OOCR Region Šariš followed up on last year's participation and in 2026 it presented itself at the tourism fair in the Agrokomplex Nitra on 27.2 - 1.3.2026. Regular participation in events of this format allows to systematically build awareness of the Šariš region as an attractive destination for active leisure and family holidays.
The Šariš Region presented itself together under one stand with the Regional Tourism Organisation Northeast of Slovakia and KOCR Košice, under the common name „East - Your Escape“. The joint exposition presented Eastern Slovakia as a diverse destination suitable for active holidays and relaxing stays throughout the year.
The beauty of unknown nature, outdoor and family stays
Visitors showed significant interest in outdoor activities, cycling routes, hiking and active movement in nature. In particular, we introduced them to the unknown and less frequented nature of the Čergov Mountains and Slanské vrchy, which offers ideal conditions for hiking, cycling and quiet weekend stays away from the main tourist centres. There was also interest in our outdoor mobile app Outdooractive, visitors can easily find routes, plan trips and get information about their difficulty. The app has been particularly well received by active cyclists and hikers.
We also offered winter sports opportunities in ski resorts in the region, which confirms the potential of Šariš as a year-round tourist area. A significant part of the visitors were informed about accommodation suitable for families with children - especially about family pensions, hotels with additional services and possibilities of combining stay in nature with relaxation and wellness.
Introduced product lines of the region
During the fair, we presented our product lines to visitors ŠHC (Šarišská hradná cesta), linking cultural heritage, historical monuments and authentic regional experiences.
Interest was also aroused by specific unique sites of the region, including:
- visit in Dubník Opal Mine - the only accessible opal mine in Slovakia, we presented it as a world unique
- recreation area and Sigord Shipyard - and also its possibilities, what it offers all year round - the experience Cycloželeznička, educational trails
- castles and manor houses of the Šariš region, especially castles Šariš a Kapusany and he was also interested in Manor house Fintice
- Solivar Museum as an important technical and historical monument
- historical towns such as Bardejov and Prešov, including spa and wellness stays in Bardejov Spa
These attractions appeal especially to families with children and visitors looking for a combination of history, nature, sport and relaxation.
Audiovisual presentation of the region
During the whole duration of the fair our promotional videos were projected on the screens in the stand - destination video Region of Šariš and a separate video dedicated to the product line SHC or a video focused on regional producers. The dynamic visual presentation helped visitors to better imagine the atmosphere of the region, its natural scenery, historical monuments and the offer of active activities.
A taste of the region right on the stand
The presentation also included a tasting of regional bakery products, which contributed to an increase in the number of visitors to the stand. The „Taste of the Region“ created a pleasant atmosphere and provided space for personal communication with visitors about the possibilities of spending holidays in Šariš. We used the products of local producers of the Šariš Region.
Evaluation of participation
The participation of OOCR Region Šariš at the fair in Nitra confirmed the growing interest in active holidays in Slovakia, cycling, winter sports, natural locations outside the main tourist centres and the combination of movement and relaxation. Repeated participation in a trade fair of this format and joint presentation under the brand „East - Your Escape“ strengthened the awareness of Šariš as a destination that offers a balanced combination of nature, history, sport, relaxation and authentic experiences throughout the year.
Identified challenges and opportunities
During interviews with visitors we perceived the absence of caravanning campsites in the region and official caravanning sites. The development of this infrastructure could make a significant contribution to increasing visitor numbers, particularly from active travellers and families using caravans. It also became apparent that visitors lack a clearly communicated offer of official and signposted cycle routes, as well as ready-made packages and themed products that would make it easier for them to plan their stay. This feedback presents an opportunity for further elaboration.
The whole event was realized with the financial support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic.
Source: the Regional Tourism Organisation of the Šariš Region
Photo source: the Regional Tourism Organisation Region Šariš
