Castle Grounds (Scenic Grounds of Rajhenburg Castle)

Rajhenburg Castle stands on a rocky hill above the Sava river at Brestanica, a small town in the Posavje region of eastern Slovenia. Rajhenburg is the old German name of the settlement, and the castle has medieval origins, with later additions that give it a layered appearance. The grounds around it, with terraces, a courtyard and paths along the hillside, are open to walkers and give wide views over the river valley, the Sava plain and the wooded hills beyond. The elevation makes the castle a landmark seen from far along the valley.

The castle has had an unusual history. In the late nineteenth century, it became a monastery of the Trappist order, whose monks lived by prayer and manual work, and it was the first Trappist house in the Slovene lands. The monks ran a farm and a cheese dairy, and the Trappist cheese and other products became known in the region. During the Second World War, the German occupiers used the castle as a collection camp for Slovenes who were expelled from Styria, and thousands of people were held here before being deported. Today a museum in the castle covers this painful story, and the history of the Trappists is also told, so the grounds have an air of reflection as well as beauty.

Walking in the grounds, you can see the thick walls and towers of the castle from outside, and the layout of terraces and paths shows how the site was used for gardens and defence. Shady corners offer spots for a quiet rest, and open spaces are used for events and exhibitions in summer. The panoramic views are best from the highest terraces, especially in the late afternoon when the light falls across the valley. Spring brings blossom, autumn colour in the surrounding woods and, in winter, a clear view of the river.

Entry to the grounds is generally free, but there may be a charge for the interior exhibitions, so check at the entrance. The castle makes a good stop on a trip along the Sava, together with the old town of Brežice, the spa resorts of the Posavje region and the wine hills of Bizeljsko. Allow an hour for the grounds alone, or half a day with the museum. Comfortable shoes are useful, as the paths are uneven in places.