The Lipica stud farm, established in 1580 by Archduke Charles of Habsburg, is an authentic oasis of tranquillity surrounded by nature. Tree-lined avenues and oak groves lead to the ancient stables, while herds of white thoroughbred steeds, deemed by many to be the most graceful in the world, gallop through the green meadows on the farm. As an excellent way of visiting this wonder we suggest a hike which is not too demanding and will allow you to soak up the unique atmosphere of the Karst. We’ll go up to the plateau by public transport and then proceed on foot along an easy, old Austro-Hungarian cart track. We’ll move into the Slovenian Karst almost without realising it, reaching Lipica after about an hour’s walk. Here, a guided tour will take you to the ancient park stables and the interactive museum dedicated to Lipizzaner horses, after which we’ll be able to stroll leisurely through the estate in peace and quiet. Before saying goodbye to Lipica, we can stop off in the nearby valley of Our Lady of Lourdes, a unique shrine nestling in a Karst sinkhole dating back to the 19th century. On the way back the paths will present us with some splendid views of the Adriatic and the city of Trieste taking us close to the Obelisk in Opicina, reputed to be one of the most beautiful panoramic spots in the whole region. We will say our goodbyes to the Karst from the windows of the old 1940s carriage of the Opicina tram, renowned tramway network which has connected the Karst to the city of Trieste since 1902 Every day from February to November (from November to March no departures on Mondays)