Eastern Slovenia

Eastern Slovenia – Rivers, Wine, and Historical Charm

Eastern Slovenia is a land of rolling hills, fertile river plains, historic towns, and world-class wines. This region combines the cultural influences of neighbouring Austria, Hungary, and Croatia with a distinctive Slovenian identity, offering travellers a rich mix of heritage, gastronomy, and outdoor activities. Vineyards spill across gentle slopes, medieval castles punctuate the landscape, and the rivers Drava and Mura provide both natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Maribor

Slovenia’s second city, Maribor, lies on the banks of the Drava River. Originally founded to protect the region against Magyar invasions, a castle was constructed on the hill in the 12th century. The river has long attracted trade, particularly in wine and timber, transported both upstream and downstream. Maribor flourished once it was connected by rail to Vienna in 1846.

The old town is a delight to explore, with clusters of colourful Baroque façades and the City Castle, which houses the regional museum. Nearby, the Vinag Wine Cellars are a must-visit, with 2.5 km of tunnels storing 5.5 million litres of wine – tours with tastings should be booked in advance.

For recreation, head to the riverside promenade leading to Maribor Island, a popular summer spot with two outdoor pools open from June to September. Cyclists can explore the nearby Maribor Pohorje Hills, accessible by cable car, where the Bike Park Pohorje offers a 4 km downhill trail.

Ptuj

Ptuj, located on the flat, fertile Drava plain, is one of Slovenia’s oldest towns. Known in Roman times as Poetovio, it was an important crossroads and trade hub, with a population of around 30,000 at its peak. The town retains its historic character, largely because it was bypassed by the railway that later connected Maribor to Vienna.

Ptuj’s cobbled streets, lined with Gothic and Baroque buildings, are dominated by the 12th-century Ptuj Castle, which offers sweeping views over the town. Relaxation is easy with numerous thermal baths nearby, such as Moravske Toplice.

Wine enthusiasts will delight in the Haloze Hills, one of Slovenia’s premier wine regions. Explore local cellars like Vinska Klet, or follow the Haloze Hills Wine Route to Borl Castle, Ptujska Gora, and further afield to the Ljutomer and Mura wine roads. This corner of Slovenia, close to the Croatian and Hungarian borders, reflects centuries of cultural exchange in its food, wine, and traditions.

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