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Slovakia is a country that packs a lot of surprises and is far beyond the typical tourist destinations. Most people flock to Bratislava and stay there and its surroundings, which is okay, but this is a place that offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that will make you feel like a true explorer. That’s why I’m going to show you the hidden gems and eccentric adventures that only the locals know about.
From underground mines to shooting ranges, sunken villages to beer saunas, Slovakia has endless activities that will leave you speechless.
Here are some unique things to do in Slovakia while traveling:
1. Test Your Aim at a Shooting Range
While shooting a gun is not in everyone’s interest, it’s something you need to do at least once in your life, especially if you’re in need of an adrenaline rush!
Visiting a shooting range in Slovakia is sure to be a unique experience that you won’t forget. Unlike other countries, the regulations here allow you, as a tourist, to test real weapons under professional supervision.
Even if it’s your first time, don’t worry, all packages will come with an introduction and security tips from the instructors. You can choose from classic pistols like the Glock, AK-47 assault rifles, or even historic weapons from the Soviet era.
2. Enter a Mine Turned into a Museum
Have you ever wondered how gold is mined? Its relationship with money and its history? Even if you don’t, and just want to feel like a miner, then the Mining Museum Andrej Adit is for you! A former gold mine that has been converted into a fascinating underground museum.
It’s located in the small town of Kremnica, with its stunning town castle and lovely houses, but the most exciting thing is that you’ll equip a helmet and flashlight, and walk through centuries-old tunnels! Also, you will be able to see the original tools and learn how it was extracted.
3. Explore Čierny Váh
The Čierny Váh is a valley reservoir that’s situated in Liptov, and besides being a magical green forested area, it’s also home to a dam! I know that visiting a dam is not on most people’s bucket list, but this one is unique; it’s a two-level giant dam that was built ages ago in the middle of the Váh River course.
The views are unimaginably beautiful, something you won’t forget for years. You can rent a bike and ride around the area until you reach the entrance and do the 7km hike. It’s worth it!
4. Relax in a Beer Spa
I bet many of you frown after reading “beer sauna,” but it’s actually a thing! Yeah, beer is not only for drinking, but also for relaxing your skin. In Vysoké Tatry, at just 3h drive from Bratislava, you’ll find the Pivný kúpeľ & Wellness Belveder, a beer bath where you can enjoy a beer and all the amenities offered in a spa.
There are special saunas where steam is mixed with hops, malt, and other natural beer ingredients.
After the session, you can enjoy a local craft beer. Some spas even offer massages with beer extracts. A unique experience for lovers of the unusual!
5. Walk Through a Unique Town
Vlkolinec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the town is famous for its traditional wooden houses, but what few people know is that its cemetery is just as fascinating. There are hand-carved statues as well as interesting gravestones.
There will be stunning houses, and several other attractions like the Vlkolínsky Betlehem, which is home to several wood-carved statues, a small wooden well with a roof, and several museums that showcase how people used to live there, as well as a gallery.
It’s a peaceful place, steeped in history and folk art. If you enjoy photography or just want a moment of reflection, it’s worth a visit.
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