Ljubljana: Hard to say, hard to spell, easy to love.

We arrived in Ljubljana tired from a train ordeal, but immediately impressed by our surroundings. The streets were relatively quiet - and oh-so beautiful. More cobbled streets, old architecture, and a distinct "we just stepped out of a time machine" old world feel. We wandered through the old town until we found our apartment and were greeted by its owner, Petra, who warmly welcomed us.

We settled in and freshened up and soon headed out to wander the streets, shops and bars. In the middle of the city there is a little mountain, on which stands a castle, overseeing everything the city does and is. It became one of the lasting images for us of this magical place.

The next morning we headed out to the markets Petra had told us about where locals would be gathering their supplies for Easter celebrations. The markets were incredible! Making their way through the main part of town, they were divided into sections with jewellery and crafts, fresh tea leaves, nuts and cheese, an alley packed with flowers, an open area full of fresh fruit and veges plus clothing stalls. There was also an indoor market hall with more cheese, meats, wine and delicacies: possibly the most colourful, impressive markets we've seen. We bought a traditional wheat snack from a stall, and watched a man in a giant black hat guillotine local cheese in to tiny tasting pieces. I bargained with a stall holder for a new belt, and we soaked up the atmosphere as locals busied themselves stuffing their treasures into big baskets.

We had decided to venture to the top of the mountain for a picnic. After gathering fruits, cheese, wine and bread from the markets, we arrived at the top and made our way around the castle. I've seen loads of castles, but there was something special about this one. I couldn't help but feel I'd dreamt of it, or written about it, some time during my life. Soon we sat down and opened up to our goodies from the markets.

We had an incredible picnic overlooking the valley in the sunshine, feeling just like a king and queen.