1. Enjoy Slovakia
Incentives
Destination Management Company

2. Contents
Welcome to Slovakia...............3
Fact File ...................................4
Getting there and around.........4
5+1 Reasons to hold your
incentive event in Slovakia…..5
Bratislava.................................6
Excursions ................................8
Team Building.........................10
Entertainment ........................11
Bratislava Venues .................... 12
Incentive Travel Bratislava Hotels ..................... 14
Meetings and Events The Tatra Mountain Region ...16
Conferences Excursions ..............................18
Special Interest Group Travel Active & Adventure.................20
Entertainment ........................21
ENJOY SLOVAKIA DMC s.r.o. Tatra Venues............................ 21
Kollárova 16
Tatra Hotels ............................. 22
902 01 Pezinok
SLOVAKIA
call: +421 33 640 90 26
fax: +421 33 640 90 29
e-mail: incentives@enjoyslovakia.com
www.enjoyslovakia.com
Enjoy Slovakia DMC is the Ovation Strategic Partner for Slovakia
Written by: Maroš Borský
Photography: Martin Sloboda,
Robert Vrlák, Slovak Tourist Board,
Bratislava Municipality, Airport Bratislava,
Juraj Novotný, Orange Slovensko a.s.,
Karol Ličko, Tatranské lanové dráhy a.s.,
Jasná Nízke Tatry a.s., Grand Castle,
Braňo Molnár, Promoland, Kulturfabrik,
Petr Hyppman, Maroš Borský and others
Design: DuoMedia, www.duomedia.sk
© Enjoy Slovakia DMC s.r.o.
All rights reserved

3. Welcome
to Slovakia
Ladies and gentlemen, colleagues and friends
If you're seeking a new destination for meetings and Our inventive, high-value products, organized with
incentive groups, then Slovakia is the right choice. attention to detail, are the keys to our success. We
You're certainly looking for somewhere little known maintain good relations with local quality suppli-
but attractive, so your guests and customers can ex- ers and work with excellent hotels and other venues
plore rich heritage and delight in an unspoiled land- that provide the highest standard of service. In Enjoy
scape. Tasting new food and discovering new wines Slovakia DMC you will find a strong and reliable part-
will also be an unforgettable experience. The ultimate ner committed to upholding the strict standards of
goal of sophisticated travel is not just to relax, but to business practice.
open up to inspiring and stimulating new horizons. This catalogue presents a wide range of opportunities
Slovakia affords an outstanding opportunity to es- for meetings and incentive groups, centered in two
cape from the routine of daily life and work. major geographic hubs: the Slovak capital, Bratislava,
Enjoy Slovakia DMC is an experienced Slovak and the Tatra Mountains. We feature our successful
Destination Management Company that ensures sat- cultural and landscape excursions, adventure prod-
isfaction to you and your customers. We founded our ucts, innovative team-building activities, and themed
company in 2003 after years of experience in tourism, evenings. The presentation of attractive venues and
marketing and the business world in general. Today top hotels will provide you broader insight into what
we are a rapidly expanding and creative DMC whose we – and our country – can offer.
enthusiastic and professional team seeks solutions So, please be our guest – and Enjoy Slovakia!
tailored to meet the demands of our clients.

4. Fact File
Getting there
By air
Bratislava
Bratislava Airport is one of the fastest
growing airports in Europe. Until a few
years ago it only handled seasonal char- By the Danube
ters and connecting flights to Prague. In summer, hydrofoils to Bratislava run
Today, however, Bratislava is a dynamic from Vienna and Budapest. Official name: Slovenská republika
hub for national and international con- [Slovak Republic]
nections.
Population: 5.4 million
Vienna By rail and road inhabitants
Just 30 minutes by car from down- Bratislava, the Slovak capital, is Slovakia’s
main rail hub, with direct, frequent train Capital: Bratislava (462,000
town Bratislava and served by major in- inhabitants)
ternational airlines, Vienna Airport at service to and from Vienna, Budapest
Schwechat is a favorite port of entry that and Prague. By car or coach, Slovakia is Language: Slovak, but many
serves the two closest national capitals in easily reached from neighboring coun- people, and
Europe. tries by motorway and secondary roads. particularly young
people, speak English
Poprad or German
Poprad airport, in northern Slovakia, lies
within an hour’s drive of Slovakia’s main
Getting around Currency: Euro (EUR)
mountain and winter sports resorts and Slovakia has an extensive rail and road Time: GMT + 1 hour (GMT
increasingly serves as the principal gate- network. Several comfortable Intercity (IC) + 2 hours during
way to the High and Low Tatra regions. trains commute daily between Bratislava, daylight savings time)
Liptovský Mikuláš, Poprad and Košice,
Košice and most towns and many villages are Visa: Slovakia is a member
on local rail lines. The Slovak motorway of the Schengen
Served by regular flights from Bratislava, zone.
system is constantly being expanded,
Prague and Vienna, Košice is the east- For a detailed list of
and within a few years the east and west
ernmost international airport in Slovakia countries and visa
of the country will be well connected by
and affords convenient access to all cor- requirements see
modern four-lane highways. In addition,
ners of Eastern Slovakia.
there are regular domestic flights be- www.foreign.gov.sk
tween Bratislava and Košice.
4 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

5. 5+1 Reasons to hold your
incentive event in Slovakia
1. It’s somewhere you’ve never 4. You can trip over the
been before multitude of outstanding Enjoy incentive
cultural treasures
Really − Slovakia is Europe’s best kept se-
cret. Though it’s a conveniently located,
fast-growing destination, you will still
For a country of its size, Slovakia’s cultur-
in Slovakia
al patrimony is immense. It includes hun-
find Slovakia a country that has not be- The aim of an incentive event is to
dreds of castles, palaces, and churches
come overcrowded and commercialized, dating back many centuries − more than provide an active group experience
and one that still prides itself on genuine 300 castles alone! There are picturesque that enables participants to escape
authenticity and openhearted hospitality. medieval towns galore, plus well pre- the stress of everyday work, get to
served examples of wooden folk archi- know their colleagues better, and
2. The people are warm and tecture − and even a museum devoted build a strong professional team.
to pop icon Andy Warhol. Four unique
welcoming (and, dare we say sites in particular have been placed Conference events focus on an ex-
it, good-looking) on the UNESCO list of World Cultural change of knowledge and ideas
The Slovaks really do offer visitors time- Heritage: the majestic Spiš Castle and its among a specific professional com-
honored Slavic hospitality. This is not a environs, the medieval towns of Bardejov munity and also provide partici-
tourist industry cliché! They may seem and Banská Štiavnica, and the village of pants with the opportunity to meet
shy at first, but once you break the ice, Vlkolínec, a unique complex of folk-style
new people, network, and encoun-
local people of all walks of life readily timber buildings.
ter a new culture. Our experience
open their hearts to new friends. They
are eager to show off their culture and has taught us that, given the facil-
5. The food and drink are out ities, the ideal size of a group for
share their love of their country.
of this world these kinds of events in Slovakia is
As befits a country in the heart of central about one hundred persons.
3. The countryside is Europe, Slovak cuisine reflects a flavor-
brimming with unspoiled ful mixture of influences from neighbor- Slovakia has all the preconditions
natural beauty ing Austria, Poland, Hungary, the Czech to make your incentive event a real
Republic and Ukraine. The Bratislava re- success. Thanks to international air-
Slovakia packs a surprising variety of
gion is famed for its meat dishes in sa-
natural wonders in a conveniently com- ports with good flight connections
vory sauces, and hearty potato dishes
pact area. The most spectacular scen- and excellent road and railway net-
and small dumplings served with sheep
ery is found in the High Tatra, Low Tatra, works, the country is easily acces-
cheese and bacon are favorites from the
Little Fatra, Pieniny and Slovak Paradise
National Parks. But other parts of the
mountains. Local restaurants, of course, sible. Top-class hotels and superior
also feature excellent Mediterranean and restaurants provide quality servic-
country are also stunning. Many pre-
international cuisine. And don’t forget to es. With its wealth of cultural mon-
fer the uplands of the hilly central re-
sample the superb wines from the Small
gion, where rushing rivers wind through uments, historical cities, national
Carpathian region and eastern Slovakia’s
lush, forested valleys. The country is also parks and entertainment opportu-
famous Tokai!
kai!
studded with beautiful caves, twelve of
nities, Slovakia makes a perfect des-
which are open to the public. Most are
located in the mountainous heartland, tination for incentive events or con-
and five have been put on the UNESCO ference tourism.
list of World Natural Heritage.
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 5

6. Bratislava
With its wealth of cultural attrac- Located at the point where the Carpathians
tions and gourmet restaurants, meet the Danube and dominated by a
Main selling points
1. Bratislava's history
and given its good flight con- looming hilltop castle, Bratislava has a
In more than 2,000 years of history,
nections and hotel facilities, the long and tumultuous history. For cen- Bratislava came under Celtic, Roman,
Slovak capital is the perfect city turies it was the capital of Hungary, and Germanic and Slavic rule, and for more
than two centuries it was Hungary’s
to host a meeting or incentive many of the Old Town’s most splendid
royal capital and coronation site. All
event. Overshadowed for decades palaces were the residences of Hungarian these influences – and more – have left
by nearby Prague and Vienna, noble families. Between 1563 and 1830, their mark on the modern Slovak capi-
tal. Communist rule also changed the
Bratislava has truly come alive eleven Hungarian kings and eight royal face of the city, and today Baroque ar-
in recent years. Its jewel-like Old consorts were crowned in the Old Town’s chitecture rubs elbows with the some-
times jarring relics of the post-World
Town is a charming and beautiful- St. Martin’s Cathedral. The city boasted a
War II Communist era.
ly restored complex of narrow cob- typically cosmopolitan Central European
2. Gastronomy
bled streets, spacious squares and mix of cultures, too. German, Hungarian
The local gastronomic tradition is a cos-
pastel-colored Baroque palaces. and Slovak were all spoken by local resi- mopolitan blend of Slovak, Hungarian,
Moravian and Viennese cuisines, and
Slovak wines can be excellent. The Old
Town boasts a growing number of
top-quality restaurants serving inter-
national and local cuisine. In the sum-
mer, cafés, bars and restaurants spill
out into the streets and squares.
3. It’s a compact and friendly city
Bratislava’s Old Town is extraordinari-
ly “user friendly”. Its Central European
charm, lively but laid-back atmo-
sphere, compact size and dozens of
outdoor cafés and restaurants make it
an ideal destination for weekend get-
aways.
4. City of incentive tourism
Bratislava can be easily accessed via
two international airports, frequent IC
train connections, and the motorway.
Numerous top-class hotels, gourmet
restaurants and other quality suppliers
guarantee the success of an incentive
event organized here.
6 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

7. Bratislava sample itinerary
Day 1 ket and enticing cafés. In the after- one of the most highly fortified cas-
Arrival at Bratislava/Vienna International noon, have fun rafting in the artificial tles in the Carpathians. Enjoy lunch at
Airport and transfer to the hotel by pri- channel at Čuňovo and unwind at the a typical regional restaurant and sam-
vate coach. Welcome dinner at the hotel Danubiana, a scenic site with an exhi- ple some of the best vintages from
and evening program. bition of modern art. Later, enjoy an Small Carpathian wine cellars. Return
evening extravaganza with a Danube to Bratislava and enjoy leisure time to
Day 2 cruise, including dinner and live musical relax. The Gala dinner that night will
In the morning explore Bratislava's entertainment. be the social highlight of the stay in
historic Old Town during a fascinat- Bratislava.
ing Royal Bratislava walking tour. The Day 3
route includes the Gothic St. Martin’s After breakfast leave the hotel for an Day 4
Cathedral and the Primate’s Palace, excursion along the Small Carpathian In the morning transfer to Bratislava/
the neo-Classical residence of the Wine Trail, which includes a visit to the Vienna International Airport for a
Archbishop of Esztergom. Relax in the famous Modra pottery factory and the homebound flight.
quaint Main Square, with its craft mar- Renaissance Červený Kameň Castle,
dents – and the city went by three names: and folk concerts throughout the year as perience and enjoy! Numerous new
Bratislava in Slovak, Pressburg in German, well. The city boasts a score of museums gourmet restaurants serving Slovak and
and Pozsony in Hungarian. There was also and galleries that range from the Slovak international specialties have appeared,
a substantial Jewish population. National Gallery, with its excellent collec- some of them located in painstakingly
Musical traditions were strong here, and tion of Gothic art from remote Carpathian restored Baroque palaces and medieval
many Old Town palaces bear plaques churches, to many specialized collections houses. The hotels have seen real prog-
noting where Mozart, Liszt, Haydn, Bartók, focusing on such varied topics as histori- ress, too; older hotels have been fully re-
Rubinstein and other famed compos- cal weapons, feudal justice, winemaking, furbished and now compete with newly
ers and artists lived or performed. The antique clocks and Jewish history and opened accommodation venues. There
nineteenth century composer Johann culture. is also much to do in the area outside of
Nepomuk Hummel was born here, and Bratislava has undergone a dramatic Bratislava. You can choose from numer-
a memorial museum now occupies his transformation into a lively cosmopolitan ous activities, some of which we present
childhood home. Fine classical musical city in recent years. No longer an insignifi- on the following pages.
traditions still live on, and Bratislava today cant stopover that many people passed
has an excellent opera and philharmon- by on their way from Prague to Budapest,
ic hall – but there are plenty of rock, jazz the Slovak capital today is a place to ex-
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 7

8. Excursions
preserved underground Chatam Sofer
Communist Bratislava
Half-day The Communist regime collapsed in
memorial mausoleum and learn about
this fascinating chapter of Bratislava his-
1989, but it left a distinctive and linger- tory. A visit to the Museum of Jewish
ing stamp on the face of the city. The Culture will open other windows into
Royal Bratislava tour will be an eye-opening and educa- this richly textured world.
Bratislava is the ancient coronation town tional lesson for those who did not ex-
of the historic Hungarian Kingdom, where perience life under this political system.
between 1563 and 1830 eleven kings Visits to the Soviet military cemetery and A Vintage Tram Ride
and eight royal wives were crowned. The memorial on Slavín Hill and to Petržalka, The history of tram transportation in
Royal Bratislava walking tour, designed to one of the largest Communist housing Bratislava dates back to 1895. Embark
place the city's history in its European con- estates in Europe, will provide an un- on the vintage tram near the Carlton
text, follows the traditional route of the forgettable encounter with East-Central Hotel, at the spot from which the tram
coronation procession, visiting Gothic St. European Communist heritage. commuted all the way to Vienna until
Martin's Cathedral and other Habsburg World War II, and explore the city from a
heritage sites. The highlight will be the painstakingly restored historic vehicle of
neo-Classical Primate’s Palace, where Jewish Bratislava the Bratislava Transportation Company.
in 1805 the Pressburg Peace treaty be- The tour can be combined with an Old
Ancient Pressburg was for centuries one
tween France and Austria was signed – Town walking tour.
of the most prominent centers of Jewish
the Palace is famous for its collection of
learning in Europe. Join us for a tour that
English tapestries.
literally descends into the miraculously
Devín Castle and Danube Cruise
A comfortable passenger ship will bring
you to Devín Castle, 12 kilometers up-
stream from Bratislava on the Danube
River, on the border with Austria. This
romantic ruin, long associated with an-
cient Slavic traditions, is an important ar-
chaeological site with excavations from
Roman and medieval times. A source of
inspiration for 19th-century Slovak patri-
otic leaders, the castle today is a popular
day-trip destination affording spectacu-
lar views of the Danube landscape.
The Small Carpathian Wine Trail
The excursion wends through medita-
tive vineyards and charming wine-grow-
ing towns spread out along the south-
eastern slopes of the Small Carpathians.
Visit a pottery factory and learn about
the centuries-old production of the fa-
8 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

9. the 20th century as a summer residence
of Czechoslovakia's presidents. Famed
for its rich and varied collections, large
garden compound, horse breeding, and
excellent vineyard, it is a real treat for
visitors. Spend the afternoon in nearby
Nitra, an ancient seat of powerful bish-
ops that has a sprawling open-air-muse-
um of folk architecture with a narrow-
gauge vintage railway that operates on
the museum compound.
Bojnice Castle
Count János Pálffy was an enthusiastic
art lover and traveler in the 19th century.
After a visit to the chateaux in the Loire
mous Modra ceramics. The highlight
will be a visit to Červený Kameň [Red
Stone] Castle, a massive Renaissance
Full-day Valley in France, he decided to have his
residence remodeled to resemble a fairy-
tale Gothic fortress. The turreted castle
fortress and until 1945 the residence of
accommodates his vast art collections,
the mighty Pálffy Counts. The trip will
conclude with a delicious lunch, includ-
Trenčín Castle and Piešťany Spa which include the famous Bojnice altar
In 179 AD, a Roman auxiliary legion track- by a Florentine master. An excursion to
ing typical local specialties and a wine
ing a Germanic tribe was caught by win- this legendary and romantic castle will
tasting, in the cozy atmosphere of a lo-
ter storms and had to encamp far in the fire your imagination and prove a high-
cal restaurant.
unknown territory north of the Danube light of your visit to Slovakia. Concluding
River. This remarkable event was record- this day with gala dinner or a nighttime
ed in a Latin inscription on the cliff below tour is also possible.
what eventually became one of the most
strategic castles in the region and a resi-
dence of the powerful medieval oligarch
Matúš Čák. Lunch can be served at the
fin-de-siècle Tatra Hotel. Enjoy the after-
noon in the world-famous Piešťany Spa,
known for its charming Art Nouveau spa
houses on its Spa Island. Night tours of
Trenčín Castle with a banquet included
are also possible.
Chateau Topoľčianky and Nitra
Chateau Topoľčianky is an elegant neo-
Classical mansion that was used during
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 9

10. Team
Building
Bratislava Treasure Hunt Petržalka Extravaganza "Ostalgia"
The “treasure hunt” theme has by now The vast Petržalka housing estate is one An interactive program will let you ex-
become a standard product of incentive of the largest, most anonymous – and perience a taste of the East Bloc atmo-
tourism. What makes it different each most confusing – Communist housing sphere that for decades reigned in this
time is the different urban setting, with developments in Europe, a real "con- country. Period decorations, historical
different cultural and historical heritage, crete jungle". With many of the apart- posters and music will contribute to the
in which it takes place. Our treasure hunt ment blocks almost indistinguishable staged authenticity of a real Communist
is a colorful jig-saw of Celtic, medieval, from each other, even Bratislavians can experience.
Habsburg, Napoleonic and Communist get lost. Small groups will be formed,
themes – and much, much more, all sit- each provided with a map and bus tick-
ed amid the picturesque cobbled lanes ets. They will receive instructions to fol-
of the painstakingly restored Old Town of
Bratislava.
low, leading them on a tour through –
and hopefully out of – the district.
Adventure
Čuňovo Rafting
The Gabčíkovo Dam is one of the larg-
est power plants on the Danube River.
The Čuňovo rafting area has been es-
tablished here in an artificial channel
that supplies the old Danube branch. It
provides excellent conditions for white
water rafting. Later, guests can relax at
the Danubiana, an architecturally at-
tractive building located on the scenic
Danube River embankment.
Slovakia Ring
The Slovakia Ring is a modern auto-
motive racing circuit opened in the
spring of 2010. Almost six kilometers
in length, it is one of the longest motor
race tracks in Europe. This state-of-the-
art facility makes a wonderful attrac-
tion for Bratislava-based MICE events.
Participants explore the legendary K-1
ATTACK racing car, developed and pro-
duced in Slovakia. The highlight of the
event is the RACE TAXI, an unforget-
table adrenaline adventure in which in-
dividual participants zoom around the
track as the co-driver in the K-1 ATTACK
car – a professional racing driver will be
behind the steering wheel.
10 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

11. Entertainment
Private Concerts Roman Day at Carnuntum
Enrich your event in Bratislava by add- Travel back two thousand years to an-
ing a unique evening at the Opera or the cient Roman times during a day chock
Philharmonic Hall, where we will be hap- full of special activities at Carnuntum, an
py to organize a special concert – only archeological park on the site of a Roman
for you. Besides classical music, you can garrison town. The complex includes two
also experience the colorful tradition amphitheaters, a reconstructed villa and
of folk dance in Slovakia at a lively per- many other attractions, forming an ideal
formance by a costumed professional setting for an unforgettable event. So, let
troupe. During the evening, performers your fantasy run wild for a day and be-
will involve your group members in an come an ancient Roman!
entertaining dance lesson.
A Small Carpathian Goose Feast Themed Dinner A Danube Extravaganza
A riverboat cruise on the Danube, with
One of the major gastronomic experienc- One of the most popular events we of- dinner and entertainment, is one of
es in the Bratislava area is a visit to the fer is a themed dinner. For example, step the most popular evening programs in
Small Carpathian Wine Region, famous centuries back into time and, for an eve- Bratislava. Enjoy the illuminated pan-
for its roast goose and excellent wine. ning, experience a real Antique sympo- orama of the redeveloped Bratislava em-
Specially selected geese are prepared ac- sion, a festive dinner served in the best bankment. After dinner, live music or dis-
cording to traditional recipes that have tradition of ancient Roman hospital- co will continue deep into the night as
been handed down through genera- ity. Medieval, Baroque and many other the comfortable ship glides along the
tions. The resulting “goose feast” is ac- themes are also available. water.
companied by a tasting of some of the
best wines produced by small and inde-
pendent local producers. It all provides
an unforgettable gastronomic introduc-
tion to the best that this fruitful corner
of Slovakia has to offer.
Dinner in the Sky
One of the world’s most unusual res-
taurants is now available in Slovakia! Up
to 22 people can dine in a special en-
closed platform that is suspended from
a crane 50 meters above the ground.
The crane can be set up in different loca-
tions, affording “sky diners” breath-tak-
ing views of the dramatic Danube land-
scape, Bratislava Castle, Devín Castle or
the broad green meadows of the pristine
Slovak countryside.
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 11

12. Bratislava Venues
Incheba Fair Hall
The city's large fair and congress compound is situated on the right bank of the Danube
River. The facility provides excellent possibilities for events of various sizes, from presenta-
tions and press conferences to full-blown congresses and fairs.
National Tennis Center
Located in a pleasant residential neighborhood near the Polus City shopping mall, the
National Tennis Center provides three interconnected halls that can be used for a whole
range of events.
Philharmonic Hall
The Philharmonic Hall, the Redoute, is a splendid site in the town center that retains much
of its fin-de-siècle atmosphere. With its adjoining restaurant, this is a convenient and at-
mospheric venue for congresses and conferences.
Primate’s Palace
The Primate’s Palace is a neo-Classical residence constructed in 1778-1781 as the winter
residence of the Archbishop of Esztergom. The palace is famous for its six English tapes-
tries and the Mirror Hall, where the Pressburg Peace treaty between France and Austria
was signed in 1805.
Carn
Danubiana
If you are looking for an ideal spot to contemplate the beauties of nature, you have to visit
the Danubiana. Located some 15 kilometers from Bratislava on an artificial embankment,
this is a prime address for modern art, architecture, and nature lovers alike.
Kulturfabrik, Danubia Region
A former tobacco processing plant – a priceless piece of industrial heritage – has been
transformed into a an alternative venue for concerts, exhibits and other artistic happen-
ings. A 20 minute drive from the center of Bratislava, the Kulturfabrik complex, with its im-
posing views of the Danube, makes a unique setting for hosting events.
Schlosshof Chateau, Danubia Region
The Schlosshof Chateau is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture about 20 kilometers
from Bratislava. A splendid Imperial residence with an extensive garden, it provides an
ideal venue for an unforgettable gala dinner.
Červený Kameň Castle
Červený Kameň Castle is a Renaissance fortress located some 40 kilometers from Bratislava.
The castle features extensive cellars, once used to store wine, food, gunpowder and giant-
cannons. Its large halls today make a stunning venue for a nighttime banquet.
12 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

13. The Tatra Mountain Region
The Tatra Mountains area is the fast-
est growing tourist region in Slovakia
and is easily accessible by air, rail or
the new motorway along the Váh
River. The region boasts excellent ho-
tels suitable for meetings and incen-
tive groups. These range from elegant,
fin-de-siècle, grand hotels to striking
modern facilities designed by contem-
porary architects. All are beautifully
set amid pristine natural surroundings.
The Tatras provide numerous opportu-
nities for exciting excursions, as well as
year-round adventure, sport and oth-
er activities. Visitors can paraglide, ex-
plore mysterious caves, go rafting, or
hike in mountain valleys. During the
winter one can enjoy dog sledge races
or soak at thermal spa resorts.
The High Tatra National Park is the pride
of Slovakia. The mighty granite peaks rise
proudly on the border between Slovakia
and Poland, their faces often covered by a
misty veil of clouds. Deep valleys, formed
by prehistoric glaciers, are alive with al-
pine flora and fauna, and glacial water
has been retained in picturesque moun-
tain lakes. Here towers the highest peak
of the country – Gerlachovský štít, which
rises 2655 meters above sea level. Nearby
Mt. Kriváň is a national symbol. The Tatra
resorts on the southern side of the moun-
tains developed in the second half of the
16 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

14. 19th century, when railway connections highest peaks, Ďumbier and Chopok,
TATRA-BREAK reached the area and city dwellers began both of which rise to more than 2000
Day 1
to flock here for summer holidays. The meters above sea level. From here visi-
Arrival at Poprad and transfer to the western part of the Tatra Region, called tors enjoy breathtaking views of the High
hotel by private coach. Welcome din-
ner at the hotel and evening pro- Liptov, spreads out on either side of the and Western Tatra massifs on the other
gram. Váh River and is one of the most beautiful side of the valley. The main town in the
Day 2 parts of Slovakia. The village of Vlkolínec, region, Liptovský Mikuláš, is a centuries-
After breakfast leave the hotel for an with its many wonderful wooden build- old city featuring a beautifully recon-
excursion to the remote Zamagurie ings, is a unique architectural enclave rec- structed town square. The highwayman
Region. The major attraction here is
floating down the Dunajec River on ognized by UNESCO as a site of World Juraj Jánošík – the Slovak counterpart of
a raft. Afterward, enjoy a barbecue Cultural Heritage. There are marvelous Robin Hood – was hanged here in 1713.
lunch with real Goral goulash accom-
caves in the nearby Demänovská Valley – A nearby man-made lake, Liptovská Mara,
panied by live local folk music. In the
afternoon stop at the Červený Kláštor one of them an ice cave. is a popular summer sports resort. But the
[Red Monastery], a precious heritage The Low Tatra National Park is a won- Tatra Region comprises more than majes-
site. In the evening, a gala dinner at
the hotel will be followed by a disco. derful area for summer hiking and walk- tic nature. The area boasts a whole range
ing tours. One can reach the heights on of precious heritage sites and unique at-
Day 3
foot or by funicular and then follow clear- tractions, concentrated in two particular
This day's itinerary will introduce you
to the rich art and architectural her- ly marked trails that lead to the region's regions: Spiš and Zamagurie.
itage of the Spiš Region. Visit the
majestic Spiš Castle as well as other
precious monuments recognized by
UNESCO as sites of World Cultural
Heritage. Enjoy lunch in medieval
Levoča, famous for the world’s tallest
wooden altar, a stunning work cre-
ated by the Master Paul. Conclude
the day's program with a relaxing
dip in the thermal pools and other
wellness facilities of the AquaCity re-
sort. Dinner tonight will be served at
a Koliba – a rustic, mountain-styled
restaurant – accompanied with live
Gypsy music.
Day 4
In the morning transfer to Poprad for
homebound travel.
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 17

15. Excursions
Historic Spiš County, known in Hungarian Castle, the Canonry, the town of Spišské Sea. After each long and difficult journey,
as Szepes and in German as Zips, is a trea- Podhradie at the foot of the castle, and they attached a small seashell to their
sure house of Slovak art and history. Here the early Gothic twin-nave church in hats as a symbol of the completed voy-
we find medieval churches with exqui- nearby Žehra have all been registered by age. Today, the hats of the Dunajec rafts-
site Gothic altars and wall paintings. At UNESCO on its roster of World Cultural men are decorated with plastic seashells,
the beginning of the 16th century, an Heritage sites. and the only cargo they carry along the
artist known as Master Paul was active in The beauty of the isolated Zamagurie re- Dunajec is tourists. Nonetheless, the two-
Levoča. He created a set of unique Gothic gion, cut off from other parts of Slovakia hour, nine-kilometer raft trip through the
altars, including one in St. James church by the Magura Mountains, enchants all Pieniny National Park is a wonderful jour-
that, at 18.60 meters high, is the tallest visitors. Here the Dunajec River, flowing ney through breathtaking scenery and
in the world. The city of Kežmarok has a through a deep valley, forms the border represents one of the main tourist attrac-
remarkable wooden Lutheran church. between Poland and Slovakia. The proud tions of the region.
Enormous Spiš Castle, the most famous and hospitable Gorals – mountain folk –
tourist attraction in the area, dominates live on both sides of the river and speak
The Spiš Heritage Trail
the landscape from the top of a craggy a distinctive Slovak-Polish dialect. At one
Explore the stunning landscape below
hill. Not far from the castle, one can vis- time, raftsmen floated rafts loaded with mighty Spiš Castle, one of the largest
it Spišská Kapitula [Spiš Canonry], the for- wood from here down the Dunajec and castle compounds in Europe, and dis-
cover other medieval monuments in the
tified compound of the local bishop. The other rivers until they reached the Baltic
area. Also visit Levoča, once a prosperous
market hub, which has retained much of
its original charm.
A Day with Friendly Gorals
The excursion leads through one of the
most spectacular corners of Europe,
Zamagurie. Enjoy floating by raft down
the Dunajec River, which meanders
through the Pieniny National Park. After
a picnic lunch with live local music at the
Pieniny Chalet, visit the Červený Kláštor
[Red Monastery], home to a mysterious
18th century Monk named Cyprian, who
experimented with flying machines and
grew healing herbs in the monastery gar-
den.
18 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

16. been fully restored for tourist purposes.
Today, the train brings nature lovers deep
into the wild valley of the Black Hron
River. The highlight of the vintage train
ride is a staged mountain robbers attack
adventure!
The Mining Heart of Slovakia
Surrounded by ore-rich mountains,
Banská Štiavnica was for centuries the
center of one the most important min-
ing regions of Europe. The mining in-
dustry here declined long ago, but the
sleepy little town itself retained much of
the unique architectural charm that won
it a spot on the UNESCO list of World
Cultural Heritage. Visit former mines
and an open-air-museum where you can
learn about the rich technical heritage of
this region.
The Lovely Liptov Landscape
Slovakia's Liptov region boasts a dreamy
landscape surrounded by the majes-
tic Tatra Mountains. Enjoy a day amid
the green hills and vibrant living tradi-
tions of this spectacular region. Visit
the Demänovská Freedom Cave, one
of the most extensive cave networks in
Europe. The afternoon will be spent at
the Pribylina open-air-museum: the folk
architectural collection here often forms
the backdrop for colorful live folkloric
performances.
A Ride on the Čierny Hron
Narrow-gauge Railway
The southern side of the Low Tatras has
much to offer to the visitor. The major
attraction is a day-trip on a vintage train,
originally used to haul timber, which has
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 19

17. Active &
Adventure
The Dead Bats Cave
A real adventure awaits you in an ex-
traordinary cave hidden deep in the Low
Tatra mountain massif, where explorers
years ago discovered the bodies of hun-
dreds of bats. A strenuous hike through
splendid scenery leads to the cave open-
ing. Then, dressed in special equipment,
small groups can explore the cave itself
as part of a prearranged tour with a spe-
leologist instructor.
Hiking in the Tatras
The Slovak mountains provide excit-
Dog Sledging in the Tatras ing opportunities for hiking amid the
region's majestic scenery. The range of
Dog-sledging is a traditional type of well-marked paths caters to all levels
transportation through the high snow of visitors, from easy walks to physical-
plains. Enjoy riding a dog-powered ly challenging trails for experienced ath-
sledge through the beautiful winter land- letes. In some cases hiking routes can A Carpathian Adventure
scape of the Tatra Mountains. As part of be combined with rides on a funicular. This team-building adventure event takes
the trip, you will learn how to build a fire Enjoy Slovakia's expert team will map out place amid the forested landscape of the
on the snow and prepare (and feast on) the most suitable itinerary for your event Carpathians, a hilly nature reserve spread-
genuine Highlander goulash. program. ing through Slovakia. Small groups will
be formed, each provided with map and
compass. They will then be left to find
their way to a pre-arranged spot where
a bus will be waiting to take them to a
big dinner with lots of top-quality wine
or beer!
Hiking in the Slovak Paradise
With its deep canyons, narrow ravines,
and mountain creeks, the Slovak Paradise
is different from any other national park
in Slovakia. Hiking trails follow its dra-
matic natural features, with ladders,
chains and narrow foot bridges attached
to the living rock. Although physically
not an easy excursion, a hike here will be
a memorable experience.
20 Enjoy Slovakia DMC

18. Tatra Venues
Entertainment AquaCity Resort in Poprad
Built over a geothermal spring, AquaCity is a
Themed Dinner state-of-the-art spa offering a full range of tradi-
tional treatments and innovative therapies. Soak
In an atmospheric, candle-lit setting, you in thermal baths filled with mineral-rich local wa-
will enjoy a themed evening with great ters, bask in the solarium, relax with a massage, or
food and many surprises. A variety of perhaps enjoy one of the indoor facilities such as
themes, ranging from Gypsy culture, to swimming pools, steam rooms, and saunas.
an ancient Roman or Medieval evening,
to “Jánošík and his Robber Companions”
are available. Dedo Café on Lomnický Peak
Located 2634 meters above sea level, atop the
Dinner at a Koliba Restaurant second highest peak in the Tatras, Dedo Café is a
stylish bar overlooking an unforgettable panora-
Among the major attractions of the Tatra ma of the High Tatra Mountains, with broad vistas
region are shepherd-style cottage restau- stretching into Slovakia and Poland. You reach this
rants called koliba. Here, amid wooden venue by a comfortable cable car from Tatranská
furnishings and typical folk-style decora- Lomnica.
tions, guests enjoy sausages, chicken and
chops grilled over an open fire. The vi-
brant tunes of live Gypsy music, flaming Western City - Šiklův Mlýn
Tatra tea, and other local specialties, add
to an unforgettable dining experience. You can experience a real Wild West adventure
at the foot of the Tatra Mountains! Located near
Liptovský Mikuláš, this resort is a major attraction
providing a wealth of exciting shows, including
trick shooting, country dancing, horses, a vintage
train ride and live music. To add to the experience,
you can even rent a historical costume. Become a
cowboy for a day!
Grandcastle
Painstakingly decorated in period style, the
Liptovský Hrádok protected heritage site was saved
from neglect and now serves as a chateau hotel.
The elegant halls of this fully restored Renaissance
chateau provide a unique and magical ambience
for special events and small conferences.
DMC Enjoy Slovakia 21

19. Enjoy Slovakia
Incentives
Destination
Management
Company
ENJOY SLOVAKIA DMC s.r.o.
Kollárova 16
902 01 Pezinok
Slovakia
Tel.: +421 33 640 90 26
Fax: +421 33 640 90 29
E-mail: incentives@enjoyslovakia.com
www.enjoyslovakia.com