Central Slovakia's Hidden Gem: Hand-Fed Ground Squirrels and a 17th-Century Gold Mine

Central Slovakia offers offbeat attractions: wild ground squirrels that eat from your hand, a 17th-century gold mine with pitch-black, ice-cold tunnels, and scenic cycling routes. Instead of glossing over its industrial past, the region has turned raw history into a tourism draw. It's a strong alternative for travellers who prefer authenticity over crowded hotspots.