Vila Preseren, Slovenia

Slovenian char fillet, trout consomme and tolminc cheese make for a fine lunch at Bled town's Vila Preseren (an elderflower-flavoured Hugo cocktail by the side won't hurt), the prelude to exploring Predjama Castle (a Renaissance-style structure built against a cliff-side) and Postojna Cave (24 kilometres long and nearly two million years old).

Bled Island Cafe @ Slovenia

Bled Island is one of Slovenia's most iconic destinations, set on a placid, pristine lake, with the Church of the Assumption rising over the island's trees. Take a 'pletna' boat to this picturesque island, climb the 99 stone steps to the top of the slope, and reward yourself with a local Lasko beer, bearing hints of citrus fruits and chestnuts, at a charming cafe beside the church.

Valentin @ Ljubljana, Slovenia

This cosy restaurant & fish market in the heart of Slovenia's capital city hooks its customers with gnocchi that swims with calamari, prawns & mussels, plus monkfish soaked in a creamy truffle sauce.