From Ljubljana: Velika Planina Tour with Meal & Photos

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Ljubljana and dive into some of Slovenia’s most iconic scenery, the Velika Planina tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, local culture, and fun. This experience takes you a short ride from the city to a high mountain plateau where traditional wooden houses, roaming cows, and panoramic mountain views await. It’s a perfect day trip if you’re after authentic rural charm combined with comfortable logistics.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines the scenic journey with meaningful cultural touches — like tasting a traditional shepherd’s meal and having professional photos taken. Not only do you get stunning views, but you also leave with beautiful memories captured by a guide’s camera. That said, a potential consideration is the walking involved; the terrain is grass and gravel, so good shoes are a must. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and a taste of genuine Slovenian life.

Key Points

Stunning scenic ride: Enjoy a cable car and chairlift that offers sweeping views of the Kamnik Alps.
Authentic Slovenian cuisine: Savor a traditional shepherd’s meal of sour milk and buckwheat ganci.
Cultural immersion: Walk among wooden houses and cows, experiencing rural life firsthand.
Professional photos included: Your guide will capture memorable moments, which you receive the next day.
Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Value for the price: Combines transport, meals, and photos—an accessible way to explore Slovenia’s mountain charms.

An In-Depth Look at the Velika Planina Tour

This six-hour adventure begins with the convenience of a pickup from Ljubljana’s train station, located under the linden trees at the far right near the bike racks. The small group of no more than 8 people means a cozy, friendly vibe, which also makes it easier for the guide to cater to your questions and interests.

The Journey Begins: From Ljubljana to Velika Planina

Once everyone is onboard, the 1-hour van ride sets the tone for the day, offering glimpses of Slovenia’s lush countryside. The real highlight starts when you arrive at the gondola station, where you’ll hop into a cable car that whisks you up to the Velika Planina plateau in about 30 minutes. The ascent is filled with breathtaking vistas, especially if the weather clears, revealing the rugged peaks of the Kamnik Alps. Many reviews mention how jaw-droppingly beautiful the views are—an instant reminder of Slovenia’s alpine charm.

The Cable Car and Chairlift Experience

The cable ride itself is an experience you’d happily repeat, with expansive views that make the journey part of the attraction. Upon reaching the top, you’ll switch to a chairlift that takes you even closer to the heart of the plateau. This short ride unlocks the panoramic views and gets you right into the midst of traditional mountain life.

Exploring Velika Planina

Once at the plateau, you’ll have around three hours to wander freely. The main settlement consists of a cluster of wooden huts, which have been remarkably preserved and give visitors a genuine feel for rural Slovenian life. Roaming cows are a common sight, grazing peacefully among the houses—adding to the authentic vibe.

The guided walk allows you to soak in the scenery, while your guide often points out interesting details about the region’s history and the shepherding traditions. According to reviews, many visitors appreciated how easy it was to walk on grass and gravel roads, though sturdy shoes are recommended for comfort.

The Traditional Shepherd’s Meal

One of the tour’s highlights is the meal. You’ll stop at a mountain hut for a hearty serving of sour milk and buckwheat ganci with cracklings—a simple but satisfying taste of local life. The dish is described as “delicious and filling,” perfect after a walk and with views of the surrounding mountains as your backdrop.

Capturing Memories with Professional Photos

What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of professional photography. Your guide will take high-quality photos of you and your group amidst the scenic landscape, capturing moments that are often missed when trying to photograph yourself. Many reviewers mention how surprised they were at the quality of the images and how they serve as a wonderful keepsake. The photos arrive the next day, giving you time to relive your experience and share it effortlessly.

The Return Journey

After your time on the plateau, you’ll descend via the chairlift and gondola, then hop back into the van for the 1-hour drive back to Ljubljana. The tour wraps up around the original meeting point, leaving you with a sense of fulfillment and fresh memories.

Practical Details & Tips

Transport & Timing: The entire trip lasts six hours, with a well-paced itinerary. The van, gondola, and chairlift rides are included, providing a seamless experience. Starting times vary, so check availability beforehand.

Group Size & Guide: Limited to 8 people, ensuring personalized attention. The guide speaks English and is knowledgeable about the area’s history and natural features.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll explore uneven terrain. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning views, and weather-appropriate clothing is wise — mountain weather can change quickly.

Restrictions & Considerations: The tour involves walking on grass and gravel roads, so it may not suit those with mobility issues or certain health concerns. It’s not recommended for children under three, babies under one, or those with heart problems, back issues, or altitude sickness.

Photos & Value: The professional photos provide excellent value, especially considering the included meals and transport. Having high-quality images of your Slovenian adventure is often highlighted as a favorite part of the experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity mixed with natural beauty. If you love mountain scenery, traditional rural life, and a hearty local meal, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also suited for those who want a relaxed, small-group atmosphere with personalized photo opportunities.

However, if you’re not comfortable walking on uneven terrain or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider other options. It’s also perfect for photographers or those who want professional photos as souvenirs.

The Sum Up

This Velika Planina tour offers an excellent way to connect with Slovenia’s alpine traditions while soaking in some of the most stunning mountain vistas. The combination of scenic cable car rides, a walk among wooden houses and grazing cows, and a traditional meal makes for a well-rounded, authentic day out. The inclusion of professional photos and small-group intimacy adds extra value, making it a memorable experience you’ll want to share.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and leisurely exploration. The tour strikes a good balance between guided insights and free time to roam and photograph. The relatively affordable price covers transport, meals, and pictures, offering real value for those wanting a genuine taste of Velika Planina.

If you’re looking for a scenic, cultural highlight close to Ljubljana that leaves you with beautiful photos and a warm feeling of rural Slovenian life, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Ljubljana train station to Velika Planina and back is included, with a van that fits the small group comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including transport, cable car and chairlift rides, and free time on the plateau.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for walking on grass and gravel are essential. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended since mountain weather can change quickly.

Are the photos free?
Yes, your guide will take professional photos during your time on Velika Planina, and you’ll receive these the next day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 3, babies under 1, or travelers with mobility issues or certain health conditions like heart problems or back issues.

What’s included in the meal?
You’ll enjoy a traditional shepherd’s meal of sour milk and buckwheat ganci with cracklings, a simple but hearty local dish.

How difficult is the walk?
The walk involves grass and gravel roads, so good footwear is advised. The terrain is gentle, and the walk is manageable for most physically fit travelers.

This Velika Planina experience truly offers a chance to see Slovenia’s mountain charm firsthand, with plenty of authentic touches and unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture seeker, or just someone craving a scenic escape, it’s a day well spent.