Otočec: Castle Island on the Krka

In Otočec, Otočec Castle stands on an island in the middle of the Krka. Together with its park, it is considered an outstanding cultural and natural monument. The castle was first mentioned in historical records in 1252. It was restored to its original Gothic and Renaissance splendor. The year provides a chronological reference; the two style designations describe its architectural character.

Novo Mesto: archaeological finds and city history

In Novo Mesto, cultural topics range from archaeological finds to city history. The Dolenjski Museum was founded in 1950. Its permanent and temporary exhibitions present the history of Novo Mesto and a large part of Dolenjska. The exhibition Archaeological Image of Dolenjska features numerous significant archaeological objects, including bronze situlas decorated with figures. These were found in Kandija and at Kapiteljska njiva in Novo Mesto. Because of its many bronze situlas, Novo Mesto is also known as the City of Situlas.

Another work of art connected with the city's history is the painting of Saint Nicholas on the main altar of the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. The Italian Renaissance artist Jacopo Rubusti Tintoretto painted it in the 16th century; it has been on the altar since the end of that century. The cultural attractions in the old town center also include a Franciscan library with precious incunabula. On Glavni trg, distinctive arcades recall the city's commercial past.

The Krka and trails in Novo Mesto

At Novo Mesto's town beach, on the right bank of the Krka below Portoval Sports Park, visitors can swim and rent SUP boards, canoes and wooden rowboats. The town beach is about a ten-minute walk from Glavni trg. The paddling route from the beach landing is about 1.2 kilometers in each direction. Irča Vas boathouse is 1.7 kilometers upstream on the Krka from the starting point. Water activities are seasonal; check availability and operating conditions before your visit.

A raft ride on the Krka below the old town center offers views of the Breg district, the cathedral and the Franciscan monastery high above the river. You can also explore the cityscape, river and wooded areas on foot: the walking trail From the City to Ragov Log passes through the main square and the old town, past the courthouse, over a wooden footbridge across the Krka and into Ragov Log forest.

Ragov Log is a small woodland on the right bank of the Krka in Novo Mesto. A nature trail and information boards complement a walk in the woods. The ten-kilometer Green Circle walking trail passes through the central part of the city, with promenades along the Krka and sections through the wooded areas of Ragov Log and Portoval. The two trails have different focuses: one leads specifically from the main square into the woods, while the other connects riverside promenades and several wooded sections along its stated length.

Wine, cycling and tastings

Trška Gora is a 428-meter-high wine-growing hill with the world's highest concentration of vineyard cottages. The experience Trška Gora Between Castles combines a hiking route with tastings of local specialties and wines. Castle stories, winemaking traditions and unspoiled nature are also part of the experience; check program availability in advance. Open Vineyard Cottages invite visitors to family wine cellars for wine tastings and homemade specialties. Check opening arrangements before setting out.

Numerous signposted cycling routes around Novo Mesto pass through vineyards dotted with picturesque vineyard cottages. E-bikes can be rented at the foot of Trška Gora or at the tourist information center on Glavni trg; check the current rental arrangements in advance. Saturday morning is a useful reference point for visiting the Novo Mesto market: it takes place every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the main square and brings together local producers, creative people and visitors. Check the current schedule before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Dolenjske Toplice, Šentjernej, Mali Ban, Straža, Srednje Grčevje, Mirna Peč, Hrib pri Hinjah, Dolenje Kronovo.

For the main travel overview: Novo Mesto.