Summer Sojourn
BEYOND THE ORDINARY
Jenny shares her experiences from a recent journey through Europe’s most enchanting and undiscovered region.
This past May, I had the privilege of exploring Slovenia and Istria. It has been on our radar for a few years now, and even with high expectations, this region still managed to surprise me in ways I didn’t anticipate. My excitement grew with every turn: charming cities brimming with life, storybook castles, crystal-blue lakes framed by emerald forests, and the snow-capped peaks of the Julian Alps.
I fell head over heels for its depth and endless beauty. What struck me most was the variety—within just a few hours’ drive, you can move seamlessly from city to countryside, from mountain lakes to the Adriatic coast. Compact yet rich in experience, this region offers a journey that feels endlessly rewarding.
We’re thrilled to invite you to join us on this 9-night Summer Sojourn, blending the romantic charm of Ljubljana, Slovenia, the Alpine vistas of Lake Bled, and the coastal allure of Istria, Croatia—an experience as rich in culture as it is in indulgence. We even added an extra night so you can truly savor each destination, linger over leisurely lunches, explore hidden corners at your own pace, and soak in every moment. You’ll depart the U.S. on a Friday and return the following Sunday, giving you ample time to unwind and fully enjoy each destination.
Ljubljana immediately charmed me with its fairy-tale architecture, outdoor cafés, friendly locals, and easy pace. I loved starting my mornings along the pastel-lined riverbanks, sipping espresso beneath ivy-covered arches, and soaking in the effortless charm of one of Europe’s most walkable capitals. It’s a city that feels like a secret—romantic, creative, and quietly captivating.
Not far from the capital, we headed to the mountains to visit the storybook beauty of Lake Bled—a place so serene it feels almost unreal. We glided across the turquoise water aboard traditional wooden pletna boats, making our way to the tiny island crowned by its iconic church. Surrounded by emerald forests and distant peaks, the lake’s stillness was nothing short of breathtaking.
Later, we ventured into the Slovenian countryside, where we met a local beekeeper who shared his craft and passion for sustainability. It was a genuine glimpse into rural life—full of warmth, pride, and authenticity. Between gourmet dinners and intimate tastings, we wandered through charming shops selling locally made honey, wine, chocolate, and olive oils—each one telling its own story of place and tradition. As a small country, Slovenia takes great pride in what it produces. Most of what’s made here isn’t intended for export—it’s crafted for locals, by locals. That sense of care and connection to the land is something you can taste in every bite and feel in every encounter. Plan to bring a second bag—these local treasures are too good, and too rare, to leave behind.
Next, we left the mountains for the coast. A two-hour drive through rolling hills brought us to Istria, a region shaped by Italian, Slovenian, and Croatian influences. Sun-drenched coastlines stretch alongside vineyards and olive groves that reach the sea. Slow afternoons unfold in medieval hill towns, where cobblestone streets lead to sweeping coastal views and hidden culinary gems.
We visited a family-run olive oil farm, tasting golden liquid fresh from the groves, before arriving at the coastal town of Rovinj, where pastel shops and sea-facing cafés unfold like a dream. Afternoons slipped by over long lunches, laughter, truffle tastings, and local wines. It’s a place to savor, linger, and let life’s pleasures unfold naturally.
Rovinj is a rare find. It reminded me of the Amalfi Coast, but unlike Amalfi, which can feel sprawling and crowded, Rovinj is cozy and walkable—every street is accessible on foot. You can wander cobblestone alleys and discover hidden cafés, artisan shops, or quiet piazzas without ever needing a car or ferry. The harbor is the heartbeat of the town, with fishing boats bobbing alongside sailboats, and life unfolding at a gentle, captivating pace. While it feels grounded in locally made products and old-world charm, I was also stunned by the number of gourmet and upscale dining experiences tucked throughout the town. Rovinj truly feels like an uncovered secret—a place where authenticity meets indulgence.
This dual-destination escape is for those who crave extraordinary, immersive, and authentic experiences—the essence of a true Jet Set journey. Stay tuned as we unveil more details about this special summer journey.