The Chef Craig Kuhns Flavors of the Adriatic Culinary Tour of Croatia and Slovenia

November 10th to November 17th, 2024

Indulge your senses in an unparalleled epicurean extravaganza as Chef Richard Gruica, the culinary virtuoso behind The Gourmet Vacation, in collaboration with Captivating Croatia Tours, extends an elegant invitation to you. Join us on a gastronomic odyssey alongside our esteemed Chef-Host, the beloved Chef Craig Kuhns hailing from The Cooks Station in enchanting Greenville, South Carolina. Together, let us embark on an epicurean escapade to the alluring realms of serene Slovenia and exotic Croatia, for a week-long journey unlike any other. 

This opulent voyage awaits you from the 10th of November to the 17th, a rendezvous with epicurean destiny that shall immerse you in the unparalleled delights of these captivating regions. As we traverse the undulating landscapes of Slovenia, and delve into the heart of Istria, often referred to as Croatia's answer to Tuscany, we shall unearth the raw, unbridled beauty of these locales. With autumn's gentle embrace, the scenery shall be painted with the vibrant hues of the season, each vista steeped in a rich tapestry of history and folklore.

Prepare to be ensnared by the symphony of flavors that await you, masterfully curated by Chef Craig and Chef Richard, as we embark on a journey christened the "Flavors of the Adriatic Tour." Here, the very essence of the Adriatic's culinary heritage will be unveiled before your discerning palate, complemented by the finest libations and vistas that can only be described as breathtaking. This is no ordinary holiday; it is a luxurious escape that caters to your every desire, an opulent adventure deserving of your refined taste. Escape the ordinary, experience the extraordinary!

Day 1: Sunday, November 10th

Tour Kickoff - Venice to Slovenia: Unveiling Wine Country Wonders

Welcome to Chef Craig Kuhns' Flavors of the Adriatic Culinary Tour of Croatia and Slovenia. Our adventure commences in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy, where a luxurious van eagerly awaits to transport our guests to the picturesque landscapes of Slovenia. As we journey, anticipation for an extraordinary food and wine experience builds.

Our initial destination leads us to the renowned wine country of Slovenia, where a delightful gourmet lunch awaits us high atop a terrace with stunning vineyard views below. Amidst this panoramic backdrop, we will indulge in a multi-course meal featuring local delicacies and savor the internationally acclaimed sparkling, natural, and orange wines of the region. This exquisite culinary experience is curated at a place known for its expertise in meats, with a particular highlight being their heavenly in-house prosciutto. Led by the talented husband and wife duo, Nejka and Chef Uroš, this venue is a true temple of cuisine, wine, and art.

Following our culinary escapades, we will proceed to Ljubljana, Slovenia's captivating capital with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Upon check-in at the luxurious 5-star Hotel Intercontinental, we'll regroup before embarking on a delightful walking tour of the city. Ljubljana's picturesque charm and vibrant atmosphere set the stage for an unforgettable evening, providing you with the freedom to explore and immerse yourself in the city's delights at your own pace.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Intercontinental - 5-Star

https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/ljubljana/ljuha/hoteldetail 

Please be advised that each guest is responsible for arriving in Venice, Italy, at their own convenience before the tour commences on Sunday, November 10th. Our departure is scheduled around noon from Tronchetto, Venice's transportation hub. Kindly ensure your arrival is before 11:45 AM, as the bus will be stationed for a brief period. To ensure a smooth start to our adventure, we recommend arriving no later than Saturday, November 9th, allowing us to depart together on the 10th. Guests not present at the designated departure time will need to make arrangements for their transportation to our initial hotel in Slovenia. As the tour concludes, we will return all guests to our central return spot, after which they will be responsible for their ongoing accommodations and transportation.

Day 2: Monday, November 11th 

Farms, Stars, and Culinary Delights-

A True Chef Farm-to-Table Experience

Throughout the day, we'll be privileged to spend our time with the exceptionally skilled Chef Luka Kosir and his team. Chef Luka's culinary mastery takes center stage as he presents traditional Slovenian dishes infused with a unique and innovative twist. An authentic farm-to-table experience awaits at his restaurant, Gric, meaning "hill" in Slovenian. Notably, approximately 80 percent of the food we will enjoy today is sourced directly from the family farm, including the gardens and forest lands. During our visit, we'll even get a glimpse of the heritage breed ducks he raises on his farm and explore an artisanal goat cheese farm.

Artisanal Cheese and Ducks a Plenty 

Embarking on our culinary odyssey, we'll embark on a picturesque drive from Ljubljana, immersing ourselves in Slovenia's culinary treasures. Our first stop is at one of the region's premier cheese makers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the artisanal craftsmanship that goes into creating some of the finest cheeses. Prepare to be charmed by the delightful goats and indulge in sampling their exquisite products. Next, our journey leads us to Chef Luka's personal duck farm, where he initiated a heritage duck program in 2013. Chef Luka believes in preserving the connection between chefs and the sourcing of their ingredients, and this visit offers us a firsthand experience of the entire production cycle. It's a holistic journey, reinforcing the importance of understanding how ingredients reach our tables.

Michelin-Star Delights

Indulging in a culinary masterpiece, we'll experience the culinary brilliance of Chef Luka at his renowned restaurant, Brunarica Grič, adorned with a prestigious Michelin Star. Adding to its accolades, Grič has also been honored with a Michelin Green Star, recognizing its pioneering efforts in promoting sustainability within the restaurant industry. Our day reaches its culinary zenith with a divine multi-course tasting menu, expertly curated and paired with exquisite wines—an unrivaled gastronomic delight for the senses.

 Overnight Stay: Hotel Intercontinental - 5-Star

https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/ljubljana/ljuha/hoteldetail

Day 3: Tuesday, November 12th 

A Little Taste of Chef Ana and Castle Bled and the Enchanting Lake 

Start your day with a light breakfast, before departing for a short walk and a delightful visit to Chef Ana Ros's boutique bakery, Pekarna Ana. Collaborating with some of Slovenia's finest bakers and pastry chefs, the bakery showcases a tempting array of sourdough breads, sweet and savory pastries, and delightful coffee. Chef Ana Ros, celebrated as Slovenia's most famous chef, has earned international acclaim, including being crowned the Best Female Chef in the World. Her culinary prowess is featured on her Chef's Table episode on Netflix, highlighting her exceptional skills. (Watch on Netflix: Chef's Table Episode https://www.netflix.com/title/80007945 

Our journey continues with a scenic drive to the resort town of Bled, cradled in the picturesque Julian Alps. We will explore the captivating Lake Bled aboard a traditional wooden boat called a Pletna, dating back to the 1500s, which will ferry us to Slovenia's only island. Here, the Church of Mary the Queen stands, a breathtaking sight and Slovenia's most photographed location.

After, we'll visit an old homestead for a homemade Slovenian lunch, uncovering the secrets of "potica," Slovenia's most famous pastry. Serenaded by live music, this delightful experience awaits us.

Next, we'll venture to Bled Castle, a millennia-old treasure trove perched majestically, offering awe-inspiring views of Lake Bled and the surrounding Alps. After exploring the castle, we'll head to the charming town of Radovljica, participating in a chocolate-making class, and creating our own delectable treats. 

Explore the town's enchanting surroundings before concluding this unforgettable day and heading back to Ljubljana.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Intercontinental - 5-Star

https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/ljubljana/ljuha/hoteldetail

Day 4: Wednesday, November 13th

1492 Will Have a New Meaning for You! 

Today, our guests have the freedom to choose their preferred activities. For those who share Chef Craig's passion for fly-fishing, we've arranged a captivating Fly-Fishing expedition to experience Slovenia's pristine waters and nature. For those opting for an alternative, the day starts a bit later, commencing with a visit to the local farmer’s market for an insightful tour before rejoining the group for our next adventure.

Our destination is the renowned BioSing, where we'll have the pleasure of meeting the master sausage maker, David Lesar. The roots of this culinary artistry stretch back to 1492 when skilled woodworkers, journeying across the lands to sell their crafts, yearned for delectable sustenance. This desire led to the perfected art of sausage-making, a tradition that David Lesar has elevated into a true masterpiece. His sausages have garnered global acclaim and are enjoyed at some of the world's most esteemed dining establishments. Today, we have the privilege of savoring these exceptional creations firsthand.

At BioSing, we'll descend into the depths of the cellar, immersing ourselves in the technology and techniques of this craft. Prepare to tantalize your palate as we indulge in an array of exquisite sausage products, each expertly paired with exceptional wines to enhance the tasting experience. As an added delight, we'll relish a meal featuring "koznca," the region's local sausages, complemented by a delightful surprise treat exclusive to this locale.

  Overnight Stay: Hotel Intercontinental - 5-Star

https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/ljubljana/ljuha/hoteldetail

Day 5: Thursday, November 14th

The Caves are Calling…Truffle Adventures and Hilltop Wonders

Our day commences with a delightful and leisurely breakfast, bidding farewell to Ljubljana as we prepare for an extraordinary adventure. Our first stop takes us to Slovenia's iconic natural wonder—the Postojna Caves. A scenic train ride transports us into the heart of these captivating caves, where a gentle walking tour unveils the enchanting underground world.

Continuing our journey, we cross into Croatia and arrive in the heart of Truffle Country. Get ready for an exhilarating truffle hunt led by a local expert and their skilled dogs. Amidst the trees, we eagerly anticipate the treasures awaiting us underground, followed by a rewarding truffle tasting, savoring the rich flavors of this coveted delicacy.

Our next destination is a charming distillery, a delightful haven for liquid libations. Enjoy a fascinating tour and indulge in a delightful tasting of their finest creations.

As we venture forward, we pause for a photo opportunity in Motovun, a hilltop town boasting Croatia's most scenic vistas. The enchanting landscape is certain to captivate your senses. Our journey concludes in the picturesque town of Rovinj, gracing the Croatian coast. Our home for the next several nights is the luxurious 5-star Hotel Lone, offering unparalleled comfort. After checking in, we'll gather for a relaxing meal of pizza/pasta in the charming town of Rovinj.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone - 5-Star https://www.maistra.com/hotel-lone-rovinj

Day 6: Friday, November 15th 

Chiilin’ and Cheese

Indulge in a leisurely morning to recharge and unwind, allowing yourself some well-deserved downtime after yesterday's travel. Feel free to sleep in and consider scheduling a visit to the stellar spa and wellness center at the Hotel Lone: https://www.maistra.com/properties/hotel-lone/wellness-spa/#/ 

As the day unfolds, we culminate in fine style with a visit to our cherished goat cheese farmers, whose farm boasts a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Their goats graze on nearly 200 types of plants and herbs, yielding some of the most remarkable cheeses. Explore the production area, witness the art of cheese-making, and then sit down for a farm-fresh meal. Chef Craig will step into the kitchen, working his culinary magic to enhance our dining experience. Afterward, we'll return to Rovinj, where you have the remainder of the night to enjoy as you see fit.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Lone - 5-Star https://www.maistra.com/hotel-lone-rovinj

Day 7: Saturday, November 16th  

Oil and Water…do mix and MORE Michelin Bites

Today, we embrace the serene waters of the Adriatic Sea, delving into the world of an authentic Croatian seafood delicacy: the flat oyster, sourced from the nearby Limski Kanal. This expansive bay, Croatia's longest, brims with vibrant flora and fauna, providing the perfect setting to relish some of the most exquisite oysters and clams you've ever tasted, right from the source at a local oyster shack.

Following our maritime adventure, our journey leads us to Vodnjan, a town distinguished by two unique characteristics. Firstly, it stands as the epicenter of Croatia's foremost olive oil producers, consistently winning the title of the world's best olive oil for an impressive eight consecutive years. Istria's olive oil prowess is truly unparalleled on a global scale. Secondly, Vodnjan is renowned for its dynamic street art scene, highlighted by an annual festival that showcases the town's artistic spirit. In Vodnjan, we visit Croatia's premier olive oil producer, where you'll hear their remarkable story and indulge in a tasting of their exceptional olive oils—an experience that deepens your appreciation for this liquid gold.

Our exploration continues as we journey to Pula, a coastal town steeped in over 3,000 years of history, celebrated for its impeccably preserved Roman Amphitheater, the Arena. Upon arrival, we embark on a private tour of the arena, unraveling the city's ancient relics as we wander through its historic streets.

The culinary zenith of the day unfolds as we rendezvous with Croatia's culinary maestro, Chef David Skoko, the country's most esteemed chef. The gastronomic crescendo transpires at Chef David's Michelin-starred establishment, Batelina, where you'll relish a seafood feast of unparalleled excellence. To elevate the experience, a special surprise awaits you during the meal, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey.

(For deeper insights into Chef David's world, explore Anthony Bourdain's Croatian episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j03qhsE7Ucl

Additional details can be found at https://www.frommers.com/destinations/pula/restaurants/batelina 

Overnight Stay-Hotel Lone-5 Star- https://www.maistra.com/hotel-lone-rovinj

Day 8: Sunday, November 17th 

Farewell to an Unforgettable Culinary Adventure 

Checkout

As the sun graces our final day, we reluctantly bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Croatia and Slovenia, turning our course toward Venice, where our remarkable culinary tour concludes. Before parting ways, we venture to the picturesque hilltop village of Groznjan in Croatia, celebrated for its charm and beauty. A haven for artists, the village is adorned with studios and galleries, inviting you to explore its romantic medieval alleys at your leisure. 

Our journey back to Venice includes a stop in the captivating Trieste, where we'll indulge in coffee and shopping at Eataly—an Italian haven showcasing the finest in food and drink. With a mission to bring the best of Italian cuisine to the world, Eataly lives up to its name, blending "EAT" and "ITALY" seamlessly. Trieste, with its name derived from the Latin "Tergeste," meaning "marketplace," aligns perfectly with our visit to Eataly.

Anticipate our return to Venice by early evening, allowing you some time to wander the city at your own pace. As we bid our farewells, we are confident that the indelible memories forged during this culinary odyssey will linger with you. Your palate has danced with enchanting flavors, your understanding of wine has evolved, and your appreciation for the artistry behind exceptional cuisine has deepened.

As you journey back home, carry the joy of discovering new tastes, the warmth of shared moments with fellow food and wine enthusiasts, and the assurance that the world of culinary delights eagerly awaits your return. Safe travels, and until our paths cross again, may your passion for wine and food continue to illuminate your journey.

Culinarily yours,

Chef Richard Gruica, Chef Craig Kuhns, Captivating Croatia Tours, and The Gourmet Vacation Team