Sevnica: Medieval mysteries and Sava River cycling adventures

Tucked away amid the Sava River valley, Sevnica stands out as a charming Slovenian town on both river banks. With well-maintained local centers, a population of around 5.000, and 17.500 in the broader municipality, Sevnica is a true gem waiting to be explored.

What makes Sevnica stand out? For starters, its public infrastructure is top-notch, making it a safe and comfortable place for everyone. Sevnica caters to all, from kids to seniors, families to solo travelers,  with its well-maintained spaces and services. Whether you’re into strolls in the riverside park, outdoor sports activities, or playground adventures, there’s something there for you. Plus, the town is serious about inclusivity, with efforts to make sure everyone can enjoy its charms, regardless of mobility challenges. In 2017, Sevnica was rightfully recognized as the safest municipality among smaller and medium-sized towns—a testament to its community-oriented approach to safety and well-being.

But it’s not all serious stuff there. Throughout the year, the town bursts with lively events that add extra spice to its cultural scene. From the Salami Festival to the Blue Franconian Wine Festival, Sevnica Castle Summer Festival to the student bash Vejžde Žur, there’s always something fun happening. 

Feel the medieval vibes at Sevnica Castle

Perched majestically atop the old town center is Sevnica Castle, steeped in centuries of history dating back to 1309. Despite facing its fair share of challenges over the years, such as peasant uprisings and Ottoman invasions, the castle has stood the test of time with remarkable resilience. Thanks to the recent restoration efforts, the castle and its surroundings have been revitalized, offering visitors a glimpse into its medieval splendor. 

One of the standout experiences certified under the Sevnica Premium brand is the Night Tour of Sevnica Castle. Wander through the castle at dusk, illuminated only by the flickering candlelight and guided only by the soft glow of your lantern. Talk about setting the mood for an unforgettable adventure. But wait, there’s more. As you explore the castle’s halls and chambers, you might just encounter its former owner, Countess Mathilde Arco Zinneberg, who has a habit of making appearances in the evening.

Visit Sevnica Castle and experience the 14th-century history.

Hike on top of Mount Lisca 

Standing tall at 948 meters and proudly earning its title as the pearl of Sevnica and Posavje, this mountain isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a haven for relaxation and enjoying the unspoiled nature. Mount Lisca has a diverse natural landscape and rich biodiversity. It is a part of the Kozjansko Regional Park and is included in the Natura 2000 network. Its mid-mountain climate, natural features, and magnificent views attract mountaineers and climbers, hikers, cyclists, paragliders, horse riders, and nature lovers. From the top, in good weather, you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the wider part of Slovenia, from the Sava River valley to Snežnik, Sleme, Triglav, Pohorje, and Peca mountains, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, and beyond. What’s more, Lisca offers interesting and attractive opportunities for research in astronomy, stargazing, and radio amateurs.

Enjoy the nature on top of Mount Lisca in Sevnica.

Test your pasta making skills

Have you ever tried making pasta yourself? Visit Gabaroni workshop and give it a go. In two hours, you’ll learn a lot of tricks and rules for making pasta, and you will also get new recipe ideas. You will learn from those who have perfected everything about pasta and meet Gabaroni home chef, take part in the preparation of Gabaroni pasta dishes, and of course, taste them too. They will also show you behind the scenes of where and how the pasta is made. In short, you will go home with a full belly and new ideas.

Cooking workshop in Sevnica.

Try the traditional Sevnica breakfast

The Ajda restaurant at the Ajdovec Hotel serves a buffet Sevnica breakfast from the best local produce, Sevnica Premium certified. The restaurant’s chefs create breakfast and brunch dishes from selected foods in respect of Sevnica’s tradition and heritage. Everything is homemade. From freshly baked bread, famous Sevnica salami and ham, excellent cheeses, yogurts and milk.

Traditional breakfast in Sevnica includes freshly baked bread, salami, yogurt, and milk.

Cycle along the Sava River

Say “yes” to the adventure and experience cycling through the vast landscape of the Sava Valley. Choose a sustainable activity that is the perfect combination for your taste buds and active spirit – the culinary adventure with a cycling tour along the Sava River. Start in the historic town of Sevnica, pedal through postcard-perfect landscapes, stop for local delicacies, and soak up the cultural gems along the route. It’s a leisurely journey suitable for all ages and fitness levels. 

For those hungry for more exploration about what Slovenia has to offer, check out our Slovenia Green routes. The scenic Slovenia Green Gourmet Route, passing through Sevnica is the perfect blend of pleasure, adventure, and responsibility.

Day cycling trip along the Sava River.

Everything in Slovenia is small, but the smallest things often count the most. Sevnica is a great example of a small place, which has a lot more to offer than you might think. From the medieval charm of Sevnica castle to views from Mount Lisca, delicious local food, and rich cultural and natural heritage. But perhaps the true highlight is the spirit of sustainability. As Slovenia Green Destination awarded with gold label, Sevnica is a destination that is friendly to tourism, the environment, visitors, and tourists. Sevnica Premium certified produce beautifully connects the entire city, helping spread the word about local providers; the town has two Slovenia Green service providers, Ajdovec Hotel with Ajda Restaurant and Gostilna Repovž, plus the eco-friendly cycling tours are just the cherry on top of the cake. May your travels be filled with laughter, joy, and plenty of sustainable adventures. 

Remember – the journey is just as important as the destination.