It is fair to state that me and my wife are seasoned and rather "spoiled" travelers, critical on the places we stay. Also, as, many Western Europeans, we did have our pre-occupations when it comes to Eastern European Countries. For business reasons I did need to visit the Eastern part of Slovakia in the region of Kosice, the second largest town after Bratislava. As my wife had her annual leave from her work we decided to go together.||I did brows the internet extensively for some decent accomodation but what I found was not - to put it mildly - very inspiring.||Then I landed - almost accidentally - on the website of Pechy Castle; as I could not book directly I did send via the website a message to the Hotel indicating the period that we would like stay, the reservation was made and details were confirmed by email.||We stayed five days (four nights) and in short the stay was in every way very special; the owner the Hotel Mrs Klara Szakall von Lozoncz, a decedent in a straight line of the Pechy family that did build the castle, is an exceptional women that makes your redefine the concept of hospitality; f.e.she insisted to pick us up from the airport and invited us on arrival for an outstanding Italian dinner with her and her partner. Throughout our stay she and her partner made sure it was pleasant in every possible way.||Pechy Castle was taken from Mrs Szakall's family by the communist regime in 1947, she and her family were exiled as was the unfortunate faith of virtually all nobility in areas that did become under Russian control in those days.||Around 25 years ago Mrs Szakall was able to reclaim the family property by that time the castle was a ruinous state, devastated the gardens a jungle. She made the renovation of the Castle her lifetime project, did so almost single handed and with limited funds. The result is flabbergasting. Pechy Castle today is a boutique hotel (just 7 rooms) of unmatched sphere and class; Mrs Szakall managed to capture the atmosphere and history of her family in days future past with flying colours and great dignity. The building interiors are De Facto small musea, the gardens and park with old trees, gravel lanes and old ornaments a testimony to the glory days of the place. She (Mrs Szakall) simply has done an amazing job that deserves respect and admiration; she turned a ruin into a gem.||Staying at Pechy Castle is an enrichment for those who like to visit new places, are interested in history, prefer the personal attention and touch as well the tranquility that are typical for most high class boutique hotels.||The only tip I could think off if that the warm water provision (shower) needs some attention.||We will most certainly return to Pechy Castle!|||Elbert Willem Timmerman & Karolien van...
Read moreThis exquisite property has an interesting history and an impressive story surrounding its revival from a complete ruin to its present glory makes a strong impression on any traveler. It is beautifully decorated in a country chic style, featuring gorgeous furniture, art, crystal chandeliers and family photos. You engage in the story. There only five rooms and all the focus is on the individual guest. I have to say that the best part of the experience in the caring staff. The property governess Ms. Zuzana is a gem. She cares deeply about her work and she is dedicated to making every guest feel comfortable and happy. She is sincere and quick, fits perfectly into the environment. Mr.Jakob, the young manager is personable, humble and sweet and an unbelievable master chef! I dined in Michelin star restaurants (we spent a month in Provence before coming to Slovakia) and these were the best meals I’ve ever had. We did not meet the proprietress as she was traveling but I admire her work and her intelligence and foresight to hire the personnel that is so perfectly suited for this property, so committed and so capable. Thank you for welcoming us in this remarkable home and affording us this incredible experience. We will be back next summer with the...
Read moreWe spent two nights in Péchy Hunting Lodge and overall this was an extraordinary experience from every perspective. The castle and hunting lodge is located in a small village Hermanovce, less than one hour drive from Košice surrounded by a beautiful park. You can experience anything you need depending on your preferences - play tennis, badminton, a massage or sauna or just relax under the trees in the park while having a picnic (as we did). The lodge is a very cosy place to stay, renovated by Mrs. Klára (the owner) with a great attention to details and respect to history and family's heritage. We felt as a part of family during the stay, Mrs. Klára is a perfect host (with great staff around her). If you get a chance to visit Péchy estate (what you definitely should do if you like extraordinary, cosy places with history surrounded by the nature, great services and driven by passionate people), get a chance to ask Mrs. Klára to show you around and guide you through the history of the castle and her family. There is so much...
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