Drava River Promenade

The Drava runs along the southern edge of the old town of Maribor, in northeastern Slovenia, and the riverside walkway that follows it is the city's favourite place to stroll, jog, cycle and sit in the sun. The Drava is a large Alpine river that rises in South Tyrol, flows through Austrian Carinthia and enters Slovenia near Dravograd, and at Maribor it is wide, green and strong, with the wooded slopes of Pohorje rising behind the city. The river shaped the town's economy for centuries, carrying timber rafts from the mountains and supporting mills and trade, and the old quarter of Lent, with its houses and towers, grew directly on the bank.

The promenade begins in Lent, where the stone embankment is lined with historic buildings and gives the best view of the old town from the water. Among the sights close to the path are the Old Vine on the front of a house, the Water Tower and the Judgement Tower, remains of the medieval defences, and the old river port of Pristan, whose name means a landing. Cafes and restaurants have terraces overlooking the water, and in summer the Lent Festival fills the quarter with concerts, theatre and street performances. From here the path continues along the river in both directions, past parks and green spaces, with benches and viewpoints, and is shared by walkers and cyclists.

The river is also a sporting and leisure space. A cycle route along the Drava connects Maribor with other towns of the valley and forms part of an international route that follows the river across several countries, so cyclists can ride for long stretches on quiet, mostly flat paths. Rowing clubs, anglers and kayakers use the water, and a river island on the city side has been turned into a city beach and recreation area with a bathing place in summer. Birds are plentiful: herons, ducks, kingfishers and swans live along the banks, and the trees along the path give shade on hot days.

The backdrop of Pohorje makes the setting special, and in winter the lights of the ski slope are visible above the city. The path is mostly level, well surfaced and suitable for families, pushchairs and older visitors, and it is lit in the evening. It is possible to walk from the centre of town to the edge of the city in an hour or two.

The promenade suits walkers, runners, cyclists and anyone who wants a relaxed hour beside water. Morning and evening are the best times, and a walk along it makes a natural counterpart to a visit to the castle and the old town.