A trip to festive Radol'ca

December in Radovljica is a time of lights and decorations, festive events, markets and buying gifts, local delicacies, joy, socialising with family and friends and winter delight. This time, we've put together a range of useful ideas and advice for a perfect festive day trip or a short family getaway.

VISIT BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Visiting Radovljica by public transport is really simple, as the railway and bus stations are just a few minutes on foot from the old town centre, where the majority of the festive events take place. Don't forget that at weekends and on public holidays you can take advantage of a bargain 75% discount on train tickets. Take a look at the special offers we have put together in collaboration with Slovenian Railways for all those who travel by train.

DECEMBER EVENTS

The picturesque old town centre of Radovljica becomes even more magical and fairytale-like when adorned with Christmas decorations. The square is buzzing with a lively December atmosphere featuring a wealth of events, including Christmas markets, street shows, concerts and creative workshops, as well as the aroma of delicious Taste Radol'ca food. Take a look at our online Events Calendar to see what is scheduled during the time of your visit.

MUSEUM OF APICULTURE

Did you know that the Museum of Apiculture in Radovljica was involved in preparing the nomination titled 'Beekeeping in Slovenia, a way of life', which has now been entered onto the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity? While visiting Radovljica, you have a great opportunity to visit the Museum of Apiculture, where you can go on a journey through Slovenia's rich beekeeping past and learn about some interesting specialities, such as the Carniolan bee, traditional apiaries and apiary frontal panels, beehives and transporting bees to pasture. The exhibition is supplemented with video content and interactive exhibits, which provide entertainment for all generations.

RADOLŠKA ČOKOLADA CHOCOLATIER

While visiting the 'sweetest' town in Slovenia, which is known for honey and the Radovljica Chocolate Festival, a visit to the boutique Radolška čokolada chocolatier is a 'must'! Discover the wide range of superior handmade chocolates and seek out your favourite.

FOR YOUNG VISITORS

This December we've put together a really special festival adventure for families visiting Radovljica with young children. A leaflet with a map and instructions is available from the Radovljica Tourist Information Centre.

In the surroundings of Radovljica you can also visit the Elan Alpine Ski Museum in Begunje na Gorenjskem, where another interesting family adventure/museum educational exploration awaits, while in Brezije you can visit the magical world of nativity scenes in the Nativity Museum.

RADOVLJICA ICE RINK

The Radovljica covered ice rink comes to life every December. Skate hire is available as well as skating aids for beginners. The ice rink is open on Mondays to Fridays from 3pm to 6pm and at weekends and on public holidays and school holidays from 10am to 6pm.

WALKS AND HIKES IN THE RADOVLJICA AREA

Theme trails and other trails, where you will be rewarded with wonderful views on the valley and the snow-covered Alps in the background, are popular throughout the year. The starting point for trails that begin in Begunje na Gorenjskem can be reached by bus, while numerous trails start in the old town centre of Radovljica, which is the start point for our suggested December hike.

From the viewing platform at the end of festive Linhart Square turn left on the asphalt road, where after just a few metres you will see a sign that reads 'Pusti grad' (Lipnica Castle) on the left-hand side before reaching the bridge. Take the path in the direction as shown down steps (the first part of the trail leads in the same direction as that to Lipnica Castle) then continue on the trail through the forest until you reach the attractive Fux footbridge (Fuxova brv). After crossing the footbridge over the Sava river, follow the signs for Kamna Gorica. Continue on the trail past a holiday home along a forest road lined with interesting conglomerate boulders until you reach a shrine and a marked junction of paths, where you should take the marked trail to the left uphill towards your destination 'Zijavka'. It's not far now, after just a few minutes you will reach the viewpoint above Kamna Gorica, a picturesque former iron forging village, which features some impressive ironworkers' houses. The Ojstra peč viewpoint is also close by, from where there is a beautiful view of the Sava river valley, Radovljica and the Karavanke mountains. The length of the trail there and back is 7 kilometres and takes approximately 3-4 hours. A free map of hiking trails is available at the Radovljica Tourist Information Centre, which is also the starting point of the trail (Linhart Square).

A TASTY MEAL

To round off a perfect day, head to one of the Taste Radol'ca restaurants for a meal. The cuisine in Radovljica and its surroundings has long been regarded as quality and authentic. Come and try some delicious food made from locally produced/grown ingredients. Taste Radol'ca restaurants will also be cooking mouth-watering street food in Linhart Square at various events in December.

ACCOMMODATION

The range of festive events and interesting surroundings make Radovljica the ideal place to stay for a few days. Check out the range of accommodation available.