From farm to table, local production, local produce, all these expressions are a bit odd for us Slovenians. Would you like to know why?
Well, as we mentioned in one of our previous blogs, Slovenia is rich on fresh water. There is not much fertile land. The greatest part of the country is rocky; there is plenty of limestone terrain. Just a tiny part in the most Northeastern part of Slovenia is easy to be cultivated and is excellent for agriculture.
Most probably, this is the main reason why gardening is so popular in Slovenia. While travelling around our country you are going to notice private houses and almost every single one of them has a little back yard with seasonal vegetable. What do we grow? Well, everything what is suitable for our climate. There is no traditional Slovenian meal without a cabbage. In the winter has to be fermented- sour cabbage. We have a unique dish as well: a sour turnip. Few centuries ago, the best source of proteins were different kind of beans. Since Austrian empress Maria Theresa times there is almost no meal in Slovenia without tasty potatoes. The unique are roasted potatoes done with plenty of onion. On our tables, you can always notice a lot of garlic, beetroot, cauliflower, and yes, even radish. Have you heard Roman’s poor man’s dinner: bread, wine and radishes? Well, if there is not enough in our gardens, we go on the field and forests. There is enough greenery in the wilderness as well. Spring is the best time to pick up wild asparagus, wild garlic, horseradish and one of the most healthy ones- leaves of dandelion... Enough vitamins and minerals anytime of the year.
On one of our tours, we can stop by at the local farmer’s fresh food market. You will be impressed what a great offer of fresh produce is there. However, if you are more adventurous, we can organize a customized private tour. There are traditional, unique local gardens in Krakovo and Trnovo just 10 walking minutes from the city center. Bigger local farmers can be visited by local bus; they are in the Ljubljana suburban area, where also some community gardens are. You will get familiar with our local gardening heritage and you will get some great ideas for your seasonal meal.
Visiting a place with a tourist guide, with a local expert, you profit in many ways: you get the authentic presentation of people living in the country, intriguing local stories and most important: you get to know the hidden treasures known by locals only.
Private tours are YOUR tours - let us do it the way you deserve it!
Do not hesitate; contact us, we would be very happy to make a perfect city experience for you!