Beautiful Arboretum Volčji Potok: Easy Day Trip from Ljubljana

Why you should visit Arboretum Volčji Potok

Arboretum Volčji Potok are botanical gardens with over 85 hectares of expansive park featuring a range of different sights. It is located a short drive from Ljubljana so if you’re into nature and flowers this might be worth a day trip! My partner is from Slovenia so we visited Arboretum Volčji Potok on one of our yearly trips back to see his family. 

Magnolias at Arboretum Volčji Potok.
Wander through the trees at Arboretum Volčji Potok.

What you will find here: an easy day trip from ljubljana

If you’re travelling to Ljubljana or living in Slovenia, this post will tell you all about how to make the most of your visit to Arboretum Volčji Potok and what is worth seeing! Remember, this is based on my own personal experience visiting Arboretum Volčji Potok so it is my opinion. 

What Is there to do at Arboretum Volčji Potok?

Tulips at Arboretum Volčji Potok bloom in May.
There are tulips from all over the world here.

See the flowers (of course!)

There are so many flowers to see all year round, from blooming cactus to cherry blossoms there will be something you’ll love. Personally, I loved seeing all the magnolia blooming at the beginning of April. Arboretum Volčji Potok has a detailed map explaining when each section will be in bloom during the year.

Visit the castle ruins

The castle ruins (Stari grad) aren’t much to look at (I mean, they are ruins), but if you’re into seeing a lil slice of history and find this kind of thing interesting then this might be worth a visit. This is located on the hilltop so it is a slight walk, but the views aren’t particularly amazing as it isn’t that high up.

The French manor facade.
The French garden.

Take photos in the french garden

This is probably the most perfect spot for your instagrammable photos at Arboretum Volčji Potok. This is a manicured garden with a facade of a grand manor. However, it is actually just that – a facade. It isn’t an actual French chateau.

Closeup of pink fluffy cherry blossoms in Slovenia
Cherry blossoms in bloom.

Walk in the forest

Personally, I think this is what is the high point of the Arboretum Volčji Potok. The grands are expansive and you can easily roam the grounds and find solace amongst the trees. There are plenty of quiet spots to enjoy all to yourself so it makes the perfect getaway for a morning walk to clear your mind, get in touch with nature, or to have a picnic with some friends.

The cafe and tulips area at Arboretum Volčji Potok.
Tulips with plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy a coffee.

Grab a coffee at the cafe

The arboretum’s cafe (Kavarna Arburetum) is open during good weather and you’ll be able to get a coffee and some snacks. You can sit outside and enjoy the natural views.

What are the best vegan eats near Arboretum Volčji Potok?

If you’re looking for a vegan restaurant (vegansko restavracijo) near the arboretum, you’re in for some bad news. The best option you have is to grab some food in Ljubljana and bring it along to have a picnic at the arboretum. 

Pink cherry blossoms at Arboretum Volčji Potok outside of Ljubljana, Slovenia
Cherry blossoms can be seen in spring.

When is the best time to visit Arboretum Volčji Potok?

The best time to visit Arboretum Volčji Potok is any time! This is a gorgeous and expansive park that always has something blooming. I went in April and it was glorious, as there was a tulip festival on and the weather was mild so it was a perfect place to spend the day. During summer you will be able to enjoy the sun, roses, and lilies on display, while in autumn there are plenty of gorgeous autumn leaves. During winter, there are illuminations and the arboretum is often covered in a blanket of snow.

A closeup of the tulips.
Tulips bloom during the spring event held at the arboretum.

How do you get to Arboretum Volčji Potok?

Arboretum Volčji Potok is only about a 25 minute drive from Ljubljana city centre and about an hour ride on the bus. The easiest way is definitely by driving as there is a parking lot right out the front whereas if you take the bus, you will need to get off at Nožice and walk through the town to Arboretum Volčji Potok which will take you about 20-30 minutes depending on how fast you walk.

VERDICT

Is it worth going to Arboretum Volčji Potok?

I think that Arboretum Volčji Potok is worth a visit if you are looking for a day trip outside of the city of Ljubljana and you have a car. If you enjoy getting off the beaten track a bit and don’t mind taking a bus and doing a bit of walking then this also might be for you. I am a nature lover and enjoy photographing birds and flowers so if you’re like me, you’ll probably find it worth the visit! If you’re visiting from Ljubljana or planning to explore more of Slovenia, I have lots of guides that will help you have an awesome trip!

Thanks for reading!

I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you’re on Instagram, you can find me over here: @apicturesquelife and I’d be happy to connect!
xoxo,

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