We’ll start in Slovak Paradise—where else?
Slovak Paradise is truly a paradise. For tourists, for adventurers, for lovers of views... there’s simply something for everyone. Sometimes you feel like you’ve already been to every corner, and then you realize you’ve barely scratched the surface.
Where to stay?
Feel free to stay right in the heart of Slovak Paradise. You can find all available accommodations on our interactive map.
- Chalets Dedinky offers stylish apartment accommodations right in this village.
- In both winter and summer, you can stay comfortably at Penzión Pod Gulagom in the village of Mlynky.
- If you’re traveling with your four-legged friends, you’ll find lovely accommodations in the village of Hrabušice at Chata Konzajf.
- Just a short distance from Smižany are Wellness Hotel Čingov and Chata Čingov.
- At the junction of three national parks, you can take advantage of the services of Holiday Resort Telgárt.
What shouldn’t you miss?
- Havrania skala – there is no shortage of views in Slovak Paradise, but we certainly can’t agree on a single best one. You’ll find one of them at the top of Havrania skala.
- Stratený Canyon – the narrowest part of the Stratená Valley. An easy hike, suitable for wheelchair users or hikers who just want to take a leisurely stroll through nature.
- The intermittent spring in Stratená – we won’t recommend it as a sure thing, but once the reservoir is full, water begins to flow from the spring. This happens irregularly. If you’re lucky, be sure to take a photo.
- Klauzy – although swimming is not allowed in this reservoir, it’s definitely a pleasant stop on some of the trails in Slovak Paradise.
- Lake Bajzloch – although it is man-made, that doesn’t change the fact that you can stop by, relax for a moment, and take a few beautiful photos.
Tips for Side Trips
- Tunnel under Homôlka – although not located directly in Slovak Paradise, this unfinished tunnel on the route from Revúca to Slavošovce is worth a detour.
- Palcmanská Máša Reservoir – the largest body of water in Slovak Paradise.
- Medieval Cage of Shame – on Master Paul’s Square in the historic center of Levoča, you’ll find a 16th-century monument.
- The Count’s Ice House in Vlachovo – a remnant of the vast grounds of the former manor house. The Andrássy family’s ice house has also been preserved—a place where the meat of hunted animals was cooled.
- The Chmarošský Viaduct in Telgárt – we don’t need to write much about this iconic spot; be sure to stop by.
And what about the area around Košice?
We’ve all probably walked through the historic center of the “capital” of the east at least once. If not, we recommend it. But what does the area around this city have to offer?
Where to stay?
You can certainly stay in the center of Košice. However, we’ve also selected options in the surrounding area; again, you can use our interactive map to choose your accommodation.
- The Biela dáma a Čierny rytier in Kluknava offers medieval romance.
- We continue in the spirit of a romantic stay at the Majerovský kaštieľ.
- Near Zemplínska Šírava, you’ll find Chata Sivá and Chata Zelená.
- In Košická Belá, you can stay at Penzión Sivec.
- Hotel Bankov**** is located in Košice’s forest park, just a short walk from the historic center.
What should you not miss?
- The Herľany Geyser is located in the Herľany-Rankovce spa complex and was, for a time, the only cold geyser in Europe. It “erupts” once every 3–5 days.
- Lake Izra is located in the village of Slanská Huta, less than 50 kilometers from Košice. During the summer, you can swim here at your own risk and grab a bite to eat.
- Opátka - hiking doesn’t have to be limited to the city; the village of Opátka can be a beautiful starting point for trips to the Slovak Ore Mountains.
- Jasovská Cave – a pleasant, nearly 10-degree refreshment in the form of a cave near Košice will certainly come in handy. Even the 353 steps that await you.
Tips for shorter detours
- Štós Spa – if you’re in the mood for some relaxation, the spa offers both weekend and spa stays.
- Obišovský Castle – though only ruins remain, it’s perfect for a day trip.
- Bogota can also be found in Slovakia. It is a geomorphological sub-unit, and its highest peak bears the same name.
- Bukovec Reservoir – what could be better than swimming in the summer?
- Šimonka – the highest peak of the Slanské vrchy Mountains. In good weather, you can see all the way to Kráľová hoľa.
Bardejov isn’t just about the spa
But you’ll definitely feel the spa atmosphere. Northeastern Slovakia may be a bit quieter, but it’s worth exploring.
Where to stay?
- In Bardejov, you can enjoy cozy accommodations at Pension Zunama.
- Apart Club Zora near Zemplínska Šírava is ideal for anyone who wants to combine summer with relaxation by the water.
- If you prefer a slightly different type of travel, Karavany Bardejov offers the chance to set out on a trip entirely at your own pace.
- Hotel Zelená Lagúna near Domaša is one of those places where you can simply relax without a packed itinerary.
- Right in the historic center of Prešov, you can stay at Penzión Hradby.
What shouldn’t you miss?
- The Museum of Emigration from Slovakia to North America is one of the region’s lesser-known sites, yet its stories carry a powerful atmosphere. It chronicles the fates of people who left the northeast in search of a new life across the ocean.
- The Andy Warhol Memorial Room in Miková commemorates the roots of one of the most famous figures of pop art. If you’re drawn to off-the-beaten-path stops with a story, we recommend adding this place to your itinerary.
- The military bunkers in Vyšný Komárnik are scattered throughout the countryside near the border and still serve as a reminder of the wartime history of northeastern Slovakia. The atmosphere here is completely different from that of typical tourist stops.
- The Cigeľka mineral spring is one of those places that seem a bit forgotten, but that is precisely what gives them their charm.
- The Regetov peat bog reveals a completely different side of northeastern Slovakia. The nature trail winds through peaceful countryside and is among the region’s lesser-known spots.
- The Wine Museum in Prešov will delight anyone who loves the history of winemaking and pleasant city stops away from the main hustle and bustle.
Tips for smaller detours
- Kapušiansky Castle – ruins with views of the surrounding area that still aren’t among the most popular tourist spots.
- Museum of Ukrainian Culture in Svidník – a place where you can better explore the culture and traditions of northeastern Slovakia.
- Svidník Military History Museum – technology, military history, and the region’s compelling stories.
- Flooded Quarry – a pleasant stop on warmer days, known more to locals than tourists; however, swimming is at your own risk.
- Jarabinský Gorge – an unassuming spot with water, rocks, and a peaceful atmosphere off the beaten path.
