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Nature · Moravske Toplice, Pomurska
Island of Love
An island in the Mura River near Ižakovci, with a wooden floating mill reconstructed according to old designs, a small museum about river work and a cable ferry between the banks.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Island of Love
The Island of Love (Otok ljubezni) lies on the Mura River near the village of Ižakovci, surrounded by poplar and tulip tree groves. It is one of Prekmurje’s most popular spots for outdoor outings.
For centuries dozens of floating mills operated on the Mura, built on boats and powered by the current. Only a few remain. The mill on the Island of Love was built by the local community in 1999, entirely of wood, following the design of an old river mill, and was rebuilt when the first structure began to sink. Inside, the large wheel turns the millstones, and you can see how grain was ground into flour.
The island also houses a small museum about büjraštvo, the traditional work of reinforcing the banks and managing the Mura’s bed with stakes and bundles of branches. Nearby, a raft made of two boats joined by a platform, pulled by a cable, crosses the river as it was done in the past; it is one of the few remaining on the Mura.
Trails follow the riverbank, and the area is good for cycling.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the mill, the museum and the raft crossing.
Best time
From spring to autumn, when the mill, the museum and the raft are operating. After heavy rains the Mura’s level can suspend the crossing. Confirm days and opening hours in advance.
How to get there
From Moravske Toplice or Murska Sobota, drive south to Ižakovci in the Beltinci municipality, then follow signs for Otok ljubezni to the parking area. From the parking area you walk to the island.
Tip
Bring insect repellent in warm months because of riverside mosquitoes. Combine the visit with a bike ride through the plain’s villages.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Island of Love
How does the floating mill of Ižakovci work?
It is a wooden mill built on boats and powered by the Mura’s current, constructed following designs of the old river mills. Inside you can see the grain being milled.
Does the Island of Love’s raft operate year-round?
No. It runs in season and depends on the river level. Confirm days and hours before you go.
Where is the Island of Love located?
On the Mura River near the village of Ižakovci in the Beltinci municipality, about 15 km from Moravske Toplice.