North East Slovenia
Where the mountains stop, Slovenia doesn’t end. To the east, Slovenia becomes flatter. The only mountain range here reaches just above 1,500 meters at its highest point. The nature remains just as breathtaking as in the rest of the country. Discover picturesque villages and towns between the green slopes and embrace the relaxed way of life here. You can fully unwind in one of the spa resorts in this part of the country.
The east of Slovenia is not as popular as the west as a tourist destination, but if you want to explore Slovenia, this region should not be missed. The green nature, the relaxed and authentic atmosphere, are unmatched here. You’ll sometimes feel like you’ve entered a fairy tale.
The cities of Maribor and Ptuj are worth visiting. Hikers and nature lovers, as well as action sports enthusiasts, will find plenty to enjoy in the forested Pohorje Mountains. For those who enjoy life’s pleasures, there are spa resorts, and travelers with children can have a wonderful holiday in the spa resorts and vacation parks with exciting water parks. This part of the country is also home to several wine regions.
Destinations in this area
Štajerska
High above the town of Celje, the Counts of Celje built a massive castle, and from here, they ruled over much of present-day Slovenia during the late Middle Ages. The Counts of Celje are legendary, especially because they were Slovenians ruling over Slovenian territory, which was rare in the country’s history. The Counts of Celje had influence across all of Europe and owned as many as 20 castles. The three stars in the flag of Slovenia still serve as a reminder of the Counts of Celje.
In the town of Ptuj, you can dive even further back into history. Ptuj is the oldest city in the country. Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city, is also located in this region.
Štajerska is anything but urban. The region is above all charming. It is an area of green hills, small wine regions, picturesque villages, and to the north, the densely forested slopes of the Pohorje Mountains.
Slovenske Konjice is a small rural town with a history of over 1,000 years. It is situated between the golden wine hills of Škalce in the Dravinja Valley and at the foot of the road leading to the Rogla ski resort, which is also great for hiking in the summer. The Žiče Monastery, a cultural heritage gem, is also nearby.
Things to see and do:
- Rogla
Rogla is a popular ski resort located in the Pohorje Mountains in northeastern Slovenia, near the town of Slovenske Konjice. It's known for its excellent skiing conditions during the winter and offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers. Beyond winter sports, Rogla is also a great destination in the summer, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
The resort is also home to wellness centers and spa facilities, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after outdoor activities. Its proximity to forests and the peaceful environment makes Rogla a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The Rogla Tower, also known as the Pohorje Observation Tower, is located at the Rogla ski resort in the Pohorje Mountains of Slovenia. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the nearby forests, valleys, and, on clear days, the Alps. The tower is a great spot for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, whether they are hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter.
The tower stands at an altitude of about 1,500 meters, providing an elevated perspective of the landscape. It is a popular attraction for tourists, both for its views and as a scenic stop during outdoor activities in the area. It's also an excellent spot for photographers, offering a chance to capture the beauty of the Slovenian countryside.
- Žalec
The Žalec Beer Fountain is a unique attraction located in the town of Žalec, Slovenia. This fountain, which was opened in 2018, is the first of its kind in the world, allowing visitors to taste different varieties of Slovenian craft beer directly from the fountain's taps.
The fountain is set in a beautiful park and features several taps, each dispensing a different Slovenian beer. To drink from the fountain, visitors need to purchase a special beer mug, which is then used to fill from the taps. The Žalec Beer Fountain is part of the "Beer Fountain Experience," where guests can enjoy local beer while learning about Slovenia's rich brewing tradition.
Žalec itself is known for its long history in beer brewing, making the Beer Fountain a fitting tribute to this heritage. It's an unusual but fun way to explore Slovenian beer culture, and a must-see for beer enthusiasts visiting the region!
- Slovenske Konjice
Slovenske Konjice is a charming town located in eastern Slovenia, known for its rich history and picturesque setting. The town is nestled between the rolling hills of the Dravinja Valley and the Pohorje Mountains, offering beautiful natural landscapes.
One of its key attractions is the Žiče Carthusian Monastery, a well-preserved historical site that dates back to the 12th century. The monastery is a significant part of the cultural heritage of the region and offers a glimpse into the medieval monastic life.
Slovenske Konjice is also famous for its wine-growing tradition, with the surrounding area known for producing high-quality wines, particularly in the Škalce wine-growing region. The town has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere, ideal for visitors looking to enjoy a peaceful retreat in the Slovenian countryside.
In addition, Slovenske Konjice is close to Rogla, a popular ski resort that transforms into a hiking and biking destination in the summer. Whether you're exploring the vineyards, visiting historical sites, or enjoying the outdoors, Slovenske Konjice offers a great blend of culture, history, and nature.
- Ptuj
Ptuj is the oldest town in Slovenia, located in the eastern part of the country, along the Drava River. Its history stretches back over 2,000 years, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark. The town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming streets, and numerous historical sites.
Highlights in Ptuj
- Ptuj Castle
- Ptuj Wine Cellar
- The Old Town
- Kurentovanje
Ptuj is a must-visit for those interested in Slovenian history, culture, and wine, offering a unique glimpse into the country's past and its vibrant traditions.
- Pohorje
Pohorje is a mountain range in northeastern Slovenia, located near the city of Maribor. It is a popular destination for both winter and summer activities, offering a variety of outdoor experiences in a picturesque natural setting.
Highlights in Pohorje:
- Ski resort (Maribor Pohorje)
- Hiking & Cycling
- Pohorje Cable Car
- Pohorje Forest
- Thermal Springs
Pohorje offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation, making it an excellent destination year-round.
Maribor
Maribor is Slovenia's second-largest city, after Ljubljana, of course. However, it is not very large by Dutch and Belgian standards. Nevertheless, Maribor has much to offer, although you do need to know what to look out for. We can help with that.
Koroška
Quiet and beautiful, the mountainous region of Koroška lies at the border with Austria. It's perfect for peaceful walks without meeting many people. The region features small medieval towns like Slovenje Gradec, Dravograd, and Črna na Koroškem. The Mislinja Valley in the east has one of Slovenia's most scenic bike paths, following an old railway track.
Koroška is located in the north of Slovenia and is best reached by car. From Austria, drive via Klagenfurt to Dravograd. From Slovenia, take the Velenje exit on the Ljubljana-Maribor highway and head north.
Pannonian Slovenia
Once, two French monks on their way to Jerusalem arrived in the hills of Slovenske Gorice. They discovered delicious wine and a hospitable population. They decided never to leave and named their spot here "Jeruzalem" after the city in the Middle East they had originally been heading to.
The wine hills of Slovenske Gorice, Goričko, and Jeruzalem are among the most scenic in eastern Slovenia, but the area becomes flat towards the eastern border with Hungary, Austria, and Croatia. Influences from these neighboring countries shape the region, giving it a unique character compared to the rest of Slovenia. Here, life is about enjoying good food at affordable prices.
Prekmurje and Pomurje, where the Mura River flows, are home to several spa resorts, many of which feature water parks that are very family-friendly.
Pannonian Slovenia is accessible by car via Maribor. From the north, you can drive through Graz, Austria, and continue east towards Maribor and beyond.
Things to see and do:
- Prekmurje
Prekmurje is the northeastern region of Slovenia, located along the Mura River, bordering Hungary and Austria. This area is known for its flat landscape, with extensive farmland, vineyards, and picturesque rural villages. It has a distinct cultural identity due to historical influences from Hungary, making it feel like a unique blend of Slovenian and Hungarian traditions.
The region is famous for its delicious traditional dishes, such as prekmurska gibanica (a layered pastry), and for its peaceful rural charm. It’s also home to several spa resorts and natural thermal springs, making it a popular destination for relaxation and wellness tourism.
To reach Prekmurje, you can drive through Maribor, continuing eastwards, or enter from neighboring Austria or Hungary. The area’s tranquil ambiance, combined with its history and natural beauty, makes it a great spot for those seeking a less touristy part of Slovenia.
