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Slovakia

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Spot Slovakia

Regional City International Airport Main Road Highway

Slovak Republic

Formation date: 1 January 1993 Capital: Bratislava Land area: 49 035 km2 Population: 5 408 148 National language: Slovak (as of 30.9.2012) Currency: Euro (from the of 1st January 2009)

Bordering countries: Hungary (655 km), Poland (541 km), Czech Republic (252 km), Austria (107 km), Ukraine Cultural superlatives … Natural superlatives … (98 km) Th e most extensive medieval fortress One of the largest sinter formations Time zone: Central European Time complex in Central Europe – Spiš Castle. in the world – the dripstone Kvapeľ (GMT +1 hour), summer time (March- rožňavských jaskyniarov (Krásno- November: GMT + 2 hours) Th e easternmost western style of cathe- horská jaskyňa cave, 32.6 m tall, with dral in Europe – the Gothic St. Eliza- a diameter of 12 m at base). Distances: beth’s Cathedral in Košice. Bratislava – Wien / Schwechat-Airport: Th e largest river island in Europe – Žitný 80 km / 60 km Th e tallest wooden Gothic altar in the ostrov (132 612 ha) which is also the – Budapest / Airport: world – in the Church of St. Jacob in largest reservoir of drinking water. 200 km / 218 km Levoča (18.6 m). – Banská Bystrica: 210 km Th e only aragonite cave in Europe – – Košice: 400 km Th e oldest mining university in Europe Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa (in – Poprad: 332 km – Banská akadémia (Mining Aca- the karst territory Slovenský kras). – Žilina: 202 km demy) in Banská Štiavnica (1763). Košice – Budapest-Airport: 268 km Th e only coldwater geyser in Slovakia and – Poprad: 118 km Th e oldest perpetual ongoing concern – a rarity in Europe – the geyser in Herľany Poprad – Kraków-Airport: 156 km the Kremnica Mint (since 1328). (jetting water to a height of 15-20 m).

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Slovensko-EN.indd 2 11.4.2013 20:33:18 A Little Country of Big Experiences

Slovakia is a unique country, because distinct fl avours of regional specialties in a relatively small territory you can and traditional national cuisine. fi nd just about anything. From natural Th ese are just a few lines from the fas- wonders, historic monuments, rich folk cinating novel, the author of which is culture and folklore, through to fun and Slovak nature itself, and from the his- entertainment in the busy city streets. tory, culture and tradition of the Slovak Let yourself become enchanted by its nation. So if you would like to discover beauties, and enjoy the unforgettable other unique attractions and spend atmosphere you will fi nd here. You will your free time enjoying many exciting discover the lure of natural scenery, memorable experiences, take these few combined with a rich history, culture lines as a personal invitation. and traditions. Discover Slovakia – Th e Little Big Country. Come and see for yourself the rich Let yourself be inspired and visit natural diversity, still vibrant with un- places that will satisfy your idea of chained freedom, the elegance of deep a much desired holiday. valleys guarded by majestic mountain All you have to do is choose from the peaks with crystal clear mountain rich choice of destinations on the tributaries and streams. Revel in the national tourism portal at special experience of getting to know scenic historical towns and impressive www.slovakia.travel world heritage monuments. Sample the

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The Little Big City

Th e beauty on the Dunaj river, just one Town), where you can wander the nar- of the titles given to the Slovak capital row streets and admire impressive his- Bratislava. Th e city spreads out along torical monuments. Th e most visited the base of the Malé Karpaty (Small and popular sites in the city are also its Carpathians mountain range) sitting most dominant monuments, namely astride the longest river in Europe, the Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral, Danube (Dunaj). Bratislava is one of the the Primate’s Palace, St. Michael’s Gate, youngest capitals in the world, but its the Old Town Hall, Grassalkovich and rich history was chronicled over two Mirbach palaces, and Slavín war memo- thousand years ago. rial. Th e city centre is full of gorgeous Visitors are attracted by the intimacy of hidden spots, countless cosy cafes, and this relatively small city, which pulses excellent restaurants with a truly rich with life and culture despite or because culinary experience. As a modern me- of its size. Th e most attractive part of tropolis, Bratislava boasts a wide choice Bratislava is surely Staré mesto (Old of accommodation options whatever

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Slovensko-EN.indd 4 11.4.2013 20:33:23 your need, even for the most demand- sample some fi ne local wines and culi- ing guests who are accustomed to the nary specialities from the region of the highest European standards. Th rough- Small Carpathians, cycle along any of out the year, the city is the venue for the eff ortless bike paths along the River a diverse range of cultural, sporting and Danube, or take a tour of the enchant- gastronomic events, which complement ing castle Červený Kameň. Th is is just the memorable atmosphere of this pic- a snapshot of the many things visitors turesque city. Th e Coronation Celebra- can look forward to in this region, so tions, the Bratislava Music Festival, and rich in history. the Christmas Market are just some ex- amples worthy of mention. Th e surroundings of the city also off er Tips a wide array of ways to spend your free time. Enjoy a boat cruise along the Danu- • Christmas Market be to the nearby ruins of Devín Castle, • Bratislava Marathon • Slovak Food Festival • Gurmán Fest Bratislava • Cultural Summer and Castle Festival Bratislava • Viva Musica! • Summer Shakespeare Festival • Festival of Historic Fencing, Music, Dance and Crafts, Devín Castle • ÚĽUV Craftsmen Days • Vinobranie (Grape Harvest Fest) www.visit.bratislava.sk

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Cultural heritage

An ideal position at the heart of Eu- roundings awaits from the tower of the rope, a history spanning millennia, and Church of the Assumption of the Virgin the infl uence of neighbouring nations, Mary, which is the tallest in Slovakia have all left Slovakia with a rich cultural with the most clock faces. heritage: the Celtic settlements, Roman A visit to a Slovak museum or gallery fortresses, ancient Slavonic cult sites, promises many rare treasures. From chateaux and fortifi ed castles of the ancient archaeological excavation sites Hungarian nobility, medieval mining to Pop Art at the Andy Warhol Museum sites, renaissance and baroque palaces, of Modern Art in Medzilaborce, which Greek-Catholic and Orthodox wooden past. Th e oldest royal free town, which is the only museum of its kind in Eu- churches, Jewish synagogues and ceme- for centuries was also the main clerical rope, and the works of contemporary teries, the interwar functionalism and centre of the former Kingdom of Hun- artists. Th e four Slovak royal towns of socialist realism of developing towns, gary, is the town of Trnava, referred Kežmarok, Stará Ľubovňa, Bardejov also contemporary works refl ecting the to as “Little Rome” also thanks to its and Levoča embody their shared past latest trends. many beautiful churches. A rare historic and glory of medieval revival. Each is Th e traces of Slovak history lead to ci- wealth can be discovered in the 18 heri- home to countless cultural and histori- ties and towns where the entrance gate- tage conservation areas that produce cal monuments, and an ideal destina- ways, massive bulwarks, watchtowers an unforgettable atmosphere with their tion for a family holiday, while getting and preserved medieval architecture unique beauty, including Bratislava, to know the history and atmosphere of bear historic references to their distant the town of Trenčín, Žilina, Nitra, and the Middle Ages. the city of Central Slovakia – Banská Bystrica. In Košice is the most east- erly western-style Gothic cathedral in Europe, St. Elisabeth Cathedral, which is also the largest church in Slovakia. Košice is also the European Capital of Culture 2013. A stunning view of the town of Spišská Nová Ves and its sur-

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Treasures of the past

Majestic gems set impressively against castle is the meeting place for ghouls, with its imperial interior and extensive stunning natural scenery concealing witches and vampires from all over the library. the secrets of an ancient past. Castles, world. Orava Castle, the most visited You can also soak up the unique atmos- chateaux and their ruins have com- Slovak monument sitting atop a high phere of castles, chateaux and manor prised an integral part of Slovak history rock face above the Orava river, was houses on a night tour and at any regu- since time immemorial. Th ese former where the fi rst Dracula fi lm was lmedfi larly organised events. Many of these strongholds of famous noble lords that – Nosferatu. Stunning Betliar Manor enchanting places now also have ac- would resist the onslaughts of enemies House, representative hunting house commodation, and a full service for and witness key historic events, still in English-style grounds with artifi cial wedding receptions and other private have the atmosphere of glory, elegance cave and waterfall, will charm visitors functions. and romance. Th e diverse architecture and artistic styles refl ecting various historical epochs today guarantee visi- tors a memorable experience. Each has its own mystical stories to tell, and their own legends. One of the most beautiful and best- preserved castles is just a few tens of kilometres from Bratislava – Červený Kameň Castle, which thanks to its in- imitable charm is a popular fi lming lo- cation. Th e castle cellars are the most extensive underground areas in Central Europe. History lovers and incurable romantics will be in seventh heaven at the fairytale-like Bojnice Castle, which each year hosts the International Fes- tival of Ghosts and Spirits, when the

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UNESCO heritage monuments

Th e uniqueness of the most precious of Bardejov in the Sariš region, and in distinctive original wooden buildings, treasures from Slovak history has en- 2008 by the wooden churches of the Vlkolínec, lies surrounded by the gor- sured them a place in the UNESCO Carpathian arc, while the unique com- geous nature of the Liptov region, and World Heritage List. By 1993, three lo- plex of monuments from the Spiš region gives visitors the chance feel the magic of calities in Slovakia were listed – Spišský was boosted with the inscription of the marvellous traditions and unrepeatable hrad Castle and the surroundings, Ban- Town of Levoča to the list in 2009. history. Banská Štiavnica, situated at the ská Štiavnica and Vlkolínec. Th ey were Th e best preserved conservation reserve centre of an extinct volcano among the joined in 2000 by the historic Town of folk architecture in Slovakia, with Štiavnické vrchy mountains, is a magical

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Slovensko-EN.indd 10 11.4.2013 20:33:50 and mystical place that by its intimate Slovak woodcarver and sculptor, Master family-like atmosphere attracts visitors Pavol from Levoča, and is housed in the who have had enough of the noise of Church of St. Jacob in Levoča. Some of the city, for instance. Th e distinguish- the most interesting and important re- ing rectangular town square with stun- fl ections of the past in Slovakia can also ning Basilica minor of St. Egidius can be be seen in sacral architecture. In addition found in Slovakia’s most Gothic town, to fi ne examples in towns, visitors will Bardejov. Th e Spiš region is home to be enchanted by the many picturesque countless unique monuments, the most wooden churches mostly in rural East dominant historic feature undoubtedly Slovakia. Th e oldest is the Church of St. being Spišský hrad Castle, the largest Francis of Assisi in Hervartov, with its fortress ruin complex in Central Europe, stunning Gothic icons and wall murals. together with its surroundings. Th e tall- Th e preserved condition and uniqueness est wooden altar in the world, made from of these monuments surrounded by as- lime tree wood and standing 18.62 m tounding Slovak nature guarantees an tall, was the work of the most renowned unforgettable experience.

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Monuments of folk architecture

Th e life of our ancestors, their creativity looked like in the past. Th ese architec- A true rarity among monument reserves and art are presented in Slovakia prima- tonic treasures were made using simple of popular architecture is the delight- rily at open-air museums, with monu- tools, but with unbelievable technical ful village of Vlkolínec. Th e distinctive ment reserves of popular architecture. precision, artistic inventiveness and village of Čičmany will charm you with Th anks to these exceptional expositions, functionality. Visitors will be captivated its fairytale wooden houses with dis- today you can see unique elements of by the exceptional wooden log struc- tinctive white decorations, as will the traditional folk building methods and tures, wooden churches built without historic town of Banská Štiavnica with folk culture. Th ey provide a picture of nails, houses carved into rocks, and ex- its open-air Mining Museum. Th e Slo- what the dwellings of Slovak people traordinary underground galleries. vak Village Museum in Martin, which

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Slovensko-EN.indd 12 11.4.2013 20:34:01 gives an overall insight into traditional Bardejov, and the Vihorlat Museum in building culture and housing produced Humenné. Just about every region in throughout Slovakia, is the largest out- Slovakia can boast its own treasures of door ethnographic exposition of its folk tradition. Sites with folk architec- kind. When touring Slovakia, be sure ture are an ideal tip for an all-day excur- to visit the Orava Village Museum in sion or as a way to enrich your holiday Zuberec, the Liptov Village Museum in in Slovakia. Pribylina, the Kysuce Village Museum in Vychylovka, the Šariš Museum in Tips

• Meeting of melodeon players or the National festival of Fujara players in Čičmany

• Turčianske folklórne slávnosti Fest, Slovak Village Museum in Martin

• Podroháčske folklórne slávnosti Fest, Orava Village Museum in Zuberec

• St. Hubert’s Sunday, Liptov Village Museum in Pribylina

• Night at the Museum at the open- air exposition of Bardejov Spa

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Exceptional folklore and folk tradition

Since time immemorial, people in Slo- dance, distinct customs, or traditional Folklore music full of the inimitable vakia lived in harmony with nature, arts and crafts. tones of the ‘Fujara’, cimbalom and and with respect and humility for their Examples of the skills and artistic feel melodeon will get everyone on their predecessors, customs and traditions, of the Slovak nation can best be experi- feet. Th e Fujara, a striking musical in- from which the way of life, folk culture enced at folk architecture conservation strument that emits melancholic tones, and folklore evolved. Many unique tra- reserves, open-air expositions, folklore had its unique sound inscribed in the ditional customs have been preserved, and other festivals, and in smaller vil- UNESCO World Heritage list of oral and whether as folk architecture, song or lages such as: Kysuce, Orava, Liptov, intangible cultural heritage.

Horehronie, Spiš and Šariš. Visitors can admire the unique log architec- ture at heritage conservation reserves in Osturňa, Ždiar and Podbieľ, rock dwellings in Brhlovce, and typical wine- making buildings of Stará Hora in Sebe- chleby. A true and exceptional traditional at- mosphere can be soaked up at any of the colourful folklore festivals and cele- brations in Hrušov, Zuberec and Heľpa.

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Slovensko-EN.indd 14 11.4.2013 20:34:08 Folklore events are also a unique oppor- tival held in the second week in July in the summer there are the bonfi res of St. tunity to see traditional arts and crafts Kežmarok. John’s Eve, while Christmas, of course, such as wire-smithing, lace-making, A unique place in the culture of Slovaks is one of the most magical and richest basket weaving and pottery. Among is attributed to local forms of tradi- celebrations of tradition. the best events for seeing the works of tional dress called “kroj”, which are still Slovakia’s rich folk culture produces masters of traditional crafts and wit- captivating today with their diversity, a special and rare treasure that can nessing fi rst hand how they apply their vibrant colours and artistic handwork. only be experienced in such a way in trade, is the European Folk Crafts Fes- Many Slovak folk traditions and cus- Slovakia.

toms have survived to the present day, and each year they burst back into life all over Slovakia. For the beginning of the year, we have the characteristic Shrovetide carnival called “fašiangy”, a time of joy and feasting, at which you can witness the vibrant carnival procession full of inventive masks. It would not be Easter time without the traditional “šibačka” whipping of girls and then splashing them with water. In

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Fascinating nature

With its diversity, Slovak nature capti- the Tatra chamois. Th e attractive coun- of this national park Poloniny in East vates every visitor who comes here and tryside of plateaux, gullies and water- Slovakia is the unique mountain ridge discovers its stunning and unique nooks falls is protected by the Slovenský raj meadows called “poloniny”, which is and crannies. It not only boasts the National Park. Th e wild mountain coun- where it gets its name. Here we can also smallest mountain range in the world, tryside of the Muránska planina Na- fi nd exceptional UNESCO listed prime- the most expansive karst territory in tional Park with rich range of protected val Carpathian beech forests. An inter- Central Europe, and primeval virgin fo- species of fl ora and fauna can be seen esting feature is the “Poloniny dark sky rests, but also off ers all kinds of fascinat- from the back of a special breed of horse, park”, which is the darkest place in Slo- ing and special experiences by a visit to the Hucul. Th e largest karst territory in vakia in terms of light pollution. any of the country’s nine national parks. Central Europe is in Slovenský kras Na- Th e therapeutic serenity and enchant- Th e symbols of the oldest, Tatranský tional Park, with over 1000 caves and ing atmosphere of romantic spots, un- národný park (Tatra National Park), ravines, some UNESCO listed. Visitors disturbed by the bustle of the city, still which since 1993 has been classed as can enjoy the stunning natural scenery off er a true escape from the worries of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, are the of the smallest park while rafting along everyday life, and give nature lovers the beautiful mountain fl ower, the Edel- the river Dunajec, which marks the perfect getaway for relaxing and recu- weiss and one of the rarest endemites, Polish-Slovak border. A typical feature perating new strength.

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Subterranean treasures

Few countries are blessed with such rope. Its subterranean chambers are a large volume of diverse underground adorned with crystals of aragonite, Caves open to the public karst formations as Slovakia. Th ere formed in some places into the shape are over 6 200 known caves, eight of of fragile corals and snow white shru- Belianska jaskyňa which can be visited. Th ey include the blets. In Domica we fi nd the largest Bystrianska jaskyňa most signifi cant and most precious, known cave of the Slovak Karst, where Demänovská jaskyňa slobody the UNESCO listed caves of the Sloven- you can experience a trip on little boats Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa ský kras (Slovak Karst) and Dobšinská down the River Styx. Slovak caves give Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa ľadová jaskyňa (Dobšina Ice Cave). visitors the chance to experience some- Jaskyňa Domica Of special value is the Ochtinská ara- thing diff erent and to discover the Jaskyňa Driny goni tová jaskyňa (Ochtiná Aragonite treasures of the mysterious karst un- Gombasecká jaskyňa Cave), the only cave of its kind in Eu- derworld. Harmanecká jaskyňa Jasovská jaskyňa Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa Važecká jaskyňa

Restricted access caves Bojnická hradná jaskyňa Jaskyňa mŕtvych netopierov (Th e Dead Bats´Cave) Jaskyňa Zlá diera Krásnohorská jaskyňa Malá Stanišovská jaskyňa Prepoštská jaskyňa – primeval museum

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Slovensko-EN.indd 18 11.4.2013 20:34:27 Relax and have fun in the water

Water can be referred to as Slova- kia’s greatest treasure. Th e country is home to some of the most substantial natural stocks of fresh drinking wa- ter in the world. Th is is mostly thanks to the largest river island in Europe – Žitný ostrov, in the south of Slovakia. In addition to giving life vitality, water in Slovakia also provides great fun and pleasant relaxation. Th e beauty of the wild mountain tribu- taries and crystal clear icy tarns bless your stay in the mountains, while bath- ing in natural lakes, dams, rivers and pools will refresh you on a hot summer day. Some of the attractions include a raft trip down the river Dunajec, or on the rivers Váh or Orava on wooden rafts, often accompanied by a special programme and tasting of local culinary specialities. White water rafting is also a great thrill on the rivers Belá, Dunajec and Hron. Modern thermal swimming baths and a truly exceptional experience. Water aqua parks provide an oasis of relaxa- areas also have many opportunities for tion not just in the summer, but also sports, and they host many cultural in the winter, when bathing below the and sporting events throughout the snow-capped mountain peaks off ers summer.

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Health from nature

Slovakia is a country blessed with un- Turčianske Teplice spa will spoil you with derground wealth, as the healing power its unique procedure, the Golden cure. and benefi cial eff ects on the human or- Two spas are unique in Europe. Firstly, ganism bubble up to the surface from in Sklené Teplice is the spelaean steam mineral springs. Th anks to their curative pool, appropriately named “Parenica”, power to treat disease and revive health, then in Trenčianske Teplice is the Ham- they have been regarded as miraculous mam Turkish baths. Th e exceptionally and remarkable since time immemorial. clean mountain air of the Vysoké Tatry Th e therapeutic spas in Slovakia are (High Tatra mountains), which are home among the oldest and best quality in to several climatic spas, help the treat- Central Europe. Possibly the best known ment of respiratory diseases in adult and spa resort is Piešťany, which became child patients alike. renowned not only for its unique ther- Th e unique atmosphere of Slovak spa mal mineral waters, but also for its towns is complemented by their at- therapeutic sulphuric mud. Rajecké tractive surroundings and opportuni- Teplice enchants all its visitors with its ties for active leisure time and cultural exclusive antiquated atmosphere, while experiences.

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Cycling through Slovakia

One of the most attractive cycling routes is the long-distance cycling trail “Across Slovakia by bike”. Along the route, visitors will see many unique monuments and natural wonders. Th e route leads from the lowlands around the River Danube, along the vineyards of the Malé Karpaty mountains (Lit- tle Carpathians), through the scenic regions of Považie and Kysuce, the mountain regions of Orava and Lip- Set in the lap of Slovak nature, which tov, then below the Nízke Tatry (Low off ers a rich array of fascinating experi- Tatras) and Vysoké Tatry (High Tat- Across Slovakia ences, enthusiasts of active and healthy ras) mountain ranges to Poprad, or (bike trails) relaxation can enjoy the breathtaking straight on to Slovenský raj National rock massifs, canyons and ravines, mag- Park. Th e route around 750 km and is Dunajská cyklistická cesta ical mountain valleys, amazing caves of made up of long-distance marked cyc- Hornádska cyklomagistrála world signifi cance, meandering streams ling trails, which off er many oppor- Kysucká cyklomagistrála and cascading waterfalls, rare fauna and tunities for discovering those special Liptovská cyklomagistrála fl ora and so much more, from the sad- spots in Slovakia from the comfort of Malokarpatská cyklomagistrála dle of one of the most ecological means your bike, and by using regional cyc- Moravská cyklistická cesta of transport, a bicycle. ling trails. Oravská cyklomagistrála In addition to astonishing natural beau- Th ose who enjoy an adrenalin rush Popradská cyklomagistrála ties, cyclists in Slovakia will discover all can try freeride or downhill courses at Vážska cyklomagistrála kinds of unique cultural heritage as me- bike parks in the Nízke Tatry and Vy- dieval towns, romantic castles, chateaux soké Tatry mountain ranges, Bachle- and ruins, glorious manor houses and dova dolina valley, Malinô Brdo and www.vitajtecyklisti.sk exceptional archaeological fi ndings. Oščadnica.

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Slovensko-EN.indd 22 11.4.2013 20:34:45 Active leisure

Th e natural environment of Slovakia planina and Slovenský kras, Jánošíkove Adrenalin sport lovers will appreciate off ers those who enjoy active holidays diery in the Malá Fatra mountain the captivating scenery of picturesque many ways to enjoy free time or sport. range, virgin primeval forests in Polo- Slovakia from an air balloon, hang- Whether mountain hiking, rock climb- niny, or conquer one of the peaks of glider or by parachute. Water sports ing, adrenalin sports, exhilarating fun Slovakia’s highest mountain range, enthusiasts can test their skills on in the water or in the air, anyone who but the world’s smallest, Vysoké Tatry, the white waters of Čunovo or in Lip- loves activity, adventure and active re- with 25 peaks over 2 500 m. Every pas- tovský Mikuláš. Golfers can improve laxation will be spoilt for choice. sionate tourist will also appreciate the their swing, accuracy and patience at Visitors can discover hidden gems of exciting experiences of Slovakia’s most perfectly tended golf courses set in Slovak regions on over 14 000 km of beautiful, second highest mountain beautiful surroundings near towns and marked hiking trails, or on over 10 000 range, Nízke Tatry, spanning almost mountain resorts. km of marked bike trails. Admire im- 100 km, or from a tour in the great hik- One thing is for sure, all fans of ac- pressive canyons, waterfalls, gullies and ing environment of the Chočské vrchy, tive leisure and a healthy lifestyle can rock faces of Slovenský raj, the unique Strážovské vrchy or Súľovské vrchy satisfy their desires and dreams when karst formations of the Muránska highlands. spending a holiday in Slovakia.

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Winter sports paradise

Ski runs for all ability levels, stunning skiers. Ski-alpinists can test their limits snow equipment, with the option of runs for snowboarding enthusiasts, on the demanding winter terrain, away evening skiing. Th e best resorts also majestic mountain slopes for winter from the crowded pistes surrounded have many restaurants, aprés ski bars hiking, in combination with the scenery by the mountain silence, where they and fun attractions, with regular inter- of the snow-capped mountain peaks, can ski on virgin snow. In addition to esting events. One of the most popular everything to be found in the Slovak organised ski runs, Slovak ski resorts winter sports is dog sled races, as Slova- mountains in the winter. Whether it also have cross-country trails, snow- kia provides perfect conditions for the is the Vysoké or Nízke Tatry, or Malá board areas, ski schools for young and sport. Th e mountain village of Turecká Fatra and Veľká Fatra mountain ranges, old, and ski equipment rental. If ski- is the regular venue for the Krňačkové they have large modern tourist resorts, ing is not for you, try one of the many preteky races, where visitors can ride and smaller quaint areas with a charm- adrenalin attractions, like snowtubing, in a traditional wooden sleigh, and so ing atmosphere ideal for beginners, kitewing, toboggan and sledge runs, turn simple sledging into an exhilarat- families with children or recreational or skating. Most resorts have artifi cial ing experience.

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Slovensko-EN.indd 24 11.4.2013 20:34:52 Interesting events

Visitors to Slovakia will be spoilt for art and folklore. A haunting atmos- choice with the many unique regular phere and good fun is guaranteed if sporting, cultural and folklore events, you go to the International Festival of for instance, which guarantee an un- Ghosts and Spirits at Slovakia’s most forgettable atmosphere. picturesque castle, Bojnice. If you Each year the Slovak capital – Bratis- would prefer good humour and satire lava is host to the Coronation Cele- from some of the top drama, caba- brations, which show life in medieval ret and music acts from home and times with kings and queens, nobili- abroad, the unique Kremnické gagy ty, troubadours and thousands of festival is for you. Th e ÚĽUV Crafts- onlookers. For a presentation of top men Days in Bratislava is one of the musical composition from home and largest and most important events abroad, there is no better choice than in Slovakia focusing on traditional the most prestigious international arts and crafts. Top artisans demon- festival in Slovakia – Bratislava Mu- strate their traditional artistic skills sic Festival (BHS). When it comes to directly on site, and visitors can buy open-air summer music festivals, the their handcrafted wares. If you are Bažant Pohoda festival in Trenčín is an avid theatregoer, you will fi nd the the largest in Slovakia. Th e Art Film Zámocké hry zvolenské (Zvolen Cas- Fest in Trenčianske Teplice is among tle Games), which take place in the the most signifi cant fi lm events in unique atmosphere of the histori- Central Europe. For a display of the cal courtyard of the castle. When it folk music and customs of individual comes to regular top sporting events regions, go to any of the many folk- in Slovakia, one of the most promi- lore festivals. Th e largest of these nent is the International Peace Mara- festivals are held in Východná, My- thon, which has taken place in Košice java, Terchová and Detva, where you since 1924, making it the oldest mara- will be immersed in traditional folk thon in Europe.

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Traditional taste of Slovakia

Apart from the rich choice of cultural at- served in a bowl made from a large bread best topped off with a fi ne Slovak wine from tractions, historic monuments and wealth roll called a “bosniak”, or the ever popular any of the Slovak wine regions, from the of sporting and social possibilities, Slovakia sauerkraut soup with smoked meat, sau- Tokaj region in East Slovakia to the Small is well qualifi ed to also satisfy the most de- sage and mushrooms. To end on a sweet Carpathian winemaking region in the west. manding culinary connoisseur. Traditional note, try the fi rst Slovak product with pro- Slovak cuisine will appeal especially to lov- tected origin, the Skalica Trdelník. A great ers of cheeses and dairy products. Th e most gastronomic experience awaits you at Gastronomic tips typical Slovak national dish is “bryndzové goose feast time, celebrated most strongly halušky so slaninou” (Bryndza gnocchi in the village of Slovenský Grob. Tasty Slo- • Slovak food festival Bratislava with diced bacon), which can be comple- vak specialities in the typical atmosphere • Grilliada Banská Bystrica mented with a carved wooden mug of thick of a wooden “koliba” or “salaš”, the ideal • Gurmán Fest Bratislava “žinčica” (fermented sheep whey, like sour place to combine a culinary experience with • Gurmán Fest Košice buttermilk). Many other Slovak foods are enchanting surroundings. Quality food is • Trdlofest Skalica well worth trying, of course, like lard with not only served up at these traditional es- • World championship in cooking onions on bread, homemade smoked and tablishments, which off er excellent regional and eating Bryndza halušky in non-smoked cheeses, and so on. Visitors specialties, but also in modern fi rst class Turecká and Terchová should try some typical bean or garlic soup restaurants of course. A culinary feast is Wine routes

Malokarpatská vínna cesta Nitrianska kráľovská vínna cesta Tokajská vínna cesta Hontianska vínna cesta Požitavská vínna cesta Vínna cesta Záhorie

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Head Office Foreign Offices

Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Czech Republic Poland (Slovak Tourist Board) Slovenská agentura pro cestovní ruch Narodowe Centrum Turystyki Słowackiej Dr. V. Clementisa 10 Klára Badinková Ján Bošnovič 821 02 Bratislava Jilská 16 ul. Krakowskie Przedmieście 47/51 Slovenská republika 110 00 Praha 1 00-071 Warszawa Tel.: +421 2 50 700 801 Česká republika Polska Fax: +421 2 55 571 654 Tel.: +420 224 946 082 Tel.: +48 22 827 00 09 E-mail: [email protected] Mob.: +420 776 765 477 Mob.: +48 606 236 044 www.sacr.sk, www.slovakia.travel E-mail: offi [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected]

Hungary Austria Office Banská Bystrica Szlovák Idegenforgalmi Hivatal Slowakische Zentrale für Tourismus Soňa Jelínková Daniel Lukáč Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Rákoczi út 15 Handelskai 265 Námestie Ľ. Štúra 1, P. O. Box 35 H 1088 Budapest A - 1020 Wien 974 05 Banská Bystrica Magyarország Österreich Slovenská republika Tel.: +36 1 429 00 49 Tel.: +43 1 513 95 69 Tel.: +421 48 413 61 46 Mob.: +36 30 434 13 68 Mob.: +43 650 911 40 90 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected]

Germany Russian Federation Slowakische Zentrale für Tourismus Predstaviteľstvo Slovackovo Ingrid Sorat Upravlenija po Turizmu Hildebrandstr. 25 Ľubica Alušicová D - 10785 Berlin Posolstvo Slovackoj Respubliky Deutschland Ul. J. Fučíka 17-19, 123 056 Moskva Tel.: +49 30 259 426 40 Rossijskaja Federacija Fax: +49 30 259 426 41 Tel.: +7 499 251 76 31 E-mail: offi [email protected] E-mail: offi [email protected]

Issued: 3/2013 Autor: Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Text: Slovenská agentúra pre cestovný ruch Images: archív SACR, L. Struhár, B. Schreiber, M. Črep, A. Jiroušek, M. Eliáš, R. Buga, TMR, SPA Piešťany, SPA Turčianske Teplice, D. Bugár, A. Vojček, Bratislava, M. Dibák Design and Print: Slovenská Grafia, a.s., Bratislava Project Coordinator: Cortes, Smith & Co. Slovakia, s.r.o., Bratislava

EUROPEAN UNION

This material was co-financed by the European Communities via the Operational Programme – Competitiveness and Economic Growth.

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Slovensko-EN.indd 27 11.4.2013 20:35:03 EUROPEAN UNION This brochure is not for sale.

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