Domačija Kovačnik

The story

Domačija Kovačnik: Traditional Slovenian Cuisine in Maribor's Pohorje Hills

Domačija Kovačnik showcases authentic Slovenian cuisine in the village of Planica above Maribor, where the Family Štern transforms its own harvest into weekend meals. The estate traces roots back to 1824, though the Štern surname appears only in recent generations. Barbara Štern manages the vegetable garden alongside her mother Angelca, who guards ancient recipes that now define the menu.

The family kitchen

Ancient recipes blend with modern creativity to shape the Slovenian cuisine at this farmstay. Barbara and Angelca cultivate the herb and vegetable plots, ensuring every dish reflects the immediate surroundings. Danilo oversees the pastures and fields, while Janez handles the meat preparation. The team combines ancestral techniques with contemporary presentation, driving the menu by what grows and grazes on-site. More than sixty herbs bear Latin and Slovenian labels in the garden beds.

Signature flavors

Diners begin with a generous portion of špehovka and homemade cured meats from the cellar. The protein selections feature roasted aged veal. Guests may also choose roast pork or crispy fried chicken. These arrive with sides of fluffy cottage cheese štruklji. Buckwheat porridge enriched with porcini mushrooms and sautéed potatoes complete the plate. Winter salads dressed in house-made pumpkin seed oil add brightness. Fried pears with semolina and apple chutney provide a sweet finish. Pohorje gibanica remains a centerpiece, baked following grandmother Angelca's specific instructions. A hearty beef broth rounds out the heavier winter offerings.

A setting rooted in Pohorje

The farm sits on the eastern slopes of Pohorje, overlooking the Drava valley and nearby peaks. Gault&Millau honored the kitchen with a 12.5 score for 2026, citing the harmony between the menu and nature. The estate's dedication to its landscape won the Crystal Rose from the Horticultural Society of Maribor in 2016. Inside, two dining rooms offer space for groups ranging from intimate gatherings to larger parties. The 'Pri peči' room seats twenty, and 'Pri vrtu' takes forty guests. Rustic decor matches the rural setting. Guests can step onto the terrace shaded by a massive pear tree or sit under a vine arbour. The property holds the Green Key certification, reflecting a commitment to sustainable farming methods.