Summer in Donovaly: Terrace Barbecues, Farmhouse Traditions and Children Who Didn't Want to Go Home

Summer in Donovaly has its own rhythm. Mist over the hills in the morning, children laughing in the playroom in the afternoon, and the smell of barbecue drifting from the terrace in the evening. The 2026 season is behind us - and it was one of those summers worth remembering.

Let's take a look at everything that happened here over the summer. And we'll also give you a little preview of what you can look forward to next time.

Friday Barbecues on the Terrace: Our Favourite Summer Evening

If we had to choose one thing that defined this summer, it would be our Friday barbecues on the panoramic terrace, prepared by Executive Chef Andrej Róth.

Every Friday evening, the terrace became a place where there was nowhere else you needed to be. The grills fired up, and our kitchen served fresh steaks, sausages, grilled vegetables, fish and seasonal specialities, depending on what was in season and what our local suppliers had to offer. Add a chilled beer, a glass of Slovak wine or homemade lemonade - and the view of the Low Tatras ridges slowly turning golden.

What made these evenings special was not just the food. It was the atmosphere. Guests would naturally start chatting with people at neighbouring tables, children would run off to the playground right next to the terrace between courses, and parents could, perhaps for the first time all week, simply sit and enjoy their evening. Without having to get up every two minutes.

That is exactly why our barbecues are a family affair. The children have a playground within sight, the adults can relax, and everyone has a full plate.

Weekend Kids' Entertainment at MOMO Kids' Club: A Summer Children Won't Forget

MOMO Kids' Club - the largest indoor children's play area in Donovaly - was in full swing every weekend throughout the summer, guided by our experienced entertainment team. And they certainly didn't run out of ideas.

Here's what was happening:

• Creative workshops - painting, crafts using natural materials and seasonal activities
• Face painting, an all-time favourite for children of all ages
• Competitions and games both indoors and outdoors on the playground next to the terrace
• Group games and entertainment programmes adapted to different age groups, from toddlers to school-age children
• Dance and movement activities for when there was plenty of energy to burn

MOMO Kids' Club is available not only to hotel guests but also to other visitors to Donovaly - and that was certainly noticeable during the summer. At weekends, the playroom was lively from morning onwards.

For parents, this means one very simple thing: while the children are having fun under the supervision of our entertainers, you can enjoy a coffee on the terrace, treat yourself to a massage or simply spend an hour reading.That is part of a holiday, too.

It is no coincidence that we hold the highest-level Baby Friendly certification. High chairs, baby cots, baby baths, changing tables and a children's menu in our restaurant are all standard features at our hotel.

Farmhouse Weekend: Traditions, Crafts and Flavours We Remember from Childhood

One of the highlights of the season was our Farmhouse Weekend - an event that has built a loyal following over the years.

The idea was simple: to remind our guests that some of the best things can often be found right on our doorstep. That is why we brought together local farmers and producers from the surrounding region.

Children and adults alike had the opportunity to try traditional crafts that were once passed down from generation to generation. And that is what makes the Farmhouse Weekend so special - it is not an exhibition behind glass. It is something you can touch, experience and try for yourself.

The whole weekend was accompanied by folk music and an atmosphere that reminded us that Donovaly is not just a ski resort, but also a place with a living mountain tradition.

Telekom Night Run Donovaly: The Running Event That Has Earned Its Reputation

On 25 July, Donovaly once again filled with runners. Telekom Night Run Donovaly is one of the most popular events of its kind in Slovakia - and it is easy to see why.

The race takes place around dusk, with the route running below Nová hoľa and through the Park Snow area. When the stars appear overhead and a line of headlamps winds its way up the hill through the darkness, it becomes an experience you remember regardless of your finishing time.

There were 5 km and 10 km routes to choose from, while children had their own races beforehand, divided into age categories and supported by an audience that often cheered even louder than during the adult races.

RESIDENCE HOTEL**** Donovaly is just a few minutes' walk from the starting line, so many runners stayed with us for the entire weekend. Arrive, check in, run the race in the evening and then return to the sauna - that is a combination you really don't need to think twice about.

Thank You for the Summer. And We're Already Looking Forward to the Next One.

Behind every event are people - our entertainers, chefs, restaurant team and reception staff - and behind every great weekend are you, our guests, who chose to spend your time with us. Thank you.

The season doesn't end here. Autumn in Donovaly is beautiful, the mountains turn golden and the hotel continues to come alive with new experiences.

And as for next summer? We're already looking forward to it.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for all upcoming event dates, or book your stay directly atwww.residencehotel.eu.