Explore Srednje Grčevje through two specific route connections: the “S cvičkom med vinogradi” hike leads through the vineyards uphill to the Church of St. George, while the Trškogorska cycling route passes through the village on its return leg. The village also has a church with protected heritage status and a history of traditional zidanice. When planning, it helps to treat the hiking date, cycling route and cultural history as distinct highlights: the hike takes place on a specific Saturday in January each year, and the cycling route is intended for certain types of bicycle.

Church of St. George and Local History

The heritage site is listed as an individual monument under the name “Srednje Grčevje – Cerkev sv. Jurija” with EŠD number 2477. The Church of St. George is considered the oldest church in its parish. This makes local church history a specific focus for a culturally oriented stay.

The former Grčevje primary school also reflects a past role in the community: it opened in 1946 and was housed in a zidanica, a traditional Slovenian wine house. The school’s history is thus connected to a building type that also features in other cultural monuments in the village. Anyone interested in the interplay between the history of education and traditional architecture will find another historical point of interest here.

Zidanice: Architecture and Wine Cellars

The Hmeljniška zidanica is classified as early modern architectural heritage and is described as a wine estate. Its wine cellar is partly underground. The Škatlar 3 zidanica dates from 1848 and has an authentic wine cellar. These examples offer different perspectives on the zidanica: from its historical classification and description as a wine estate to specific features of its cellars. For those interested in culture, they complement the history of the church and school with a look at traditional wine-house architecture.

Hiking, Cviček and Wine-Growing

The traditional “S cvičkom med vinogradi” hike takes place on the last Saturday in January every year. It leads through Srednje Grčevje, between the vineyards and uphill to the Church of St. George. Homemade food, Cviček and hot drinks are offered at stops along the way. The recurring date provides a specific reference point for planning a winter outing; if you are travelling to attend the event, check the latest event details in advance.

In Grčevje, grape varieties are grown on marl soils, and their balanced proportions produce the distinctive Cviček. This wine-growing context complements the mention of Cviček at the hiking stops and helps explain the name of the hiking trail.

By Bike or on Horseback

One cycling option is the Trškogorska route, which passes through Srednje Grčevje on its return leg. It is intended for mountain bikes or trekking bikes. This guidance can help you choose a suitable bike; also check current route conditions before setting out. Your options for planning the day therefore have different focuses: the annual January hike to the church or a cycling trip on the type of bike specified for the route.

The Sveti Jurij Grčevje Riding Club is based at Srednje Grčevje 14. The club’s aims include organising a riding school. If you are interested in taking part, arrange this directly with the club.

Discover more destinations: Straža, Brezovica, Dvor, Novo Mesto, Šmarjeta, Šmarješke Toplice, Mali Ban, Hrib pri Hinjah

Go to the main travel overview: Novo Mesto.