Otocec Castle

Otočec, Slovenia

Otočec Castle is a castle hotel on a small island in the middle of the Krka River. It is the only water castle in Slovenia and one of the most picturesque images in the country and is a prominent cultural and natural monument.

The castle was first mentioned in documents in the 13th century, although the walls are said to date to the more precise date of 1252. It was once owned by Ivan Lenković, the chief commander of the Croatia-Slavonia march.

Over the centuries that followed the castle underwent architectural and ownership changes, passing from one noble family to another.

Medieval structure of the castle has changed in time, yet some of the architectural details were preserved and cannot be missed out on. One of the most important ones is the Renaissance portal dating back to the 16th century decorated with two marble medallions bearing maiden profiles.

At the beginning of World War II the castle was seized by the Italians and used as a fortress. In 1942, it was burnt by the Partisans and only ruins remained of the two bridges. Castle’s restoration began in 1952 with the restoration of the roof and lasted for six years, also with the help of international work brigades. In 1959, the first restaurant was opened in the restored castle. Over the next few decades the castle changed its appearance until it was restored to its original Gothic and Renaissance splendour as it houses one of the most outstanding hotels in Slovenia.

 

 

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Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Slovenia

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ognjen Lopušina (3 months ago)
If you are traveling from Serbia/Croatia to Italy you would be a fool not to have lunch here or at least coffee every single time. Amazing service and spectacular food.
Andrej Mezan (5 months ago)
We ate the dinner here and oh boy, the food here is next level ?. I am vegan and this was one of the best experiences I ever had in the restaurant. Tried Slovenian made vegan stake called Juicy Marbles as well. Highly recommend!! We will come back soon ?.
Laura Duggan, Austin, TX Realtor (6 months ago)
A luxury boutique hotel, this historic castle and gardens is now part of the Relais and Chateaux collection. A small bridge connects this old world and stately property surrounded by a small lake with gorgeous natural landscaping and a golf course nearby. Only 16 rooms, one a large suite with separate living and dining, and breakfast is included. We loved the location and the service is impeccable. It is a very romantic location perfect for small intimate weddings or a family reunion. There are multiple places to dine outside or have afternoon tea. We will definitely be back when we can stay longer.
Nicky Calleja (7 months ago)
One of the best Relais & Chateau we ever stayed in. Top service, very welcoming and understanding. All staff from reception to restaurant to spa to cleaning were very helpful and professional. Maîtresse de Maison was super and met all our requests. 5STAR rating is not enough!!
Ivet Sotirova (10 months ago)
More than a great and magical place. Clean, tasty, unique for walks, suitable for children and for a nice holiday. BUT... we come here for the 3rd time. Last year we were there on the 9th of September and there was a big party downstairs in the restaurant, we were assured it would be over by 10.30pm. At 11 p.m. in the evening I went down because my daughter couldn't sleep because of the noise and to check what was going on because the whole hotel smelled of cigarettes and the music was very loud. The party didn't end until 1:40... my disappointment was great then. This year 18.06 we are guests of the hotel again, everything was again very clean, tasty, wonderful, the cosmetics in the hotel are very high class, the staff is great polite and smiling, but there were masters right outside our door exactly at 8:20 in the morning... for me this is not normal as a place where you come to rest with your family and sleep till 10. The experience with the ducks and the swan is very nice!
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