The Kolpa River forms the southern boundary of the Municipality of Metlika. As a border river, it shapes the region’s geography; other highlights include scenic hills and an old town with medieval roots.

The Kolpa: water activities and fishing

The Kolpa offers rafting opportunities in the Metlika area. Its shallow stretch is suitable for canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, bathing and swimming; these activities are subject to seasonal conditions. There are several ways to experience the river, from rafting in the Metlika area to activities specifically associated with the shallow stretch.

Several equipped campsites are located along the shallow stretch of the Kolpa within the Municipality of Metlika. The waters managed by the Metlika Angling Club are also open to guests, both local and international. If you would like to fish, check the applicable fishing regulations beforehand.

Scenic hills and trails through the countryside

There is a 17-metre-high viewing tower on Krašnji Vrh. The hill is accessible by private vehicle; by bus, you can travel only as far as Radovica. Check road conditions and bus connections before your trip. The Traditional Krašnji Vrh Hiking Day is held every year on 1 May and on the second Saturday in February. If you are planning your trip around these events, confirm the dates for the year of your visit.

At 233 metres, Veselica above Metlika is a wine-growing hill and viewpoint, popular with locals and day-trippers alike. The Urbanova Trail offers another way to explore the countryside: it starts in Metlika and passes through vineyards, past vineyard cottages, forests and fields, ending at the route’s highest point. You can choose between a single scenic hill and a trail through a changing landscape.

Old town, history and things to explore

Metlika’s old town has medieval roots and retains its distinctive appearance. If you would like to explore it through a series of challenges, Metliška pustolovščina offers a circular route with a map, equipment and various tasks. It takes about two hours. Pick up the backpack at the House of Delicacies of Bela krajina and return it there after your exploration; check the reservation details beforehand.

The Bela krajina Museum Metlika has permanent exhibitions, including “Bela krajina v odsevu sedmih tisočletij” and “Ljubiteljev zaklad”. As exhibition availability can change, check what is currently on display before visiting. The dr. Branka Božič Slovenian Firefighting Museum is devoted to the development of firefighting from its beginnings to the present day. Historical items on display include old fire engines, equipment, helmets, uniforms, awards and models.

Traditions and flavours of Bela krajina

Every Easter Monday, a crowd gathers in Metlika’s square to watch the Wheel Dance, performed by a folk dance group. As with the recurring hiking days, it is worth confirming the dates for the year of your visit.

A Belokranjska pogača baking workshop combines making the bread with a tasting of traditional wines from Bela krajina and seasonal local foods. The pogača bears the “Traditional speciality guaranteed” designation. In the wider cultural landscape of Bela krajina, Tri fare is an important monument and pilgrimage centre.

TIC Metlika is located at Mestni trg 7, 8330 Metlika. If you are planning to visit, check the contact details beforehand.

Discover more destinations: Metlika, Drašiči, Gradac, Murska Sobota, Logatec, Russe, Trebnje, Velenje.

For the wider travel overview: Slovenia.