Kostanjevica na Krki

Kostanjevica na Krki is a municipality in southeastern Slovenia, situated on the banks of the Krka River near the border with Croatia. It is one of Slovenia's smaller municipalities, covering approximately 58 square kilometres. The administrative centre is the historic town of Kostanjevica na Krki, which sits on an island in the Krka River — one of only two island towns in Slovenia. The municipality includes the villages of Črešnjevec pri Oštrcu, Črneča Vas, Dolnje, Globočice, Grič, Ivanjše, Jakšiče, Koprivnik, Kumrovec, Mali Vodenik, and several others.

Kostanjevica na Krki is famous for its well-preserved medieval centre, the Kostanjevica Monastery (a former Cistercian abbey), and its annual international sculpture symposium, which has left the town with an outdoor gallery of modern stone and bronze sculptures. The town's island location, connected to the mainland by a stone bridge, gives it a distinctive character unlike any other settlement in the region.

For visitors, the municipality offers a compelling mix of cultural heritage, art, and river scenery. The surrounding Gorjanci Hills and the Krka River valley provide opportunities for walking, cycling, and nature observation. The town's quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect stop on a tour of the Dolenjska region.

Spring and early autumn are ideal, with mild temperatures and fewer visitors. The Kostanjevica Sculpture Symposium in July and August brings extra vibrancy, with artists working in public spaces and exhibitions. Summer (June to August) is warm and lively, with the Krka River offering swimming spots. Autumn colours along the riverbanks are spectacular in late October. Winter is peaceful but cold, with limited opening hours at some attractions.

Kostanjevica na Krki town is compact and easily walkable, with the main sights — the monastery, sculpture park, and town square — all within a few minutes' walk. For exploring the broader municipality's villages and the Gorjanci Hills, a car is necessary. Local bus services connect Kostanjevica to Krško (approximately 15 km north-east) and Novo Mesto (25 km north-west) several times daily. The nearest railway station is in Krško.

• Kostanjevica na Krki – Slovenia's only island town, with a medieval centre, a former Cistercian monastery, and an outdoor sculpture collection.

The cuisine of the Dolenjska region is centred on local produce. Specialities include dolenjska potica, kranjska klobasa, and žganci. Freshwater fish from the Krka River — particularly trout and grayling — feature prominently in local restaurants. The nearby Gorjanci Hills supply wild mushrooms, game, and forest fruits. The region is also known for its cviček wine, a light red blend. Local honey and pumpkin seed oil are common condiments.

The Kostanjevica Sculpture Symposium (Forma Viva) is the municipality's signature cultural event, running since the 1960s. Each summer, international sculptors create works that become part of the permanent outdoor collection in the town park. The Kostanjevica Summer Festival (July–August) includes concerts, theatre, and art exhibitions in the monastery and town square. The Feast of St. Nicholas (6 December) is celebrated with a traditional fair.

• Tour the Kostanjevica Monastery, a former Cistercian abbey dating from the 13th century, now home to the Božidar Jakac Art Museum and a stunning Gothic cloister.
• Walk through the Forma Viva sculpture park, where over 100 modern sculptures by international artists are displayed in a riverside park setting.
• Explore the island town centre, with its stone bridge, narrow streets, and preserved medieval houses.
• Walk or cycle along the Krka River trail towards the nearby Otočec Castle.
• Taste the local cviček wine at a tavern in the town square, paired with traditional Dolenjska dishes.