Southeast Slovenia is the largest of the 12 statistical regions in Slovenia by area and is located in the southeastern part of the country. The region is known for its diverse landscape, which includes wine-growing hills, karst plateaus, forests, and valleys, as well as its rich cultural and natural heritage. It is a region with a long tradition of winemaking, woodworking, and thermal tourism.
Geographical Features:
• The region encompasses Dolenjska, Bela krajina, and part of Kočevsko.
• It is famous for the Krka River, considered one of the most picturesque rivers in Slovenia, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
• The Kočevje forests, covering a significant portion of the region, are among the most extensive forested areas in Europe and are home to numerous endangered animal species, including bears.
• Bela krajina is known for its wine-growing hills, white birches, and unique cultural heritage.
Cultural Heritage and Tourism:
• Novo mesto, the region’s capital, is known as the “City of Situlas” due to archaeological finds from the Iron Age. The city lies on a bend of the Krka River and offers numerous historical landmarks.
• Otočec, a picturesque castle on an island in the Krka River, is one of the most popular tourist attractions and a sought-after wedding venue.
• Metlika and Črnomelj are historic centers of Bela krajina, known for their traditional Belokranjska pisanice (painted Easter eggs), folklore, and wine.
• Kočevje is a hub for nature tourism and a starting point for exploring the Kočevje forests and mysterious karst caves.
• Thermal tourism is well-developed in places like Dolenjske Toplice and Šmarješke Toplice, which attract visitors with their healing thermal waters.
Sports and Recreation:
• The Krka River offers various water sports, such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Kočevski Rog is popular for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.
• Bela krajina provides cycling trails through vineyards and picturesque villages.
• The region is also known for hunting tourism, especially in the Kočevje forests.
Interesting Facts:
• Cviček, a distinctive wine from Dolenjska, is a unique blend with low alcohol content and is one of the region’s specialties.
• The Kočevje Virgin Forest, a protected natural area, is one of the few remaining virgin forests in Europe.
• Belokranjske pisanice, traditional hand-painted Easter eggs, are recognized as part of Slovenia’s cultural heritage.
• Otočec Castle is the only water castle in Slovenia.
• The Kočevje Fridrihštajn Cave is historically significant as the only castle linked to the love story of Friderik of Celje and Veronika of Deseniška.
Southeast Slovenia is a region that combines natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a tradition of hospitality. It is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking active leisure activities.
