Dolenjske Toplice lies in a natural basin, ringed to the east by the atmospheric, ancient woods of Kočevski Rog, and on other sides by the vineyard-covered low Dolenjska hills, dotted with the traditional vineyard cottages that host some many picnics. Dolenjska Toplice has been a municipality since 1999, and covers 111 km2, 81% of which is forested. The municipality has 29 settlements and a total population of 3,300.
The earliest written mention of Dolenjske Toplice is from 1228, when Henry IV, Margrave of Istria, donated part of his lands to the Cistercian abbey at Stična. In 1385 Dolenjske Toplice came into the hands of the Counts of Auersperg from Turjak and would remain theirs for six centuries. It is named after the thermal waters found in the area, which have distinguished the area since ancient times, a fact confirmed by archaeological finds in the direct vicinity of the settlement.
Today Dolenjske Toplice offers the highest quality spa, wellness and congress tourism, as well as interesting cultural heritage and a wide range of natural sites that attract hikers, cyclists and adventure tourists.
Dolenjske Toplice also has a beautiful parish church dedicated to Saint Anne, with the characteristic defensive features of its time, intended to protect it from Turk incursions, and the impressive, ancient fortress of Cvinger with a barrow grave.
At Soteska you can see the Devil's Tower (Hudičev turn) garden pavilion. The former commercial buildings of the manor there have also been turned into an ‘open depot’ by the Bistra Technical Museum, which is home to a diverse transport-themed collection.
Baza 20 was the military and political headquarters of the Slovene National Liberation Movement during the Second World War. It is the only preserved resistance movement monument of its kind in Europe.
Visitors are especially welcome to the municipal holiday, held in Dolenjske Toplice in the second half of July. We celebrate with cultural, fun and sporting events and the traditional Toplice Night. Throughout the summer a wide range of concerts, theatrical performances and travel-based events take place in the municipality as part of our Cultural Summer.
For more information on the sites of interest, facilities and amenities, and events in the Toplice valley, please contact TIC Dolenjske Toplice, telephone +386 7 38 45 188, e-mail: tic.dtoplice@volja.net or visit our website: www.dolenjske-toplice.si.