Wednesday, 26 August 2015

AUGUST 2015 : EASTERN EUROPE : European Peace Walk : Day 18 : Brezice, Slovenia - Ljubljana, Slovenia (50 kms by train - 7 euros)

Distance travelled : 495 kms

                                   

EPW have added 2 rest days to the schedule this year. One in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, today and the second tomorrow in Lake Bled, an hour north of the city. Weather is warming up again with temperatures in mid to high 20s. 

          

The youth hostel in Brezice provided breakfast this morning for 3 euros. We are unanimous in recommending this fabulous facility. 13 euros a head.


       

           An artist's impression of Brezice.


       

          Leaving the hostel.


        

   3 kms walk to the station. We were keen to take this little work shuttle but had to wait for the train.


         

               Two hour trip, mainly following the River Sava.


         

             Attractive towns along the river.


      

           Railway staff.


         

           We arrived about midday and followed our instructions and red arrows to the hostel.
           Immediately we were all enamoured with Ljubljana. So pretty and alive with activity.

        

           Our hostel is by the river. We are staying with other Peacewalkers as they enjoy their second
           rest day. The group before us has had up to 14 walkers during their three weeks.



       

         Lunch across the road.


         

            Huge helpings.


         

             Mark had beef liver and prosciutto.


     

         Baconied apartments along the river.


        

 Everything beautifully presented. Students, bicycles, tourists swarming the main commercial area.


        

           Quaint bridges.

         

           Traditional foods in market stalls.

         

            Ljubljana Castle above the town.

          

    We found the funicular railway to the castle, not before filling our water bottles from this unexpected
    kangaroo water fountain.

        

        The castle precinct with modern restaurants and displays. It served as a prison in the early
        twentieth century.


         

            Frescoes in the castle chapel.


          

              Enthusiastic travellers....and shoppers....

         

           One of many buskers.

           

              Meanwhile Emma and Jason went on a two -hour guided tour, including food sampling


         

            We opted for a local restaurant recommended by the hostel and with 10% discount.


         

           Romantic courtyard.


      

       Our dormitory tonight. Good, clean facilities and helpful staff.
       Lots of happy noises from the crowds by the river .... we may join them tomorrow night.

M&M

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