Does Bedanec really smell all the way to the next village?
Wednesday, April 16th, 2025, was a day local children will carry in their hearts for a long time. They were invited to our Ramada Resort hotel for the presentation of a brand-new book, Kekec on Holiday, created by the talented (and big-hearted) members of our hotel animation team. Barbara Koselj and Tamara Črtalič wrote the story, while illustrator Stana Nikčević brought it to life with a digital pen and graphics tablet. She gave the story its colors, but also left some illustrations in black and white – perfect for coloring in.The result is a book that feels both modern and familiar. The story is fun and full of heart, and it even touches on trendy, eco-conscious themes. In this version, Kekec is no longer just a mountain shepherd – today he recycles, protects the environment, and looks after the natural gems of our region. Still, his cheeky smile and fearless curiosity remain exactly as Josip Vandot once envisioned. Both authors read a short excerpt to the children, and in the role of Kekec’s sister Tinkara, their colleague Urša Trentelj gave the warmest welcome, helping bring the story to life with her cheerful energy.
A smiling Kekec was already greeting the little guests as they arrived at the hotel. Well, in truth, it was Tadej Črtalič—brother of one of the authors—who happily stepped into the shoes of the legendary boy. First-graders from the Josip Vandot Primary School and children from the Kekčevi junaki kindergarten instantly recognized the mischievous hero. And how could they not? In Kranjska Gora, even babies know who Kekec is!
What the children were most eagerly waiting for, however, was Bedanec. But instead of him, they were warmly greeted by the director of our company, Mr. Milan Sajovic, who shared how proud he is of this project: “The book Kekec on Holiday is more than just a charming story – it is a tribute to our Upper Sava Valley, to our local heroes and the values we strive to preserve. I’m especially pleased that it was created by members of our animation team, as this shows just how deeply we live and breathe the spirit of this region and its tales. Connecting with the local school and kindergarten adds special significance to the project, because children are not only our future – they are also the most heartfelt listeners. At the same time, the book offers our hotel guests a truly authentic local experience, something beyond the classic holiday. This is our way of preserving the natural treasures – like Lake Jasna, Zelenci, and the surrounding area – through storytelling.”
Upon seeing the smartly dressed director, the children all cried out in unison: “He can’t be Bedanec – his beard is way too short!” Luckily, the multi-talented artist, journalist, and storyteller Marsel Gomboc jumped in to save the day. With humor and a touch of storytelling magic, he hinted to the children that Bedanec smells so bad, you can catch a whiff of him all the way in the next village! He also revealed that the real Aunt Pehta lives deep in Črna Vopa, beyond the Pišnica River. Most importantly, he taught all the young guests how to hoot like an owl. The hooting was so loud and joyful that Bedanec probably won’t dare come anywhere near our three hotels for quite some time!
The children were clearly enchanted by the book – they listened with wide eyes and eager ears, wanting to hear more! Both the school and kindergarten groups were gifted copies of Kekec on Holiday. Once they've read them, the books will find a home in their school library, so other classmates can discover Kekec’s latest adventure too. But that’s not the only library where the book resides. Guests at our hotels can flip through it in the cozy reading corner of our in-house library – perfect for anyone who loves to relax with a good story. And if you're not staying with us, don't worry – you can buy your own copy at the reception of any of our hotels. After all, this charming tale makes a lovely gift for yourself or anyone who adores Kekec.
The event ended on a musical note. The children knew all three verses of the Kekec song by heart! They sang so joyfully and loudly that even the hotel’s guests were tempted to join in. As a sweet finale, the little ones created fragrant herb sachets, made with herbs lovingly dried and donated by Aunt Pehta herself. Let Bedanec stink all the way to the next village – the sachets the kids took home are sure to smell delightful even now.
Spring has only just begun, but summer is already peeking around the corner. Soon, Kekec will be off to graze the meadows, Pehta will gather healing herbs, and Bedanec will be grumbling somewhere high in the mountains. And once again, Kekec Days are coming to Kranjska Gora (June 25–29, 2025). At the start of the summer holidays, you’ll be able to watch Kekec on the big screen, meet him at Kosobrin’s cabin, and join the fun at the legendary Kekec picnic with Čuki. Don’t worry – with a band name like that, Bedanec wouldn’t dare come near!
(more info: https://kranjska-gora.si/en/events/kekec-days-2024)