TRIPS IN THE VICINITY

DESCRIPTION:

The mild climate and Mediterranean influences have created favourable conditions so that man has been able to cultivate vineyards, orchards and olive groves on the hills and slopes of the valleys of the rivers Branica and Vipava for centuries. From Rihemberk Castle the road goes through the Branica valley to the picturesque village of Goče. From here the road continues on to Vipava which is sometime called “Slovenia’s Venice” because of the seven sources of the River Vipava and numerous bridges. Above the town stand the remains of the old castle, and in the central square we can see the renovated Lanthieri mansion and a wine shop with over 170 different wines produced by reputed local winegrowers. There is no life without water so it is worth visiting the source of the Hubelj above Ajdovščina which shows its strength after heavy rain. The history of Ajdovščina dates back over two thousand years to a time when the Romans first built a post and goods station by the River Hubelj and later a mighty military stronghold. We then drive up to Vipavski Križ which was the smallest town in the Habsburg Monarchy. From there we turn towards Branik, but not before ascending to Sv. Martin, from where we can enjoy a view of the castle complex with the Karst in the background. If time allows it is also an unforgettable experience to drive up to the Nanos plain (from Razdrto), and enjoy views from Triglav to the Adriatic Sea.