Slovinsko, Izola – A Touch of Italy

Don't be afraid to be far from the hustle and bustle of the "big city". For 1.30 euros you can get by bus practically everywhere. There is a regular local bus service along the coast, so you can go on a trip to Koper, Piran, Portorož or Strunjan. The buses are nice, clean, just now don't forget the curtains, they won't let you in without them. You can buy a ticket directly inside the bus.

There is really a lot to choose from when it comes to swimming. The beaches are almost 5 km long. There are eight of them and each is different. You can also go swimming in ancient Piran, here are the beaches right on the historic promenade, which has its charm. In Portorož there is a relatively large central beach, partly grassy, partly sandy. If you prefer a more natural environment, you can go to the smaller rocky and partially pebble beach Seča, which is very popular among lovers of kitesurfing. If you plan to stay in a camp, you will use the beach Lucija.

But let's go back to Izola. The beach is called Svetilnik. It has a nice park, where you can relax and where you can hide from the strong sun. Access to the water is convenient, either on pebbles or from the pier on steps.

We longed for more peace and romance, so we made a trip to Strunjan. In the morning take the bus there and then walk back along the coast. In Strunjan you will enjoy the nature trail, which starts at the sea salinas. Access to them depends on current measures, so find out in advance. However, you can see them from a distance, if you are careful enough, you will also see various water birds.

The road slowly ascends. We were very lucky, we discovered a meadow with flowering artichokes. Such a huge thistle to look at, but beautiful. This crop is extremely healthy, heals the liver, gallbladder, is used in diabetes, protects the body against cholesterol storage, has anti-allergic effects, etc.

A little further uphill and then wonderful views of the rocky coast and crystal clear sea level will open up in front of us. First we stop at St. Crosses, directly above the bay of the same name, and then we head towards the most beautiful local beaches of Bele skale. You have to look for a descent to the beach a bit, but the experience will be worth it.

If you prefer sunbathing fun, head to San Simon Bay. You will find many attractions here, including a water slide, a volleyball court and various water sports.

When the sunset approaches, the beach Svetilnik offers you a nice place to watch it, then you can go for a walk on the promenade. There are patisseries with delicious ice cream, cozy restaurants offering a plethora of seafood and fresh fish, the atmosphere is amazing and it is more peaceful than in neighboring Piran.

If you are tempted by sightseeing, stroll through the town around the baroque palace Besenghi degli Ughi, see the church of St. Maurus with its bell tower or the church of Our Lady of Aliet, the oldest church in the city.

GPS: 45°32'26.2"N 13°39'30.3"E

Text: Magdaléna Radostová

Photos: Magdaléna Radostová, Pixabay.com, Wikimedia Commons: domjisch, Zorka Sojka