Slovenia feels EXPO: Welcome to Podravska region

The world exhibition EXPO has never been closer to Slovenia. There is more to it than that – the Slovenian pavilion at EXPO2015 Milano regularly features in media all over the globe as one of the most popular and interesting, due to its innovative wood-glass architecture and fantastic crew which organises the program and hosts so many charming events under the slogan ‘Green. Active. Healthy.’ In August the pavilion was literally flooded with visitors as nearly 6000 people daily got in touch with the story of Slovenian salt, honey, healing waters, high mountains and the green achievements of Slovenian innovators. From 21st September until 11th October the Slovenian pavilion will present the Podravje region in eastern Slovenia. It is famous as the largest Slovenian wine-growing region, with the oldest Slovenian town and wine cellar. Its rich history, endless possibilities for active holidays, green relaxation and culinary delights invite you to feel the good vibes of SLOVEnia at EXPO2015 Milano.

What makes Podravje region special is the oldest vine in the world, which grows in the second biggest Slovenian city, Maribor. The pride of the country is over 400 years old and symbolizes Slovenia`s rich winemaking tradition, which is honoured every year with the harvesting season in August and Saint Martin`s day in November. All year round you can wander around the colourful town’s streets and relax in the vibrant University City surrounded by the forests and hills of the Pohorje, where you can explore natural beauties on foot or by bike.

From the hills around Maribor the view stretches over the Drava-Ptuj Plain, Slovenske and Ormoške gorice. Hike or cycle over 50 kilometres of wine routes in the area. Treat yourself to a glass and tasting of excellent white wine varieties and delicious food along the way. Prlekija region is home to the famous 1963 Sauvignon Blanc, which was considered to be one of the favourite wines of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Legend has it that Crusaders travelling to the east, stopped by and found the locals so friendly, the wine so divine and the places so beautiful that they called it Jerusalem.

A rich history is also the biggest source of travel inspiration in Ptuj, the oldest Slovenian town with the oldest Slovenian wine cellar. Its first written mention dates back to the year 69 AD. Later, Ptuj became an important Roman city and served as an important military, commercial and administrative centre. Nowadays, you should not miss a pampering wellness retreat at Terme Ptuj, one of many Slovenian natural health resorts. In spring, put on your favourite costume and visit the Kurentovanje International Carnival, with the famous kurenti characters whose bells are loud enough to banish winter and welcome the spring.

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