Maribor, the second largest town in Slovenia and the European capital of culture in 2012, is situated in the North-East of Slovenia, in the Štajerska region. Surrounded by Pohorje plateau on one side and the wine growing hills on the other side, Maribor is a place with rich wine tradition known also as a sport and recreational centre of the region.
13th Old Vine Festival between 20th and 29th September
As starting and finishing point of the local wine roads, Maribor is organising every year in September a cycle of events From Vine to Wine, from prunning to St. Martin’s day celebrations, including the Old Vine Festival as its main event.
This year the events start on 20th September with the 14th International Festival of Eco Farms following by the Cheese Festival, Apiculture day and the 27th grape harvest of the old vine on 29th September. These main events will be accompanied by rafting trips, cycling and hiking excursions as well as culinary corners and local wine tastings. Over the weekends there will be also workshops for children and other entertainement throughout the day.
The oldest vine in the world
Maribor old vine is the oldest species of a noble grape vine that still bears grapes. With over 400 years of age it is registered in the Guiness Book of Records as the oldest vine in the world.
Special ceremonious events are organised every year in honour of the old vine: prunning, st. Martin’s day celebration (the saint who changes must into wine) and grape harvesting. 35 to 55 kg grape harvest is bottled in 2,5 dcl glass bottles and used as protocol gifts. More than 100 such bottles are filled annualy.
Štajerska Wine and Food
Local specialities and wine are important part of the Štajerska tradition and culture. Staying in town or following the wine roads around the region, you will find many restaurants offering typical Slovene cuisine and specialities from the region. You can taste delicious mushroom soup, sour broth, potatoe žganci, Pohorje hot pot, sausage with sauerkraut, dumplings, Pohorje omlette, apple strudel and many others.
If you like sports or you enjoy long walks in the nature, do not forget to visit Pohorje when you are in the region. Hiking, biking and skiing in winter are the main sports activities in Pohorje, but you will love it also as an afternoon trip.