Things to do in Koroška, Slovenia: 10 day-trip ideas and where to eat
Koroška lies in northern Slovenia on the Austrian border, between the Pohorje hills, the Karavanke and the Savinja Alps. Its centre is Slovenj Gradec. The region is still a little off the main tourist routes, which is exactly why it offers quiet, forests and experiences you will not find elsewhere. Here are ten ideas for a day out.
1. A gin tasting at Ginarnica
At the Ginarnica distillery next to Gostilna Murko in Slovenj Gradec, AP gin is made with a story that goes back to 1903. Visitors can book a spirits tasting, a tasting with a platter or dinner, or a make-your-own-gin session in advance. More: ginarnica.com
2. Cycle the Štrekna trail
Štrekna is a 35 km paved rail trail between Velenje and Dravograd. It is separated from traffic, runs through Slovenj Gradec and is suitable for families.
3. Go underground at Podzemlje Pece
In the former lead and zinc mine in Mežica, visitors ride bikes through the tunnels or paddle a kayak. One of the most unusual experiences in Slovenia.
4. Climb Uršlja gora
Uršlja gora (1,699 m) is the favourite peak of local hikers. On the summit stands the church of St Ursula, the highest-lying church in Slovenia. A popular starting point is Lake Ivarčko.
5. Kope on Pohorje
Kope is the largest ski resort in Koroška and, in summer, a starting point for walks through the Pohorje forests.
6. The old town of Slovenj Gradec
The medieval town centre, with its galleries, museums and historic buildings, is the cultural heart of the region.
7. Dravograd and the Drava
Dravograd sits where three valleys meet. The Drava Cycling Route follows the river, and in season rafts take visitors out on the water.
8. The Topla valley below Mt Peca
This Alpine valley near Črna na Koroškem is protected as a landscape park for its preserved cultural landscape.
9. A chilli tasting: Čili Pohorc
Slovenj Gradec is home to Pohorc, a maker of chilli products ranging from hot sauces to chilli spreads. It is best to arrange a tasting in advance. More: cilipohorc.com
10. The Land of Dwarfs, Dežela škratov (seasonal)
In the Land of Dwarfs at Gmajna near Slovenj Gradec, visitors meet the mythical creatures of Slovenian folklore. It opens seasonally, once a year, for the autumn Jesensko škratovanje festival, so check the date in advance. More: Dežela škratov
Opening times and availability are best checked directly with each provider.
Where to eat: Gostilna Murko in Slovenj Gradec
Gostilna Murko at Francetova cesta 24 has been welcoming guests since 1903 and is run today by the fourth and fifth generations of the family. The house speciality is mežerli, an old regional dish, and the Falstaff Guide 2026 awarded it 85 points. Next to the inn is the Ginarnica distillery, where a tasting of house-made spirits can be booked.
More about the inn: Gostilna Murko, over 120 years of family tradition
For cyclists: cycling routes in Koroška
Comments