Slovakia Travel Guide

Slovakia is blessed with glorious alpine scenery, cliff-top castles and well-preserved architecture, offering an enticing combination of outdoor adventure and medieval charm. It might be overshadowed by its neighbour and one-time compatriot the Czech Republic - largely because capital Bratislava, alluring though it is, isn't Prague - but the upside is that Slovakia's myriad attractions are often pleasantly throng-free.

Following the 'Velvet Divorce' in 1993, which saw Czechoslovakia split into two constituent parts, the nation set about reasserting its independence, and today there's a humble, creative nature to the Slovaks that wins over no shortage of visitors. Slovakia draws a broad range of travellers, from skiers and backpackers to businesspeople and history buffs. Bratislava and the High Tatras mountain range remain its two headline draws, but this is a diverse country that rewards considerable exploration.