Spectacular Slovakia

Oscar Brophy hits the streets of Bratislava-Rača, microphone in hand, capturing the sounds and stories of Vinobranie — the city’s beloved wine festival.

Slovakia’s tourism industry faces the challenge of shifting from being a convenient stopover to becoming an intentional destination, and companies like GOAT CE Tours are leading the way by using storytelling and authentic experiences to reshape perceptions and encourage longer, purposeful visits. Host: Oscar Brophy | Guests: Patrik Calovka, Michal Varachovič, and Mitch Leffler.

Comedians Matúš Toderiška and Marián Psár bring their astronomy podcast Slnečná zostava (Solar Lineup) to Spectacular Slovakia. We talk stargazing, observatories, dark-sky parks, and the humour in exploring the universe. Host: Oscar Brophy.

In this king-sized episode of Spectacular Slovakia, host Oscar Brophy is joined by historian Juraj Poláček to delve into the rich history of Slovakia’s medieval castles – tracing their development from the Bronze Age to the modern era. Poláček explains how early wooden fortifications evolved into stone strongholds following the 13th-century Mongol invasion, with Slovakia’s strategic position demanding increasingly robust defences. Highlights include Trenčín Castle, with its 16th-century bastion, and the ruins of Spiš Castle – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This episode is a must-listen for history enthusiasts and travellers keen to discover these enduring symbols of the nation’s past.

Spanning 770 kilometres from the Dukla Pass in the east to Devín Castle near Bratislava in the west, Slovakia’s SNP Trail — Cesta Hrdinov SNP (Path of the Heroes of the Slovak National Uprising) — is more than just a long walk. It is an immersive experience that blends historical depth, physical challenge, and the raw beauty of Slovak landscapes. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a motivated beginner, the SNP Trail offers a unique opportunity to test your limits and connect with both nature and history. Guest: Peter Kvačkay Host: Oscar Brophy