Hotel Prival

There's a nature trail just outside the property that leads to a spring, and the water there is crystal clear and delicious. Even with the forest and river nearby, I barely saw any mosquitoes during my four days and didn't use repellent. One unexpected thing, though not necessarily a bad one, is that summer camp children are around the grounds from 9 a.m. until about 5 p.m. They keep busy with their counselors and don't bother anyone. The grounds are beautiful and very clean, everything is well maintained, service is top-notch, and WiFi reaches the whole property.

There’s plenty to do around the recreation center, from grill areas, adult swings and lots of playgrounds to a rope town, a lit stage, vending machines for food and drinks, a bar and toilets. The place is well equipped, with rooms ranging from suites to hostel beds, plus some unusual combination rooms like ones I’ve only seen in Holland. The staff are polite and keen to help, and the prices feel low for what’s provided. It’s close to the city but already out in nature, beside the Neman River. Here it runs narrow and fast around a sharp bend, and it’s really mesmerizing to watch.

There’s clean air and pine forest around the hotel, plus a little promenade and a small beach. Kids have plenty to do, and people looking for more active fun can try pinball, archery competitions or laser tag. I liked the quiet rooms, and the linen, robes and slippers were clean. Parking is free. I didn’t expect such a nice place on the outskirts of Grodno. If you’re visiting the city, I’d recommend it.

The setting is a big part of the appeal: the Neman River, the forest and all that natural beauty. They fixed the place up the year before last, adding tennis courts and basketball and volleyball courts, and shaping the riverbank into a beach. It’s all been done really nicely. Prival also often hosts running and Nordic walking competitions. A great spot to relax.