In our family, one adult likes to camp, the other doesn’t, so glamping is a pleasant compromise. With two kids, the allure of a loft bed and ensuite bathroom makes it an easy sell. Especially if they can roam freely around the property, climb trees and dip their toes in a creek (or hot tub). But vineyard glamping, in Slovenia in particular, may be one of the most memorable experiences we’ve had, thanks to Chateau Ramšak.
The backstory
With 15 hectares (or roughly 37 acres), the Chateau Ramšak property is located in Slovenia’s Styria wine region, just outside the town of Maribor. Over 200 years old, the family-owned property boasts its own wine cellar and the largest wine press in Europe.
The vibe
As far as vineyard glamping in Slovenia goes (or anywhere, for that matter), this is one of the dreamiest spots we’ve found. Once you exit the highway, it’s a quick five-minute journey where slowly, the houses spread out until you’re driving down a village road, thinking you’re in the wrong spot. And then, magically, you turn onto the gravel drive and the rest of the world melts away.
Ascending the driveway, you’re instantly enveloped by rolling hills covered in vineyards and a carefully landscaped community of glamping tents nestled among winding walkways, a soothing creek, and a tranquil, natural pond. Chateau Ramšak is small and intimate, yet still manages to feel quite spacious.
Depending on your situation, it’s a perfect escape for a romantic getaway, a restorative solo trip, a girls wine tasting weekend or a family-friendly holiday. Truly. And each of those can coexist simultaneously without dampening the spirit for each individual retreat.
Design
Accommodations are categorized as either a Romantic Tent for Two, a Luxury Glamorous Tent (for up to 4) or the Dreamy Tree House (for up to 5). Each unit has a private terrace with a hot tub.
Simple, yet fully-equipped, each tent features an ensuite bathroom, queen-size bed, TV, Wi-Fi, safe, AC/heating and minibar, in addition to climate conscious water flow reducers, energy saving lights and locally made, nontoxic cleaning and toiletry products.
In addition, Chateau Ramšak supports local vendors and organic farmers, has a zero tolerance policy for single-use plastic and acheived a Green Key certification that supports additional sustainability efforts.
Spread out across the gently sloping hillside, overlooked by lush vineyards, the tents fan out from a wooden path. Strategically planted foliage provides enough coverage for hot tub soaks on the terrace, yet guests are never far from amenities like the Glamp Island fire pit and outdoor dining area.
Food + drinks
No two meals are alike, but they all feature organic, locally sourced products.
Breakfast is a sumptuous, healthy affair with gluten-free and nondairy options. Served on your private terrace, one day may be avocado toast with all the fixings, or another may have more of a European slant with cold cuts and cheeses. Accompanying either is fresh fruit, fresh juice, homemade yogurt and quality espresso drinks.
Lunch or dinner can be served on your private terrace or at Glamp Island, the communal dining/bar area in the center of the property. Enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the vineyards, noshing on traditional family recipes, then indulge in a night cap around the cozy fire pit.
Gathering
Weather permitting, the fire pit on Glamp Island is a cozy space to relax at the end of the day. Whether you’re interested in sampling the local wines, unwinding with a cocktail or dessert by the fire, guests are welcome to settle in and make themselves at home.
Wellness
The thoughtful layout of the property allows each tent a substantial amount of privacy for relaxing on the terraces. While there isn’t actually a spa, guests can request an indulgent grapeseed oil massage in their private tents.
What’s nearby
Less than a 10 minute drive outside of the center of Maribor, here are some of our favorite spots nearby.
BETNAVA ADVENTURE PARK
Surprisingly just minutes outside of town, the Betnava Adventure Park is a dense canopy of trees featuring obstacle and ziplining courses suitable for all ages, from preschool and up.
LOKALKA
For local food gifts and goods made by local artisans, check out Lokalka, which is located on Koroska street, the main pedestrian street leading to the town square.
IG: @lokalkamaribor
IN SITU
Also in the heart of Maribor, on Koroska street is In Situ, a lovely concept store owned by Kim Pintarič. She curates goods from local artisans, as well as European-made pieces that each have a story behind them.
IG: @insitu_concept
Plan your vineyard glamping trip to Slovenia
For some reason, Slovenia is still fairly under-the-radar for American travelers, which means it isn’t necessarily bursting at the seams during the summer months. Despite that, May, June, September and October would still be our recommendation as you get great weather (warm enough to glamp), but still avoid peak season.
Train, bus or fly into Ljubljana and then you’ll need to rent a car. Located minutes outside Maribor, it’s an easy 1.5 hour drive from Ljubljana.
MICHELLE ARELLANO MARTIN