Lipica

Lipica, the largest Lipizzaner stud farm in the world, is the cradle of the Lipizzaner horse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lipica: cradle of the white horse

Did you know that the noble white Lipizzaner horses are native to Slovenia? Their original stud farm was established in Lipica in the Karst in 1580 and is one of the oldest Lipizzaner stud farm in the world. The tradition of breeding these elegant white horses, which are named after Lipica, is inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. You can admire the elegance of the Lipizzaner horses at classical riding shows and training sessions and experience the Karst in a carriage or on horseback.

The tradition of breeding Lipizzaner horses in Lipica and seven other countries is inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural World Heritage List. More

Tour one of the oldest stud farms

Slovenians are proud of Lipica and its stud farm that has been in operation for over 440 years. The oldest European stud farm that has been breeding the same horses without interruption is a cultural and historical monument, which impresses visitors with its horses and its surprising landscape. After entering the estate, tour the oldest barn with representatives of all the classic Lipizzaner lines, visit the Lipizzaner and horse carriage museum, walk on pastures, through avenues of trees and parks, and learn about the special features of Lipica and the Karst Region. There is a playground in the park as well.

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Visit the Lipizzaners with a guide or on your own

Experienced guides will show you all the special features of Lipica and the Lipizzaner horses during guided tours. You can also explore the estate on your own. During your visit, you can see the interactive Lipizzaner Museum Lipikum, the Culinary Museum, the Carriage Museum, the magnificent Velbanca Stable with vaulted ceilings and other attractions.

Visit the Lipizzaners with a guide or on your own

See a show or classical riding training

When you visit Lipica, you can watch the training of horses in a covered riding ground accompanied by music and a commentary for visitors. At the Lipica Classical Riding School, you will be able to see how difficult the figures are that the Lipizzaner horses have to learn during their training: The 45-minute show is truly worth a visit! Check the training and performance schedule prior to your visit.

Take a carriage through the landscape of the Lipizzaner horses

The visit to the estate in Lipica can be even more enjoyable if you take a carriage ride. Friendly carriage drivers and elegant Lipizzaner horses will take you on pleasant paths, where you can observe herds of horses and the green landscape. Carriages drawn by Lipizzaner horses are also available for special photo shoots – at weddings, for example.

Getting to know the Lipizzaner

Would you like to learn more about this elegant white horse breed? The Lipizzaner riders will be more than happy to introduce you to the Lipizzaners and share some interesting facts about these beautiful horses. Did you know, for example, that Lipizzaners are born black?

Workshops with ponies

In addition to Lipizzaner horses, Lipica is also home to ponies, which are particularly popular with children. The bravest of the children can go out into the paddock accompanied by a rider and make friends with the little horses. This is a great way for children to gain confidence in horses, and they may even have a go at horse riding themselves in the future.

Something for everyone

There is never a dull moment in Lipica! Not only can you visit the stud farm and meet the Lipizzaner horses, but you can also try horseback riding yourself. Children will love the Foals’ Corner with creative and educational workshops. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy a round of golf.

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Culinary stops for gourmets

In Lipica, you get to experience the culinary flavours of the Karst. You can visit the unique Culinary Museum, dine in one of the two restaurants, or just enjoy a coffee and dessert in the Castle Café.

Play golf in Lipica

Fancy a round of golf next to the pastures of the Lipizzaner horses? The Lipica golf course has nine holes of medium difficulty and attracts players all year round.

Ride a Lipizzaner across the karst landscape

Explore the mysterious karst landscape on the back of a white Lipizzaner horse. Discover the charms of the Lipica avenue and its surrounding pastures and visit the Karst Living Museum.

The Foal Club

Just like the playful foals, children love to channel their energy into different activities. There is always something going on at the Foal Club, where activities are especially connected to nature and...

Holidays for equestrian enthusiasts in a modern hotel

Enthusiasts who visit Lipica for horse riding and horse riding lessons can choose to stay at the Hotel Maestoso, named after the famous Lipizzaner breed.

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From Lipica to other Karst area experiences

Your path to Lipica will also take you through Sežana, one of the larger towns in the green Karst Region. In Sežana, you can visit the botanical gardens, and the Karst Living Museum with typical karst phenomena, themed and recreational trails awaits you between Sežana and Lipica. The Vilenica Cave is also located in the vicinity. This is the oldest tourist cave in Europe.

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The Mysterious Karst

Don’t just visit the most famous Slovenian caves! If you visit the Karst, make sure to take this publication with its list of numerous other special features of this surprising landscape.

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The charms of the Karst for active people

Under its rocky formation, the karst hides beautiful faces, both above and below the ground. You can explore them on horseback, on foot or by bicycle. The karst underworld and countless natural wonders are also waiting to be explored.

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Equestrianism elsewhere in Slovenia

In addition to the elegant Lipizzaner horses, you can also learn about other horse breeds in Slovenia and about equestrianism in general. Particularly interesting are the Ljutomer trotters, which are racing horses. Ljutomer, their home town, hosts ten international races annually. Discover other equestrian experiences in Slovenia as well!

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Slovenia’s world-class attractions

What do you truly need to see in Slovenia? Visit the legendary sights of Slovenian tourism and UNESCO World Heritage in Slovenia.

Sounds like an inspiration

A mix of sounds takes you on a stroll through the city streets and markets, which are always bustling with activity. Walk into an artist’s studio or artisan's workshop. Listen to a street musician or attend a concert, finding refuge in the heart of imposing historical buildings by following their acoustic hallways. Feel the diversity of life filling the popular spots in the city. Calm your mind by exploring a rich cultural heritage through sound. Travel to the centre of all action, even if you are not actually part of it.

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From the sea to the mountain peaks

Lipica visitors, enchanted by the scenery, are keen on exploring the surrounding area. Those who are eager to enjoy outdoor activities in and around Lipica will find many other recreational challenges to be enjoyed in Slovenia’s countryside.

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Lipica

Lipica: cradle of the white horse