If you're looking for a pretty but affordable part of Europe to visit, there's one spot that you simply must consider. The area has been compared to Italy's Dolomites, but with a much lower travel price tag. Soa Valley in Slovenia is known for its stunning hiking routes and the beautiful blue river. It's a lesser-known region than the Dolomites, and it's well worth a trip.

TikTok user @baileyturvey, said: "While everyone talks about the Dolomites, consider exploring lesser-known but equally stunning spots." They said the area boats "charming villages, breathtaking nature trails, and scenic vistas without the high costs."

One person on TripAdvisor said, "The Soa Valley was my favourite place in Slovenia. It feels like something out of a dream. The river's colour is unreal, and you can swim or jump in almost anywhere.

"The water is freezing, but that makes it even more refreshing on a hot day. Parking can be tricky, so we took the bus and walked back along the river.

"It turned into one of those days you don't plan but end up remembering forever. There are deeper spots for jumping, and plenty of space to just sit, watch the water, and take it all in. The Soa Valley is perfect for anyone who loves outdoor sports like kayaking, rafting, and canyoning. For me, it wasn't just an activity; it was a memory I'll never forget."

Another person who visited penned: "Beautiful river with many hiking routes around. We walked around for almost the whole day by the river.

"We did the specific Narnia walk, which brings you next to the places where they filmed the movie. The colour of the river is turquoise and is really beautiful."

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The area is so pretty that even Disney used it as the backdrop for the film The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.

The closest airport is Trieste, Italy, a two-hour flight from the UK. The drive to the Soa Valley from the airport takes around one hour and 15 minutes.

Whether you're hoping to just enjoy nature or take part in an adventurous activity such as rafting, kayaking, or hiking, there appears to be something for everyone in the area.