Villa Hojnik
You can easily reach the magnificent Borl Castle (Ankenstein) on foot, by bike, or by car. The castle, recently partially renovated, is visible from the terrace of Villa Hojnik. It was built by the Hungarians in the 13th century. From at least the 16th century until the abolition of serfdom, the village of Dravci was under the Borl lordship. The castle café is open from Friday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Combine your visit to the castle with a visit to the Church of St. Anne and the Heritage Park in Cirkulane. www.borl.si
If you're not from the region, a visit to the oldest Slovenian town, Ptuj, is a must during your stay. In the late Iron Age, the area was settled by the Celts, but the city reached its peak with the arrival of the Romans. At that time, Poetovio, one of the most important military centers of the Roman army, was estimated to have around 30,000 inhabitants. Today’s Ptuj is a lively European cultural hub, known for its festivals, exceptional ethnographic heritage, and living traditions. Highlights include Terme Ptuj, Ptuj Castle, the Town Hall, St. George's Church, and the Dominican Monastery (Ptuj landmarks: visitptuj.eu).
Experience Haloze Pristine nature, picturesque boutique villages, green hills slopes and steep meadows, exquisite culinary delicacies made of local produce and long-lasting tradition of viticulture make up a perfect tourist experience in Haloze. More information: www.visithaloze.com
Villa Hojnik offers free rental of four bicycles during your stay. Electric bikes can be rented in Ptuj (rentaebike.si). The village roads allow for carefree cycling, where you will rarely encounter a car. The villa is located 8 km from the 710 km long cycling route across four countries, running along the Drava River from Italy, Austria, through Slovenia, and into Croatia. The nearest access point to the route is at Lake Ptuj between Šturmovci and Markovci. More information: www.dravabike.si
The village of Dravci is all about nature. It is located at the confluence of the rivers Dravinja, Drava and Psičina. Haloze is home to a 27-hectare nature reserve, which has been protected as a natural landmark since 1969 due to its primeval forest. There are also two Natura 2000 areas in Haloze. Villa Hojnik is located right by the Haloze hiking trail. It starts in Dolane and ends at Rudi's home on Donačka gora. The path takes you through a picturesque landscape of countless hills. Each of them offers extraordinary views ofa unique landscape.
Canoeing and kayaking or rafting on the mighty Drava River offers visitors a wonderful experience. On the river, you can still get a genuine connection with nature and the surroundings. No prior knowledge is required for a guided descent on the Drava River, except for swimming skills, and age or physical fitness is not particularly important. The provider ensures your safety.
The spa town of Rogaška Slatina, known for its unique natural mineral water, is only a 45-minute drive from Villa Hojnik. The Slatina mineral water contains the highest amount of natural magnesium in the world, which provides numerous positive effects. It revitalizes, regenerates, cleanses, rejuvenates, and even heals. The town offers a rich variety of wellness centers, allowing you to discover the power of healing magnesium on your own.
Maribor, the second-largest city in Slovenia, may be small compared to global metropolises, with around 113,000 residents, but it offers an impressive array of attractions and activities. Located on the Drava River, it’s an ideal destination for a short city break or a longer stay. Whether you're interested in culture, history, or outdoor adventures, Maribor can rival much larger cities in terms of experiences, from its charming old town and vineyards to ski resorts and hiking trails in the nearby Pohorje mountains. More information: www.visitmaribor.si