Rihemberk Castle is an excellent starting point for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, or discovering historical and cultural landmarks, the surrounding area offers a wealth of exploration opportunities. Along the trails, you’ll encounter local culinary delights, exceptional wines, and unique stories of the land and its people.
Trails are used at your own risk. Please make sure you are properly equipped – wear appropriate hiking or cycling footwear and dress according to the weather. When walking along roads, be especially cautious and ensure your safety.
We kindly invite you to follow the guidelines for sustainable exploration of the Nova Gorica and Vipava Valley destination.
Hiking trails
Rihemberk Castle Walk – Circular Route from Branik to Rihemberk Castle
- LENGTH: 3.5 km
- DURATION: 1.5 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Easy
- SURFACE: Asphalt, path, gravel
Description:
Lords and villagers of Branik, formerly known as Rihemberk, once climbed to the castle via this historic trail, which led from the settlement along the Rovnak ravine and past the small church of St. Anthony. The path connected the Vipava Valley with the Karst and further on to the sea, and all travellers had to pass through the castle toll station, the remains of which still stand below the castle.
The trail begins at the Cultural Centre in Branik, where parking is available. Follow the road toward Komen and the signs along the way. Part of the trail runs along a busy road. From the castle, return to Branik via the Komen road, which initially ascends. Near the bridge over the Rovnak ravine, turn right onto a gravel path that leads under the impressive Austro-Hungarian railway viaduct of the Bohinj line.
Highlights along the trail:
• Church of St. Anthony of Padua and the scenic views
• Remains of the old castle toll station
• Visiting and exploring Rihemberk Castle and climbing its mighty tower
• Stunning views of the castle from different points in every season
• Walking under the majestic 1906 Bohinj railway viaduct
The Walk between two Castles – from Rihemberk to Dornberg
- LENGTH: 7 km (in one direction)
- DURATION: 2.5 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Easy
- SURFACE: Asphalt, forest path, gravel
Description:
The long-lost Dornberg Castle was one of the mightiest castles in 11th-century Slovenia. Over the centuries, it underwent many changes and in the early 16th century, it served as a fortified defense against Ottoman raids. Today, the remains of its double defensive wall can be admired in the picturesque village of Tabor above Dornberk.
Just a few kilometers away stands Rihemberk Castle, built centuries later and the largest castle in the Goriška region. Unlike Dornberg, Rihemberk has survived the test of time and today visitors can walk through its grounds and climb its imposing tower.
The Trail of Two Castles begins at Rihemberk Castle and ascends along the Branik–Komen road, leading to one of the most beautiful villages in the area – Pedrovo. At the edge of the village, the trail descends into the forest and later opens up to vineyards and olive groves. The final stretch leads hikers into Tabor through the preserved southern gate of the outer castle wall.
The beginning of the trail includes some walking along a busy road. Return is also possible by train (Dornberk–Branik).
Highlights along the trail:
• Visit Rihemberk Castle and explore its rich history and climb its mighty tower
• Walk through chestnut woods along the old path that once linked the two castles
• Discover Pedrovo – a charming hilltop village on the edge of the Karst Plateau
• Enjoy scenic trails above the vineyards near Tabor
• See the ruins of Dornberg Castle and the Ottoman-era fortifications from the 16th century
The Walk between Two Castles – from Rihemberk to Štanjel
- LENGTH: 6 km (in one direction)
- DURATION: 2 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Moderate
- SURFACE: Forest trail, gravel road
Description:
The Trail of Two Castles connects Rihemberk Castle, with the highest castle tower in Slovenia, and Štanjel, a picturesque medieval Karst village surrounded by stone walls.
The trail begins with a steep path ascending from Rihemberk Castle, which then flattens out as it continues along the ridge. From here, hikers enjoy panoramic views of the Branica Valley and beyond. A short detour leads to the top of Golec Hill, where the famous TITO inscription is carved into the landscape, and a spectacular view of Rihemberk Castle awaits.
As you continue toward Štanjel, the terrain gradually shifts from green forests to typical Karst scenery. From the village of Lukovec to Štanjel, follow the blue signs of the Slovenian Mountain Biking Route.
Return is possible by train (Štanjel–Branik).
Highlights along the trail:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its majestic tower
• Enjoy scenic views from the ridge over the Branica and Vipava Hills and the Goriška Plain
• Hike up Golec Hill (380 m) with the “TITO” inscription and views of the castle
• Experience the Karst landscape, beautiful in every season, especially in autumn
• Explore the medieval village of Štanjel and its castle with the unique Ferrari’s Park
Olive grove Memorial Route in the Footsteps of Simon Gregorčič
- LENGTH: 11 km
- DURATION: 3.5 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Easy
- SURFACE: Asphalt, forest path, gravel road
Description:
The Memorial Olive Trail is dedicated to the renowned Slovenian poet and priest Simon Gregorčič, who served in Branik (formerly Rihemberk) between 1873 and 1882.
The trail begins at the post office or cultural centre parking area and climbs past the village church. It then turns right through the vineyards. In the hamlet of Sveti Martin, the trail veers toward the Vipava Valley before looping back through the village of Brje and returning to Branik.
This scenic route takes walkers through vineyards, olive groves, and fields, tracing the steps once walked by the poet himself. Along the way, stunning views open up of Rihemberk Castle, the Karst Plateau, the Vipava Valley, the Trnovo Forest Plateau, and the Goriška Plain.
In late autumn, around St. Martin’s Day (11 November), the local community hosts an organized walk along the trail, offering a unique experience of the seasonal landscape and wine-growing traditions.
Highlights along the trail:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its imposing tower
• Panoramic views of the castle while ascending toward the ridge and Sveti Martin
• Breathtaking vistas over the Vipava Valley and Trnovo Plateau from above Sveti Martin
• A scenic walk through vineyards and olive groves
• Memorial plaques in Brje and Branik dedicated to Simon Gregorčič
Cycling routes
Vineyards and Traditions – The Branica Valley and the Vipava Hills
- LENGTH: 36 km
- DURATION: 4–5 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Challenging
- ELEVATION GAIN: Approx. 750 m
- SURFACE: Asphalt, gravel
Description:
Nestled in the heart of a wine-growing region, Rihemberk Castle is the perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside. The cycling route descends into the Branica Valley, located between the Karst Plateau and the Vipava Hills, and continues toward Goče, a village known for its well-preserved architectural heritage.
After ascending to Obelunec Hill, crowned by the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, cyclists are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The route then descends to the village of Erzelj, with the option to climb to the remains of an Ottoman defense tower and the Church of St. Michael, which offers stunning vistas.
Cyclists continue past vineyards and olive groves on a mix of gravel and paved roads, eventually climbing toward Sveti Martin, where a magnificent view of Rihemberk Castle opens up before the final descent to Branik.
The route runs along busy and quiet roads, gravel paths, and in parts overlaps with the Vertovec Trail and the Slovenian Mountain Biking Trail (STKP).
Shortcut option: In the Branica Valley, you can turn left toward Šmarje or Gaberje and rejoin the suggested path to Sveti Martin and back to Branik.
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb the towering keep
• Branica Valley – the torrent-like Branica River between the Karst Plateau and the Vipava Hills
• Goče – a charming village with preserved architecture and wine cellars
• Church of Our Lady of the Snows – pilgrimage site on Obelunec Hill with scenic views
• Sveti Martin – a panoramic point overlooking Rihemberk Castle
• Vineyards and renowned local winemakers along the route
From Rihemberk to the white rocks and red earth of the Karst
- LENGTH: 31 km
- DURATION: 4–5 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Moderate
- ELEVATION GAIN: Approx. 450 m
- SURFACE: Gravel, asphalt
Description:
The red soil of the Karst, its favorable climate, and the dedication of local farmers have long nurtured the homeland of the distinctive, deep ruby-red wine – Teran.
This cycling route takes you from the Vipava Valley to the Karst Plateau. After an initial ascent from the castle, the route continues along scenic, low-traffic roads and farm tracks, weaving through vineyards, traditional Karst homesteads, and lavender fields. Caution is advised where the route overlaps with main roads.
From Štanjel to Rihemberk Castle, cyclists follow the blue signs of the Slovenian Mountain Biking Trail (STKP). At the intersection with the main Komen–Branik road, the route turns right and descends back into the Vipava Valley and the village of Branik.
Shortcut option: A portion of the route can be completed by train (Branik–Štanjel).
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its impressive tower
• Sveto – a Karst village with an ancient linden tree at its heart
• Ivanji Grad – a Provencal-style village with fragrant lavender fields and a lavender festival
• Volčji Grad – a Karst settlement with preserved architecture and prehistoric hillfort remains on Debela Griža
• Štanjel – a picturesque medieval village with a castle and the Ferrari’s Park, a masterpiece of landscape design
From Rihemberk Castle to Nova Gorica
- LENGTH: 25 km (in one direction)
- DURATION: 2–3 hours
- DIFFICULTY: Easy
- ELEVATION GAIN: Approx. 250 m
- SURFACE: Asphalt, gravel
Description:
This is a true journey through time. The cycling route leads from the medieval Rihemberk Castle to the modern city of Nova Gorica, built after World War II when the historic center of the Goriška region – Gorizia – became part of Italy.
Along the way, you’ll pass manor houses and fortress ruins that tell tales of the past: Vogrsko Manor, the remains of Dornberg Castle above Dornberk, Coronini Mansion in Šempeter pri Gorici, and the crypt of the last French king on Kostanjevica Hill.
The route follows main and local roads, cycling paths, and gravel tracks, winding along the Vipava and Branica rivers, through vineyards and fertile fields.
Shortcut option: Return is possible by train (Nova Gorica–Branik).
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its majestic tower
• The fertile wine region of the lower Vipava Valley with renowned winemakers
• Lanthieri Mill in Pekel near Steske – one of the best-preserved mills in Slovenia
• Vogrsko Manor – also known as Božičev dvorec, from the 16th century
• Coronini Mansion in Šempeter pri Gorici – home of a famous noble family from the 17th century
• Nova Gorica with Europe Square, a symbol of unity between the old and the new Gorizia, and the Bourbon crypt on Kostanjevica Hill
Road trips
The Heritage of Centuries at Branik and Gorizia Castles
- ROUTE DIRECTION: Branik – Sv. Martin – Šempas – Ozeljan – Nova Gorica – Gorizia – Šempeter pri Gorici – Volčja Draga – Dornberk – Branik
- LENGTH: 55 km
- DURATION: Half-day trip
Description:
The Goriška region was once a historical land within the Holy Roman Empire, later the Habsburg Monarchy and Austro-Hungary. Its capital was the city of Gorizia, now divided between Slovenia and Italy. This rich history can be explored by visiting two important castles: Rihemberk Castle and Gorizia Castle.
The Gorizia Castle served as the residence of the Counts of Gorizia, a powerful noble family whose influence grew rapidly in the Middle Ages. The castle complex includes a parking area. After visiting the castle, you can take a walk down to the old town center, where you’ll find stories of diverse cultures, religions, and social classes.
At Glavni trg (Main Square), also known as Travnik, the great Tolmin peasant uprising began – a movement that spread across the Vipava Valley and the Karst. Rihemberk Castle played a key role during the revolt and holds many more stories from the region’s past. A highlight of your visit is climbing the nearly 30-meter-tall tower, which offers a magnificent 360° view.
Along the way between the two castles, you can stop in several villages and towns to discover local stories and sample traditional culinary specialties.
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its commanding tower
• Fertile landscapes known for wine, olives, peaches, and cherries
• Prvačina – with the Alexandrine Women Museum Room, dedicated to women who emigrated to Alexandria and Egypt in the 19th and early 20th centuries
• Nova Gorica – a modernist city built after WWII along the border
• Europe Square – a symbolic space connecting the old and new Gorizia
• Franciscan Monastery on Kostanjevica – home to a rich library and the Bourbon crypt
• Gorizia – explore the medieval castle and stories of a city shaped by diverse peoples and traditions
The Winegrowing Valleys of Vipava and Branica
- ROUTE DIRECTION: Branik – Spodnja Branica – Goče – Vipava – Ajdovščina – Vipavski Križ – Brje – Sv. Martin – Branik
- LENGTH: 55 km
- DURATION: Full-day trip
Description:
The mild climate and Mediterranean influences have created ideal conditions for centuries of winemaking, fruit growing, and olive cultivation on the hills and slopes of the Vipava and Branica Valleys.
From Rihemberk Castle, the route leads through the Branica Valley to the charming village of Goče. Then, it continues to Vipava, often referred to as the “Slovenian Venice” due to its seven river springs and numerous bridges. Above the town stand the ruins of the old castle, while the central square is home to Lanthieri Mansion, near which a wine shop offers more than 170 wines from local producers.
In Ajdovščina, the Hubelj River spring is worth a visit—its full force is revealed after heavy rainfall. The town has a history stretching over two millennia, with its Roman roots still visible in the remains of the fortress Castrum ad Fluvium Frigidum.
The route continues to Vipavski Križ, the smallest town of the Habsburg monarchy, famous for its preserved architecture and medieval charm. The final stretch climbs to Sveti Martin, from where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Rihemberk Castle and the Karst Plateau.
If time allows, consider an unforgettable detour to the Nanos Plateau (from Razdrto), which offers breathtaking views from Triglav to the Adriatic Sea.
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb the majestic tower
• Goče – a scenic village with narrow alleys and rich architectural heritage
• Sveti Martin – a panoramic ridge trail with the best views of Rihemberk Castle
• Vipava – the “Slovenian Venice” with river springs and charming bridges
• Ajdovščina – home to the Hubelj spring and well-preserved Roman fortifications
• Vipavski Križ – a walk through the white streets of this historic little town
From Rihemberk to the Sea – Castles and Fortresses of the old Province of Gorizia and Gradisca
- ROUTE DIRECTION: Branik – Štanjel – Duino – Gorizia – Nova Gorica – Dornberk – Branik
- LENGTH: 84 km
- DURATION: Full-day trip
Description:
The route begins beneath Rihemberk Castle and climbs to the Karst Plateau and the picturesque village of Štanjel – a medieval gem with narrow stone streets, traditional Karst houses, and the iconic Ferrari’s Park, a masterpiece of landscape architecture.
The path continues through Karst villages, past typical stony homes, and across the border into Italy, reaching Duino, where the Duino Castle towers over the sea. It is still the residence of the noble Thurn und Taxis family.
From there, the route leads past the intermittent Doberdò Lake, rich in unique Karst flora and fauna, and toward Gorizia and Nova Gorica. At Europe Square, a symbol of cross-border unity, you can take a break and enjoy the atmosphere.
Near the historic Bohinj Railway Station, once connecting Central Europe with the Adriatic, visitors can stand with one foot in Slovenia and the other in Italy, symbolically bridging cultures and histories.
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its commanding tower
• Štanjel – a medieval village with stone houses and the beautiful park
• Duino – visit Duino Castle, dramatically perched above the Gulf of Trieste
• Gorizia – the old town center with its hilltop castle
• Nova Gorica – Europe Square, where visitors can enjoy coffee between two countries
The turbolent 20th Century and the Remains of the Isonzo Front
- ROUTE DIRECTION: Branik – Sabotin – Nova Gorica – Gorizia – Cerje – Branik
- LENGTH: 95 km
- DURATION: Full-day trip
Description:
Both World Wars left a profound impact on the Goriška region. The remnants of trenches and bunkers from the Isonzo Front, along with collections of weapons and wartime artifacts, are today preserved in the Sabotin – The Park of Peace.
After World War II, the narrow ridge of Sabotin became part of the new border between Yugoslavia and Italy, cutting through communities, dividing families, and disrupting lives.
The route continues to Nova Gorica, where visitors can stand on Europe Square – one foot in Slovenia, the other in Italy. The Kolodvor Museum Collection nearby features the red star, a powerful symbol of socialist Yugoslavia, which once stood above the square.
From here, the path leads to Cerje, where on the edge of the Karst Plateau stands the Monument to the Defenders of Slovenian Soil, a majestic memorial offering panoramic views from the sea to Mount Triglav.
The journey ends at Rihemberk Castle, which served as a military hospital during World War I. A large red cross on its roof once marked it for aircraft. The memory of the Isonzo Front and its many victims is also preserved in two military cemeteries located in the village of Branik below the castle.
Highlights along the route:
• Visit and explore Rihemberk Castle and climb its imposing tower
• Sabotin – Peace Park: preserved trenches, caves, and a visitor center telling the story of the Isonzo Front
• Nova Gorica: Europe Square, once divided by a hard border, and Kolodvor Museum reveal life on the border from 1945 to 2004
• Cerje Monument: a powerful symbol of national identity with breathtaking 360° views
• Branik: military cemeteries and the legacy of the castle’s role in World War I
Local Cuisine – Tastes of Branik and the Vipava Valley
Experience authentic culinary indulgence in local kitchens, where traditional family recipes blend with modern culinary creativity. From local specialties to organically grown ingredients – here you’ll discover the genuine flavors of the Vipava Valley.
Recommended culinary stops in the area:
- Čebron Family Estate – Preserje 59, Branik, www.cebron.eu
- Čilčevi Homestead – Organic farm and cheese dairy – Pedrovo 1, Branik – Pedrovo 1, Branik, www.cilcevi.si
- Eco-tourist farm Toncevi – Pedrovo 9, Branik, www.kmetija-toncevi.si
- Ošterija Branik – Branik 79a, Branik, www.osterija.si
- Tourist farm Pri mlinu, Branik 206, Branik
Enjoy top-quality cuisine and treat your taste buds in the heart of the Vipava Valley!
Wine – Taste Premium Wines of the Vipava Valley
The Vipava Valley is renowned for its exceptional wines, where rich winemaking tradition, fertile soil, and passionate winemakers come together. Both white and red wines from the surrounding vineyard-covered hills impress wine lovers and connoisseurs alike.
Recommended wineries in the area:
- Čebron Family Estate – Preserje 59, Branik, www.cebron.eu
- Bizjak Farm – Branik 169, Branik
- Vidmar Tomaž / Vidmar Family Farm – Branik 2, Branik
- Colja Wines – Steske 11, 5295 Branik, www.vinacolja.si
- Sveti Martin Wines, Brje 121, Dobravlje, www.vinasvetimartin.si
- Zgonik Wines – Branik 16, Branik
- Vidmar Wine Cellar – Preserje 3, Branik, www.vinskakletvidmar.si
Come and experience the authentic wine flavors of the Vipava Valley, where every drop tells the story of vineyards and tradition!
Prenočišča – sprostitev v objemu narave in dediščine
Experience peace and genuine hospitality in the idyllic landscape of the Vipava Valley. Whether you’re looking for rural charm or a close connection to nature, here you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
Recommended accommodations in the area:
- Apartment Dandelion – Branik 122, Branik, www.apartma-dandelion.si
- Čebron Family Estate – Preserje 59, Branik, www.cebron.eu
- Eco-tourist farm Toncevi – Pedrovo 9, Branik, www.kmetija-toncevi.si
- Hiša Artes – Pedrovo 28, Branik, www.hisa-artes.si
- Ošterija Branik – Branik 79a, Branik, www.osterija.si
- Vila Mravljevi – Preserje 10, Branik, vila-mravljevi.si
More accommodations in the Vipava Valley: www.vipavskadolina.si/en/
Whether you’re exploring the rich history of Rihemberk Castle, tasting exceptional wines, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Branik offers the perfect hideaway for an unforgettable stay.
