Park Radenci

Radenci is a small spa town in Prlekija, in the north-east of Slovenia, in the flat, fertile Pannonian landscape between the Mura river and the vineyard hills. It is best known for its naturally carbonated mineral water, which has been bottled here for a long time under the Radenska label with its three red hearts, a brand recognised across Slovenia. The springs gave rise to the spa, and the spa in turn gave the town its parks, gardens and promenades, designed for taking the waters and walking in the fresh air.

Park Radenci is the green centre of this spa tradition. It is a large, shaded park with old trees, lawns, flower beds and quiet paths, and it is open to everyone without charge. The atmosphere is calm and slightly old-fashioned, in the manner of a Central European spa town, with benches where visitors sit after a treatment or a walk. Families come to the mini golf course, which is a simple, cheerful way to pass an hour, and there is a Mini Zoo where children can see small animals. Cycling Tours through the Pannonian landscape start nearby and lead through villages, fields and vineyards on quiet roads, making use of the flat terrain.

The park is also a good place to start exploring the local wine and food culture. Prlekija is a wine country, and the hills of Kapela above the town are covered with vineyards, small wine cellars and farmhouses. Visitors can taste the local white wines, and a wine fountain near the church of St Mary Magdalene has been a popular novelty, offering tastes of the region's wines. The cuisine of the area is hearty, with pumpkin-seed oil, smoked meats and sweet pastries, and local inns serve it in generous portions. Radenci's mineral water, which is rich in carbon dioxide and minerals, is traditionally believed to be good for the heart and circulation, and drinking it is part of the town's routine.

The tourist office in the town centre provides maps and information about walking and cycling routes, as well as local products. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, when the park is green or golden and the vineyards are at their most attractive. Radenci works well as a restful stop between Maribor, Ljubljana and the Hungarian or Austrian borders, and it suits anyone who prefers a slow day of strolling and tasting to sightseeing.