Follow the Ivy Twig: The Secret of the Eight, the Most Authentic Experience of the Vipava Valley


Imagine yourself driving through the picturesque, vineyard-strewn hills of the Vipava Valley. The sun is dipping towards the horizon, painting the landscape in golden hues. Along the way, on the stone portal of an old farm, you notice a simple sprig of ivy. This is not a random decoration. It is an invitation. An invitation to a tradition so authentic and deeply rooted in this land that it seems like a secret that the locals whisper to each other from generation to generation. Welcome to the world of the eight.
What exactly is an eight?
Osmica is more than just a temporary winery; it is a cultural phenomenon and a community celebration. Its origins date back to the 18th century, when Empress Maria Theresa issued a decree allowing winegrowers to sell their surplus wine directly at their homes for eight days a year, tax-free. This tradition has been preserved and developed in the Vipava Valley. Today, the "osmica" lasts for ten days, and the invitation remains the same – a sprig of ivy or "fraska", announcing that the farm's doors are wide open.
An experience for all the senses
Entering Osmica is like entering the living room of the Vipava Valley. Forget about formal menus and restraint. Here you will find a lively atmosphere, laughter mixed with the sounds of the accordion, and the smell of home cooking. On simple wooden tables you will find cold cuts with the best that the farm has to offer:
- Vipava prosciutto , dried in the harsh bora wind.
- Homemade salamis, sausages and other cured meats.
- Warm plates , such as hearty Vipava jota or other seasonal stews.
- Freshly baked homemade bread , with cheese and cottage cheese to break.
And of course, wine. Don't expect fancy labels. Expect honest, home-made wine, happily poured straight from the barrel by the winemaker. This is a chance to taste the soul of the harvest and chat with the people who created it.
Hotel Termika: Your guide to the hidden door
Finding an open 8 can be part of the adventure, but as a guest of Hotel Termika you have an advantage. Our team acts as your personal experience curator. We closely monitor the 8 calendar and can organize a visit for you that will be more than just a meal – it will be a deeper connection with the soul of the Vipava Valley. We will connect you with the best, explain the stories behind it and ensure that you experience the 8 in all its authenticity.
An evening spent at the eight is the perfect complement to a day full of activities. It is the "Flavors" pillar of your Termika experience, an authentic connection with the land and people before returning to the peace and comfort of our hotel.
Stay in touch!
Hotel Termika is taking shape in the heart of the Vipava Valley — a new destination for relaxation, fine cuisine, and the love of wine and nature.Be among the first to hear about our grand opening, exclusive offers, and the unique experiences we’re creating.


.jpg)

