Recipients of the 2024 Highest Tourism Awards Announced
This year, the coveted Crystal Triglav Award for Personality of the Year, jointly awarded by the DST organisers, was presented to the exceptional athlete Janja Garnbret. Other distinguished recipients include Helmut Stückelschweiger, the Municipality of Podčetrtek and its mayor Peter Misja, as well as Marija Brložnik, Rok Kanc and Marjan Batagelj. Awards also went to memorable experiences: Culinary Time Machine, INSYNC Rowing with Olympians on Lake Bled and Wild Soča Valley through the Lens. The official award ceremony will take place on Tuesday, 19 November, As part of the Days of Slovenian Tourism (DST), Slovenia’s premier tourism event. Discover more about these inspiring winners below.
CRYSTAL TRIGLAV FOR PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR:
Janja Garnbret
Awarded by: DST Partner Institutions
Explanation: Janja Garnbret redefines the limits of sport climbing. Outwardly modest and unassuming, yet inwardly a fiercely determined and focused perfectionist, Janja embodies a rare combination of talent and dedication. At just 22 years, she cemented her status as a legend, achieving feats unparalleled in the history of the sport. Her accolades are unmatched: three world titles in a single championship, becoming the first-ever Olympic champion in sport climbing and countless medals and trophies that fill her showcase to capacity. Janja has conquered the competition stage, claiming every top prize the sport offers, and has also excelled on natural rock, including the 9a-rated Fabela pa la enmienda in Santa Linya and two 8c-rated routes in Oliana, where she became the first female climber to achieve this. Remarkably grounded, Janja prioritizes the joy of climbing over the pressure of winning. Yet, her relentless passion and outstanding achievements have elevated her to the pinnacle of the sport and beyond. Through her Olympic gold medal in Paris and a career that continues to inspire, Janja Garnbret has significantly enhanced Slovenia’s global reputation, not only as a hub for elite sports but also as a vibrant destination for tourism.
AMBASADOR OF SLOVENIAN TOURISM 2023
Helmut Stückelschweiger
Awarded by: Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport
Explanation: Helmut Stückelschweiger is the founder, owner, and CEO of Top of Travel, a tour operator that has been active in the French market for 25 years. Born in Austria, not far from the Slovenian border, he was introduced to tourism at a young age and has since gained extensive experience in the industry. When he decided to pursue his own career path, he established a tourist agency focused on discovering new, attractive destinations — including Slovenia. His support of direct charter flights from various regions of France to Slovenia in the 2024 season has played a significant role in boosting interest in Slovenia among French citizens. These flights have also encouraged other French tour operators to add Slovenia to their list of target destinations. He has organized several study tours for journalists, travel agents, and small agency owners to showcase Slovenia’s appealing and diverse tourism offer. He is also responsible for maintaining charter flights during the winter months on regular routes from Paris, along with additional charter departures and new, interesting products that Slovenia can offer to the French visitors in the coming year. We believe that his and his company’s activities have greatly impacted Slovenia’s visibility in the French outbound tourism industry, and as a prominent member of the association of medium-sized tour operators, he has positioned Slovenia as an important destination and will continue to do so in the future.
AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF SLOVENIAN TOURISM
Marjan Batagelj
Awarded by: Tourism and Hospitality Chamber of Slovenia
Explanation: Marjan Batagelj, Chairman of the Board of Postojna Cave since 2010, has played a transformative role in shaping the landscape of Slovenian tourism over the past decade. Under his visionary leadership, Postojna Cave has evolved into a world-class destination, celebrated for its modern infrastructure and exceptional visitor experience. Among the highlights of his achievements are the comprehensive renovation of the iconic Jama Hotel, the Expo Pavilion, the cave’s entrance platform and the scenic promenade above the park alongside the Pivka River. As Vice President of the Slovenian Chamber of Tourism and Hospitality, Batagelj is a staunch advocate for the industry, unafraid to candidly address its most pressing challenges in the media and beyond. He is also actively involved in revitalizing the Cerkno Ski Resort, overseeing the renovation of its hotel and thermal resort, and curating the unique Villa Planinka in Jezersko – a jewel in Slovenia's high-end hospitality sector. With unwavering focus, determination and a passion for innovation, Marjan Batagelj has emerged as a pivotal figure in Slovenian tourism and the broader economy. His contributions not only elevate individual destinations but also enrich Slovenia’s reputation as a premier travel destination on the global stage.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN HOSPITALITY
Rok Kanc, Gostilna pri Gorjancu, Ljubljana
Awarded by: Tourism and Catering Section at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia
Explanation: Rok Kanc is a true custodian of typical Slovenian gostilna, dedicating his life to upholding and evolving the legacy of Gostilna pri Gorjancu, a renowned traditional Slovenian restaurant (gostilna) on the outskirts of Ljubljana with a history spanning over 200 years. For the past 35 years, he and his team have masterfully preserved the restaurant’s tradition of delivering exceptional Slovenian cuisine, crafted from authentic homemade recipes. At the same time, Kanc has infused the establishment with modern touches, broadening its offerings to appeal to contemporary tastes while maintaining its historic charm. A passionate advocate for hospitality, Kanc has successfully passed the torch of his family tradition to his son, Luka. Today, the G brand encompasses not only Gostilna pri Gorjancu but also the stylish G Design Hotel. Beyond his own enterprise, Kanc has significantly contributed to the broader catering and hospitality industry. As a long-standing chairman of the caterers' section at the local chamber, he has championed the development of the sector, serving on key committees and the board of the umbrella Tourism and Catering Section of the Slovenian Chamber of Crafts and Enterprise.
AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TOURIST ASSOCIATION
Marija Brložnik
Awarded by: Tourist Association of Slovenia (TZS)
Explanation: Marija Brložnik embodies the spirit of dedication and innovation in tourism volunteering, a field to which she has passionately committed herself for over a decade. As one of the younger and dynamic leaders in the sector, Marija consistently brings fresh ideas and energy to every initiative she undertakes. Her multifaceted roles include serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Slovenian Tourist Association, Secretary of the Regional Tourist Board of SAŠKA, and President of the Velenje Tourist Association. Her leadership extends from local to national levels, where her ability to unite people of different generations and backgrounds has been instrumental in the success of numerous projects. Marija has been a driving force behind the preservation and promotion of Slovenia's tangible and intangible cultural heritage, particularly in her role as President of the Šalek Tourist Association. She has played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives like Green Advisor, promoting a sustainable mindset within the community and enable the organisation of eco-conscious events. As a mentor, she inspires young people to explore careers in tourism through her involvement in various programmes, which not only build skills but also ignite a passion for the tourism industry in young minds.
CRYSTAL TRIGLAV 2024
Municipality of Podčetrtek and Mayor Peter Misja
Awarded by: Association of Tourist Journalists of Slovenia
Explanation:
The Municipality of Podčetrtek, under the visionary leadership of Mayor Peter Misja, has set a remarkable example of preserving cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism development. After decades of neglect and unsuccessful attempts to find proper ownership, the municipality assumed responsibility for the historic Podčetrtek Castle, perched above a thriving and internationally acclaimed tourist destination. Through exceptional dedication and efficiency, the castle was restored in record time and repurposed with a fresh cultural and tourism-oriented mission. This ambitious project, supported by the local community, Slovenia and the European Union, stands as a testament to the municipality’s commitment to safeguarding historical and cultural landmarks. Beyond this landmark achievement, Podčetrtek has completed numerous infrastructure projects in recent years, significantly enhancing the quality of life for residents across the Obsotelje and Kozjansko regions. Special recognition is due to Mayor Misja for his unwavering dedication, resourcefulness and ability to unite citizens and officials alike, including those on the Croatian side of the Sotla River.
SEJALEC 2024
Culinary Time Machine, Ljubljana Castle
Awarded by: Slovenian Tourist Board (STB)
Explanation: The Culinary Time Machine offers a one-of-a-kind journey through history, combining the rich heritage of Ljubljana Castle with an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. This six-course culinary walk, guided by costumed experts, takes visitors through six key historical periods, each marked by distinct culinary traditions. As guests travel back in time, they are served historically inspired dishes by the castle's chefs, each crafted with a modern twist. The experience begins in the Roman era of Emona, continues through the Middle Ages, the Napoleonic Illyrian provinces and the dark days of the penitentiaries and the early 20th century. From the sumptuous feasts of patrician families to the humble meals of those in the castle’s prison, the Culinary Time Machine reveals the fascinating evolution of food and culture in Ljubljana.
SEJALEC 2024 – FINALIST
INSYNC Rowing with Olympians on Lake Bled, Miha Pirih INSYNC s.p.
Awarded by: Slovenian Tourist Board (STB)
Explanation: INSYNC Rowing with Olympians on Lake Bled offers a rare, exhilarating sports experience where visitors have the unique opportunity to row alongside Olympic medal-winning athletes. This immersive experience, set on the world-renowned Lake Bled, allows participants to hone their rowing skills in authentic racing boats, known as eights, under the expert guidance of top athletes.
SEJALEC 2024 – FINALIST
Wild Soča Valley through the Lens, Hotel Dvorec d.o.o.
Awarded by: Slovenian Tourist Board (STB)
Explanation: Wild Soča Valley through the Lens offers an extraordinary wildlife photography experience for those visiting the breathtaking Soča Valley. This unique experience invites nature enthusiasts and photographers alike to explore and capture the untouched beauty of this pristine natural environment. Participants have the chance to photograph a wide array of wildlife, including ibex, chamois, marmots, and snakes, all in their natural habitat.
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