Imagine enjoying a morning coffee in the Pieniny Mountains, and an hour later you can be hiking among the treetops or exploring majestic castles in Slovakia. With its proximity to the border, our neighbors have plenty to offer for a short day trip.
We have checked the three most interesting places that you can reach quickly and comfortably from Smile Hotel, to return in the evening for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bachledka Tree Top Walk
This is an absolute highlight of the region. You walk along a special structure high above the forest, admiring the panorama of the Belianske Tatras.
- Distance from Smile Hotel: 38 km (approx. 50 minutes drive via the border crossing in Jurgów or via Červený Kláštor).
- Attractions: A 600-meter path, a 32-meter-high observation tower and a 67-meter slide for the brave.
- For whom: Perfect for families with children (the route is stroller-accessible) and people looking for beautiful shots.
- Tip: You will also travel to the top in a modern gondola, so the trip is not physically tiring.
Red Monastery (Červený Kláštor)
This is a place that can almost be seen from Szczawnica, but a trip to the Slovak side allows you to see it from a different perspective.
- Distance from Smile Hotel: 15 km (approx. 20 minutes by car).
- Attractions: Visit the 14th-century Carthusian monastery, home to the famous Friar Cyprian (herbal expert and legendary "flying monk"). It's also a great starting point for a walk along the Dunajec River.
- For whom: For lovers of history, peace and beautiful architecture integrated into the mountains.
Castle in Stara Ľubovniansky hrad
A mighty fortress that once guarded the Polish-Hungarian border. It was here that the Polish crown jewels were hidden for a time!
- Distance from Smile Hotel: 32 km (approx. 40 minutes drive).
- Attractions: A tour of the castle with a Polish audio guide and an open-air museum at the foot of the mountain, which shows what life was like in the Slovak countryside in the past.
- For whom: For families and history buffs, the castle is highly interactive and offers falconry demonstrations.
Belianska jaskyňa (Belianska jaskyňa)
If you want to see something truly unique, head to Tatranska Kotlina. It's the only cave in the Belianske Tatras open to tourists.
- Distance from Smile Hotel: 42 km (approx. 55 minutes drive).
- Attractions: Amazing stalactite formations, underground lakes and... great acoustics (classical music concerts are organized here).
- Important: The temperature inside is a constant 5°C, so even in summer, take a jacket!
Return to base - evening at the Smile Hotel
Slovakia is truly enchanting, but the return to Szczawnica is the highlight of the day. After a full day of sightseeing, covering miles, and discovering new places, your body needs regeneration.
Why is it worth coming back to stay with us? Instead of rushing around looking for a place to stay, go back to a place you know. Smile Hotel waiting for you:
- Relax in a mountain SPA. Our sauna and jacuzzi will help you relax after your walks in Slovakia.
- Local cuisine. A delicious dinner that tastes best after a day full of excitement.
- Homely atmosphere. A comfortable room where you can sleep well before another day of adventures.
Szczawnica is an ideal base for exploring both sides of the border. Plan your trip, and we'll make sure you feel right at home upon your return. Book a room and set off to conquer the Pieniny Mountains and Slovakia!
