Holcíkovce lies in the southern part of the Ondavská vrchovina, in the valley of the Ondalík stream and on the eastern shore of the Veľká Domaša Reservoir. These geographical features provide a clear framework for your trip: Domaša is the anchor for water-based activities, while the stream and valley describe the village’s precise location. For planning, it is worth considering two aspects separately—the stay at the reservoir and the village’s history.
Local history and geographical setting
The oldest surviving written references to the village appear in charters issued by King Sigismund in 1408 and 1410. They concern the donation of the Stropkov estate—and with it, the village—to the nobles of Perín. For a cultural highlight alongside water activities, this offers a specific historical connection: the village’s history is linked to a named estate and the nobles involved in it.
Beach, SUP, and water sports
The Eva recreation center in Holcíkovce offers visitors sunbathing on a grassy beach; water sports are also available there. These options cater to different interests: those who want to spend time by the shore can focus on sunbathing, while water sports offer a more active way to enjoy the water. Specific operators and equipment may vary seasonally.
Palma Bistro is located right on the shore of the Domaša Reservoir in the municipality of Holcíkovce. The bistro rents paddleboards (SUP) directly at the beach, allowing beginners and experienced paddlers to explore Domaša from the water. This option is seasonal. If SUP is important to your travel decision, check availability for your travel dates.
Sailing and summer camps
The SURFCLUB Domaša Holčíkovce offers another connection to water sports: it is the home harbor of the Akademik Yacht Club of the Technical University of Košice and has coaches and instructors for fleet sailing and water sports. The focus differs between these options: SUP is a seasonal beach rental, while fleet sailing and water sports are part of the club’s profile. For those interested in sailing, this provides a distinct way to experience Domaša, alongside paddling and the water sports offered by the Eva recreation center.
SURFCLUB also organizes summer camps for children and young people, with training in sailing, windsurfing, and other water sports. If you are planning a trip with one of these camps in mind, check the dates and availability in advance. The focus on sailing, windsurfing, and other water sports distinguishes these camps from a general beach stay.
Fishing in the surrounding area
For anglers, it is important to know the boundaries of the designated fishing area. Near Holcíkovce, the Veľká Domaša Reservoir—from the dam to the road bridge near the municipality of Lomné—is designated as a carp fishing area and is managed by the Slovak Anglers Association. The named section is more useful for orientation than a general description of the entire reservoir. Current fishing regulations and permits may change; check them before planning a fishing trip.
Discover more destinations: Slovenská Kajňa, Nova Kelca, Bystré, Vranov Nad Topľou, Kvakovce
View the wider travel guide: Okres Vranov Nad Topľou.
