- Winter Escape 2017 - Sea Princess, Regal Princess, Hurtigruten Polarys: Koper

Koper, Slovenia

Today was another hit sunny day with temperatures predicted to be well into the 30's. We had a private tour organised with Koper Trips to the Skocjan Caves and the coastal town of Piran.

We were picked up from the port around 8.30am for our short drive to the caves. As the caves didn't open till 10 we stopped off for a coffee at a roadhouse high on a hill with a beautiful view over the valley. The coffee was good and cheap at 1.20 euro.

We arrived at the caves with 20 minutes to spare before the first guided tour of the day. We spent this time shopping in the only shop that was open.

We started to be a bit concerned when we were told that the cave has a constant temperature of around 12 degrees. Everyone else were carrying jackets and had hiking boots or joggers on. We six had sleeveless cotton tops with sandals!! Thankfully I found the cool temperature quite pleasant and a nice change to the heat outside. The pathway inside was easy walking but a bit slippery in places as it was quite wet.

The Skocjan caves are located in the Karst area. The caves were included in the UNESCO natural and cultural world heritage sites list in 1986. The caves were created by the Rika River and range in depth from 90m to 160m and is one of the largest underground canyons in the world. It's underground world is adorned with giant stalactites, water rapids and beautiful lakes.

Unfortunately no photography was allowed in the caves due to professional photographers having to pay to take their pics. That was a real shame although I don't know if the average camera would pick up the beauty in the somewhat dim light. (I have lifted some off the internet but they don't do the caves justice but you will get an idea)

Thankfully when we exited the caves there was a funicular lift to take us back to the top although it did require some uphill walking to get to. (We heard from other passengers that the lift had broken down later in the day and it was a long steep hit walk back to the top!) Luckily there was also an icecream stand conveniently situated and at 1 euro a scoop we couldn't walk past!!

After the caves we headed back to Koper via Izolo which is a beautiful seaside town, for a change of drivers then onto Piran for our lunch break.

Piran is one of the oldest and most beautiful Slovene towns with rich history and culture. Piran's town wall, narrow streets, fishermen's nets, compact houses that rise up the slope and the beautiful sea gives you the feeling of walking through a painting.

After strolling along the beachfront we were taken to a local cafe by our guide. Our lunch consisted of a taster plate which had local delicacies such as fish, sheep's cheese (which was divine) and prosciutto on yummy bread. Each of these three tasters were accompanied by a different local wine.... rose, red and white! All this for 5 euro each!!! What a bargain and so good.

After lunch we headed on the scenic road back to Koper via Portoroz (which means "Port of Roses") and is the Monte Carlo of Slovenia. Portoroz is a popular holiday destination with upmarket hotels, casinos and beautiful beaches.

Quick Facts:

Founded: settled by the Celts during the 3rd century BC

Region: Situated on the Adriatic Sea... Southwest of Trieste, Italy

Climate: Mediterranean with mild to hot summers

Language: Slovenian and Italian

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Capital of Slovenia: Ljubljana (pronounced loo-blee-ana and means beloved)

Koper is Slovenia's largest town and fuses a charming blend of interwoven streets adorned with cathedrals and lively plazas. Unfortunately we were there on a Saturday and most things closed including the supermarket early. By the time we got back from our tour most shops were closed either for siesta or because it was Saturday. We walked around the square and actually bought a bottle of wine from the tourist centre. We then sat in the only opened cafe for an Aperole spritz and free wifi before heading back to the ship for a 5pm sail away.

Another great day in port.... a sea day to recover then beautiful Valletta, Malta.

Bye from the friendliest ship on the seven seas as our Captain tells us.