The acting director of the Kobilara Lipica holding Lorela Dobrinja told the press that revenue generated in the horses-related segments was up 16%, while tourism-related activities saw revenue rise by 21% last year.

The total number of visitors exceeded 113,000 last year, the highest number in the last two decades.

The positive trend is continuing this year, with a year-on-year increase of no less than 38% recorded in the first quarter. Revenue is up even more, by 44%.

Most visitors continue to come from Slovenia, followed by guests from German-speaking countries, and then by Italian, French and British guests.

Počivalšek said he is "happy with the growth but not with the results". "These need to improve further, since Lipica has major tourist potential."

He announced that the renovation of the Maestoso hotel, estimated at EUR 10m, would start before the end of the year.

Meanwhile, the farm's representatives assured the press today that none of the horses sustained serious injuries in clashes that occurred between several of them on 26 March during the pairing of mares and freshly castrated stags for the purpose of forming a herd for tourists.