Rising 1,666m into the Julian Alps, the Velika Planina nature park is only a short drive north of Ljubljana and makes a great day trip for outdoor enthusiasts. While the rolling hills are criss-crossed with hundreds of kilometres of scenic hiking trails and mountain cycling paths, the most unique attraction has to be a traditional dairy herdsmen's settlement that is fully-functioning and open to visitors from June to September. In winter, under a blanket of snow, the mountain transforms into a popular ski destination.

Sitting near Kamnik, a typically picturesque Slovenian town, is the lower station of the cable car which carries you up to a vast mountain plateau and the herdsmen's settlement, with its quirky architecture, simple way of life, and traditionally made dairy products. If the mysterious spirit of the place is lost on the kids, at least they'll have a great time on the snowy playground, ski-lift Jurček or the free kindergarten here every weekend (11:00-13:00).

In terms of skiing, Velika Planina is perfect for families and beginners, to intermediate skiers also interested in a cultural experience. 6km of slopes (mostly medium difficulty) are served by 6 ski lifts and rise from 1412-1666m. Winter at Velika Planina holds plenty of other opportunities to be active on the snow: sledging, walking, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Traditional annual events include the very popular midnight church service on Christmas eve and the old style ski competition in March.

Herdsmen-style cottages are available to rent and lodging houses also provide accommodation and traditional food, completing the alpine experience. We highly recommend this idyllic and unusual winter wonderland.

To get there, head north-east from Ljubljana towards Mengeš and Kamnik, then continue north through Kamnik following signs for Kamniška Bistrica and Velika Planina.