Considering Hotel Bankov was 142 years old and the oldest hotel in Slovakia by a mile, the flat screen TV and free high speed wi-fi in my room were both something of a revelation. So too come to think of it, were the crisp cotton sheets, the contemporary room furnishings and delicious interior design.
Hotel Bankov was once the pride and joy of Kosice’s well to do, looking down onto the city from its lofty perch high up in the Bankov hills. It had the glamour and sophistication of a time gone by, until time literally went by and its star faded. Today though, under the stewardship of its new young owner, it’s got its old swagger back, having been transformed into a luxury four star hotel that would not be out of place in a European capital.
The spacious bedrooms are delight; each very different from the other in colour and decor, whilst the excellent restaurant offers up delicious Slovak fare together with a mix of international dishes, with a wide selection of vegetarian options. You can also maintain your ying and yang balance or work off those calories in the small spa where the pool and sauna are free to use while massage treatments are an optional extra..
There are though still glimpses of its glamorous past; the exterior beamed walls, the summer terrace – still one of the city’s most sought after wedding venues and the elegant cafe lounge with its centrepiece grand piano .
What’s missing however, is the formality. The new improved Hotel Bankov is charmingly inoffensive, with relaxed and friendly service that’s like a breath of fresh air in a country that on first impressions may seem a little formal. It’s also a key member of the Historic Hotels of Slovakia, an association benchmarking Slovakia’s finest high quality historical hotels.
With Kosice’s year as European Capital of Culture in 2013, the city’s stylish dame is back in business and her future’s looking very rosy indeed
How much does it cost to stay at Hotel Bankov?
Rates from €75 – €125
Tel: +421 5563 24522
