After leaving Predjama, we headed further north west through the rich hilly region of Littoral, the western most region of Slovenia bordering Italy.

We drove through many villages scattered along the route with houses fronting the roads.  Stepping from your front door onto the road must make for an interesting exit.

Stunning!  Rolling green hills, vineyards, vegetables, gardens and breathtaking views.

Smartno

Lunch time found us at the village of Smartno, perched atop a hill with amazing 360 degree views.  This entire village has been declared a cultural heritage monument, and we could see why.

Exquisitely preserved white buildings with red tiles, narrow cobbled laneways, colourful flowers, all giving a magical feel.

The Parish Church is central to the village and dedicated to St Martin.

Lunch at last, says Jeff who’d been open for business for quite some time.

Jeff was excited over the Steak Tartare.  Me, no thanks!

You can never go wrong with a chicken salad, wherever you are.

Kobarid

On the road again, heading to our much anticipated final destination – Kobarid, and more importantly, the now famous farmhouse/restaurant of Hisa Franko.  Boy, was Jeff looking forward to this!  He had come across this farm B & B on-line and was instantly drawn in for a definite night’s stay with dinner and breakfast after reading about it.

The village of Kobarid is nestled in a valley between very steep mountains only 3 km from the Italian border at the western edge of Slovenia.  We took a drive in the afternoon after check in to the Italian border, to cross over into another country, turn around and cross back again.  Simply for the fun.  Such kids at heart.

Hisa Franko is located a few kilometers out of town heading west.  A tranquil countryside farmhouse and estate, home to Ana and her family.  Surrounding the house are gardens of herbs, flowers and vegetables, all used in the kitchens.  It’s a beautiful place to wander and sit especially beside the creek.

Pre-dinner drinks.  A very happy Jeff indeed!

Our 11 + Course Menu for the night, all with paired wines.

Photos of some of the dishes, the quality of the photos becoming a little out of focus as the night wore on.  Those paired wines….. oh dear.

The staff, food and service was impeccable, as was the accommodation.

A most memorable evening.  Well, what we can remember…….

Jeff & Catherine xx