Our lucky Assistant Rates Manager Grace recently spent a serene week drinking in the breathtaking scenery of pretty Slovenia. Here, she shares some of her envy-inducing snaps.

i-escape: Slovenia

i-escape: Slovenia

Eastern Europe is not somewhere I had explored before, but I’d always known that when I did, there would only be one place to start – the lush, green, endlessly scenic haven of Slovenia.

The first stop on our tour was Hisa Franko, a family-run restaurant-with-rooms renowned for its experimental and creative food. People come from all over Europe just to try chef Ana’s cooking. We were treated to a set-course menu, and each dish was matched with a perfectly chosen glass of wine. It was definitely one of the best meals I have ever had!

i-escape: Hisa Franko, Slovenia

After an equally delicious breakfast the next morning, we headed to Pristava Lepena, high up in the Soca Valley. It’s made up of 8 stylish wooden chalets, scattered amongst a clearing in the foothills of the Julian Alps. We spent our day on one of the many walking trails nearby, heading along a river to a picturesque waterfall.

i-escape: Pristava Lepena, Slovenia

i-escape: Slovenia

i-escape: Slovenia

i-escape: Slovenia

In the evening we were treated to a tasty barbecue cooked by Milan, one of the charming owners.

i-escape: Slovenia

To end our trip we headed up into the mountains to Nebesa, which means ‘heaven’ in Slovenian.  Its 4 individual chalets have staggering views over the Soca Valley, and their fronts are made entirely of glass to ensure the best possible panoramas.

i-escape: Nebesa, Slovenia

We spent our stay relaxing in the wellness centre and eating out on the terrace. It was the perfect way to round off our time in Slovenia. The rest of Eastern Europe will have to wait; I’m coming back next year too!

i-escape: Nebesa, Slovenia

i-escape: Nebesa, Slovenia

Take a look at the whole of our Slovenia collection and our travel guide for more inspiration >>