Kostanjevica Na Krki can be explored through two main themes: art and architectural history on the one hand, and trails through woodland and river landscapes on the other. When planning a stay, it helps to decide which interests matter most: cultural attractions include art collections and individual historic buildings, while specific trail distances are available for hikes. This can help you decide whether to focus on galleries and historic heritage or on outdoor activities.

Art and architectural history

Forma Viva comprises more than 100 sculptures in the immediate surroundings of the Božidar Jakac Gallery and at other locations in Kostanjevica Na Krki. The project resumed in 1998 after a ten-year hiatus and has taken place every two years since then. Forma Viva is therefore a defining feature for art enthusiasts, extending beyond a single exhibition.

The permanent collections at the Božidar Jakac Gallery feature works by Slovenian artists, including works by Božidar Jakac, France and Tone Kralj, Jože Gorjup, France Gorše, Zoran Didek, Janez Boljka and Bogdan Borčić. The Pleterje Collection of Old Masters is also on display. The Gorjupova Gallery permanently exhibits a selection from an extensive international art collection of the 20th century: sculptures, paintings, drawings and prints. Visits there can be arranged by prior appointment with the Božidar Jakac Gallery.

The area’s architectural history also stretches far back. The former Cistercian monastery of Fons Beatae Mariae was founded in 1234 in the immediate vicinity of Kostanjevica Na Krki, near the source of the Obrh stream. In 1989, it was declared a cultural monument of national importance. The parish church of St. James was built before 1220 and was later remodelled several times. A fresco of Saint Christopher dating from around 1350 is located on its south exterior wall. In 1997, the old town was declared a cultural and historical monument because of its preserved medieval plot structure.

Hiking trails and landscapes

The eight-kilometre Resslova pot circular trail starts at Gostilna Žolnir on the edge of Kostanjevica Na Krki. It links the Trstenik marsh, the central part of the forest, the edge of the nature reserve and the flood meadows along the Krka. The central part of the Krakovski gozd is also home to a 40.5-hectare primeval forest reserve, which has been protected since 1952.

Another option is the Cvičkova pot: this moderately difficult hike is 6.9 kilometres long and is listed as taking three hours. By comparison, the Resslova pot is an eight-kilometre circular trail. The Cvičkova pot is shorter than the Resslova pot. The Krško Kayak and Canoe Club runs its kayak school on the Krka in Krška vas and Kostanjevica Na Krki.

Visits and practical planning

Kostanjeviška Cave is a natural monument of exceptional geological and natural value. A guided tour lasts 45 to 60 minutes. The cave is closed until 15 April 2027 due to renovation work; take this period into account when planning your visit.

The Kostanjevica Na Krki Tourist Information Centre (TIC) is open Tuesday to Sunday. From 15 October to 14 April, opening hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; from 15 April to 14 October, they are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check the opening hours before your visit. A local tradition is Šelmarija, a carnival custom characteristic of Kostanjevica Na Krki.

A wine tasting can also be arranged by appointment: the Cviček wine cellar at the Božidar Jakac Art Museum offers tastings by prior arrangement. These include the local speciality “cop na lop”, a savoury cake made from overheated cream.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Raka, Armeško, Velika Vas pri Krškem, Krško, Brestanica.

Back to the main travel overview: Krško.