Slovenia never ceases to surprise us with its natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and charming local experiences. On a recent sunny Slovenia never ceases to surprise us with its natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and charming local experiences. On a recent sunny weekend, we took a one-day trip that combined nature, great food, a bit of local history, and – yes – even a beer fountain! Whether you’re traveling in Slovenia with kids or simply want a relaxing day out, this route is a fantastic idea. It’s also a great way to spend quality time with friends.
If you’re dreaming of a destination that combines perfect locations, peaceful days, great food, and amazing nature – Slovenia is your answer. It may be a small country, but it offers stunning views and memorable experiences every single day.
Are you a nature lover? Visit Slovenia.
Traveling in your van? Visit Slovenia.
Looking for a peaceful escape with your kids? Well… visit Slovenia! 😉
1. A Peaceful Morning Stroll Through Mozirski Gaj
To kick off the day, we started in Mozirski Gaj, a beautiful botanical garden located in the town of Mozirje. From spring to autumn, the park transforms into a magical world full of blooming flowers, themed gardens, wooden cottages, and artistic floral arrangements.
The kids loved running along the garden paths, discovering tiny fairy-tale corners, and exploring traditional Slovenian houses scattered throughout the park. Moreover, everything is well-maintained and easily accessible for strollers – making it ideal for families with young children. For nature lovers and photographers alike, it’s a true paradise.
It’s worth mentioning that Mozirski Gaj was completely flooded during the devastating floods that hit Slovenia in August 2023 – one of the worst natural disasters in recent decades. The park suffered severe damage, with many areas entirely underwater. However, thanks to the incredible efforts of volunteers, staff, and the local community, it has been fully restored. Today, it stands not only as a place of beauty, but also as a symbol of resilience and hope – and it’s once again open for visitors to enjoy.
Tip: There’s a small entrance fee for Mozirski Gaj, but it’s absolutely worth it – especially during flower festivals.
2. Lunch at Gostišče Prodnik – A Hidden Culinary Gem
After a peaceful morning in nature, we continued our journey toward the Logar Valley. However, we made an essential stop for lunch at Gostišče Prodnik. This family-run restaurant serves traditional Slovenian dishes with a modern twist, and the warm hospitality truly makes you feel at home.
We sat outside, enjoyed the peaceful view of the surrounding hills and the Savinja River, and indulged in a hearty, satisfying meal. The kids had delicious homemade pasta, while we opted for some flavorful regional specialties.
In addition to the restaurant, Prodnik also offers a campsite, sports park, kayaking, and a wine cellar. It’s a fantastic base if you plan to explore the Logar Valley or the entire Savinja region.
Good to know: There’s a small playground next to the restaurant – perfect for letting kids play while you enjoy a quiet coffee. It is under construction at the moment, because of the floods in August 2023.
3. A Unique Afternoon Experience: The Beer Fountain in Žalec
In the afternoon, we headed back towards Žalec, a town known for something quite unexpected – Europe’s first beer fountain!
Located in the town park, this unique attraction allows you to sample different local craft beers. You purchase a special glass with a chip and can choose from six varieties brewed in the surrounding Savinja Valley – a region rich in hop-growing tradition.
If you visit Slovenia in the spring, you’ll also notice long rows of hop-growing structures stretching across the fields – quite an interesting sight!
While the beer fountain experience is definitely more appealing to adults, the kids also had a great time too. They ran around the park, played on the nearby playground, and learned some fun facts about hops. The whole area is clean, shaded by tall trees, and very family-friendly.
Fun fact: Hop growing in Žalec dates back to the 19th century and remains a strong part of the region’s identity.
4. A Sweet Ending in Picikato, Teharje
No day trip is complete without dessert, right? On our way home, we made a final stop at Picerija Picikato, near Celje. Known for its cozy ambiance and homemade desserts, it was the perfect way to end the day.
We treated ourselves to some delicious cakes and ice cream, while the kids relaxed happily after a full day of exploring.
Tips for Visitors
Getting There:
All stops on this day trip are located in the Savinja region, in central Slovenia. If you’re driving from Ljubljana, the first stop – Mozirski Gaj – is about an hour away. A car is definitely the most convenient option, especially when traveling with kids.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring to early autumn is ideal, especially if you want to see Mozirski Gaj in full bloom and enjoy outdoor seating at the restaurants. Weekdays or early weekends are less crowded.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes (Mozirski Gaj has gravel paths)
- A picnic blanket if you want to relax in Žalec’s park – there is some benches, but you can enjoy in different areas
- A refillable water bottle (and maybe a cooler for beer souvenirs)
- A stroller or baby carrier for little ones – all stops are family-friendly
Costs to Consider:
- Mozirski Gaj: Small entrance fee per person (kids under a certain age may enter free)
- Beer Fountain in Žalec: Approx. 12€ for a special glass that includes 6 tastings
- Meals at restaurants: Fairly priced; most main courses range between 10–18€
Other Useful Info:
- All locations have parking available nearby
- Restaurants accept cards, but it’s good to have some cash just in case – you cannot pay the entrance to Mozirski Gaj with card, so have some cash too.
- Restrooms are available at all stops, including Mozirski Gaj and the Žalec park
Final Thoughts
This one-day trip had everything: nature, tradition, good food, and just enough adventure to keep the kids entertained. It reminded us how much Slovenia has to offer, even in just a few hours’ drive.
If you’re planning a family day trip in Slovenia, this route is both accessible and rewarding. Taste the experience with first beer fountain, enjoy nature and friendly locals. Whether you’re a local or visiting from abroad, give it a try – you might just fall in love with the hidden corners of the Savinja region.
