TRIPS IN THE VICINITY

DESCRIPTION:

Rihemberk Castle is located in the heart of a wine-growing region and is an excellent base for exploring the surroundings. This cycle route turns first into the valley of the River Branica between the Karst Plateau and the Vipava hills. Then it heads towards the Vipava Valley, the village of Goče and climbs the hill known as Obelunec with its church dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows from where there is a beautiful view in all directions. From there we descend to the village of Erzelj and then have the option of climbing to the church of St. Michael and the remains of its defensive wall from where we can enjoy panoramic views. Our route then continues amongst vineyards and olive groves along macadam and tarmac roads and up to Sv. Martin where the traveller can see Rihemberk Castle in all its glory. Then follows the descent to Branik. The route runs along roads, fields and macadam tracks, and partly follows the Vertovec paths and the Slovenian mountain bike route. It is possible to shorten this circular route: turn left in the Branica valley towards Šmarje or Gaberje and from there onwards along the suggested route to St. Martin and on to Branik.