Slovakia

The Slovak Republic is situated in Central Europe, sharing frontiers with the Czech Republic, Austria, Poland, Hungary and Ukraine. Mountains, lowlands, canyons, lakes, cave formations, forests and meadows provide many examples of Slovakia's year-round natural beauty. Every historical period and century has left behind monuments in the Slovak Republic that are admired by the world. The capital, Bratislava, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country. Its history is inextricably linked with the Celtic and Roman periods but the city contains palaces bearing the architectural style of almost every age: Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, classical. Devín Castle, recently renovated, is situated 10km from the city. Other sights include the 13th-century Old Town Hall. The Tatra National Park is the oldest national park in the country, with an abundance of wildlife (including chamois and marmot) and alpine plants (13,000 species). The park caters for all recreation needs with a good selection of accommodation and sporting facilities (mountaineering and hiking). Local dishes include bryndzové halušky (small potato dumplings with sheep's cheese).