Ljubljana, like most medieval cities I have visited, has a castle right up high on a hill face towering over the old town. Ljubljana's castle underwent a modernisation process and a revamp in 2007. From this time onwards the castle grounds and the wooded area to one side is open to the public free of charge. People are encouraged to wander around inside the castle court yards, take coffee and relax or read from the portable library strategically placed under shady trees amongst the seats and beanbags. There are even musicians and concerts. We were lucky enough to catch the last of a cellist playing. The cost to the public comes if you wish to climb the towers to gain fantastic 360 degree views of the city and surrounding area. And what tourist doesn't? The climb to the top was on an ancient metal staircase which I think made a good photo.
From the castle we biked to the botanical gardens. While the first gardens were planted in 1810, those trees are enormous and most stately looking. Sitting beneath them makes one realise how "young" New Zealand really is. The gardens themselves were small, but pleasant to sit and enjoy the sun and scenery. Tomorrow we leave for Lake Bled a renown tourist spot.
I have enjoyed my time in Ljubljana. The historical sights are in a confined area and very easily walkable to visit them all. Of note is the way everyone bikes or walks around the city. The Bicikelj scheme was excellent and it made trips to the railway station to organise onwards bookings so easy and as a mere coincidence we had to pass the market areas with the fresh fruit and produce. What a hardship.
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