Villa Erdődy Resort – Apartmán U veveričky

First Impressions

I’ll be honest — when I first pulled up to Villa Erdődy Resort – Apartmán U veveričky, tucked away on the second floor of a building along the Orava Forest Railway, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The name alone (which translates to “At the Squirrel’s”) gives you a hint of the whimsical charm that awaits. This three-star gem sits in Oravská Lesná, a small Slovak town that most people zip through on their way to bigger destinations — but that’s actually part of its appeal.

The Apartment Setup

What struck me right away was how spacious everything felt. This isn’t your typical cramped hotel room situation — you’re getting a proper apartment with a fully equipped kitchenette that actually works. I mean, I’ve stayed in places where the “kitchen” is basically a mini-fridge and a prayer, but here you can genuinely cook a meal if you want to. The squirrel theme runs throughout without being overwhelming — think tasteful woodland touches rather than full-on cartoon madness.

Location and Getting Around

Here’s what locals know but guidebooks don’t always mention: the Orava Forest Railway isn’t just a tourist attraction — it’s actually a functioning narrow-gauge railway that connects several mountain villages. Being right on this route means you can hop on vintage trains that chug through some seriously beautiful Slovak countryside. The resort also provides parking, which is clutch because driving these mountain roads can be tricky, and you’ll want a secure spot for your car.

The Mountain Experience

Honestly, the real magic happens when you step outside. The surrounding forests are dense with hiking trails that range from gentle walks to proper mountain climbs. During my stay, I kept spotting actual squirrels — which felt oddly appropriate given the apartment’s name. The air up here is crisp in a way that city lungs immediately notice, and the silence at night is profound. You know what I mean — that deep quiet you only get in places where there’s more trees than people.

Why Guests Love It

After spending a few days here, I get why this place scores so well with visitors. It’s that rare combination of comfort and authenticity that’s hard to find these days. The apartment gives you independence (no need to rush down for breakfast or worry about restaurant hours), but you’re still getting resort amenities and that personal touch from the staff. Plus, the location works whether you’re using it as a base for mountain adventures or just need a peaceful retreat from whatever chaos you left behind in the city.