It doesn’t always have to be the beaches of southern Europe if you want to enjoy a truly amazing summer holiday. Increasing numbers of travellers nowadays are seeking a bit of variety instead – and above all the chance to get active or inactive in nature – when summer comes. There is a place in Europe that will take you to an elevated serenity and it is called the High Tatras mountain region of Slovakia. Health and well-being is such an important part of holiday plans these days within epic landscapes, so why not discover Slovakia’s loftiest mountains, lakes, forests and cave networks.
This diverse region also has the advantage of being compact, whilst feeling vast and epic with alpine-like scenery; the High Tatras National Park has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. This designation provides preservation and protection to a wide variety of natural habitats and an immense diversity of wildlife. Animals include: the Tatra chamois and marmot, both protected since the mid-19th century; brown bear, Eurasian lynx, grey wolf, European otter, lesser spotted eagle, and falcon.
Mountain, forests and wildlife are places to relieve stress and stimulate the body’s defence mechanism. The natural environment amid forests, next to glacial lakes, atop mountain peaks helps to de-stress. In the long term this impacts positively on the heart and against cardiovascular diseases, insomnia and depression. Let us remind you of a few reasons to make your way to this natural and active paradise:
Top things to see and do
- Top 1: High Tatras voted No.1 by Lonely Planet in 2019
- Top 2: Slovakian national food and drink
- Top 3: Water wellness and aquaparks
- Top 4: Ski resorts
- Top 5: Caves to visit in the region
- Top 6: Adrenaline and quirky cultural activities
- Top 7: Hiking and biking destinations
- Top 8: Instagram-worthy viewpoints
For more information see Region Tatry