Maribor & Styria: Wine and History

A vine growing along the facade of a farmhouse.

Embark on an unforgettable exploration of the heart of Slovenian Styria, Maribor, and its surroundings, where rich medieval history meets world-class winemaking traditions.

Our journey begins in Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city and a former European Capital of Culture. A stroll through the historic old town leads us to Lent, the picturesque riverside district. Here, clinging to the front of an old house by the Drava River, grows the World’s Oldest Vine. At over 400 years old, this Guinness World Record holder stands as a living symbol of the region’s deep-rooted wine culture, which you will feel at every turn.

To truly understand Maribor’s liquid gold, we dive beneath the city streets into the Vinag Wine Cellar, one of the largest and oldest classic wine cellars in Europe. Walking through over two kilometers of mysterious underground tunnels, you’ll pass towering wooden barrels and dusty archival bottles. For those looking for the "cherry on top," an optional wine tasting is available, offering a chance to sample premium Styrian vintages in the authentic atmosphere of the cellar.

From the depths of the city, we retreat to the serene silence of the Valley of St. John to visit the mystical Žička Charterhouse. This 12th-century former monastery is one of the most significant monuments of medieval architecture in the region. During its golden age, it housed one of the largest libraries in Europe; today, its quiet stone walls still whisper stories of monks, ancient herbalism, and a venerable history that transports you back in time.

Our final stop is Slovenske Konjice, a charming town known locally as the "Town of Flowers and Wine." Its quaint medieval center and a scenic drive through the rolling, sun-drenched vineyards provide the perfect finale to our day. Surrounded by idyllic landscapes, we’ll toast to a journey that perfectly blends cultural heritage, the mystic peace of monastery walls, and the unforgettable flavors of the Styrian hills.

Join us and create lasting memories in a land where rich history and natural beauty pour into every glass.