Slovakia - Thermal Swimming Pool In Patince

The archaeological findings give evidence that local hot springs were known just during Roman time period. Anyway, some notices appear even in Middle Age chronicles. However, its real full use was effected after the 2nd World War. In 1953, this swampy soil, in the neighbourhood of so called „Roman Lake“, was declared as protected area. Later, during 1960, there was created an infrastructure for holiday use, which was enlarged subsequently. Thanks to this fact, the population number of this small community, became extended, within summer months,several times. The accommodation offer is wide, from boarding in private houses and summer chalets (of various quality and price level), via family boarding houses up to luxurious hotel.

At present, the area of thermal swimming pool is spreaded on a surface of nearly 30 ha, close to three springs with water temperature reaching 27 °C, sourcing from depth of 160 metres. The water in basins reaches 24 - 34 °C. Except swmming basins, you have also available some smaller spaces - such as: sitting bath (with most warmest water or for children or relax bath). The artificial lake is being used mostly by lovers of water sports (water skis) and fishing. A tobogan - 50 metres long - serves for an entertainment and sporting activities, as well as several play-grounds, minigolf, tennis court and bowling line - all these arrangements serve for entertainment. This bathing area is open for public since June till September.

In 2006, there was built Wellness Patince Hotel, with a target for all year round use of these springs. Later, the area was enlarged: the next pavillon with appartements for families with kids and congress centre (for more than 300 partecipants) was built. In hotel, you have available the greatest event´s covered swimming pool in Slovakia. The complex forms a part of so called basin world, including next children and relax basins. In sauna world, there are to be found four sorts of sauna, ice relax, Kneipp bath as well as jacuzzi. Wellness centre offers special offer of relax procedures, including classical massages, baths, complete body cosmetic treatment, or some sorts of Thai massages.

Halaszle and good wine

The community of Patince is placed in a region of most longest time period of sunny days and highest temperatures of Slovak territory. Warm climatic conditions predestinated this area for intensive agricultural use. Nevertheless, during the history, even less favourable periods came. As a consequence, the area became deserted, and the inhabitants left the region, owing to Ottoman Wars or frequent inundations. Last great high water on Danube-river occured in June 1965, when in the environs of the village, protective pier broke through. This event is reminded with stone obelisk at main road, not distant from relax area. In backround, along right side of the road, you can see preserved unique object of steam filling station.

This weak settlement caused that Patince became an independent community since 1959. Till that time period, the seat was a part of surrounding villages. As far as planting of local agricultural plants is concerned, it is very strong tobacco-growing (even in time period, when th 2nd World War was over). From folklore traditions, it is worth to be mentioned typical fine perforated embroidery with white thread on linen of „Toledo“ type.

Which places of interest are to be found in the community? It is, first of all, Catholic Church, consecrated to St. Vendel, patron of farmers and shepherds. Near to the school building, there is a monument dedicated to war victims, with typical „turul“ (Hungarian symbol, presenting bird of prey). And, of course: do not forget to taste genuin fish soup „halaszle“ and excellent local wine. The fame of both products is supported with St. Urban Knights´ Order - Hurbanovo Vineyard Region, as well as St.Imrich Knights´ Order. In the environs of Patince, you can find Marina Port, with anchorage-ground for 30 yachts, refreshment and tenting and camping possibilities.

As a novelty, sightseeing navigations in the surroundings of Patince, Štúrovo or Komárno, or along Hungarian side of Esztergom and Komárom were introduced. Not far from there (on Hungarian bank), you can visit skansen of old ships and boats, close to the community of Neszmely.

Text/foto: Jiří Výborný

Translation: ing. Jan Jonáš