Chateaux Otočec hotel

Chateaux Otočec was the choice for the weekend where I spent my COVID-19 vouchers. I had 400 € and it wasn’t clear if they will be valid next year. We tried glamping in Ribno for a weekend but it was booked. We hoped someone will cancel, but no luck. I said I’ll spend this money on something I wouldn’t do otherwise. So Otočec was a logical choice. Andreja joined me.

On Saturday I woke up late, had some breakfast, and packed slowly. For one day I took a bigger bag than I will take for 2 weeks trip on Monday. After lunch, around 14h Andreja picked me up with her loud Mercedes.

In less than an hour, we arrived at the castle. On the road, we saw some sun, but the castle was hidden in the fog as we crossed the wooden bridge. We got some bubbles for a welcome drink. The castle on the island is an impressive place for a hotel. The interior is decorated tastefully, combining medieval with new. After check-in, we had a coffee and took a short tour around the castle and island.

Later we moved to Novo mesto. In the old town, we parked on the construction site for free. At the main square, it was lively, with a skating rink, Santa, lights, Christmas music … We sat first outside then moved inside for some mulled wine. Novo mesto positively surprised me (I <3 NM).

We returned to the castle (you rang my lord) early enough to prepare for dinner at 20h. Michelin plate restaurant didn’t disappoint us. 5-course meal with some wine (extra 50 €) was a great culinary experience. They emphasized seasonal and local ingredients,

With full bellies, we returned past the wall of fame to our room where we rested a bit with our music in the background. But the night wasn’t over yet. We went back to reception for digestive, Williams schnapps (8€). Marinka took good care of us. Knight was our only company long into the night.

We didn’t hurry to wake up, while we were late in bed. The next morning we had a big breakfast (omelet, cold cuts platter, yogurt, fruits, tea and coffee) after 10 h. Cigarette in the sun then back to the room to pack, slowly. Around noon we checked out.

Today we had lots of sun, so we decided not to end this day too early. At Kostanjevica na Krki we had a quick stroll and sat for a drink, enjoying the sunshine.

The last stop was at Šmarješke toplice. It was included in the hotel package. After 5 star hotel, this spa was a bit disappointing. We spent 2 hours in different pools, even one outdoors. It was time to head back. Before arriving at home we stopped at Mc Donald’s (11 €) for a quick bite.

Summary

It was a really nice weekend. If there were no vouchers probably I would never sleep in this castle for 400 €. But it is special, being on an island, in 13. century medieval castle, in the luxury of a 5-star hotel. Dinner in the restaurant was great, but probably I would eat here in the future. Go easy on bread so you would be able to get through all 5 courses. All the staff, from reception to waiters were professional, helpful, and kind.

Novo mesto is worthwhile to stop at Christmas time. Kostanjevica na Krki is nice, but you will not spend there more than half an hour. As for Šmarješke toplice, nothing special to mention here.