Easy hikes and walks around Brda

Well-maintained forest road

The first construction of the castle dates back to the 13th century.

"The earth, the vine, the sunshine, they bring us the golden wine. But if it weren't for the work of the winemaker, even the finest glasses would remain empty." (Author unknown)

"There remains to be added," writes Sigfried Grän OFM in 'Noah, the Builder of the Ark and Inventor of Viticulture,' "what we omitted above in our summary of the Noah story. Noah not only survives the Flood and, after his rescue, offers a burnt offering to the Creator. He also incidentally becomes the inventor of viticulture. (...) In ancient Israel, the vine was considered the noblest of all plants. To own a vineyard, to enjoy its fruits, and to rest in the peace of its shade was... the epitome of a happy and blessed existence." (Source: "In the Land of the Lord. Franciscan Journal for the Holy Land," Issue 4/2024)

The Goriška Brda wine region is a true gem for wine lovers. Located in the northeastern part of the country, this picturesque region stretches across rolling hills and terraced vineyards lined with olive groves and cherry trees. The history of winemaking in the Goriška Brda region of Slovenia dates back centuries. The mild Mediterranean climate, fertile soils, and sheltered location between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea create ideal conditions for viticulture. The Brda terroir is characterized by its calcareous soils, which bring out mineral nuances and elegance in the wines, as well as the interplay of warm days and cool nights, which leads to perfect ripening of the grapes. One of the most famous varieties is Rebula (Ribolla Gialla), which exhibits delicate acidity, citrus aromas, and a mineral note. Rebula is an ancient grape variety that has been cultivated in the region for centuries and holds an important place in Slovenian wine tradition. Among the most well-known varieties that thrive in these vineyards are Rebula, Sauvignonasse, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the largest projects raising the international recognition of the terroir and the indigenous Rebula variety is Masterclass Brda Home of Rebula.

A castle has stood in Dobrovo since the 13th century, but it slowly fell into disrepair over the centuries. A new Renaissance building was built on this site at the beginning of the 17th century, which has remained relatively unchanged to this day and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Goriška region. Dobrovo Castle will enchant visitors at first glance with its imposing and distinctive appearance. Its ground plan is almost square, with symmetrically placed towers at the corners. The outer wall was likely built during the Second Venetian War (1615–1617) and converted into a portico after its end. One of the towers was converted into a chapel dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua. The chapel walls are decorated with hung originals and copies of Gothic frescoes from the northern Primorska region. The first owners are said to have been the Counts Colloredo, for a shorter period the Marquise Montecuccoli, and from the end of the 18th century the Catterini-Erzberg family from Gorizia. In 1872, ownership passed into the hands of the Baguer family following a wedding. On the first floor of the castle is the Knights' Hall, featuring the coats of arms of several noble families who owned the castle in the past. This hall contains a preserved mural depicting the naval attack on the city. Today, the Knights' Hall hosts numerous musical performances and other events. Also of interest is the Hunting Room, where the treasures of Count Baguer, painted on the walls by Clemente Del Neri in 1894, are displayed. His works of art can also be viewed in the stairwell.

The wines of the Klet Brda winery tell the story of Brda and its family vineyards. Three hundred and twenty families, united in the Klet Brda wine cooperative, cultivate the highest quality grapes on the steep slopes. With dedication to nature and a rich tradition, they create wines that delight the heart and the palate. Wine lovers from 26 countries who appreciate the quality, diversity, and accessibility of the Klet Brda brand are among those tasting here. In the tasting room, where various grape varieties are lovingly presented for tasting, everyone will find their favorite wine. A guided tour of the old and new wine cellars complements what you've heard before and is an experience for all the senses. The Klet Brda winery also hosts family celebrations, such as weddings or birthdays. The cellar is sheltered underground in the hill beneath the mighty Dobrovo Castle. It was built in 1957 as a cooperative winery and is still wholly owned by the winegrowing families today. The Rebula (Ribolla Gialla) is the most widely planted grape variety on the Brda hills, comprising 27% of the vineyards. It arrived here during Roman times and has a golden yellow color in the glass.

The medieval village of Šmartno is one of the most beautiful villages in the central Brda region. Built on Roman foundations, it is now considered an architectural gem and cultural monument. Behind its walls, it leads back to the rich and picturesque stories of the past and reveals the charm of Brda hospitality. The village of Šmartno is located in the geographical center of Brda, with views stretching from Nanos in the east to the Carnic Alps in the northwest, and from the vast Friuli region to the Adriatic Sea. The village, surrounded by walls and fortified with defensive towers, was first mentioned in 1317. In the first half of the 16th century, a medieval fortress was built on the remains of a Roman outpost around the church. The village served as a border fortress until the mid-18th century, when the Venetian threat was over. The houses in the center are grouped around the Church of St. Martin, the largest parish church in Brda, after which the village was named. The church's bell tower was originally a fortress tower. The bell, featuring the motif of the Three Kings, dates from 1857. The Baroque church features three marble altars, one of which is particularly rich. The presbytery and the Stations of the Cross were painted by Tone Kralj.