March 28, 2025 – If you ask Booking.com, Slavonia and Baranja are one of the top 10 places where you’ll meet the most hospitable people in the world. Not a single visit to this land of plenty has gone by without rakija and kulen readily waiting on the table or an abundance of delicious, local, fresh, homegrown food served for the family that you become as soon as you step into the homes of locals. Like the famous Croatian song, the souls of people here really are as broad as their flatlands.
And one of the best Baranja hosts – according to Paul Bradbury himself, Google and Booking reviews (10/10) – must be Stipe from Čeminac. This squirrel on speed of a man (his words, but we can confirm) is someone who never gets tired, who lives off the land, knows how to appreciate it and will make sure that his every guest does, too.
It all started with Stipino where Stipe grew apples, then started making jams and pickles, then became a host in this stunning villa in the field, then started cooking for his guests, then decided to host these special dinners himself.
And we are thrilled to announce that the next dinner at Stipino is taking place on Friday, April 11, with a special surprise awaiting (which might or might not be the Paul and something to do with his new book). Stay tuned. Meanwhile, Stipe was kind enough to introduce himself in an interview for TCN.
1. Introduce yourself and your crew.
Hi everyone, I’m Stipe – the owner, worker, handyman, cook, tractor driver, repairman, delivery guy, and whatever else is needed at the Stipino estate. We’re located in Čeminac, in beautiful Baranja – a place where the food is always the best, and the people are always kind.
Alongside me is Elvira – my right hand, cook, cleaner, and event organizer who runs it all when I’m not around (and when I am, I just get in her way!). And, of course, there’s Gara – our mixed-breed dog with a heart so big that guests from all over the world adore her.
When things get too busy, we also rely on the help of our wonderful neighbours.
2. Tell us about Stipino, what makes you stand out, and describe your journey.
My story with Baranja has been going on for 17 years, although I’ve only been seriously involved with gastro tourism the past three. When I moved from the city to the countryside, I thought, “What could go wrong? A bit of land, a few trees…” Well, the answer is – everything.
Over the years, I grew fruit, made jams, syrups, juices, ajvar, and liqueurs, built brands, and found my path. But I soon realized that the true magic of Baranja isn’t just in the products – it’s the whole package. Nowadays, I combine the things I love – homemade food, nature, and people – into events that are just as fun for me as they are for my guests.
3. How does the fact that you are located in the east of Croatia affect your business?
Baranja might be a bit isolated, but that’s exactly what makes it unique. There are no crowds here, nor the over-commercialized attractions you find in big tourist centers – here, you truly feel peace, authenticity, and heartfelt hospitality.
It’s true that people often think we’re “too far away,” but anyone who visits realizes that the journey is worth it. Once you spend a moment in our pavilion, with grilled carp on the table and a glass of homemade wine in hand, all other destinations start to fade.
4. You are changing direction, what’s going to happen in 2025 and what is the long-term goal for Stipe and Stipino?
The year 2024 was a turning point for us as we fully transitioned into gastro tourism. In 2025, we plan to expand our offer – themed dinners, retreats, various events, and team-building programmes. All of this will be done with our signature Baranja charm – simple, authentic, and heartfelt.
Long-term, I want Stipino to become a must-visit destination for anyone looking for the authentic Baranja experience – whether through food, nature, or shared moments. My goal is for our guests to return home full of stories and eager to visit again.
5. Which experiences are you offering and in which ways can you be flexible for your guests?
Our motto is simple: “If we can, we will.” We offer our guests a vacation home with a pool and jacuzzi, a pavilion for up to 60 people, all at a secluded property where you can be as loud as you like or simply enjoy the peace and quiet.
The real charm lies in the food – grilled carp, fish stew, shepherd’s stew… We often involve our guests in the cooking process, and their joy when they taste something they helped make is priceless. Additionally, we organize all kinds of events – weddings, christenings, bachelor parties, catering, decorations – you name it. Flexibility isn’t just a selling point – it’s our way of doing things.
6. What is the general situation in tourism in that part of Slavonia and why should everyone visit?
Like I said, Slavonia and Baranja are still hidden gems, and that’s exactly what makes them special. There are no crowds here, everything is genuine and heartfelt – from the food and nature to the welcoming people.
Baranja is a paradise for food and wine lovers, with a unique blend of culinary influences from Turkish, German, and Hungarian cuisines, combined with local recipes based on fish, game, and wine. Historically, this region has been producing fine wines and cooking specialties over an open fire – whether fish or meat – for centuries.
Why visit? For the nature, the gastronomy, the people, the traditions, and the hospitality – all combined with a serene, authentic atmosphere that’s increasingly rare today.
