There are places you visit, and there are places you feel. Jerusalem is one of those that remain etched deep in your memory. It doesn’t matter whether you visit in the spring, when the grapevines awaken and the hills glow with fresh green, or in the summer, when the sun casts long golden shadows among the vineyards and the evenings are filled with the scent of ripe grapes— the place quickly grows on you.
If you’re wondering how to spend a sunny day in Sibon and the surrounding area, let us take you on an experience that combines pampering, nature, cuisine, and authentic stories from the Prlekija region.
A Morning with a Taste of Prlekija
Start your day slowly. If you’re up early enough, treat yourself to a cup of coffee on our pool terrace and watch the sun rise over the hills, illuminating the endless horizon of vineyards.
For all of you who love to enjoy a good, long sleep, start your day with our hearty breakfast buffet. Local cheeses, homemade cold cuts, freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit, and other Prlekija delicacies will fill you with energy for the day ahead.
Through the vineyards by electric bike or just on foot
When the sun warms the hills, it’s time to explore. The possibilities are endless. Are you the athletic type? Then rent an electric bike from us and explore the Jerusalem Wine Route or the cycling loop. You can do the same on foot and discover local flavors and taste wines at the nearby wine cellars along the way.
If you’re looking for an adventure, you can also try our wine off-road tour, where we’ll take you on an unforgettable journey through the vineyards in a Jeep, complete with scenic views and food and drink tastings.
The Jerusalem Wine Route is known not only for its exceptional wine, but also for one of the most beautiful landscapes in Slovenia. The gentle hills, scattered wine cottages, bell towers on the hilltops, and vineyards stretching to the horizon create a truly fairy-tale setting.
The route begins in the village of Jeruzalem, right next to the pilgrimage church of Our Lady of Sorrows. The church is named after the tower in which an image of Our Lady of Sorrows was placed. The image is said to have been brought to this region from Palestine (Jerusalem) by the Crusaders. The town of Jeruzalem was also named after this event. The church was built in the mid-17th century and features four altars, a precious pulpit with statues of angels and the evangelists, and a side chapel that is a unique cultural monument. If time permits, take a stroll through the beautiful park surrounding the local Jerusalem Mansion.
The trail then leads past our Sibon Wine & Spa hotel and past the 300-year-old Malek wine cellar. Near the wine cellar, you’ll also find a small chapel and a small ethnological museum featuring an old wine press and a cellar where you can sample local wines produced along the route you’ve just traveled by car or on foot.
Along the way, you’ll also drive or walk past the breathtaking and charming little village of Svetinje. The entire route is about 8 kilometers long and will take you approximately 2½ hours.
Along the way, you’ll also find numerous creators of unique items, local artisans, agritourism farms, and winemakers who preserve tradition while building on it with a modern approach.
Tip 1: Tailor the route to your preferences, but follow the hiking and tourist signs so you don’t get lost.
You can also take a ride along the cycling loop, which is about 26 kilometers long. The route begins in Ormož and then gently climbs toward Jeruzalem and its terraced vineyards. It is marked with logo signs throughout. In total, you’ll climb about 270 meters in elevation, which is more than suitable for recreational cyclists looking for a relaxing outing and a chance to explore the region.
No matter which route you choose, you’re sure to be captivated by the spirit of these places, which has been shaped by a turbulent history and numerous influences from the east, west, north, and south. This blend of cultures, flavors, and stories gives the region its unique character.
Tip 2: If you take this trip in late summer or fall, the experience is even more special, as you can see and hear the traditional klopotce guarding the grapes among the vineyards.
An Afternoon of Pampering by the Pool
After an active morning, treat yourself to some relaxation on our terrace with an infinity pool, comfortable lounge chairs, and a glass of wine. In the shade of the grapevines, with a view of the rolling hills, your thoughts will soften and time will slow down.
Tip: Ask our staff what you can see from our hill. The view actually stretches all the way to Čakovec, Croatia.
Wine Bistro and Local Flavors
The afternoon is the perfect time to visit our wine bistro, where our sommelier will introduce you to a selection of local wines. To accompany them, we offer Prlekija-style cold cuts, homemade cheeses, and dried meat delicacies that complement every sip.
If your travels take you elsewhere, we’re also happy to recommend local restaurants and wineries. Jeruzalem and the surrounding area are full of stories that you’ll savor with every bite.
An Evening with a View
As the sun sets behind the hills and the sky glows golden, take a seat on our terrace and enjoy a dinner prepared by our head chef. Seasonal dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and inspiration from the Prlekija region come together to create an unforgettable end to the day.
A Night Under the Stars
When night falls, treat yourself to one last experience: stargazing. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, by the pool or on a lounge chair, discover the starry sky above the vineyards. This is a sense of peace you won’t find anywhere else.
