Adventure in Slovenia

S lovenia is a country in central Europe that lays in the eastern Alps at the north-eastern end of the Adriatic Sea, with Austria to the north, Italy to the north-west, Hungary to the north East and Croatia to the south. Despite its small size, Slovenia has a surprising variety of terrain ranging from the beaches of the Mediterranean to the peaks of the Julian Alps. Tourism contributes a large share to Slovenia’s prosperity. The beautiful Karawani and Julian Alps in the north give way southwards and eastwards to forested hills and the rugged limestone Kras area containing spectacular cave systems such as those near Postojna. There is even vine growing in northeast Slovenia with wine producing centres such as Ljutomer.

Golf in Slovenia is something that few European golfers think about. Most wouldn’t even know whether there was such a thing. But Slovenia does have ten 18-hole courses and seventeen practice areas and these, together with the many attractions the rest of the country has to offer make it an interesting tourist destination.

Bled golf course

The Bled Golf Course was the first track to be laid out and the first venue to hold a national golf tournament in 1976. Later a new course was added to the King’s Course, both of which overlook the Alpine peaks. There are several 9-hole courses of interest such as the one at Lipica, home of the legendary Lipizzaner horses. It is also the starting point for exploring the Karst in Arboretum Volcji Potok, with its attractive ancient park. In Mocrice, sheltered by the picturesque castle and near Terme Catez Spa is the Castle Mokrice Golf course amidst beautiful vineyards.

Lipizzaner horses

The Arboretum golf course is situated in the middle of a pine forest and has a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding Alps. The course itself presents an interesting challenge with no shortage of water hazards, all of which add to the overall beauty of the area. 

Ptuj golf course

On the Panonian Plain the spa city of Ptuj is to be found, not far from which a pleasant 18-hole golf course is laid out bearing the town's name. This is a delightful area that is enhanced by the Studencnica River that runs through the course, adding to the hazards and the beauty of the area.

Zlati gric golf course amidst vinyards

Guarded by the silent presence of the mountain Knojiska gora, between vineyards and the old town lies the 9-hole course Zlati-gric which spreads along the floor of a 1.300 metre long valley. An old palace has been converted into a club house. The vineyards and forest backed up with a creek, ponds and meadows produce a perfect setting for golf.

Castle Mokrice golf course

Triple Bridge in Ljubljana, the capital

End