When I told people I was planning to spend the majority of my next vacation in Slovenia, about half gave me a perplexed look and said, "Where's that?" After returning, part of me wishes I could keep it my little secret.

 

Located between tourism superstars Italy and Croatia, Slovenia is a lesser-known Balkan country between the Alps and the Adriatic. But what this little country (slightly smaller than New Jersey) lacks in buzz, it more than makes up for in spectacular scenery, hospitality, and a laid-back cafe culture that's perfect for a relaxing off-season European vacation

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The trip started with a purposely-long layover in Zurich and two days in Venice, but it was Slovenia that made this vacation something special.

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I spent a few days in the Venetian-style coastal enclave of Piran, a few days in the breathtaking scenery of Lake Bled in the Slovenian Alps, and a few days in the charming capital of Ljubljana, which won my heart despite a lack of headlining tourist attractions. I even took a day trip to the small eastern Slovenian village of Zalec, which celebrates its hop-growing culture with six craft beer fountains in its central park.

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Slovenia has the coast, the mountains, the scenery. It has friendly people, local wine & beer, and a seriously fun cafe culture. I highly recommend you check it out.

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But hey, let's keep it our little secret, OK?