A hut Encijan (encijan = gentian) is located over Olimje where the starting point is and under a hill named Rudnica. Combined with a visit to Koča Čarovnica (Witch hut) it is a nice all family walk.
To get to Olimje from Celje you have to follow the signs for Štore, Šentjur and the Rogaška Slatina. After you pass Šmarje pri Jelšah you will see a right turning towards Podčetrtek. Once you pass a spa complex you will see a sign for Olimje. Follow it and park at the beautiful monastery.
The object dates back to 1550 when it was a renaissance castle and remodelet into monastery in 1680. Today it still houses the Minorite Order and one of its towers hides one of the oldest apothecaries in Europe decorated with beautiful frescoes. Plenty to see here.
Pass the monastery and follow the ascending road. You will find blazes here and then and signs that will tell you how much is still to the Witch Hut.
After aprox. half an hour of easy walk you will come across the Witch Hut that looks as if out of a fairy tale. It is for young and old people with vivid imagination. All family will enjoy the time spent here.
Once you get tired of exploring the surroundings of the hut you can go get a beer or tea at Encijan hut. Only 15 minutes from Witch Hut. If you still have energy you can hike to the highest peak of Rudnica called Plešivec (686 m).
From Olimje to Encijan Hut: 1 hour.
To get to Olimje from Celje you have to follow the signs for Štore, Šentjur and the Rogaška Slatina. After you pass Šmarje pri Jelšah you will see a right turning towards Podčetrtek. Once you pass a spa complex you will see a sign for Olimje. Follow it and park at the beautiful monastery.
The object dates back to 1550 when it was a renaissance castle and remodelet into monastery in 1680. Today it still houses the Minorite Order and one of its towers hides one of the oldest apothecaries in Europe decorated with beautiful frescoes. Plenty to see here.
Pass the monastery and follow the ascending road. You will find blazes here and then and signs that will tell you how much is still to the Witch Hut.
After aprox. half an hour of easy walk you will come across the Witch Hut that looks as if out of a fairy tale. It is for young and old people with vivid imagination. All family will enjoy the time spent here.
Once you get tired of exploring the surroundings of the hut you can go get a beer or tea at Encijan hut. Only 15 minutes from Witch Hut. If you still have energy you can hike to the highest peak of Rudnica called Plešivec (686 m).
From Olimje to Encijan Hut: 1 hour.
