Podcetrtek – the hidden paradise in Slovenia
We were driving the winding roads of Eastern Slovenië for many kilometres. The straight and flat highway was further and further away. And then, suddenly we saw it- the beautiful municipality of Podcetrtek.
The first thing that came to our mind was that this place is a part of the fairy tale. It is literally situated beyond seven mountains and beyond seven forests.
Pod?etrtek is a peaceful and green land, where the life flows slowly. The local community is small, everybody knows and cares about each other.
For us, this place was like paradise. We were surrounded by the green hills and beautiful, unspoilt nature. We were staying in the best hotel in Podcetrtek, Domacija Haler, which location is right next to the forest. It was so quiet in there that all we’ve been hearing was singing of birds and croaking of frogs.
Check out the latest prices for Guesthouse Haler?> click here.
We can’t imagine better place to relax and unwind. Podcetrtek is not only about the nature. There are surprisingly many things to do there!
#1 Olimje Minorite Monastery
Olimje 82, 3254 Pod?etrtek
It is the biggest tourist attraction of Podcetrtek. The castle was built in 11th century and inhabited by the Pavlin monks in 17th century. They built the baroque church nearby and opened one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. What’s interesting, it is operating until today.
it is definitely a place worth visiting. You can buy there some traditional medicines. Monks believe that for every sickness there is a natural cure.
# Syncerus Chocolate Boutique
Olimje 61, 3254 Pod?etrtek
Right next to the church, there is a chocolate store. Needless to say, almost everyone will love this place. You can buy there many delicious sweets made of dark, milk, dessert or white chocolate.
#3 Jelenov Greben Homestead
Olimje 90, 3254 Pod?etrtek
If you love animals and hate where they are being kept in the dierentuin cages, you should definitely visit Jelenov Graben. Deer and mouflon have 8 hectares of land there to move freely wherever they want. You can watch them from the restaurant & basketball, football or badminton court.
#4 Farm Martin Amon
Vir?tanj 61, 3254 Pod?etrtek
It was a huge surprise to us to see highland cattle in Slovenia! We thought they only live in Scotland.
They live at Martin Amon’s farm. It is well known as one of the best wineries in Podcetrtek.
#5 Domacija Haler
Olimje 6, 3254 Pod?etrtek
Did you know that the guest house we have been staying in is also a popular tourist attraction in Podcetrtek? They have their own brewery, where you can see the entire production of beer! If you don’t have time, you can just drop by and buy the famous Haler: radler lime, dark, light and blended beer. Yummy!
#6 Svetega Kri?a church Imenska Gorca
Cerkev Sv. Kri?, 3254 Pod?etrtek
This is a place that you won’t find in any guide. The church of St Cross is located on the top of Imenska Gorca and has beautiful, aerial views on Podcetrtek. If you decide to go there, be sure to take your camera!
TIP: You can either walk on the top of the hill or drive there by car.
#7 Kozjanski Park
Podsreda 45, 3257 Podsreda
Kozjanski Park is one of the biggest protected areas in Slovenia. There are many beautiful places to see there. The most famous is Castle Podsreda. It was probably built in 13th century (or before) and is located on the hill. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
#8 Terme Olimia
Zdravili?ka cesta 24, 3254 Pod?etrtek
The most popular tourist attraction in Podcetrtek. Terme Olimia is a huge complex, with many hotels, spas and water park.
#9 Museum of Farm Equipment
Tr?ka cesta 46, 3254 Pod?etrtek
Great museum with more than 4,000 exhibits, including some valuable and old items. You can see there how people lived in the past.
#10 Land of Fairytale and Fantasy
Olimje 104, 3254 Pod?etrtek
Did we mention that the location of Podcetrtek is beyond seven mountains and seven forests? Land of Fairytale and Fantasy is another reason we were right. It is truly magical place. You are walking surrounded by the high trees and you are meeting the famous kids heroes like Snow White or Pipi Longstocking. How awesome is that?
Disclosure: We want to thank Guesthouse Haler for complimentary stay. All opinions presented in this post are honest and our own.
