On 8 and 9 October 2026, members of Konzorcij Slovenia Green took part in a two-day study tour of the Posavje and Dolenjska regions, designed to showcase good practices in sustainable tourism and encourage the exchange of experiences among green coordinators.
The programme included visits to the Svet energije interactive centre and Gostilna Kunst in Krško, the Path of Love, the Water Tower and Reset Brewery in Brežice, the Božidar Jakac Gallery in Kostanjevica na Krki, and Gostilna Vovko and Matjaževa domačija in Novo Mesto.
Sustainability through Local Cuisine and Heritage
In Ratež, within the Municipality of Novo Mesto, participants were welcomed at Gostilna Vovko, where traditional Dolenjska cuisine meets contemporary culinary approaches. The emphasis is on fresh, seasonal and predominantly locally sourced ingredients, home cooking and an extensive wine selection. The handmade preparation of homemade noodles, štruklji (traditional Slovenian rolled dumplings) and potato dumplings, together with genuine Dolenjska hospitality, reflects the importance of local ingredients, skills and tradition in creating a high-quality gastronomic offer.
At Matjaževa domačija near Otočec, the members of Konzorcij Slovenia Green discovered the story of the Pavlin family, who carefully renovated a 150-year-old homestead using traditional natural materials. The homestead combines the preservation of Dolenjska’s cultural heritage with contemporary approaches to tourism and innovative wine experiences. Participants also had the opportunity to create their own blend of cviček, the region’s distinctive light red wine, as part of the Cviček to-go experience.
Both providers demonstrate how local identity, heritage and culinary traditions can be brought together in experiences that give visitors an insight into the character of Dolenjska.
Novo Mesto Is Part of Slovenia’s Green Story
Novo Mesto is part of the Slovenia Green scheme, Slovenia’s national programme for sustainable tourism, and holds the Slovenia Green Bronze label, recognising the destination’s commitment to sustainable development. The Municipality of Novo Mesto joined the scheme in 2017 and successfully retained its Bronze label following recertification in February 2025. Its approach to sustainable development is based on cooperation among local stakeholders, encouraging responsible practices, preserving natural and cultural heritage, and developing tourism experiences that reflect the destination’s local character.
Novo Mesto is also a member of Konzorcij Slovenia Green, which brings together holders of the Slovenia Green label and promotes cooperation, knowledge exchange and the sharing of good practices in sustainable tourism. Study tours such as this one provide valuable opportunities for destinations and tourism providers to build connections and apply practical insights to the further development of sustainable tourism experiences.
Participation in Konzorcij Slovenia Green and the involvement of local providers demonstrate that sustainable tourism is not merely a commitment made at destination level; it is brought to life through the stories, people and experiences that visitors encounter. Gostilna Vovko and Matjaževa domačija are examples of how local cuisine, hospitality and heritage preservation can contribute to a distinctive and responsible tourism offer in Novo Mesto.