Relaxing in eastern Slovenia

Feel free to refer to eastern Slovenia as the land of spas and water sources. You will be amazed by the large number of spas in this region. But the region is also known for its top wines. So get ready to enjoy yourself!

Your experience trip starts in beautiful Ljubljana, which has become one of the most pleasant capital cities in Europe in recent years. The old town boasts a delightful mix of baroque and art deco buildings. The university town of Maribor is also renowned for its vibrant arts and theatre scene. By the way, did you know that the world's oldest fruit-bearing vine grows here? And that beneath the medieval centre lie the largest wine cellars in Central Europe? A wine tasting is therefore a must!

In the old wine region of Podravje, Slovenia's Tuscany, you will discover idyllic spas, imposing castles and monasteries and... Slovenia's oldest town. Finally, after exploring and sampling, you can relax in one of the sixteen spas.

Day 1: Departure to Ljubljana

Whether you arrive by plane or by car, your trip will start in beautiful Ljubljana. Are you travelling by plane? Then pick up your rental car before the adventure can commence. Coming by car? We will be happy to map out the best route for you. Will you drive straight to Slovenia or will you make a short stop in Italy? It's up to you! Your first two nights will be spent in Ljubljana in a Caractère hotel.

Day 2: Ljubljana

On day two, unwind with a visit to the beautiful university city of Ljubljana. This city has grown into one of Europe's most pleasant capitals with a vibrant atmosphere in recent years. The old town around the Old Market and Prešeren Square forms a mix of beautiful baroque and art deco buildings connected by signature bridges.

Day 3: Maribor, starting point of the Eastern Wine Route

Following the A-road, you will set course for the university town of Maribor, with its medieval city centre and renowned for its vibrant arts and theatre scene. The riverside is the heart of the city's old quarter with plenty of terraces and restaurants. Maribor is home to the world's oldest fruit-bearing vine, and the largest wine cellars in Central Europe lie beneath the historic centre. A winetasting session is a must here! To maximise your time exploring the region, you will stay two nights in one of our Caractère hotels.

Day 4: The Podravje wine region, Slovenia's Tuscany

Podravje, against the border with Austria and Hungary, is a very old wine region. The region is also called the Tuscany of Slovenia. Today, it is the largest Slovenian wine region. According to connoisseurs, its wines are among the best in the country. The warm climate and specific soil composition make the wines richer and more aromatic. The first stop on your round trip is Radenci, an old spa town with eponymous water, idyllically situated among hills covered with vineyards. Continue your tour to medieval Ljutomer through a lovely landscape to Jeruzalem. The next stop is Ptuj, Slovenia's oldest town. Finally, drive 12 kilometres further south to visit the charming hilltop pilgrimage church.

Day 5: Imposing castles and fortified monasteries

The adventure continues along the Sava River, through the towns of Celje and Laško. Make a stop at the Carthusian monastery of Pleterje. Continue your trip to Novo Mesto, located on the steep banks of the Krka River and surrounded by seven hills. Here you will spend another two nights in a Caractère hotel.

Day 6: Land of spas and water sources

You will be amazed at the large number of natural thermal springs and spas in this region . To round off this experience trip, you can enjoy a wonderful day of relaxation in one of the 16 licensed and professional spas that can be found in southeastern Slovenia.

Day 7: Return home

Unfortunately, your trip is over and after returning your rental car, if necessary, you will fly or drive back home with a sense of fulfilment. Don't feel like returning home already? Caractère is happy to arrange for you to stay a few more nights.