Day 16 - Bright, Sun-shiny Day to Begunje
Fun hiking day once again!
A transport to another spot on the Austrian-Slovenian border dropped us off just as the morning fog cleared. Off we went.
First up was a ridge walk to tunnels dug for merchants way back when this region was part of Corinthia. The path wasn't too narrow and there were cables, except just before the first tunnel where a landslide had obliterated the path. That was one of the scariest things I've ever done. But we all made it through. The rest of the day was smooth sailing.
Today the unique architecture at one mountain hut garden stood out. It may not be up to any building code, if there is one, but benches and shelters seem sturdy, using whatever material is on hand.
We also passed by bee hives, the ones in boxes. Each morning of the Slovenian portion of this trip I've enjoyed excellent yogurt with honey, both produced nearby, apparently very nearby.
Another delicious find has been a decent IPA. The usual beer on tap is Lasko or Union. They taste refreshing, but we like beer strong & bitter.
Oddly, today's route took us through an archery range. It was our luck that no one was practicing archery at the time. It felt a little bizzare.
Our highlight of the day came near the close when we explored Castle Kamen ruins. The castle dates back to the 12th century, was built and inhabited by various counts until it was abandoned in the 1700s.
Our hosts this evening are the Avsenik family, renowned for much of Slovenian folk & polka songs. The pension holds just a few rooms and a large garden. Seems they host events frequented by Slovenians from near and far. Tonight the garden was quiet, just us foreigners enjoying a hearty meal.
Last but not least, we were treated to a spectacular sunset...
Tomorrow, we depart this village to delve into the Vintgar Gorge and onward to a tourist town of Lake Bled.