Dolenjska in two days

Krka–Žužemberk–Dvor–Dolenjske Toplice–Novo mesto–Pleterje–Kostanjevica na Krki–Otočec

Day 1: The spring of the Krka river is located in a cave just outside Krka village. We will walk to the spring and later take a bus ride along the Krka to Žužemberk to see the 13th-century castle, one of the most picturesque in Slovenia. In Dvor, a few miles on, the remains of the Auersperg ironworks are visible beside the river. A real Dolenjska brunch with glass of cviček follows at a local inn, to strengthen us for a visit to the Soteska Manor ruins. We will walk through the baroque park to Devil’s Tower, a pavilion once famous for wild parties thrown by the lady of the manor, and to see the scenic limestone banks of the Krka. Our overnight stop will be in Dolenjske Toplice, a well known spa centre. Before dinner, there will be time to try out their services or take one of the scenic walks.

Day 2: The first stop after breakfast will be in the centre of Novo mesto. From there we will continue to the Carthusian Monastery in Pleterje. Before viewing the video presentation about the life of the monks, we will pass by the outdoor museum of rural architecture. After lunch we will continue to Kostanjevica na Krki an ancient, fairy-tale city situated on an island. Before returning, we will be shown around Otočec Castle by the lord of the castle.

DID YOU KNOW ...
… that the Dolenjska region has a typical wine called cviček that is composed of several red and white varieties? It has a characteristic acidity and a low alcohol level, from 7,5 to a maximum of 10 %, which makes it pleasantly drinkable. True cviček can only be found in Gadova peč.