Along the Drava River

Thankfully we’ve now left the rain behind. The temperatures have plummeted and we have a day of cloud and snow flurries - infinitely preferable, though bitterly cold. 


Visibility over the mountains remains poor, so we set out east towards Maribor and Ptuj, leaving the north until tomorrow. 

Both towns are located along the Drava River, surrounded by the green forests  and picturesque wine-growing hills - though our view of these is limited by both season and weather. Maribor even boasts the world’s oldest vine - its huge gnarled trunk growing outside the predictably named ‘Old Vine House’ on the banks of the river. 

Maribor’s Old Town is less well preserved than Ljubljana’s, but still full of fascinating buildings. We’re outside the Jewish Tower admiring the stunning monochrome wildlife shots displayed here when we’re accosted by a member of Fotoklub Maribor and invited inside to the club’s annual exhibition. Contact details exchanged, it’s back to the car and on to Ptuj.

Here the snow flurries are heavier, and the light is fading; travelling in mid-winter does have its limitations! We manage views of the old town and castle from across the bridge, and walk around the fascinating winding streets, pausing for warming cups of hot chocolate before a glimpse of the cathedral as Pjut’s Christmas lights switch on! There’s a lot to be said for festive lights illuminating a dull January afternoon! 

Today’s main is Ptuj from across the river Drava, with extras of Maribor’s riverfront and central square. 

Thank you again for the unreciprocated visits to my journal - they’re much appreciated!