Olimje: the home of deer and tasty chocolate

Olimje is a small village, located in the settlement of* Podčetrtek* near Slovenia’s border with Croatia. It is probably most known for its wellness centre and a water park, called Aqualuna nearby. Though Slovenia is known for its many spa resorts with adrenaline experiences, I would like to present this eastern Slovenian village from a different perspective – as the home of a well-known chocolate shop, a unique castle and friendly deer.

Once a castle, now a monastery 

Olimje Castle, also called Minoritski samostan Olimje, is a 16th-century castle, which was turned into a monastery with a baroque church* *standing beside it. One of the most interesting things about it is an old pharmacy, located inside the monastery, with beautiful frescoes decorating it. There, you can buy various products made from herbs for any illnesses or health problem. Another unique sight is the black and golden altar, which will catch your eye as soon you step inside the baroque church. Outside the monastery, a peaceful green scenery with a garden and flowers decorating the landscape extends. You can also observe the golden fish swimming in a pond in front of the building.

Sweet treats

Only a few minutes’ walk from the monastery, and you will arrive at the famous Slovenian **chocolate **shop in Olimje – Čokoladnica Olimje. This popular tourist destination offers presentations of the products, history of the shop and degustations for larger groups. You can buy various sorts and shapes of chocolate here, from pralines to chocolate shaped as tools, serving as a great gift for your family or friends. The staff will be more than happy to explain everything and answer if you have any questions regarding their work and the production of chocolate. The shop is also a popular destination for school groups, which come here each year for a day trip.

Visit the deer

If you opt for a whole day trip to Olimje, I would definitely recommend visiting Jelenov Greben, located a short drive or a walk from the monastery. The word **“deer” **is included in the Slovenian name of this place, which instantly makes sense when you see a large number of **deer **walking around and grazing on grass. Some even come so close to you that you can feed them from your palm if you want. A restaurant called Gostišče Jelenov Greben is located nearby, as well as a shop with local food and souvenirs.

The village of Olimje is definitely worth visiting, if you would like to spend a day or an afternoon in nature, as well as learn a few interesting facts about the place, try their tasty chocolate and visit the deer.