Slovenia (Venice and Munich)

Our second country to visit over the summer was Slovenia. We spent a few days in the capitol city of  Ljubljana, home of this statue which guards one of the city's bridges. Ljubljana is a pleasant place to spend a few days. The city has an old world feel as well as a modern hipster-y atmosphere, sort of like if Portland had been built in the 1200's. 

 We spent most of our time in Slovenia exploring rural areas, mostly around Triglavski National Park.

Just like in Croatia, it was evident that many people take responsibility for producing some portion of their own food. Homes had impressive gardens and many families kept a few animals. A traditional form of beekeeping is still common. The photo on the left shows a group of small hives stacked together. It was believed that bees could find their own hive using a colorful uniquely painted door.

Collecting wildflowers near Bled.

Slovenians are passionate about the outdoors and opportunities for hiking are plenty. 

The Julian Alps

The Sava river, high and off-color after heavy rains, is normally an intoxicating shade of glacial green.

Zasip Village

Ornate door of a Ljubljana Church

Pilgrimage church: Lake Bled

In the Sava River Valley we realized we were only a couple hours from Venice. We took the opportunity to spend a couple nights.

Flying in and out of Germany of this trip also enabled us to spend a few days in Munich and Frankfurt.

Most notably. this included an informative and somber tour of the work and prison camp at Dachau.

We also made a stop at a number of popular beer gardens.

Standing wave in the English Garden, Munich's largest city park.