Kočevje Lake is one of the most important sights of Kočevje, known for its bears and the magnificent forests. It is very popular among locals and tourists, especially among fishermen.

It’s November, which means lots of fog, chilly nights, copious amounts of wine being drunk in honour of venerable old St Martin and, of course, the release of Finance’s Manager Magazine’s list of the Top 100 Richest Slovenians.

Gostilna Slovenja is a new trademark that has been introduced by The Section for Tourism and Catering at the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia.

Aleš Gačnik is a doctor of ethnological sciences and sociologist of culture, as well as an expert in wine, culinary and gastronomy tourism and culture. Aleš Gačnik is a professor at the University of Primorska, Faculty of Tourism Studies Turistica, and is also the head of the Centre for Gastronomy and Wine Culture. In addition to being the author of many monographs and scientific articles published both in Slovenia and internationally.

Darrel Joseph is an American-born international wine writer, judge and lecturer living in Vienna, Austria. He specialises in the wine regions of Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, including Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia and many Balkan countries. His writing has appeared in publications including Decanter, Harpers Wine & Spirit, Meininger’s Wine Business International, Wine Spectator and Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book. With his extensive tasting experience, Darrel judges in international wine competitions in Europe, including the renowned Decanter World Wine Awards in London. In addition, he conducts wine masterclasses, presentations, tastings and lectures throughout Europe. Darrel is also an editor and translator of numerous texts for wineries and wine organisations.

Andrew’s been leading his unique brand of tours to Slovenia, Croatia and the Balkans since 2005. Inspired by his backpack travels, he decided to create a better way of travelling where small groups (2-8 people) could have a more authentic experience, spending time with locals and seeing many of the hidden gems that got left off other tours. At the urging of his guests he’s begun focusing on culinary tours, which offer terrific food and wine, an insight into local traditions, slow food philosophy and a chance to meet with food producers, chefs and winemakers. In 2014, he moved from the US to Slovenia with his family.