DAY 1
Our day will begin with a private tour of the white-walled city, where we will learn about all the hidden secrets and facts of this medieval town. After marveling at the beauty of Dubrovnik's old town, we'll head to Mount Srđ, which sharply rises above the old city.
The viewpoint at Mount Srđ offers panoramic views of Dubrovnik and its surroundings.
DAY 2
After a delicious breakfast, we'll start with a private walking tour of this fascinating city. As we stroll through the historic streets in the company of a local tour guide, you'll feel like you've been transported back to Roman times.
We'll visit the bustling green and fish market to observe the local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day, and experience the vibrant and colorful exchange of words between the locals. But that's not all - we'll also take part in a hands-on culinary cooking class where we'll learn how to cook in the Dalmatian way, which is considered one of the healthiest cuisines in the world and is even inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultura Heritage.
After our gastronomic treat, we'll visit one of the best wineries in Croatia, located on the hills rising from the Adriatic Sea. The view of the sea and surrounding islands is breathtaking and the wine is sure to impress. Don't miss this unforgettable day in Split.
DAY 3
WINE AND OLIVE OIL ADVENTURE IN THE ZADAR REGION
Today get ready for a wine and olive oil adventure in the Zadar region! Here, you will learn about the local methods of producing olive oil and discover what makes them unique from other methods used in Croatia and around the world.
Zadar is also famous for its delightful wines, which have been produced for over 3,000 years and have won international awards at some of the most prestigious wine festivals in the world.
During our journey through Zadar County from Ravni Kotarje to the coast, we'll visit wine cellars and tasting rooms to discover a variety of wines to suit everyone's taste.
DAY 4
EXPLORING THE DIVERSE REGION OF ISTRIA
Our first stop is the charming artist colony of Groznjan, a hilltop town that was all but deserted after WWII until being revitalized as a place for artists. This is also a favorite spot for musicians, and you'll have time to wander the twisting streets filled with shops from local artisans, or perhaps take in an impromptu music or drama performance in the main square.
After savoring mouth-watering homemade dishes for lunch at a local restaurant, we'll continue our journey to explore the mainland Istria region. As we drive through the rugged and hilly terrain, we'll reach the medieval town of Motovun, which is famous for being the best-known truffle region in Europe.
DAY 5
EXPERIENCING THE UNIQUE CHARM OF ROVINJ
After our exciting truffle hunting experience yesterday, today we'll dive deeper into Istria's culinary traditions and learn how to cook with truffles from appetizers to desserts. Istria is renowned for its truffles, both black and white, making it the perfect place to learn about and cook with these delicate mushrooms.
DAY 6
EXPLORING THE SLOVENIAN PART OF ISTRIA
We will be visiting a local organic olive oil producer. After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll head to the most picturesque coastal town in Slovenia, Piran. This charming town was once part of the great Venetian republic and is filled with stunning architecture that reflects its history. You'll have time to explore the narrow streets, admire the beautiful buildings and soak up the atmosphere of this unique town.
DAY 7
A DAY IN ITALY
Next, we'll head to the Castle of Miramare and explore the romantic residence of Maximilian of Hapsburg and Charlotte of Belgium, where we'll see the sumptuous original furniture and decorations and take a stroll through its surrounding English and Italian-style garden rich in rare plants, sculptures and ponds. Get lost in the enchanting views of Trieste and its gulf from the coastal rocks that the castle is enshrined in. The tour concludes with a return to Piazza Unità d'Italia.
DAY 8
THE BEAUTIFUL VIPAVA VALLEY
Our first stop is a truly special place: an organic boutique cellar in the beautiful Vipava Valley where we will explore their wine cellar, sample some of their best wines and get amazing views from their wine estate.
For lunch, we're heading to a truly special restaurant where the ingredients are locally sourced from their own garden and fields. The menu is not only shaped by the local area, but also by the changing seasons, ensuring that you'll enjoy the freshest and most innovative dishes.
DAY 9
THE BEAUTIFUL CAPITAL OF LJUBLJANA
You'll be guided by a local English-speaking private guide who will take you on a tour through the historic part of the city. After taking in the stunning views from the castle's viewpoint, where you can see the close-up beauty of the Alps and the Ljubljana basin, it's time for a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, get ready to dive deeper into the world of Slovenian wines. Our wine tasting takes place in a 300-year-old cellar in the heart of the city, led by a passionate sommelier who knows everything there is to know about Slovenian wine.
DAY 10
EXPLORING THE ALPINE REGION OF SLOVENIA
Our first stop is Lake Bled, Slovenia's most famous tourist destination and home to the only natural island in Slovenia. We'll take a boat ride to the island and climb the old 12th-century castle perched on a steep cliff, offering spectacular views of the lake, the island, and the surrounding peaks.
As the day comes to a close, we'll have the chance to visit a local beekeeper. You'll learn all about the lives of bees, why they are so important, and why beekeepers tend to live longer.