Exploring the Wilderness of Slovak Paradise National Park

Finding Peace in Bykárka and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of contrasts, blending serene natural beauty with the comforting embrace of Slovakian cuisine. Katarína and I ventured into the heart of Slovak Paradise, and what we discovered was a perfect harmony of tranquility and taste. It's amazing how a single day can offer such diverse experiences, leaving us feeling both refreshed and deeply satisfied.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Koliba Termal Park Vrbov. As someone who appreciates a good start to the day, I was eager to try their traditional Slovak breakfast. The Koliba, with its rustic charm, set the perfect tone for the day. We were greeted by the aroma of freshly baked bread and the inviting warmth of the wooden interior. The food was hearty and delicious, providing us with the energy we needed for our morning adventure. Katarína particularly enjoyed the *Žinčica*, a traditional Slovak whey drink, while I savored the *Tlačenka*, a type of head cheese that reminded me of my childhood in Brezno. It's funny how certain flavors can transport you back in time; this breakfast did just that. It was a great way to fuel up before heading out to Bykárka.


Explore Bykárka, a serene tourist attraction in Letanovce, where nature meets local culture in a picturesque Slovak setting.

Bykárka was our destination for the late morning, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Letanovce. As a historical linguist, I often find myself drawn to places that offer a sense of timelessness, and Bykárka certainly delivered. The area exuded a sense of peace that's hard to find in our busy lives back in Potsdam. We strolled hand-in-hand, taking in the picturesque views and the fresh, crisp air. The quiet ambiance made it a perfect spot for reflection, something we both cherish. I couldn't help but think about my grandfather, a local historian from Brezno, and how he would have loved this place. It felt like a step back in time, a connection to the Slovakia of his stories.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of places.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Penzión Reštaurácia Pastierňa. Located near the Dedinky water reservoir, the restaurant offered a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. After our peaceful morning, we were ready for another taste of Slovakian cuisine. The menu featured a variety of traditional dishes, and we decided to try the *Bryndzové Halušky* and *Kapustnica*. The *Bryndzové Halušky*, potato dumplings with sheep cheese, were creamy and rich, while the *Kapustnica*, a hearty sauerkraut soup, was tangy and flavorful. Katarína, ever the adventurous foodie, was particularly impressed with the freshness of the ingredients. The restaurant itself had a lovely, family-run feel, adding to the overall charm of the experience.


Discover authentic Slovak cuisine at Penzión Reštaurácia Pastierňa in Dedinky—where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.

As the afternoon waned, we made our way to MIMOKLUB & Antonio stravovanie for dinner. Located in Spišské Tomášovce, this restaurant had been highly recommended for its authentic Slovak dishes and cozy ambiance. After a day filled with hiking and exploration, we were both looking forward to a relaxing evening meal. The restaurant did not disappoint. We started with *Oštiepok*, a traditional Slovak cheese, grilled to perfection. For our main courses, Katarína chose the *Segedin Goulash*, while I opted for the *Roasted Pork Knuckle*. The portions were generous, and the flavors were robust and comforting. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Slovakian cuisine at MIMOKLUB & Antonio stravovanie in Spišské Tomášovce - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Before heading back to our campsite, we decided to stop by BISTRO Coffee&Pub for a nightcap. Located in Smižany, this cozy pub offered a wide selection of craft beers and gourmet coffee. Though I usually prefer a traditional Slovak beer, I decided to try one of their specialty coffees, a rich and aromatic espresso that provided the perfect ending to a fulfilling day. Katarína enjoyed a local craft beer, savoring the unique flavors and the warm ambiance of the pub. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the perfect blend of gourmet coffee and hearty meals at BISTRO Coffee&Pub in Smižany, a must-visit brewpub for travelers.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore the White Creek NP Slovak Paradise. I've read so much about its stunning natural beauty, and I'm eager to experience it firsthand. We'll be having breakfast at Cafe & Bufet u Orla, lunch at Ranch under Ostrá Skala, and dinner at Reštaurácia Pelle. We also need to stop by Potraviny Môj Obchod Mlynky to replenish our supplies. It promises to be another exciting day in Slovak Paradise.

Today was a reminder of why I love exploring my homeland. From the tranquil beauty of Bykárka to the delicious flavors of local cuisine, every moment was a celebration of Slovakia's rich natural and cultural heritage. As we settled into our campsite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Katarína. It's moments like these that make our travels so special, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It also made me realize I had forgotten to pack mosquito repellent, and Katarína reminded me that I had also forgotten the binoculars. I guess that's what happens when you are too focused on the historical and cultural aspects of a trip!

Spending the night in our tent, surrounded by the sounds of nature, I felt a deep connection to this land. It's a feeling that only comes from immersing oneself in the beauty and tranquility of the Slovak Paradise. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow would bring even more adventures and discoveries.