The Softness of Natural Materials Above Slovenia’s Vipava Valley
On the northern edge of Slovenia's Vipava Valley, a Munich couple has completed a light gray, low-slung holiday home with a casually modernist flat roof, all in celebration of their love of leisure. Framing the surrounding nature, it captures the beauty of this gorgeous region from nearly every angle.
Upon entrance you’ll be whisked into a rectangular open living space with all of the bedrooms off to the right. Pass through the kitchen, dining area and living area without encountering any walls or doors, and you’ll be rewarded at the end with sliding glass doors that account for nearly two entire walls, offering a stunning corner view of the valley.
Simple forms, clean lines and a purity of natural materials make up this vacation rental in Slovenia. The resulting experience invites contemplation or socializing, depending on which nook of the home you’re in the mood for.
Accommodating up to six guests, the home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus a sprawling garden replete with lounging areas that invite repose on sunbeds, family fun on the trampoline and camaraderie around the barbecue.
It's a gathering place meant for peaceful living, where you're equally content with a glass of good wine in the outdoor rocking chair while you count passing clouds, cooking in the sleek open kitchen, or pursuing your own version of leisure in the surrounding valley.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Classic Italian espresso machine, outdoor shower, green roof, fan and floor cooling, floor heating and fireplace, music and TV amenities, dishwasher and washing machine, three parking spaces and an e-charging station
AN ACTIVE WONDERLAND
The villa is surrounded by a Mediterranean-Alpine landscape, and is a great region for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, parachuting and sport fishing. The owners recommend a cycling or hiking tour up to Čaven, where you'll be rewarded with a view of the sea from the Nano’s plateau (once down, stop for a local Pelicon craft beer.) The turquoise Soča waters, 45 minutes away, are also an adventure worthy of a National Geographic editorial.
The region is also well known for its orchards and vineyards. Hit the Vipava wine road, and try local wines like Zelen and Pinela, as well as local delicacies like 'pršut' ham and 'Nanoski sir' cheese at nearby farms.
The villa is nestled among castles and little towns, like Vipavski Križ, Vipava, Štanjel and Goče. The owners recommend sampling the region's rich gastronomic heritage with a wine and food pairing experience at Matej’s and Nataša’s Majerija or a stop by Mirjana’s bar in cosy Vipavski Križ (try a glass of the Vipava wine!). The area also has two Michelin starred-restaurants.
Culture vultures will appreciate Hrastovlje’s frescos or Goriška Brda, Slovenia’s small Tuscany. You can even indulge in a day trip to Aquileia, Italy, home of a wonderful collection of mosaics.
LOCATION
Lokavec, Slovenia. Nearest airports: Trieste, Italy (52 km); Ljubljana (105 km)
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Spring to Autumn
