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If you’re visiting Ljubljana and have a penchant for spirits—particularly gin—then the Broken Bones Gin Experience promises an engaging, authentic peek into Slovenia’s emerging craft distilling scene. With a solid 5-star rating from 10 reviews and a reputation for knowledgeable guides and quality tastings, this tour offers more than just sips; it’s a journey through the local tradition of spirit-making.
What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines a tour of the only gin and whisky distillery in Ljubljana—a city that hasn’t had such a facility in over 60 years—with a chance to taste signature cocktails made with Broken Bones Gin. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of what goes into craft spirits while enjoying some delicious drinks.
One thing to consider is that the tour lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for a relaxed yet informative experience. It’s also worth noting that it’s not suitable for under 18s, so families with children will need to look elsewhere. The experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate spirits, enjoy learning about local production, and want to add a unique, flavorful memory to their Ljubljana trip.
Key Points
- Exclusive Ljubljana Distillery: The first in decades, founded by passionate friends blending tradition and innovation.
- Tasting & Cocktails: Sample three signature cocktails made with Broken Bones Gin, including popular choices like gin tonic and BB fizz.
- Rich Stories & Insider Secrets: Learn about the distillery’s history, the development of their spirits, and production techniques.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Bostjan bring enthusiasm and expertise, making the tour both educational and engaging.
- Affordable & Well-Reviewed: At just over $39 per person, the experience provides excellent value, especially given the quality of tastings.
- Limited Capacity: Tours limit to 20 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
A Deep Dive into the Broken Bones Gin Experience
Looking for more options in Ljubljana? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Significance of Ljubljana’s First Distillery in 60 Years
Ljubljana fans of spirits will be fascinated to learn that the Broken Bones Distillery is the city’s first since at least 1960. Founded in 2012 by two friends with a shared family background in brewing and wine-making, this distillery represents a remarkable comeback for Slovenian craft spirits. The founders’ dedication to creating gins and whiskies that reflect their taste and tradition shines through in every sip and story shared during the tour.
What the Tour Entails
Starting at 4:00 pm at the distillery’s location on Traka c. 132, the tour lasts approximately two hours. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which means you’ll get a more intimate and engaging experience. The guides, including Bostjan, are praised for their insider knowledge, offering a detailed narrative about the distillation process, the history of spirits in Ljubljana, and the unique philosophy behind Broken Bones.
The Guided Tour & Its Highlights
We loved the way guides explained the history of distilling in Ljubljana, providing context that lends depth to the tasting. Guests are taken through the entire process, from the initial idea and development to the final production of spirits. This behind-the-scenes insight enhances appreciation, especially for those who enjoy understanding craftsmanship and tradition.
Tasting & Cocktails
The highlight for many is the tasting session. You’ll sample Broken Bones Gin neat, allowing you to appreciate its complex flavors and aroma. Then, you’ll sip on two signature cocktails, such as the classic gin tonic or the more unique BB fizz, each carefully prepared to showcase the gin’s versatility.
From the review by Andrea_C, we learn that the explanations of gin’s history were very good, and the taste of Broken Bones Gin was highly praised. The fact that the gins are well-regarded for their quality suggests that this isn’t just a fun tour—it’s a genuine opportunity to taste some seriously good spirits.
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Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect if you enjoy craft spirits, storytelling, and personalized tastings. Spirits enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed explanations and insider secrets, while casual drinkers can enjoy the cocktails and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s also an excellent activity for couples or small groups looking for a memorable, educational experience in Ljubljana.
Value for Money
At $39.18 per person, the experience offers substantial value. For that price, you get a guided tour, tastings of premium spirits, and three cocktails—a package that’s hard to beat considering the quality and intimacy of the experience. Plus, the free cancellation policy adds flexibility, allowing for peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.
Practical Details
- Meeting Point: Broken Bones Distillery, Traka c. 132, Ljubljana
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Start Time: 4:00 pm
- Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers
- Booking: Book about a month in advance on average, as the experience is popular
- Accessibility: Near public transportation and accessible for most travelers (service animals allowed)
Final Thoughts
The Broken Bones Gin Experience offers an authentic, engaging look into Ljubljana’s nascent craft spirits scene. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or simply curious about how local spirits are created, you’ll find this tour to be both informative and enjoyable. The guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge make it stand out, while the opportunity to taste high-quality gin and inventive cocktails ensures it’s a worthwhile investment.
While it might not appeal to children or those looking for a high-energy nightlife experience, it’s perfect for spirits lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting to add a uniquely Slovenian flavor to their trip. The intimate setting, paired with good storytelling and excellent drinks, makes this a highlight for many visitors.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for under 18s?
No, the Broken Bones Gin Experience is not suitable for individuals under 18 due to the nature of alcohol tastings.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, giving enough time for a relaxed but thorough tour and tasting.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a guided tour of the distillery, tastings of Broken Bones Gin, and two signature cocktails made with their spirits.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility for travelers.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Broken Bones Distillery on Traka c. 132 and concludes back at the same point.
Is this experience suitable for groups?
Yes, it’s limited to 20 guests, ensuring a more personalized, engaging experience.
Are there guides available who are knowledgeable about gin?
Absolutely. Guides like Bostjan are praised for their enthusiasm and detailed knowledge about spirits and local distilling history.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 34 days in advance on average, as the experience is popular.
Is transportation provided?
No, participants are expected to meet directly at the distillery, which is accessible by public transit.
To sum it up, if you’re in Ljubljana and want a memorable, educational, and flavorful experience that highlights Slovenia’s burgeoning craft spirit scene, the Broken Bones Gin Experience is a top pick. It combines history, craftsmanship, and excellent drinks—all within a friendly, intimate setting—making it a perfect addition to your Slovenian itinerary.
