Photos: Sharon Kurtz (except where noted).
Our three-week European adventure was a whirlwind of breathtaking landscapes, unexpected twists, and unforgettable moments, taking us from Slovenia’s rugged beauty to Vienna’s historic charm.
Exploring Slovenia: Nature’s Paradise
We began our journey in Ljubljana, the vibrant capital of Slovenia. It has a rich history and charm, where every corner tells a story. We couldn’t miss Lake Bled, nestled amidst the Julian Alps, an iconic paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. We took a challenging hike above Lake Bled Castle, which rewarded us with a picturesque panorama. Afterward, we treated ourselves to a slice of the country’s famous dessert, kremna rezina.
More adventures in Slovenia
An e-biking adventure took us to the GoriŠka Brda region, known as the “Tuscany of Slovenia.” We rode through terraced vineyards and charming small villages, experiencing the region’s renowned wine-making tradition and vibrant cherry orchards. This lush landscape is famous for its exceptional wines, and the cherry trees heavy with ripe fruits added a sweet note to our journey.
We then traveled south to the Slovenian coast and the ancient city of Piran in the Adriatic Sea. Dating back to antiquity, Piran captivated us with its clear waters, medieval architecture, and winding streets. Venetian influences adorn architecture in the buildings, churches, and Tartini Square. Along the lively waterfront, colorful buildings and cafes beckoned us to take a stroll. St. George’s Parish Church atop a hill offered panoramic Adriatic views.
A Danube River Cruise: Highs and Lows
Next, we headed across the Alps to Vienna, Austria, where we embarked on a luxurious Danube River cruise aboard the Riverside Mozart. The majestic river, lined with historic castles and energetic cities, was to take us to charming towns in Austria and Germany. However, our cruise was unexpectedly cut short due to high water levels, reminding us that travel often comes with surprises.
Our captain, Bella Burjan, who has 20 years of experience on the Danube, remarked, “I have never seen high water levels like this in June.” Climate change drives these unusual conditions on the Danube River, with increased precipitation and melting glaciers causing more frequent and severe flooding. These events highlight the urgent need for sustainable practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the ecosystem.
A Detour to the Rhone: A New Adventure
Adapting to our change in plans, Riverside Luxury Cruises pulled out all the stops. It arranged for us to complete our 8-day cruise along the Rhone River in Provence on their sister ship, the Riverside Ravel. The smaller, more intimate ship had fewer guests, allowing us to interact with everyone and enjoy their company. The picturesque landscapes of Provence greeted us with open arms. We explored the ancient cities of Arles, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, delving into their rich history and savoring the local cuisine and wines, and saw the places in Arles where Vincent Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works.
The region’s charming villages, vibrant markets, and stunning vineyards added to the allure, making our journey through Provence an unforgettable experience. A second e-bike experience afforded us an upfront and intimate view of the Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct — a marvel of engineering from the 1st century.
Vienna: The Grand Finale
Our European whirlwind concluded in Vienna, a city steeped in elegance, history, and heritage. From the grandeur of Belvedere Palace to the intricate beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the imperial splendor of the Hofburg Palace, Vienna captivated us at every corner. We also indulged in apple strudel at Café Central, a traditional Viennese coffee house. We took time to reflect on Austria’s complex history in the poignant neighborhood of Leopoldstadt, where we visited the Holocaust Memorial and Museum Judenplatz. Our stay in Vienna culminated in an enchanting Mozart concert that immersed us in his timeless music.
Travel is an adventure, sometimes with unexpected turns but always with unforgettable experiences. Our three-week journey through Europe was a testament to the joys of embracing the unknown and finding beauty in every destination.
