Lake Bled in the Julian Alps

What's not to love about Slovenia? It's cheap (by European standards), the scenery is spectacular, the people are delightful, the gelato is plentiful, the architecture is stunning and it's easy to get around. Best of all, Slovenia is still relatively undiscovered by Europe's tourist hordes.

For such a teeny country (it's about half the size of Switzerland), it's hard to believe Slovenia packs in so much variation: beaches and quaint Venetian towns on its 45km-long stretch of Adriatic coast; snow-slathered mountains in its Julian Alps; a subterranean network of limestone caves; white-water rafting on its hell-raising Soca River and a vibrant arts scene in its gorgeous capital Ljubljana.

In short, forget Switzerland and Italy: save your cash and head straight for Slovenia.

Survival guide

Slovenia is bordered by Croatia to the south, Austria to the north, Italy to the northwest and Hungary to the northeast.

Slovenia's coastal region enjoys a warm, sunny Mediterranean climate, while its Alpine north experiences crisp summers ideal for long hikes and river rafting and white winters that bring in the skiiers. The rest of Slovenia has a typical Continental climate with hot summer and bitter winters.

Slovenian is the national language; most young people can speak English.

The currency is the Euro, which came into effect January 1, 2007.

Slovenia is well-connected to the rest of Europe by train and bus. The national airline is Adria Airways but there are also regular direct flights from London with low-cost airline easyJet.