A family story of heritage, nature, and responsible tourism
In the rolling hills of Dolenjska, Slovenia, the story began not as a business idea, but as a personal mission: to preserve heritage, revive forgotten places, and share a way of life deeply connected to nature.
Receiving the Green Key certification reflected the family’s long-standing commitment to responsible tourism, cultural preservation, and respect for nature. Every part of the experience is guided by the same philosophy: preserving what matters for future generations while offering guests an authentic connection to the Slovenian countryside.
Over the past two decades, a 160-year-old homestead and eight traditional buildings that were once on the verge of decay have been carefully restored. Using local craftsmen and natural materials, they were brought back to life, not as museum pieces, but as living spaces where tradition continues.
This effort was recognized with a special award from the Institute for Cultural Heritage Protection, as well as the Slovenian Tourism Board’s “Sejalec” Award for one of the most innovative tourism products in Slovenia.
Guests experience something unique and discover the history of wine and its cultural meaning, traditional winemaking tools and practices, Slovenia’s wine regions and the full seasonal cycle of vineyard work.
Reviving Vineyard Cottages and Landscape
Just 2 km from the homestead, four traditional vineyard cottages (“zidanice”) were also restored, some dating back more than 200 years.
Each cottage is unique and is restored using traditional methods but also equipped with modern comfort, including private saunas and hot tubs and surrounded by vineyards cultivated in a traditional, low-impact way.
“For us, sustainability is not something new – it is simply the way our parents and grandparents lived. We are only continuing their story, with respect for nature, people, and the land that gives us everything. True sustainability is not about big promises, but about small, honest actions we repeat every day.”
The sustainable efforts of Matjaveza Domacija go from water and resource management to energy and biodiversity initiatives. Water from hot tubs is reused for vineyard irrigation, while a solar power system is being installed to supply the establishment with renewable energy. Guests can also witness nearly fifty fruit trees providing with seasonal fruit as well as an insect hotel and a birdhouse to support biodiversity.
Guests are not treated simply as visitors, but as part of everyday life in the Slovenian hills. During their stay, they gain insight into local traditions, culture, and the rhythms of the countryside. Local food producers, events, and authentic regional experiences are actively recommended to support the wider community and encourage sustainable tourism throughout the region.
About Matjaveza Domacija
We are a small family-run tourism and wine-growing business located in Dolenjska, Slovenia. Our mission is to preserve cultural heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and offer authentic experiences rooted in tradition, nature, and genuine human connection.