins for the 16 miles!!
Interestingly buying in the bus is €5.4 in the station is €4.1! Maybe it’s the additional luggage that puts up the cost?? Front seat for fast escape I’m thinking I should have taken middle beside the back exit, so this may have not worked out!! Not like I’m struggling for time!! As we fill up I notice a couple dresses very (co-ordinated) saying good bye to their son. They wait til the bus leaves, waving, and I almost wave back, reminds me of many Berwick station departures.
It takes all of 40 minutes through the countryside in the dark with people exiting at bus stops which seem in the middle of fields!!! The airport is busy, there’s 5-7 flights due in and about the same departing so straight into security and get through. A huge number have large luggage so have to check in! The passport man is very sweet and trusts me not to show my boarding pass as ‘he feels it’s sad already for me to leave!!” Pop onto duty free at exit of security and €1 water so grab one and then realise this is schenkle area.... oops next get through that passport area......
I log into the WiFi (eventually) and catch up with people. Only 1.5 hours til boarding.... must remember heading to Gatwick and not Stansted (there’s 30mins difference in departure)! My backpack is slightly damp but considering the almost full day of rain it’s not as bad as expected!
Flight maybe delayed so it’s a certain night bus back for me. We arrive into north terminal and even if smooth flow I have 30 mins to get to south terminal train station which is almost impossible!! At least I have an isle seat but it’s in the middle so not a fast exit. Maybe I should have chided my seat but wasn’t thinking of that before. Ah well. At least trains run to London and we now have a night tube bonus so not as bad as once was!! A nice catch up and ability to track the incoming plane keeps me entertained. I’ve decided that I’m better heading to Newbury Park rather than Stratford for my bus if things go smoothly so until I get to uk I’m working on that plan!
Within 10 mins of watching the plane pull up they are boarding us. Not sure we’ll get on yet but at least things are moving. It’s the queue, but not for long and the WiFi stretches almost to the plane door. Bonus but must call Vodafone on return to fight about this roaming stuff! Looking forward to a snooze but never manage much when I’m in the isle seat. Ok own fault!!!! 2151 and not looking like departing at 2155!! Late and accepted it! Would have been later departing if heading to stansted (2230)! Row 20 and now to wait for the people in a&b to get on! They arrive and moan that there’s plenty of room for bags and they had theirs removed at the gate. Not happy, but we promptly were onto demo, I have the guy right in front, best not sleep!! Oooops his mask is broken and he halts the demo. The main girl is not bothered and it all still works but he’s not amused!! Snooze attempt....goodbye one of my top
World countries. I’ll be back soon for sure and bring others!!! Cheers :)
Learning points:
The bus drivers can tell you’re a tourist (back pack in place and speaking English with poor pronoun autism of words) so why not shout when the requested destination is reached.... thank god for google maps!!
There’s a great sense of security here with people leaving door open, things unattended with out fear. It’s a lovely change. Locals report little crime, everyone know everyone!
It’s very pedestrian friendly in cities and seems to enjoy the cyclists too
It’s a very clean country. Litter is at a minimum and everything looks clean
There’s very little obesity and lots of active participation
The roads need work!!
I need my 5-a-day!!
Return likelihood:
10/10 just loved it!
I need a dry out so eager looking for inspiration to stop off, still 1.5 hours. I stumble across ‘cacao’, it’s enticing ice cream piles say “Come try me” so it’s again rude not to. Tiramisu and Sacher scoops later and that’s filled a gap of sorts!! And dried out my jacket a bit, 20 mins killed!!!
1 hour to go and I do need something more solid to do me, so I wander into a place serving soup...... a nice warmer! I’m now starting to clock watch. Although I’m informed a taxi is €9 only to the airport I’m not hoping to try it!!!
Plenty of time but fast a queue forms.... going to be a squeeze. I know there little at the airport so maybe a long wait! One thing.... the locals don’t queue, standing straight in front of me to get on the bus, the Brits are in a typical string style! It’s not a straight bus to the airport so many getting off on the way. Information warms it may take 50 mins for the 16 miles!!
Interestingly buying in the bus is €5.4 in the station is €4.1! Maybe it’s the additional luggage that puts up the cost?? Front seat for fast escape I’m thinking I should have taken middle beside the back exit, so this may have not worked out!! Not like I’m struggling for time!! As we fill up I notice a couple dresses very (co-ordinated) saying good bye to their son. They wait til the bus leaves, waving, and I almost wave back, reminds me of many Berwick station departures.
It takes all of 40 minutes through the countryside in the dark with people exiting at bus stops which seem in the middle of fields!!! The airport is busy, there’s 5-7 flights due in and about the same departing so straight into security and get through. A huge number have large luggage so have to check in! The passport man is very sweet and trusts me not to show my boarding pass as ‘he feels it’s sad already for me to leave!!” Pop onto duty free at exit of security and €1 water so grab one and then realise this is schenkle area.... oops next get through that passport area......
I log into the WiFi (eventually) and catch up with people. Only 1.5 hours til boarding.... must remember heading to Gatwick and not Stansted (there’s 30mins difference in departure)! My backpack is slightly damp but considering the almost full day of rain it’s not as bad as expected!
Flight maybe delayed so it’s a certain night bus back for me. We arrive into north terminal and even if smooth flow I have 30 mins to get to south terminal train station which is almost impossible!! At least I have an isle seat but it’s in the middle so not a fast exit. Maybe I should have chided my seat but wasn’t thinking of that before. Ah well. At least trains run to London and we now have a night tube bonus so not as bad as once was!! A nice catch up and ability to track the incoming plane keeps me entertained. I’ve decided that I’m better heading to Newbury Park rather than Stratford for my bus if things go smoothly so until I get to uk I’m working on that plan!
Within 10 mins of watching the plane pull up they are boarding us. Not sure we’ll get on yet but at least things are moving. It’s the queue, but not for long and the WiFi stretches almost to the plane door. Bonus but must call Vodafone on return to fight about this roaming stuff! Looking forward to a snooze but never manage much when I’m in the isle seat. Ok own fault!!!! 2151 and not looking like departing at 2155!! Late and accepted it! Would have been later departing if heading to stansted (2230)! Row 20 and now to wait for the people in a&b to get on! They arrive and moan that there’s plenty of room for bags and they had theirs removed at the gate. Not happy, but we promptly were onto demo, I have the guy right in front, best not sleep!! Oooops his mask is broken and he halts the demo. The main girl is not bothered and it all still works but he’s not amused!! Snooze attempt....goodbye one of my top
World countries. I’ll be back soon for sure and bring others!!! Cheers :)
Learning points:
The bus drivers can tell you’re a tourist (back pack in place and speaking English with poor pronoun autism of words) so why not shout when the requested destination is reached.... thank god for google maps!!
There’s a great sense of security here with people leaving door open, things unattended with out fear. It’s a lovely change. Locals report little crime, everyone know everyone!
It’s very pedestrian friendly in cities and seems to enjoy the cyclists too
It’s a very clean country. Litter is at a minimum and everything looks clean
There’s very little obesity and lots of active participation
The roads need work!!
I need my 5-a-day!!
Return likelihood:
10/10 just loved it!