Extend your visit to Maribor with vineyards and castles

Slovenske gorice begin north of Maribor, where roads wind among vineyards, orchards and villages along the ridges. The Kungota, Svečina, Špičnik and Jarenina area is suitable for a trip by car, electric bicycle or organised transport. Along the way, you can combine scenic views, a short walk, a visit to a winemaker and lunch.

Wine roads are more than routes between cellars. They lead through a cultural landscape shaped by viticulture, farms and small settlements. Drive slowly, be considerate of local residents and park only where permitted. Wine cellar visits are often available by prior arrangement, so book before setting out.

One of the most recognisable views near Maribor is the heart-shaped road in Špičnik, in the municipality of Kungota. Its heart shape is best seen from the viewpoint above the vineyards. This is a cultivated cultural landscape, so use marked or permitted access routes and do not walk among the vines without the owners’ permission.

You can combine a visit to Špičnik with Svečina, nearby winemakers and lunch at a tourist farm or traditional inn. Good visibility is ideal for photography, but the landscape is interesting in every season. In autumn, expect more visitors and busy activity in the vineyards.

South of Maribor, you can visit Grad Rače (Rače castle), an important historic landmark of the town. Its exterior and castle setting make an interesting stop on the way to the natural areas around Rače and Fram. Access to the interior may depend on the programme, events or opening hours, so check before arriving.

A trip to Rače suits visitors who want to combine cultural heritage and nature without travelling long distances. You can combine the castle with a visit to Krajinski park Rački ribniki–Požeg (Rački ribniki–Požeg nature park) or continue towards Pohorje.

Krajinski park Rački ribniki–Požeg (Rački ribniki–Požeg nature park) comprises ponds, woodland and wetlands that provide an important habitat for many plant and animal species. It is suitable for a peaceful walk and birdwatching, and families can adapt the length of their route to their children’s ages and the conditions.

Keep to maintained paths in the protected area, observe animals from a distance and avoid making noise. Binoculars, tick protection and footwear suitable for damp ground are useful. Bring enough water on hot days, as an outing in nature may not include access to places serving food and drinks.

Botanični vrt Univerze v Mariboru v Pivoli (Botanic garden of the University of Maribor in Pivola) showcases native and non-native plant species and offers a walk through various collections along maintained paths. It suits families, plant enthusiasts and visitors who want to explore nature on easier terrain than a longer hike.

The garden can also be visited in winter, but opening hours vary. Check the current schedule and announced guided tours and events before arriving. You can combine your visit with lunch nearby or continue your trip towards Fram.

Framski slap (Fram waterfall), also known as slap Skalca (Skalca waterfall), is a natural sight in the eastern part of Pohorje. A maintained path through the forest leads to it. Footwear with good grip is recommended, as the path and sections near the waterfall may be slippery after rain. In winter, check snow and other trail conditions before visiting.

Choose your starting point and check the route’s length and condition before setting out. From a starting point close to the road, the waterfall can be the destination of a short walk; from more distant starting points, it can form part of a longer hike. When planning your time, allow for the terrain, stops and the return to your starting point.

Jarenina offers another opportunity to discover the region’s wine-growing heritage. Jareninski dvor (Jarenina manor) brings together historic architecture, vineyards and contemporary wine offerings. Estate tours, cellar visits and tastings depend on the current programme, so check opening hours and booking options before visiting.

If you are planning to taste several wines, arrange transport that does not involve driving afterwards. Organised transport from Maribor is a practical option for groups, while individual visitors can designate a driver, take a taxi or choose an experience with transport included.

• Wine-growing Styria: Maribor, Svečina, a view of the heart-shaped road in Špičnik, a visit to a winemaker and a late lunch.

• Heritage and nature: Grad Rače (Rače castle), a walk in Krajinski park Rački ribniki–Požeg (Rački ribniki–Požeg nature park) and a stop at a local producer or venue.

• Plants and forest: Botanični vrt v Pivoli (Botanic garden in Pivola), Fram and a hike to Framski slap (Fram waterfall), conditions permitting.

A few hours may be enough for one location, while a full day is recommended for two or three stops connected by a common theme. Check opening hours, guided tour options and whether booking is required. Distances in the countryside are short, but roads may be narrow and winding. If you include a wine tasting, arrange safe transport. Keep to marked paths in nature and adapt your plans to the weather.