Slovakia In The Summer

Slovakia has no coastline, but its fascinating mix of history, culture and landscaping make it an outstanding destination for a weekend break or a full-fledged summer holiday. Its geographical position also makes it easy to sandwich in a stop as part of an itinerary that takes in neighbouring countries as well. Visit Bratislava en-route between Budapest and Vienna, for example. Or cool off for a few days in the Tatra Mountains on the way to Cracow. In Slovakia, you can visit charming medieval towns whose painstakingly restored historic centres boast pedestrians only squares that in warm weather brim with outdoor cafes and lively open air festivals. You can explore ruined castles and fascinating examples of folks-style wooden architecture. You can climb sheer rock faces in the Tatras, hike well marked trails through lush forests and flower strewn meadowlands, fish in rushing mountain streams - and more.

Direct flights to Poprad provide easy access to the High Tatra National Park, which extends across the boarder into Poland. The Park has an excellent tourist infrastructure and the modernised Tatra Railway connects Slovak Mountain towns and resorts. Three other national parks lie within an hours drive; Low Tatra,Pieniny and Slovak Paradise. Also within easy reach is the magnificent Spic Castle, which looms over a cluster of other medieval monuments to form a unique complex that has been listed on UNESCO roster of the World
Cultural heritage sites.


Seven good reasons to travel to Slovakia.

1. It's somewhere you've never been before

Really - Slovakia is Europe's best kept secret. Though it's a conveniently located, fast growing destination, you will still find Slovakia a country that has not become overcrowded and commercialised, and one that still prides
itself on genuine authenticity and open-hearted hospitality.

2. The people are warm and welcoming (and dare we say it good-looking)

The Slovaks really do offer visitors time honored Slavic hospitality. This is not a tourist industry cliché! They may seem shy at first, but once you break the ice, local people of all walks of life readily open their hearts to
new friends. They are eager to show off their culture and share their love of their country.

3. The countryside is brimming with unspoiled natural beauty.

Slovak packs a surprising variety of natural wonders in a conveniently compact area. The most spectacular scenery is found in the High Tatra, Low Tatra, Little Fatra, Pieniny and Slovak Paradise National Parks. But
other parts of the country are also stunning. Many prefer the uplands of the hilly central region, where rushing rivers wind through lush, forested valleys. The country is also studded with beautiful caves, twelve of which
are open to the public. Most are located in the mountainous heartland, and five have been put on the UNESCO list of world natural heritage

4. You can trip over the multitude of outstanding cultural treasure

For a country of its size, Slovakia's cultural past is immense. It includes hundreds of castles, palaces, and churches dating back many centuries - more than 300 castles alone! There are picturesque medieval towns galore, plus well preserved examples of wooden folk architecture - and even a museum devoted to pop
icon Andy Warhol. Four unique sites in particular have been placed on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage: the majestic Spis Castle and its environs, the medieval towns of bardejov and Banska Stavnica, and the village of Vlkolinec, a unique complex of folk-style timber buildings.

5. It's small enough to get around

You can drive from one end Slovakia to the other in a day. But who would want to? Slovakia's compact size means that in a week you can explore many diverse corners of its beautiful landscape, relax in a spa, go hik-
ing or river rafting, thrill to great works of art and music, indulge in the pastries or sample Slovak wine at a whole roster of sidewalk cafes - and much, much more.

6. The food and drink are out of this world

As befits a country in the heart of central Europe, Slovak cuisine reflects a flavorful mixture of influences from neighbouring Austria, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Ukraine. The Bratislava region is famed for its meat dishes in savoy sauces, ,hearty potato dishes and small dumplings served with sheep cheese and bacon are favourites from the mountains. Local restaurants, of course, also feature excellent Mediterranean and international cuisine. And don't forget to sample the superb wines from small Carpathian region and eastern Slovakia's famous Tokai!

7. A Little money still goes a long way

The days when a few dollars or pounds sterling in your pocket made you a king are long gone. Nonetheless, prices in Slovakia remain considerably lower than those in some other countries of the region, making a Slovak get away or vacation an affordable option.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO?

It's up to you - Slovakia is a travel destination for all seasons. Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter - each has its own attractions. Slovakia's climate is changeable. Winters can be cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports holidays. Summers can be hot, particularly in July and August. But rain and cool evenings are always possible - so bring an umbrella and dress in layers.

Enjoy Slovakia's weekend break in Bratislava and its Tatrabreak, a short stay in the Tatra Mountains, are available year round and make ideal introductions to a friendly, hospitable and beautiful country. And for those who want to linger, we provide a special week long itinerary, Panorama of Slovakia, that blends culture, history and nature into a stimulating and enjoyable Package.