Discover Radovljica, Slovenia’s sweetest town, nestled amidst the picturesque Julian Alps. Renowned for its rich heritage of beekeeping and chocolate, this quaint little town invites you to explore its colourful facades, centuries-old traditions and vibrant cultural scene.
The Historic Town of Radovljica
With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Radovljica promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Stroll past the charming town houses with colourful facades all the way to the Linhart Square and try yourself at honeybread making at the Lectar Honeybread Workshop. Step into the Museum of Apiculture, home to Slovenia’s largest exhibition of beehive frontal panels. Explore Radovljica’s cultural heritage at the Šivec House, a beautifully adorned bourgeois house boasting Renaissance and Late Gothic features, where the ground floor hosts a captivating gallery, while nearby, the grand Radovljica Mansion awaits, a splendid Baroque estate hosting museums, musical performances and various cultural events. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Sava River Valley and the Julian Alps from the View Point, and wander through the town’s charming streets to uncover hidden treasures like the town defense moat and St. Peter’s Church, each offering a glimpse into Radovljica’s fascinating past.
Radovljica Chocolate Festival
However, one aspect of Radovljica truly stands out – its sweet side. And it’s worth noting that the most delightful event of the year is just around the corner. Mark your calendars for 20 and 21 April for the renowned Radovljica Chocolate Festival, which transforms the town into a chocolate lover’s paradise, offering a number of delightful treats and engaging activities for all ages. The festival, considered the largest of its kind in Slovenia, boasts a picturesque setting in the historic Old Town and park, making it easily accessible and immensely enjoyable for visitors of all generations.
Reflecting the region’s rich chocolate heritage, dating back to 1922 with the inception of chocolate production in Lesce, the Chocolate Festival is a testament to Radovljica’s commitment to authenticity and sweetness. Since its first edition on April 22, 2012, the festival has grown into a highly anticipated annual event, drawing crowds from across Slovenia and beyond. It has become one of the country’s premier culinary gatherings, showcasing an extensive array of exquisite chocolate creations.
During the festival, Radovljica comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere, offering a diverse range of chocolate flavors and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore over 150 delectable products from Slovenian and international chocolatiers, indulge in chocolate tastings, and witness exciting events such as culinary workshops, sports challenges, and captivating performances by circus artists. Musical acts add to the festive ambiance, providing entertainment for attendees of all ages.
Year-Round Gastronomic Delights
For those unable to attend the festival, Radovljica offers year-round chocolate experiences, including guided tours of chocolate factories, boutique chocolatiers, and culinary workshops. The town’s rich chocolate heritage is celebrated through various chocolate-themed attractions, ensuring that visitors can indulge their sweet cravings whenever they visit. Additionally, the town boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, Hiša Linhart, located in a bourgeois house in the heart of Radovljica. There, a skilled team, led by chef Uroš Štefelin, crafts dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. Chef Štefelin, recipient of the prestigious Michelin star in 2020 and 2021, along with a green star for sustainability, embodies a commitment to preserving and innovating traditional Slovenian cuisine.
This article is part of an exciting partnership with with the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia, of which Radovljica is also a member. The partnership aims to bring you captivating stories from the historical towns nestled across Slovenia. As a regular feature of News from Slovenia, delivered to our valued subscribers, readers can expect to discover exciting stories from these timeless cities in the coming months. The contents for this article were provided by the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia and Visit Radovljica.
