From City to River, Forest to Sea – Discover it All from Kolpa Resort
- Kolpa Resort Glamping
- Oct 21
- 5 min read
There are road trips—and then there are journeys that stay with you for life. Imagine waking up to birdsong, sipping fresh morning coffee by a tranquil lake, exploring emerald rivers and waterfalls by day, and returning to a cozy glamping lodge at sunset. This Slovenia road trip from Ljubljana – Kolpa – Plitvice – Dalmatia is exactly that kind of story.
Instead of packing and unpacking every day, this itinerary keeps you grounded. You’ll explore the best of Slovenia and northern Croatia while returning each evening to the comfort of Kolpa Resort, a boutique eco-retreat located in the green embrace of Bela Krajina—Slovenia’s hidden paradise.
Whether you're dreaming of peaceful nature, active adventures, starry nights, or a touch of Mediterranean breeze—this journey delivers.
Why Choose Kolpa Resort as Your Home Base?
Located just minutes from the pristine Kolpa River, Kolpa Resort is a premium glamping and camping destination surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills, and nature that calms the mind. But what makes it special for road trippers?
Easy day-trip access to Slovenia, Croatia, and Dalmatia
Perfect mix of relaxation + adventure
Natural swimming pond
Eco-friendly philosophy and local hospitality
Premium glamping lodges and mobile homes
Family-friendly + romantic for couples
Quiet countryside nights under the stars
Kolpa Resort blends authenticity with comfort—ideal for travelers who want nature without giving up quality sleep and good wine.
The Route Overview
This journey takes you beyond the typical tourist paths and lets you fully immerse in the region's nature and culture. Here’s a look at the area you'll explore:
Destination | Drive from Kolpa Resort |
Ljubljana (Slovenia) | 1h 15 min |
Kolpa River Valley | On-site |
Plitvice Lakes (Croatia) | 2h 15 min |
Northern Dalmatia Coast | 3–4 hours |
Instead of a classic linear road trip, this plan gives you the best of both worlds: freedom by day, cozy retreat by night.
5-Day Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – From Ljubljana to Nature’s Embrace
Your adventure begins in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s green and charming capital. Wander through the old town, stroll along the Ljubljanica River, and take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views.
Explore:
Prešeren Square
Dragon Bridge
Central Food Market
Tivoli Park
In the afternoon, drive 1 hour and 15 minutes southeast, leaving city lights behind as the landscape opens up into vineyards and sleepy villages. Soon you’ll reach Kolpa Resort, your eco-luxury base for the trip.
Settle into your private glamping tent or wooden chalet. Take a swim in the natural pool, sip a glass of local wine, and breathe in the quiet. Night has never felt so peaceful.
Overnight: Kolpa Resort
Day 2 – River Adventures on the Kolpa
Today is all about discovering the Kolpa River—one of the cleanest rivers in Europe and a Natura 2000 protected area. The river forms the natural border between Slovenia and Croatia and is perfect for outdoor exploration.
Activities:
Morning kayaking or SUP adventure
Visit charming semi-hidden river beaches
Picnic by the riverbank
Cycling through Bela Krajina vineyards
Afternoon relax + swimming pond at Kolpa Resort
Don't miss local specialties like pogača bread and Bela Krajina honey, offered by nearby farmhouses.
Evening tip: Light a fire by your lodge, listen to frogs, and watch the stars. The sky here feels endless.
Overnight: Kolpa Resort
Day 3 – UNESCO Paradise: Plitvice Lakes
Wake up early and cross the Croatian border for a day trip to the legendary Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its 16 turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and forest trails.
What to expect:
Easy and moderate hiking loops
Wooden walkways over crystal water
ferry ride across Lake Kozjak
Blue-green water so clear it feels unreal
Pro tip: Go early to beat the midday crowds.
Return to Kolpa Resort in the evening for relaxation by the infinity-like natural pool—and maybe a local wine tasting from the resort’s selection.
Overnight: Kolpa Resort
Day 4 – Dalmatian Flavor: Šibenik or Zadar
Today, feel the sea breeze. Drive south to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. You can choose between:
Option 1: Zadar
Historic, lively, and artistic—Zadar is famous for:
The Sea Organ music sculpture powered by waves
Roman Forum and Old Town
Sunset over the Adriatic
Option 2: Šibenik
More intimate and less touristy, Šibenik charms with:
UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral
Stone alleyways and coastal views
Fresh seafood by the marina
Krka National park
Stay for a seaside lunch and the salty air before relaxing drive back to Slovenia’s peaceful embrace.
Overnight: Kolpa Resort
Day 5 – Wine & Culture in Bela Krajina
Your last day is about celebrating the slow life. Bela Krajina is known for its vineyards, folklore, and warm hospitality.
Suggestions:
Wine tasting at local cellars (Metliška črnina & Modra Frankinja)
Visit Metlika & Črnomelj villages
Easy walk through Lahinja Landscape Park
Traditional dinner with belokranjska pogača and trout
As the day fades, soak in your final evening at Kolpa Resort—watching stars reflect on the pool, feeling calm and connected to nature.
Overnight: Kolpa Resort (or departure)
Why This Trip Works
This itinerary is designed for curious travelers who love comfort and authenticity. No hotel hopping. No rushed packing. Just smooth days full of freedom and nights filled with peace.
You get:
A well-balanced adventure
Access to both mountains and Mediterranean
Time to relax, not just drive
Immersion in local culture
Unique eco-luxury accommodation
About Kolpa Resort
Kolpa Resort is not just accommodation—it’s an experience:
Feature | About |
Location | Hill overlooking Kolpa Valley |
Accommodation | Glamping tents, Wooden cottages, Camping pitches |
Experience | Nature + privacy + boutique comfort |
Facilities | Natural swimming pond, outdoor loungers, pumptrack, bar, breakfast service |
Activities | Kayaks, SUP rental, cycling, wine tours |
It is perfect for:
Couples seeking romantic nature escapes
Families wanting safe and playful outdoors
Digital nomads needing calm & beauty
Road trippers exploring Slovenia & Croatia
Travel Tips
Best travel time: May–October
Recommended car type: Any – roads are excellent
Currency: Euro (Slovenia &Croatia)
Border: Bring passport for Croatia excursions
Language: English widely spoken
Packing List
Don’t forget:
Swimsuit & water shoes
Reusable bottle
Sunscreen
Day backpack
Personal document
Insulated coffee mug for sunrise moments at Kolpa Resort
Sustainable Travel Note
This itinerary supports responsible tourism. Kolpa Resort follows eco principles: respectful land use, minimal light pollution, and nature-integrated design. Guests are encouraged to explore soft mobility (cycling, kayaking) and support local family businesses—just like travel should be.
Final Thoughts
This journey isn’t just about destinations—it’s about how you feel along the way. You’ll soak in mountain air, dive into river adventures, explore UNESCO wonders, and dip your toes into the Adriatic—all while coming home each night to your private sanctuary at Kolpa Resort.
When travel feels natural, slow, and full of meaning—that’s when memories last.
Ready to plan your road trip?
Comments