Illustrative image. (source: TASR)
TRAVEL
Start exploring
It goes without saying that when it comes to hiking, Slovakia has a lot to offer to mountain afficionados. Although the height of its ranges is on the shorter end, there are many beautiful vistas to be had, especially in winter.
The Little Carpathians, for example, has several mountains with a height of around 700 metres that are accessible even in winter, such as Vysoká, Vápenná, Záruby, as well as lookout towers on Veľká Homoľa that offer a great view of the area. These can be hiked even without winter equipment, but snow chains might still not go amiss. The starting points for these hikes can be reached via a bus from Bratislava.
TIP: Lucky number seven: Eleven 700m+ mountains of the Small Carpathians.
If you're feeling more adventurous, be sure to hike the Jánošíkove Diery gorges with stunning ice and waterfalls and then continue on to the stunning Veľký Rozsutec peak, both in the Malá Fatra mountain range. A similar experience can be also had in the Slovak Paradise national park. Provided the conditions are good, the river Hornád may freeze and allow for walking, thus giving you unique view of the gorge from below. Winter equipment, especially when setting out for the former, is recommended.
The Veľký Rozsutec peak in the Malá Fatra mountain range. (source: Matúš Beno)
And of course, although the winter closure of trails is in effect in the High Tatras, its mountain huts are still open, meaning if you want some solitude and great hikes, you can't go wrong by making your way there. We have travel guides for several of these hikes, click here to find out more.
Over the last year, our colleague Jozef Ryník has visited many regions of Slovakia. Among his articles you'll find plenty of tips what to visit.
Christmas markets
Although more than a week has passed since Christmas, this weekend offers the last chance to experience the festive atmosphere and grab some delicacies as some Christmas market won't close until after January 6. This includes, for example, the market at the Hrebienok resort in the heart of the High Tatras, as well as the market in Bratislava.
The Christmas market in Bratislava. (source: TASR)
SPORT
No time to rest
The new year may have just begun, but runners sure don't hesitate. On Epiphany on January 6, several running competitions will be held in the towns of Trnava, Banská Bystrica and Košice throughout the day. Registration is still open, either online or in person on the day of the event. If you're a seasoned runner of feel like picking up a new activity, why not give one of these runs a try?
A run on the Epiphany. (source: TASR)
MISCELLANEOUS FUN
Night in the jungle
This and over the next few weekends, the Botanical Garden of the Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice is holding special after dark guided tours, allowing visitors to get to know tropical plants under unusual circumstances. A guided tour takes 50 minutes and is designed for adults and older kids. Get the tickets here, but act fast as they sell out quickly.
Experience Trenčín differently
This weekend offers the last opportunity to try out a detective game set in Trenčín. Although intended primarily for children, everyone who wants to learn more about the history of the western Slovakia town is welcome. All you need is to print a map, pen and a keen eye. Find out more here.
Visit a butterfly garden
Are you fed up with winter or just cannot wait for warmer weather? In that case don't miss the Butterfly Garden full of colourful and butterflies from the tropics flying all around you while surrounded with palm trees. Does that sound more like it? Click here to learn more.
Illustrative image of a butterfly. (source: TASR)
Where to go ice-skating
Public ice-skating is in full swing once again, with towns operating ice rinks for everyone to enjoy this activity, usually on the weekends. Here is a list where you can go ice-skating: Bánovce nad Bebravou, Bratislava (here, here, here, here and here) Košice (here and here), Poprad (the training hall), Trenčín, Levoča, Nitra, Banská Bystrica, Zvolen, Brezno, Prešov, Humenné, Trebišov, Liptovský Mikuláš, Pezinok, Dunajská Streda, Sládkovičovo.
MORE AND UPCOMING EVENTS
January 7, 8, 9, 10: Live recording of the popular Ťažký Týždeň Live satirical show in Žilina, Bratislava, Trenčín and Košice, respectively.
January 8: Ennio Morricone piano recital with string quartet in Trnava
January 8, 15: The basics of sewing using sewing machine in two lessons in Trnava
January 9: New Year concert of the Košice State Philharmonic
January 12: Country wide meeting of cold water swimmers in Nitra
January 12-14: Czech and Slovak pond hockey championship in Košice
January 18: New Year swap in Trnava
February 8: ModelCon 2025 plastic model and miniature show in Trnava
BEFORE YOU GO
WHAT TO DO FOR FREE: Don't miss the first night sky observation at Bratislava Castle, as well as the Epiphany procession.
WHAT TO EXPLORE IN BRATISLAVA: Join the excitement of a hockey game or seize your last chance to ride the Christmas tram.
WHAT TO LEARN: What to do when you don't like a beloved Slovak ingredient?
WHAT TO SEE: Bratislava turns into a snow wonderland. Have a look at the stunning photos.
WHAT TO TRY: A place where you can escape to a warm haven, no matter the time of year (restaurant review).
WHAT TO READ: Philadelphia native has found a new home in Bratislava: Similarities between both are uncanny, he says.
That's it for this week. Take care, and have a great first week of 2025.
