Ljubljana to Split Real Food Adventure
Ljubljana to Split Real Food Adventure
$3610
Tour Overview
Embark on a culinary journey from Ljubljana to Split with the "Ljubljana to Split Real Food Adventure." This tour takes you through the heart of Slovenia and Croatia, offering a taste of regional delicacies and cultural experiences. Dine with a local family in Rakovica, learn to make traditional soparnik, and hunt for truffles in Motovun. Explore the stunning landscapes of Bled, Zadar, and Rovinj, and visit the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Enjoy wine tastings in Smartno and savor local desserts like kremsnita in Bled. With visits to organic farms, nunnery gardens, and vibrant local markets, this adventure is a feast for the senses, offering a unique insight into the culinary traditions of the region. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Ljubljana
Location: Ljubljana, Ljubljana Castle
Accommodation: Hotel
Zivjo! Welcome to Slovenia. Known as âEurope in Miniatureâ, Slovenia has a huge heart and a wealth of diversity. Best known for hearty, alpine stews, goulash and sauerkraut, Slovenia also boasts wonderful cakes and strudels, not to mention the culinary treasures found in the coastal Karst region, including teran (wine), prsut (air-dried ham) and sensational olive oils. Picturesque Ljubljana is the perfect spot to start your food-based odyssey, as itâs home to a surprisingly diverse food scene â think great local eateries, modern restaurants, street food, cafes and cake shops. Your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, your leader can suggest a great place in the heart of the city to sample some delicious traditional dishes.
Optional Activities:
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Day 2: Bled - Smartno
Location: Bled, Bled Castle, Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria, Smartno
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, jump in your private transport and head off to the city of Bled. Tucked in the foothills of the Julian Alps, this resort town is home to the glacial Lake Bled, known for its picture-perfect landscape. When you arrive, hike up to the 11th-century Bled Castle, perched high on the edge of a cliff, and admire the 17th-century Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria, which sits on the island in the centre of the lake. Thereâs another drawcard that brings people from around the world to beautiful Bled â and thatâs kremna rezina. Known as kremsnita by the locals, this dessert is a regional favourite, said to have been invented in Bledâs own Hotel Park in 1953 by Istvan Lukacevic, the in-house pastry chef. Traditionally presented in a perfect cube, this dessert is made up of two-thirds vanilla cream and one-third chantilly cream, sandwiched between layers of filo pastry. Sample some and see for yourself why this has become such an inherent part of the townâs experience. Hit the road again this afternoon, taking the scenic route to Smartno. In the west of Slovenia, and right on the Italian border, this spot is the perfect setting for an afternoon wine tasting. After indulging in some local drops with the group, youâll have a free evening to explore the town.
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Optional Activities:
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Day 3: Motovun
Location: Slovenian Istria, Motovun
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today youâll take a tour of an organic farm and orchard for an olive oil and dried fruit tasting. In the heart of the countryside of Slovenian Istria, youâll learn the traditional methods of organic farming and low temperature drying, which helps preserve the unique flavours of the fruit that is grown on-site. Enjoy a range of hand-picked and dried fruits, including persimmons, figs, pears, plums and apricots. Then, begin your journey south into Green Istria. You'll be welcomed for lunch by Tilen, who has a beautiful terrace overlooking the Trieste gulf. After a welcome drink, try some typical Istrian dishes for lunch like gnocchi with beef, pasta with asparagus and polenta with wild garlic. Finish off with homemade strudel with cheese, apple and cherry. Continue to Motovun in Croatia and when you arrive, spend the evening exploring at your own pace. Maybe ask your leader where you can find the best spots to enjoy more local cuisine.
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Day 4: Motovun
Location: Motovun, Rovinj
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Motovun is one of the best-preserved medieval Istrian towns in Croatia, with houses scattered all over the hill and a spectacular view of Mirna River Valley. Walk the city walls this morning, enjoying the sprawling countryside views. Motovun Forest is the best place for hunting the famous Istrian truffle, and the nearby village of Livade is considered the truffle capital of Istria. Take a walk through the woods with an experienced truffle hunter and learn about this intriguing job. Perhaps even sniff out a truffle of your own! Your host will then prepare a brunch of fritaja (a traditional dish of eggs and truffles). Enjoy this local favourite paired with local sausages, cheeses, spreads and a delicious honey-topped cake. When youâve had your fill, head off for the romantic Croatian town of Rovinj on the Adriatic Coast. When you arrive, go on a leader-led orientation walk to get your bearings and explore Rovinj's beautiful, architecturally intact Old Town. Through the centuries, Rovinj has enchanted countless artists and writers, including Jules Verne. Return to Motovun tonight and spend the evening at leisure. Maybe seek out a local restaurant to taste more of the fantastic local produce.
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Day 5: Plitvice National Park - Rakovica
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Rakovica
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Dinner
Take a private transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park â the largest national park in Croatia and known to be one of the oldest in southeast Europe, full of waterfalls and blue lakes. The waters tumble from a high, tree-lined ridge down through the valley before skirting dense forests of beech, spruce and pine. The Upper Lakes are in the dolomite cliffs, where rushing water weaves in and out of the karst before dropping dramatically down to the forest, grottoes and steep cliffs of the Lower Lakes. Take in this lush environment on a walk and boat trip through the park. After, carry onto Rakovica village, where youâll stay the night. Dinner includes a delicious home-cooked meal provided by your hosts â a hearty serving of traditional Croatian kotlovina. This mixed meat dish consists mainly of pork schnitzels and sausages, traditionally made in a cauldron (which translates to kotlovina) for large groups of people, feasts, holiday celebrations or parties. Watch as your hosts prepare your meal before tucking in and enjoying the robust flavours and hints of spice.
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Day 6: Zadar
Location: Zadar, Sea Organ, Zadar
Accommodation: Apartment
Accommodation Name: Apartment
Meals Included: Breakfast
Farewell your hosts after breakfast, then travel by to the walled city of Zadar. For centuries, Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia, and you can feel the city's rich heritage in every step. Itâs also celebrated for many culinary treasures, including the fresh seafood, the sheep and goats in the mountains, reared for their meat and milk, and the wonderful fresh produce grown in the broad belt of land surrounding Zadar. Before exploring this incredible city, visit a Benedictine nunnery, renowned for its fresh fruit and vegetables that are turned into delicious jams, pickles and preserves. Learn about the lives and work of the residents from your host, perhaps picking up some gardening or pickling tips along the way! After, youâll have free time to explore the city. Be sure to stop by the âSea Organâ on Zadarâs waterfront â these musical steps celebrate the cityâs relationship with the sea. Enjoy strolling the marble streets of the Old Town, discovering Roman ruins and medieval churches at your own pace. Your dining options are plentiful tonight â lamb in red wine, fresh fish or njoki â just ask your leader for their recommendations.
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Day 7: Split
Location: Zadar, Split, Diocletian's Palace, Split
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise early this morning for a stroll through Zadar's vibrant fish market. The fish market is built into the city ramparts at the exact spot where the trawlers land with their catch. Youâll also get an opportunity to see some of the produce grown in the area this morning. Depending on the season, you may find citrus fruits and kiwis from the islands, fresh and dried figs and homemade olive oil. After, head southeast towards Split by public bus. After dropping your luggage at your hotel, head out of town to visit a local family who specialise in a regional delicacy â soparnik (a pastry made with a mix of silverbeet, onions and parsley). The family regularly provide these pastries for weddings and events, so youâll be getting some of the best in the area! After your cooking demonstration, return to Split. Why not get together with your group for one last farewell drink to mark the end of your journey.
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Day 8: Split
Location: Split, Gallery of Fine Arts, Split, St Domnius Cathedral and Tower, Split, Ethnographic Museum, Split, City Museum, Split, Diocletian's Palace Cellars, Split
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your adventure through Slovenia and Croatia ends after breakfast this morning. As there is so much to see in Split and the surrounding area, you may want to consider extending your time in Split. Just speak to your booking agent to organise extra accommodation and feel free to ask your leader for any local tips to make the most of your extended stay.
Optional Activities:
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What's Included
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Bled - Kremsnita Tasting
Experience the local dessert, Kremsnita, in Bled.
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Smartno - Wine tasting
Enjoy a wine tasting session in Smartno.
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Trebese â Organic farm visit & lunch
Visit an organic farm in Trebese and enjoy a lunch made from local produce.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as Ljubljana - Sights & Bites Urban Adventure, Ljubljana - Castle visit & funicular, Bled - Castle, Bled - Pletna Boat Trip, Split - Cellars of the Diocletian's Palace, and others are not included.
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Single Supplement
A single supplement is available for those who prefer not to share a room, subject to availability.
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Dietary Requirements
While efforts are made to cater to dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust.
Transport
- Private vehicle , Public bus
Accommodation
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
- Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Important Information
- 1. A single supplement is available if youâd prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 2. While we endeavour to cater for specific dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so that we can ensure youâll enjoy this trip.
Mode of Transport
Travel between destinations is facilitated by a combination of private vehicles and public buses, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey throughout the tour.Accommodation
Accommodation throughout the tour may vary, with the style indicated in the itinerary serving as a guideline. Alternative arrangements might be necessary due to room availability, but a similar standard will be maintained. Early arrivals may require luggage storage until check-in.Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transport is used during the tour?
The tour uses a combination of private vehicles and public buses for transportation.
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Will I have the opportunity to learn about local food preparation during the tour?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to learn about local food preparation, including a cooking demonstration of soparnik by a local family in Split and a home-cooked meal in Rakovica.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The accommodation style is a guideline and may change due to availability. The tour includes stays in hotels, a guesthouse, and an apartment, with efforts made to prepare rooms in time for arrival.
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Are there any unique culinary experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes unique culinary experiences such as a truffle hunt and brunch in Motovun, a visit to an organic farm for olive oil and dried fruit tasting, and a wine tasting in Smartno.
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What activities are included in the visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park?
The visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park includes a walk and a boat trip through the park to enjoy its waterfalls and blue lakes.
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Will there be opportunities to interact with local families during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to interact with local families, including dining with a family in Rakovica and participating in a cooking demonstration with a family in Split.
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What is the focus of the tour in terms of experiences?
The focus of the tour is on experiencing local food and culture, including dining with local families, participating in cooking demonstrations, and tasting regional delicacies.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. Weâre creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a âsingle shareâ option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if youâd like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit for future tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Ljubljana to Split Real Food Adventure
8 Days Starting in Ljubljana, Slovenia and ending in Split, Croatia
Visiting: Ljubljana, Ljubljana Castle, Bled, Bled Castle, Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria, Smartno, Slovenian Istria, Motovun, Rovinj, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Rakovica, Zadar, Sea Organ, Zadar, Split, Diocletian's Palace, Split, Gallery of Fine Arts, Split, St Domnius Cathedral and Tower, Split, Ethnographic Museum, Split, City Museum, Split, Diocletian's Palace Cellars Split ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ZMZJ
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99