Your Complete Guide to Lipica
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LIPICA CITY GUIDE
Why should I visit Lipica?
What is there to see and do in Lipica?
How do i get to Lipica?
What is the best time to go to Lipica?
Where to stay in Lipica?
Tours to Lipica
What's a good itinerary for Lipica?
Tips and facts for Lipica
TOUR to LIPICA and PIRAN
I'm looking for somewhere stunning to go,
WHY SHOULD I VISIT LIPICA, SLOVENIA?
Lipica is a haven for horse lovers. Enthusiasts can arrange expert riding lessons, take a trail ride or engage in other
equine activities on offer. Lipica offers complete holiday
packages for anyone wishing to stay for more than a few days.
There is a great hotel on site, offering comfort and relaxation plus offering many facilities for guests.
(See below for details).
Lipica also makes an ideal central base for exciting day trips. The coastal towns of Koper, Piran and Izola are nearby.
Sample some Italian flair with Trieste and Italy only minutes away. The famous caves of Postojna and Skocjan are also nearby.
In fact, the rest of Slovenia is still within easy reach and even Croatia too.
Welcome to Lipica!
WHAT TO DO AND SEE AT LIPICA, SLOVENIA?
Top Sights and Attractions
STUD FARM TOUR
Taken with the performance or on its own, the 90 minute stud farm tour at Lipica takes you behind the scenes and into the world
of the Lipizzaner. Visit the famous yard, the mansion and Velbanca, the oldest stable at Lipica. Interact with history in the Lipikum
Museum where everything is explained in bright and colorful displays. See the Borjača stables where the white mares take care of their dark foals.
A special experience if you visit at this time is also the morning departure of the mares and foals to the pastures.
The highlight of everyone's tour is the chance to pet the beautiful mares and foals out in the paddocks.
Entry includes -
- guided or independent tour
- unlimited access to the grounds of the stud farm during the opening hours
- visit to the oldest stable – Velbanca where representatives of all the classical lines of Lipizzaner stallions can be seen
- visit to the Lipikum Lipizzaner Museum
- visit to the Carriage Museum
- visit to the Avgust Černigoj Art Gallery
- access to the historic centre with the Manor
- access to the Karst House
- access to the Valley of Our Lady of Lourdes, Chapel of St. Anthony
- access to the pastures, tree avenues, parks and walking paths (5 km long)
Additional Notes:
- The guided tour goes for 50 minutes then you have free time to explore on your own after that!
- Or you can download the app and do it on your own without a guide.
- Tours run year round roughly from 1000-1500 in winter and 1000-1700 in summer.
- Guided tours mainly in Slovene and English language plus Italian and German in summer with others on request only.
- Reservations not needed for the stud tour, just turn up and buy a ticket!
- You can also buy a combined ticket for the Performance which includes the stud tour
RIDING LESSONS
If you are an experienced rider then the weekly riding program set up at Lipica is the one for you!
Take expert horse riding tuiton from the world class instructors in this all inclusive package.
Includes:
- Riding lessons (10 lessons of 45 min each, divided into 5 riding days).
- Morning duties in the stables – horse grooming.
- Guided or independent tour of the stud farm.
- Unlimited access to the grounds of the stud farm during the opening hours.
- Unlimited access to the highlights of the stud farm uring the opening hours.
- Presentation of the classical riding school (April till end of October).
- Visit Ravne, dislocated unit for young Lipizzaner stallions up to 4 years old.
- Certificate of participation.
Additional Notes:
- package available year round
- usually runs from Saturday to Saturday
TRAIL RIDES
Experienced riders can take a thrilling trail ride and explore the Lipica estate and surrounds.
The duration of the ride is around 90 minutes and the price includes the admission to the stud farm, which allows you full access to the stud farm during opening hours.
Prior reservation is needed.
Need a cheap transfer from Ljubljana? Our partners at Goopti have some of the cheapest shared transfers around and the earlier you book, the cheaper it is!
Just click our link here to browse and book:
BOOK GOOPTI
LIPIZZANERS IN TRAINING
The classical riding school of Lipica is the pride and success of the Lipica Stud Farm. See how the horses and their riders train for the main performance
where bonds of trust are created between the stallions and their riders.
It is a special insight into the work of the best stallions of Lipica and enthralls nearly everyone who attends.
Their training session in the riding hall will be accompanied by music and an easy to understand explanation.
Combine with a tour or performance for a great day out!
LIPIZZANER PERFORMANCE
See the end result of years of hard work on the training ground in this brilliant performance.
Thousands come very year to see selected stallions impress with their elegant steps,
noble appearance and other surprises! The show lasts for 45 minutes in the main arena and the last number is the attractive “School above the ground”
Performances have traditionally been held on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays during high season at 1500 and the ticket price includes the stud farm tour.
Announcements are made in several languages.
Dogs are not allowed in the riding hall and photography / filming is also not allowed in the riding hall.
HORSE CARRIAGE RIDES
Travel the surrounding roads and paths around the Lipica estate while taking your very own horse carriage ride.
Book in advance to enjoy this unique experience.
4 people can be accommodated in a small carriage, 7 in a large carriage and 2 in the special wedding carriage.
Tickets for carriage rides can only be bought when also buying tickets to visit the stud farm, which allows you full access to all the property of the stud farm during opening hours.
In case of bad weather, carriage rides are not available.
KIDS PONY RIDES
Pony-riding is intended for the youngest guests to Lipica! Our guides will explain how ponies communicate and how to approach and touch them.
Children will ride a pony accompanied with our guide and it is an experience that is sure to be a highlight of their holiday.
AVGUST CERNIGOJ ART GALLERY
Born in Trieste, Avgust Cernigoj was an artist from the Karst region who has left an indelible mark in the history of Slovene fine art.
His life and work was closely intertwined with the history of the Karst Littoral region over 50 years and therefore retains a special place here at Lipica.
Come and see his gallery which includes over 1,400 works.
- Entrance included with the stud farm tour ticket.
GOLF COURSE
Another major drawcard for Lipica is their golf course. Described as a "superior" course, the Klub Lipica has over 400 members
and the course is well known as being the only course in Slovenia that can played on all year round.
The links offer a par 73, 9 hole course (repeated twice) with dual driving practice ranges and putting and chipping greens.
and trolleys\cars and clubs are available for hire. There is a nice club shop as well.
CASINO
There are more than 360 modern slot machines at Grand Casino Lipica with games including Electronic Roulette, Black Jack and Poker.
For traditionalists, there is a gaming saloon with American and French Roulette, Punto Banco, Black Jack, different types of Poker including Texas Hold'em, Craps, Keno and Bingo.
The thematicallly designed Casino Lipica also hosts many events with international stars.
- Slots open daily for 24 hours, tables vary from 1500-0300. Come down and try your luck. Minimum age - 18 years.
BIKING
At the hotel you can hire bikes to enjoy the many trails around Lipica and routes in the Karst area.
Cycling is especially beautiful in Spring or Autumn when you can take in the colours of the season.
The area around Lipica is flat and generally traffic free so there are many great paths for families to enjoy.
Serious riders can find sanctuary nearby with the ups and downs of the Karst Plateau combining with the many coastal routes.
The staff at Lipica can organise fantastic bicycle tours like Lipica to the Skocjan Caves as an example.
TENNIS
There are 4 outdoor courts near the golf course that are open daily from 0800-2000. Get your tickets at the golf clubhouse.
HOW DO I GET TO LIPICA, SLOVENIA?
By Air - Flying into Slovenia
A list of current destinations servicing Ljubljana Airport can be found HERE.
These include the long standing destinations of London, Paris, Frankfurt and Istanbul but new services and seasonal services will differ from year to year.
From Ljubljana Airport into Lipica
DISTANCE: 110km, TIME TAKEN TO CENTRE: 1.30 Hour
TRANSFER: To reach Lipica centre from Ljubljana Airport contact us by email for a quote here
CAR HIRE: If you wish to hire a car at the Airport then without doubt use our partners at ATET for the best service in Slovenia.
Use the code SLOFORYOU when booking.
From Ljubljana to Lipica
DISTANCE: 90km, TIME TAKEN TO CENTRE: 1.15 hour
TRANSFER: To reach Lipica centre from Ljubljana, contact us by email for a quote here
CAR HIRE: If you wish to hire a car in Ljubljana then without doubt use our partners at ATET for the best service in Slovenia. Use the code SLOFORYOU when booking.
From Venice/Venice Airport to Lipica
DISTANCE: 170km, TIME TAKEN TO CENTRE: 2 hours
TRANSFER: To reach Lipica centre from Venice, contact us by email for a quote here
CAR HIRE: If you wish to hire a one-way car rental from Venice then contact us by email for a quote here
From Koper to Lipica
DISTANCE: 30km, TIME TAKEN TO CENTRE: 35 minutes
CAR HIRE: If you wish to hire a car in Koper then without doubt use our partners at ATET for the best service in Slovenia. Use the code SLOFORYOU when booking.
From Trieste to Lipica
DISTANCE: 15km, TIME TAKEN TO CENTRE: 25 minutes
TRANSFER: To reach Lipica centre from Trieste, contact us by email for a quote here
CAR HIRE: If you wish to hire a one-way car rental from Trieste then contact us by email for a quote here
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LIPICA, SLOVENIA?
Any time is a good time to visit Lipica but if you want a more practical answer then here we go:
JULY-AUGUST - Peak time, can be hot and crowded but if you enjoy the heat then come on down!
APRIL,MAY,JUNE - Not a bad time with Spring blossoming but weather can be unpredictable.
SEPTEMBER - The best month in our opinion, still warm and kids go back to school.
OCTOBER-NOV - Getting colder but the autumn colours are beautiful.
DEC-JAN-FEB-MARCH - Unless you like the cold, the least likely time to visit.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY IN LIPICA, SLOVENIA?
There are lots of choices in all categories in and around Lipica.
Peruse the options listed below and pick one that suits your needs, all bookings help keep the website going!
Here are our top picks, book using our links and enjoy your stay!
Super clean, cozy and welcoming rooms, and very good breakfast! Everything was perfect, including the price, but this hotel was by far our best stay for this price! nice plus, the staff was really friendly and welcoming.
If you are planning to go to Škocjan Caves, Lipica, Trieste or the coast , this is the perfect place to stay. thank you :)
Casa Krasna is a beautiful property with exceptional furnishings in the main areas. Our room had a bed that was quite comfortable. The balcony was a special treat as we enjoyed a glass (or two :)) of wine while enjoying the fine weather.
The breakfast was our favorite of all the places we stayed. We especially enjoyed the homemade omelet and meats and cheeses.
Su da Noi is beautifully located on a hill with lovely views of Trieste. It is very, very quiet and Diana was a lovely host. She set up a tasty breakfast and was happy to give us space to
enjoy ourselves and glad to answer our questions about the area. The guesthouse has everything you need for a good night and is equipped to make a nice meal. Highly recommend!
TOURS TO LIPICA, SLOVENIA
LIPICA and COAST PUBLIC TOUR from LJUBLJANA
Head for the coast and visit Lipica along the way.
Why book this event?
This is a great all-round tour that features something for everyone! The grace and elegance of the Lipizzaner and the charm of seaside Piran. Book today!
CLICK BOOK NOW BELOW.
SMALL GROUP PRIVATE TOURS to LIPICA and surrounds
Why book this event?
Grab the group and book a private day tour with driver to Lipica and the surrounding area. On a private tour, you can tailor the day to your needs.
You know what to do, email us today if you want to plan a day trip!
CLICK HERE TO ENQUIRE or BOOK TOUR - ask about TIMES, CONDITIONS and PRICES - info@sloveniaforyou.com
WHAT'S A GOOD ITINERARY FOR LIPICA, SLOVENIA?
Lipica is a great place to relax and to explore the farm and surrounds.
There is so much to do onsite and in the area within 50km of Lipica.
Here are some suggested itineraries and ideas:
Lipica in one day -
If staying at Lipica or nearby, take in everything on offer at the stud farm.
The releasing of the mares and foals at around 0900 is a great way to start the day.
Relax and take in the stud farm tour then have some lunch.
If it is a performance day, head to the main arena at 1500.
Head to Sežana, Lokev or even Trieste for dinner and explore the area.
Lipica in two days -
Day one as above.
Day two -
Have a round of golf or perhaps a carriage ride, trail ride or pony ride for the kids.
Head to Sežana, Lokev or even Trieste for lunch or dinner and explore the area.
Lipica in 3-7 days -
Days one and two as above
Visit further afield on exciting day trips in all directions.
Visit the beautiful coast around Piran, explore the wine regions of the Karst, Vipava or Brda.
Visit Ljubljana, Skocjan or Postojna caves, the Soca Valley and even Italy and Croatia are not far away.
DID YOU KNOW? FUN FACTS FOR LIPICA, SLOVENIA
1. Last century, up until World War II, masses of people, particularly from the Trieste region, would go on a pilgrimage to the valley of Lipica which was famous for its alleged miraculous recoveries.
2. The soil and climate of the Karst are very similar to that of Spain which is why the Archduke Charles chose to build the royal stud farm in 1578 in the Karst in the abandoned summer residence of the Bishop of Trieste
in this area. On 19 May 1580 he signed an agreement to restore the estate.
3. The Lipizzaner breed, such as it is known today, was developed in the times under the Empress Maria Theresa (1740-1780).
4. On 22 March 1797 a herd of over three hundred horses had to flee for the first time to escape Napoleon’s army which was penetrating through the Venetian region towards Carniola and Štajerska.
The herd moved to Székesfehérvar in Hungary. After the Campoformi Agreement was signed on 17 October 1797 the herd was returned safely to Lipica.
5. In the period under French occupation frequent epidemics decimated the herd.
The original studbooks and complete documentation were lost during Napoleon’s wars.
6. As Lipica was located relatively far from the then capital of the empire, transport costs were high and the management of the stud farm proposed to move the stud farm somewhere closer to Vienna.
In 1848 Emperor Francis Joseph I decided to keep the stud farm in Lipica.
7. This is the original stud farm of one of the oldest cultural horse breeds – the Lipizzaner
8. Lipizzaners are born dark and gradually lighten with age, not achieving the “white” or "whiteish-gray" coat for which they are known until around 6-10 years of age.
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