During my visit to Ljubljana I opted to stay in Hotel Park, in the urban part of city only a short walk from the Ljublijanica river and the cafes and bars whose terraces sprawl along it's leafy banks. It's location is ideal as it promises a perfect nights sleep whilst only being a stone throw away from Ljubljana's lively centre.
It's no secret that I adored my time in Slovenia's capital, a city which caught me by surprise and completely captured my heart. Ljubljana is one of the most liveable cities in all of Europe and it was also awarded the European Commissions Green Capital of Europe award. With this in mind, Hotel Park is the perfect destination for your stay in the city.
Not only are the staff at Hotel Park ridiculously friendly and welcoming, but the hotel is the perfect representation of what Slovenia is trying to achieve as a whole. It reflects the countries ethos on green living and sustainable development. The hotel, which is the first "green" hotel in Ljubljana, connects with and supports it's local community by donating to various charities and projects throughout the capital. When checking into the hotel, I was presented with a card which I could place in one of three jars, each representing a different project. Guests were able to place a card in the jar for the cause they felt deserved the most aid from the hotel and at the end of the voting period, the project with the most votes receives a sum of 300 euros from Hotel Park. Whilst the two remaining projects also receive 100 euros each.
This is just one of the ways in which Hotel Park is standing out from the rest.
Thankfully, it doesn't just contribute to great causes but also provides comfortable and stylish rooms - the perfect place to return to after a day of sightseeing. I stayed in a standard double room which had recently being refurbished and the room was complete with everything I could possibly need during my two night stay.
The theme of the hotel is urban & green, and each floor of the hotel is dedicated to various national parks around Slovenia. There is also guest parking, a restaurant and bar, and a generous buffet breakfast - with really great coffee!
For me, it is small things like this which make a huge difference. I have stayed in hundreds of hotels across the world and it is very rare to find a hotel which actively contributes to the local community and encourages guests to think about greener living.
I adored my time at Hotel Park, and completely respect everything the hotel is trying to achieve. From lowering water consumption and minimising waste, to offering guests with electric cars benefits as well as those who arrive by train. All around the hotel there are reminders and friendly notes, advising guests of all the ways in which they can lower their own energy consumption and carbon footprint.
The ethos of the hotel, it's accomplishments and incredibly helpful staff combined with a central location make this the ideal place to base yourself whilst exploring the beautiful Ljubljana.
Half This World Away stayed at the The Royal Park Palace Hotel as a guest of the hotel. All opinions and photos remain my own!