Photography in Slovenia | The beauty of Smartno and Goriska Brda Region
In May, I went on a fantastic trip to discover places and scout for a photo tour in 2025. I checked out Slovenia, an almost hidden gem in Europe that few traveler photographers have on their radar. While this is my first post here, if you've checked out my photo tour website, you might seen the trip report about how amazing Slovenia is for travel photography.
Slovenia is a small country; you can drive almost everywhere in less than a couple of hours, yet its variety of subjects makes it a photographer's dream. It's a land rich with picturesque mountains, serene lakes, and charming, photogenic churches. Each corner of this tiny country offers a new perspective and unique beauty, making it a haven for travel photographers.
Before my trip, I did some research, as I always do. It was in a Lonely Planet guide (yes, I still swear by those trusty guides) where I first encountered a photo of a quaint hill town nestled among vineyards. That image captivated me instantly, and I knew I had to visit and stay in that charming place.
The town in question is Smartno, situated in the Goriška Brda region. This fascinating village immediately brought back memories of a past trip to Italy, where I stumbled upon Civita di Bagnoregio. I had always regretted not spending more time there, and Smartno presented a chance to rectify that missed opportunity. Who wouldn't be tempted by the allure of a medieval town surrounded by vineyards?
I spent two nights in Smartno, immersing myself in the local atmosphere and capturing the essence of the Goriška Brda region. This area, often called the "Tuscany of Slovenia," is a visual feast for any photographer. Think about endless rolling hills, lush vineyards, and the timeless charm of Smartno itself, which provided boundless inspiration and photographic opportunities.
From Smartno, my journey continued to the coastal town of Piran. Still, those days in Goriška Brda left a memorable mark on me. The tranquility of the vineyards at dawn, the play of light and shadow in the narrow, cobbled streets, and the panoramic views from the hilltops—all these elements combined to create a truly magical experience.
I wanted to share the photographs from those unforgettable Smartno and Goriška Brda days. I hope these images inspire you to consider Slovenia as your next travel photography destination. The experience is nothing short of fantastic, and I am confident it will leave you as enchanted as it left me.
Slovenia might be tiny, but it packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty and photogenic landscapes.
Whether you are a seasoned travel photographer or a passionate traveler looking to capture new horizons, Smartno and the Goriška Brda region should be on your list. The charm of this medieval town and its surrounding vineyards offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
I look forward to returning for the photo tour in 2025, camera in hand, ready to capture the magic of Slovenia.
That's all for now. As always, I truly appreciate the comments and feedback.
