Šariš Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hike/bike routes, accommodations, local culture, and more in Šariš, Eastern Slovakia.


Introduction to Šariš

Šariš is a beautiful region located in Eastern Slovakia, a hidden gem in Central Europe. Šariš offers a unique mix of cultural and natural attractions, delicious local cuisine, and friendly locals. Šariš is an ideal destination for travelers looking for adventure and fresh experiences, away from the crowds. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through this hidden paradise, covering everything you need to know to plan your visit to Šariš.

List of Places to Visit in Šariš

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Šariš is a region steeped in history, with plenty of museums and historical places to explore. One of the must-visit sites in the region is the Bardejov UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts awe-inspiring Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The Bardejov Jewish Heritage tour, which gives a deep insight into the life of Jewish people in the region, is also highly recommended. The Wooden Churches of the Slovakian Carpathians, located in the villages of Hervartov and Ladomirová, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that is worth visiting.

Other museums not to be missed are the Šariš Museum in Bardejov, the Manor House in Stara Lubovna, and the Open-Air Museum in Humenne. Each of these museums has an amazing collection of local art, crafts, and artifacts that showcase the rich history and culture of the region.

Natural Attractions of Šariš: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Šariš is a region blessed with beautiful natural scenery, including high peaks, deep canyons, and dense forests. The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities, ranging from hiking, biking, and skiing, to horseback riding and rafting. One of the most popular hiking trails in the region is the trail that leads to the summit of Velky Rozsutec, offering scenic views of the valley below. Another great option is the White Carpathian Ridge Hike, which is a moderate hike that covers some of the most stunning scenery in the region.

For those who prefer mountain biking, the Šariš region has several routes to choose from, each of which offers its unique challenges and breathtaking vistas. Some of the best routes include the Tatra Mountain Bike trail, the Low Tatras Bike Park, and the Bike Park Slovakia. Other outdoor adventures include a white-water rafting ride down the Dunajec River, horseback riding through the Bukovské Highlands, and skiing in the Tatras Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Šariš

Šariš is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with well-marked trails that lead through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes. Below are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Šariš:

Hiking Routes

  • Velky Rozsutec Trail
  • White Carpathian Ridge Hike
  • Krivan-Svinica Ridge Hike
  • Rysy Hike
  • Sivy Vrch Trail

Biking Routes

  • Tatra Mountain Bike Trail
  • Low Tatras Bike Park
  • Bike Park Slovakia
  • Branisko Mountain Bike Trail
  • Malá Fatra Mountain Bike Trail

Best Things to Do in Šariš: Activities and Tours

Apart from the outdoor adventures, Šariš has a host of other things to do, including cultural tours, local food and drink experiences, and wellness activities. Some of the must-try experiences include:

  • Bardejov UNESCO Heritage Tour
  • Stara Lubovna Castle Visit
  • Vychodna Folk Festival
  • Local Food Tours
  • Enjoy a Spa Day at Slovenska Plavaren Wellness Centre

Week-Long Itinerary for Šariš

For a week-long itinerary, you can choose a combination of outdoor adventures and cultural tours. Here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1 - Arrival in Šariš and exploring Bardejov UNESCO Heritage Site

Day 2 - Hiking to the Peak of Velky Rozsutec

Day 3 - Mountain Biking in Low Tatras Bike Park

Day 4 - Exploring Stara Lubovna Castle and Vychodna Folk Festival

Day 5 - White Water Rafting in the Dunajec River

Day 6 - Local Food Tour and Spa Day at Slovenska Plavaren Wellness Centre

Day 7 - Departure from Šariš

Food and Drink Scene of Šariš

No visit to Šariš is complete without trying the local cuisine and drinks. The region is known for its hearty traditional meals, including bryndzové halušky, a dish made of potato dumplings, bryndza (a soft sheep cheese), and bacon. Other must-try dishes include pirohy (stuffed dumplings), goulash, and kapustnica (sauerkraut stew).

Šariš is also known for its local beverages, including Golden Pheasant beer, which is produced in the region, and Slivovica, a strong plum brandy that is popular throughout Slovakia.

Where to Stay in Šariš: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Šariš has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. You can choose from hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and apartments. The main towns of the region, Bardejov, Stara Lubovna, and Humenné, have a wide variety of options to choose from.

If you are looking for a more traditional experience, you can choose to stay in one of the many guesthouses located in the countryside. These guesthouses offer a warm and friendly ambiance and are perfect for those looking for an authentic local experience.

What to Buy in Šariš: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are many souvenirs and local products that you can bring back home from Šariš, including traditional handicrafts, local food products, and regional wines and spirits. Some of the popular souvenirs to buy include handmade lace, pottery, and wooden carvings. You can also find excellent locally produced honey, cheeses, and herbal teas.

Local Culture and Customs of Šariš

Šariš has a rich and unique cultural heritage, with a distinct Slavic background. The region is dotted with small villages and hamlets, where you can see traditional wooden houses and farmsteads. The villages also have several folk festivals throughout the year, where you can experience the local culture firsthand.

Best Time to Visit Šariš

The best time to visit Šariš is in the summer months between June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Spring and autumn are also great times to visit, as the weather is temperate, and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Šariš

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Hike and bike responsibly by sticking to the designated trails.
  • Carry cash as some small establishments do not accept cards.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Litter or damage natural landmarks and historical sites.
  • Assume everyone speaks English.

Safety and Health

Safety in Šariš

Šariš is a safe region overall, with a low crime rate. However, as with any travel destination, travelers should take common precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Šariš

There are no specific health risks associated with Šariš or Slovakia in general. However, it is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical care and emergencies. It is also a good idea to check with your healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccinations before visiting Slovakia.

Getting to Šariš: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Šariš

The Kosice International Airport is the closest airport to Šariš, located approximately an hour’s drive away. The airport is well-connected to major European cities, and you can take a taxi or bus to reach Šariš from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Šariš

The region has several bus stations in the major towns, including Bardejov, Stara Lubovna, and Humenné. You can reach these stations by bus from Bratislava or Kosice, which are well-connected to other major European cities.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Šariš from Bratislava or Kosice. However, driving in Slovakia can be challenging due to narrow roads and steep inclines. We recommend hiring a local guide or driver to navigate the region safely.

How to Get Around in Šariš

The best way to get around Šariš is by car or private taxi. Public transportation options are limited, and not all places are accessible by bus. However, if you prefer not to drive, you can hire a local guide or driver to take you around Šariš.

Where to Go Next from Šariš: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Šariš is a great starting point for exploring other regions in Slovakia, such as the Tatra Mountains, the Slovak Paradise National Park, and the Spiš region. You can also visit nearby Polish cities such as Krakow and Zakopane, which offer beautiful scenery and fascinating history.

Conclusion

Šariš is a hidden gem in Eastern Slovakia, offering a fantastic mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you are an adventure lover, a history enthusiast, or a foodie, Šariš has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have all the information you need to plan your visit to this stunning and unique region.



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