Smrekarjeva domačija – Authentic Taste of the Slovenian Village
- Danijel Ratković
- 24 hours ago
- 4 min read
About five kilometers from the entrance to Postojna Cave lies the picturesque village of Grobišče, home to the Smrekarjeva domačija – a true haven for travelers looking for a peaceful vacation, authentic tradition and top-notch gastronomy. This homestay offers accommodation in rooms and apartments, each named after the current owner's ancestors, adding a personal touch to the hospitality. You can stay in Ivanka’s room or Aleksandar’s apartment, which combine modern comfort with the authentic atmosphere of the Slovenian countryside. Although the highway and Postojna are within easy reach, the noise of the urban world does not reach here – instead, guests can enjoy the sounds of nature and the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
Smrekarjeva domačija pays special attention to organic farming and sustainability. The farm is home to domestic animals, including Tibetan goats, which are incredibly cuddly and curious – a perfect attraction for children and adults alike, so we also spent time with them. The rest of the farm is located in the nearby village of Razdrto, where an organic farm provides fresh ingredients for all of the guests’ meals.
The farm grows seasonal vegetables, dairy products and meat from the Krško Polje pig, an indigenous breed known for its superb taste and sustainable farming. While cheerful Slovenian music plays in the background, we are welcomed with warm hospitality by the hosts, with a glass of wild mint brandy (polajec) from the Nanos mountain, which is the border between continental and coastal Slovenia, and homemade apple juice with an irresistible aroma.
The tiled floor is an imitation of the earth. The owner, Melita Stegel, tells us: "We worked with conservators to preserve our cultural heritage, and we renovated all three houses with the help of the European Union. My husband Boštjan and I decided not to sell this; we started farming, and we wanted to offer something of what was here in the past. So, there is no Coca Cola, but there is homemade iced tea, apple juice, we have our own liqueurs and we offer them to guests."
The gastronomic experience at Smrekarjeva domačija begins with a rich appetizer – meat delicacies from the Krško Polje pig, homemade prosciutto, zašinka (dried pork neck) and rolled pancetta. Cow's cheese accompanies them in various variations – classic, with chili or basil – and fresh, homemade bread that rounds out the authentic story of local flavors. The ingredients are homegrown and sourced from local producers. Seasonal vegetables are sourced from Prelož, and dairy products, cheese and cottage cheese are sourced from the Štefet household. All of this develops into typical Slovenian cuisine for large groups of guests.
The Krškopoljska pig is an autochthonous breed of pig from Slovenia, known for its endurance, adaptability to traditional extensive farming and top quality meat. This breed, recognizable by its characteristic black color with a white stripe across the back, is raised primarily in rural areas, where it is fed with a natural diet, contributing to the meat's rich taste and optimal fat content. Thanks to its genetic diversity and disease resistance, the Krško Polska pig is gaining more and more importance in sustainable animal husbandry. As part of the cultural and gastronomic heritage of Slovenia, it is protected in order to preserve its authenticity and the economic viability of traditional farms.
But the real highlight comes with the main course. Chef Vojko Vočanec has prepared a classic "krožnik", a plate full of Slovenian flavors offered to many homestead guests. This time, we were served a juicy turkey roll wrapped in pancetta from the Krško Polje pig, giving it an aroma and softness. The veal roast in a natural sauce melts in your mouth, while the roasted potatoes and kale, prepared according to old village recipes, add freshness and balance to the meal.
All this is accompanied by top-quality wine from the Vipava valley, from the Vidus winery - a blend of Sauvignon, Laš Riesling and Malvasia for white wine lovers, and Barbera and Merlot for those who prefer rich red notes. The Vipava Valley is one of the most important wine-growing regions in Slovenia, known for its variety of autochthonous grape varieties, ideal climatic conditions and a long tradition of winemaking. Thanks to the unique combination of the Mediterranean and Alpine climates, with the strong influence of the burje – the characteristic wind that dries the vineyards and improves the quality of the grapes – the wines from the Vipava Valley are characterized by pronounced freshness, minerality and complex aromas. This region is home to some of the most famous Slovenian autochthonous varieties, such as zelen and pinela, which are increasingly gaining international recognition. In addition to contributing to Slovenia's rich wine culture, the Vipava Valley is becoming an increasingly important destination for wine enthusiasts, offering an authentic experience through a combination of traditional and modern approaches to winemaking.
For dessert, we chose between homemade chocolate souffle, creme brulée and strawberry yogurt, but we opted for authentic apple štrukli, a traditional dessert of the Pivka Valley. They are prepared in a special way – like apple strudel, but instead of baking, they are boiled in water, which gives them an incredibly soft and rich texture. The filling of grated apples, sugar, cinnamon and raisins creates a harmonious combination of sweetness and mild sour notes, while the sauce, made from homemade cottage cheese, goes perfectly with this delicacy.
Smrekarjeva domačija offers an unforgettable experience of the Slovenian countryside, where tradition, top-notch flavors, and hospitality come together. However, it is important to book your visit in advance, as the domačija is not open every day. Here, every meal is prepared with care and love, with respect for heritage and nature. If you are looking for a place where you can feel the true spirit of Slovenia, this is the address you should not miss.
Smrekarjeva domačija
Grobišče 11, 6258 – Prestranek, Slovenija
Mob: +386 41 740 574
Mob: +386 31 632 550
Comentários