Unforgettable trip into the blue: Pensioners discover Goriška Brda

Unforgettable trip into the blue: Pensioners discover Goriška Brda

The members of the Pensioners' local group Völkermarkt took a special trip. Despite the rainy weather, the mood among the 90 participants was exciting when two buses went to Slovenia in the morning. The goal of this “trip to the blue” was Jesenice's train station, from where at 8:49 a.m. the train to a charming train journey through the surrounding area, which led to the picturesque wine -growing region Goriška Brda.

The picturesque route

The train ride along the Wocheinerbahn should be a real pleasure on a sunny day. It leads past the Bleder Lake and through impressive landscapes with gorges, bridges and tunnels. The famous wochin tunnel, which is the longest tunnel of the route with a length of 6,327 meters, represents a special highlight. Unfortunately, the unpredictable weather conditions were also noticeable here: After driving through the tunnel, it turned out that the railway line was closed due to intensive rainfall and degenerate. The guests had to switch to buses to continue their route and reach the place channel.

The bus ride through the Soča valley also proved to be impressive. The participants were able to enjoy the impressive landscape with the turquoise SOča river and the reservoir in Most Na Soči. After this attractive journey, the journey led to the hilly wine -growing regions of Goriška Brda, where the landscape only took your breath away when the sky was cloudy.

In Goriška Brda, the vineyards and the picturesque places that run across the hills are formative elements of the region. In the Marjot inn in Gonjače, the participants enjoyed a fine 4-course menu, which was accompanied by delicious wines from the region. The landlords were warmly praised for their excellent hospitality and the successful ambience.

A glamorous highlight was a visit to a nearby lookout tower that was climbed by many guests. The view of the beautiful wine landscapes of Goriška Brda was worth the effort and offered an impressive backdrop for souvenir photos. The region is rich in history and culture, and many writers have described this magical landscape.

wine tasting and return trip

After an extensive lunch, the retired travelers visited the "KLET-BRDA" wine-growing region, which is known as one of the largest wine cellars. At the wine tasting there was a selection of delicious cheese, olives and Grissini, and the participants received insights into the wine production processes.

The return trip, however, gave the guests an unwanted surprise. Since the Wochinerbahn was also closed for the return, the entire group had to switch to buses again. This led via the highway to Jesenice, which ruined the original plan of a leisurely train journey. Anuscha and Stana explained the necessity of these planned changes to the participants and thanked them for understanding.

Despite the circumstances, this "drive into the blue" remains in a beautiful memory, not only because of the scenic beauties, but also because of the sociable coexistence that many participants captured with pictures. The trip shows how unexpected challenges can increase the common experience. More impressions of this unique journey can be seen in a series of pictures provided by the participants.

Report: Klaus Hofer
Photo: Anuscha Holzner, Paula Pichler, Gottlieb Kosel, Elfi Pliberschnig, Traudi Scheiber, Seppi Kucher, Grethi Saliternig, Theres Strmljan, Klaus Hofer