Ancient History, Hidden Valleys, and Picturesque Villages
Rogla-Pohorje is a popular destination in Slovenia for a day trip, offering various activities and natural attractions. Here are some recommendations:
- Hiking and Cycling: Enjoy numerous trails with stunning views, suitable for all skill levels.
- Rogla Ski Resort: Visit even in summer for hiking, biking, and adventure parks.
- Lovrenc Lakes: A serene spot with beautiful peat bog lakes.
- Pot med krošnjami Pohorje: A treetop walk offering panoramic views.
- Zreče Thermal Spa: Relax and unwind in the healing waters.
These activities make Rogla-Pohorje a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Rogla-Pohorje area, located in northeastern Slovenia, includes the municipalities of Oplotnica, Slovenske Konjice, Vitanje, and Zreče. Oplotnica, comprising 21 settlements, has archaeological evidence of human habitation dating back to at least 3000 BCE. During Roman times, it was a significant crossroads for trade between Italy and Pannonia.
Oplotnica hosts the annual Martinov hike in November, ending at St. Martin’s Church with a blessing of young wine and a tasting session. In September 2019, the Rogla treetop walk opened, offering over a kilometer of trails above the trees with magnificent views. Outdoor activities abound, including cycling, hiking, and exploring the mountains, while Rogla Ski Resort provides winter fun and hosts the FIS Snowboarding World Cup each January.
Rogla – the Pohorje Hills attracts with extensive forests, peat bog and lakes. Trails connect Rogla with ski slopes and Zreče with its thermal water with interesting villages. The Žiče Charterhouse with the oldest bar in Slovenia is located near Slovenske Konjice, and KSEVT, the Cultural Centre of European Space Technologies by Herman Potočnik Noordung, is not far away either.
Žiče Charterhouse
The serene and fascinating Žiče Charterhouse is a significant cultural monument worth visiting. Built in 1165 in the valley of St. John the Baptist near Slovenske Konjice, it is the oldest Carthusian monastery in Slovenia and the first outside France or Italy. Despite partial ruins, the site features monastic houses, a dining hall, a kitchen, and a church, attracting around 20,000 visitors annually. Highlights include a summer concert series, a wine cellar, and a shop selling herbal remedies. The monastery’s rich history includes attacks by Turks in 1531 and eventual closure by Emperor Joseph II in 1782. Today, it hosts exhibitions of old manuscripts and offers guided tours.
