During the planning process for our trip to Slovenia, after much Google searching, I stumbled across aΒ website that talked about farmstays in Slovenia (Slotrips). Β This serendipitous website find turned out to lead us to one of the most lovely, off-the-map places we’ve ever stayed, Kekceva Domacija Homestead in the Trenta region of Slovenia.

We chose Slovenia originally because we had wanted to experience the Dolomites but were worried that during June, our chosen vacation time, the Italian Alps would be swarmed with tourists; so we picked the Julian Alps instead. Β Let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Β None of Slovenia did for that matter.

Trenta, and the Trenta valley, is a nature lover’s paradise with its beautiful turquoise Soca river and waterfalls; soaring, jagged peaks; lush green forests; all surrounded by Triglav National Park, this area offers an endless amount of jaw-dropping scenery and outdoor activities. Β We were so excited about the promise of hiking rugged trails, exploring the Soca, and staying at a tiny mountain farm – only 4 rooms. Β Our experience with all of these exceeded all expectations.

The hiking in this area is breathtaking, and can be quite challenging. Β The peaks are incredibly steep and the limestone is crumbly which can make for quite a bit of scree hiking. Β Trekking poles and good hiking shoes should definitely be considered at a minimum.

I could’ve hung out along the banks of the Soca river all day. Β The color and clarity of the water, combined with jagged peaks and forest as the backdrop, and you have one of the world’s most beautiful rivers for certain. Β In these photos the river is rather tame. Β It does, however, get squeezed into tight canyons in several areas. Β River rafting is quite popular on this river.

Nestled among this natural beauty is the Kekceva Homestead. Β Please, please please do yourself a once in a life time favor and stay at this gem if you’re ever in Slovenia. Β I’m not even sure where I should start in sharing just how amazing this little homestead is. Β The hot springs pool has one of the best backdrops ever, the property is absolutely lush and gorgeous and a hiking path starts right on the premises, and the food is outstanding – often locally sourced and all handmade by the hosts. Β Our breakfasts consisted of homemade yogurt with homemade granola, fresh cheeses and meats, delicious European butter, and crusty bread. Β Dinners treated us to locally caught almond crusted trout , homemade wild boar ragu with polenta, and delicious wine from the hosts own vineyards.

The fact that there are only 4 guest rooms gives you the sense that you are on your own private farm and that you essentially have the run of the place. Β The hosts were so warm and welcoming and 100% focused on us having a great time during our stay. Β The husband had been a climber and spent some time in California climbing in Yosemite. Β Apparently he thought my husband looked like a California climber / surfer and so every time he saw Todd he would say “hey California.” Β They joined us for dinner one night and opened up many bottles of wine. Β Much laughter and hospitality was enjoyed. Β Which brings up another wonderful point about this homestead, all of this beauty and hospitality comes at an extremely reasonable price per night.

fullsizeoutput_2a1eOne last note, which makes me chuckle, there was this Tibetan terrier running around who could apparently be quite the guard dog. Β He was great to guests but there were signs such as the one in the photo posted around with his image warning people of the guard dog. Β He definitely has eyes and eyebrows that mean business πŸ™‚

Just writing this post makes me want to hop on a plane and jet back to this lovely, mountain hideaway and stay there for a very long time. Β It is a perfect place to unwind and recharge your batteries.

Thanks as always for reading about where the Life Bus has wandered. Β I hope you enjoy the read and the ride πŸ™‚

Lexi