旅游农庄 Puklavec

Occupying a late-19C house surrounded by a beautiful garden with a fountain and small stream, this friendly restaurant run by its owner-chef and his family boasts a romantic ambience. The cuisine is regional in style, with a focus on local ingredients and dishes accompanied by local wines. Appetisers include stuffed pasta, while meat options (especially beef and lamb) dominate the main courses. To finish your meal in style, why not try the gibanica, a popular local dessert made with layers of shortcrust pastry, fresh cheese, eggs and pumpkin.

“Bedem” is the Croatian word for “bastion” – a highly appropriate name for this restaurant which overlooks Varaždin’s historic castle and surrounding park. The cuisine here is classically French in style, with a contemporary touch and the use of local, seasonal ingredients such as vegetables from nearby Vidovce, pumpkin oil, turkey from Zagorie and local trout. The strukli (dumplings) stuffed with fresh cheese and served as an appetiser are delicious and the local wines offer excellent value for money. In winter, take a seat near the fireplace, while in summer the outdoor terrace is a must.