The Otočec Castle: Where history and modernity combine

The Otočec Castle or Grad Otočec is one of Slovenian most beautiful castles, especially standing out due to its unique location. It is standing on an island of the river Krka, making it the only water castle in the country. This unique feature is also represented in the name of the fortress, as the word "**otočec" **would translate as “a small island”. Nowadays, the castle has been transformed into a modern hotel, making its history combine with a superb culinary and relaxing experience in nature.

How it started?

The beginnings of the fortification date back to the 13th century. Later, it was owned by a few different owners until the Second World War, when the castle was burnt down and demolished. Luckily, it was rebuilt and completely renewed after the war and is now serving as a popular tourist attraction, as well as a cultural monument of Slovenia. It is not known who originally built the Otočec Castle, nor exactly when it was made. There is a legend which tells that the original castle was not built on the island but the right side of the river Krka. Only one of the castle’s later owners supposedly ordered that a part of the land on the side of the castle was to be removed so that the water could protect it from the enemies from all sides.

A hotel inside the castle

What makes this citadel different from other Slovenian fortresses, like the magnificent Bled castle or the medieval Žužemberk Castle, is the fact that you can spend a night or an entire week in the luxurious and **modern **rooms and suites of the Otočec Castle Hotel. The hotel is located inside the castle overlooking the river and is a perfect destination for a peaceful and romantic stay. 

You can enjoy a fresh and healthy meal with a glass of fine wine at the Castle Restaurant and take a walk through a green park and the surroundings of the historical destination. The route there is simple and not hilly, so it is suitable for all visitors at any season of the year. Besides that, there is a golf course available for all the visitors, and if you wish for a bit of relaxation, you can always visit one of the spa resorts with healing waters, located nearby. The castle is also one of the most desirable destinations for weddings and other types of celebration.

Only an hour’s drive away from the capital of Ljubljana, and you will reach the Otočec Castle, the place where history and modernity combine and provide an unforgettable experience in the green scenery of Lower Carniola.