Slovenia's castles with the convertible
Slovenia’s castle road trip is perfect for a varied convertible tour full of history, panoramic routes, and regional culture. The route takes you from the urban flair of Ljubljana deep into the rural idyll of Dolenjska – with numerous castles as atmospheric landmarks along the way. Whether perched above the Kolpa River or nestled in vineyards – each castle tells its own story and is set in impressive landscapes that you can especially enjoy in the open convertible.
Stages of this convertible tour through Slovenia’s castle region
Ljubljana – Žužemberk
The road trip starts in Slovenia’s capital. The imposing castle of Ljubljana dominates the old town and serves as a perfect entry point into the historical side of the country. After the start, you head southeast into the green – passing small villages and through dense forests, until you reach the medieval castle of Žužemberk. It is picturesque overlooking the Krka River and offers a particularly photogenic panorama.
The road there winds through the hilly landscape – curvy, but pleasant to drive and ideal for convertible fans who love country roads.
Žužemberk – Črnomelj
The next stage of the convertible tour leads south to Črnomelj in the Kolpa Valley. Along the way you pass typical Dolenjska villages and can make short stops at viewpoints or traditional inns. Črnomelj surprises with its small but historically rich castle and charming old town.
Around the Kolpa, the valley shows a strong connection to nature – if you like, plan a short break or even a canoe ride before continuing.
Črnomelj – Metlika
A short drive brings you to Metlika, another gem in the castle crown of this convertible tour. The local castle is now a regional museum and is centrally located in the small town. The roads between Črnomelj and Metlika wind through vineyards – the ideal section for a relaxed convertible ride with wide views over the Bela Krajina.
If you wish to explore Slovenian cuisine between stops, you will find traditional eateries in Metlika serving regional dishes like Jota or game – rustic and good.
Metlika – Novo Mesto
The convertible route now takes you northward through winding roads back towards Novo Mesto. This city lies on a bend of the Krka River and impresses not only with its lively old town but also with the Grm Castle that overlooks the river. Combined with the surrounding vineyards, this is another scenic highlight of the road trip.
The roads around Novo Mesto are well-maintained but offer enough curves and variety to guarantee driving fun – without being too demanding.
Novo Mesto – Litija
To conclude, the convertible route continues a bit further north to Litija. The last stage again offers great views over the hilly landscape and some smaller, charming villages along the way. In Litija, you can visit Litija Castle, which stands high above the Sava and provides another magnificent panoramic view – a worthy finale to your convertible tour through Slovenia’s castle region.
Tips for your convertible tour through Dolenjska
The best time to travel for this convertible road trip is from May to October. During these months, the roads are well-drivable, the weather is stable, and the vineyards are particularly picturesque. Early autumn is especially recommended, as the grapes are ripe, and the forests turn colorful – a perfect backdrop for relaxed convertible rides with plenty of light and little traffic.
Plan enough time for stops, as many castles not only offer beautiful views but also small museums or cafes. In the Dolenjska region, many roads are lightly trafficked, making the convertible journey particularly pleasant. Those seeking more action can incorporate outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking in the Kolpa Valley.
For connoisseurs, purchasing local wines and specialties is recommended – many farms sell directly from the estate. The combination of history, nature, and culinary experiences makes this convertible route ideal for enthusiasts behind the wheel.
Relaxed through Slovenia’s castle landscape
This castle road trip through Slovenia combines nature, culture, and history on a route that is tailor-made for convertible drivers. The varied route takes you from the capital to the serene depths of rural Slovenia – passing rivers, hills, castles, and vineyards.
If you love convertible tours with a touch of adventure and culture, this is the place for you. The winding country roads, numerous viewpoints, and small but fine historic towns make this drive feel like a journey through time – with the top down and the scent of summer in the air.
