Poprad

Gateway to the High Tatras, Poprad is an excellent base for hiking or skiing day trips. By car or train, there are plenty of destinations where you can hike around lakes and through gorges or play in powder at winter-sports resorts. Rail links to Starý Smokovec and Štrbské Pleso are a cinch, and Slovenský Raj National Park is only a 15km drive south.

Poprad has its own attractions too, with spa-and-swim complex Aqua City and the Spišská Sobota district, where well-preserved Renaissance buildings radiate charm. Galleries and some outstanding dining are also options for those all-important rest days (your calf muscles will thank you).