Adrenaline, fun and sport Fončorda

Via ferrata on Skalka can be confidently described as one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Slovakia. It is located in the Kremnické vrchy mountains, near Kremnica, in the direction of Banská Bystrica. The biggest attraction of this appealing route is the longest via ferrata bridge in Central Europe. The biggest challenge is the most difficult via ferrata section in Slovakia, the F-úha via ferrata route with a difficulty rating of category F. The most attractive part of the via ferrata is undoubtedly the glass-bottomed suspension footbridge, offering stunning views of the Kremnické vrchy mountains and the Turčianska kotlina basin.

The operator of the wide network of via ferrata routes on Skalka is the town of Kremnica, which began building them in 2017. Unique experiences in the Kremnické vrchy mountains are offered by two integrated via ferrata systems. Via ferrata Komín was the first to be created and has been accessible to the public since 2017. In 2020, the town completed the unique Via ferratový svet (Via Ferrata World) here, which also includes the most difficult via ferrata route in Slovakia.

Via ferrata Komín includes 5 via ferrata routes. You can reach them via a descent via ferrata, at the beginning of which you can enjoy a beautiful view through the eastern window. However, this is only if you can squeeze through a narrow crevice in the terrain. The uniqueness of the descent route is an old maple tree. Its roots form a tangled network that will lead you to the Tibetský most (Tibetan Bridge). The ascent via ferratas begin with Komín, which, as the name suggests, will require you to squeeze between wedged stones on the way up. You will climb using a ladder or through a narrow hole that literally requires caving skills. In the last meters, the Kominárska ferrata branches off, leading through an 8-meter-long black opening.

An attraction for beginners and families with children is the western side of the ridge, offering an interesting Miniferrata with Jánošíkova diera (Jánošík's Hole). The route is only 30 meters long and located at a low height above the ground. It leads over a steep rock and requires crossing a crevice – Jánošíkova diera. This is a cave in the rock, 9 meters long, with the possibility of a horizontal entry along a safety cable. This via ferrata section is suitable for practicing movement on via ferratas and also offers the smallest adventurers a chance to try out a via ferrata route.

Via ferratový svet consists of 6 via ferrata routes interconnected by technical elements such as bird's nests, a pendulum, a balance beam, or rope bridges. The training via ferrata is designed for practicing the conquering of via ferrata routes and handling via ferrata equipment. Here, you can test your skills before heading out on the Traverz via ferrata, which leads through the rock massif between the ski slopes. It includes various adventure elements, including a bird's nest, bridges, and a ladder. The via ferrata route crosses with the Hrebeňová via ferrata, leading along a prominent mountain ridge.

A more demanding route is the Via Commo via ferrata, leading along a wooden bridge in a rock notch, over the summit rock wall, and up to the rock tower. And here, the real adventure begins – a rope bridge 32 meters long, positioned an incredible 35 meters above the terrain. The arduous journey across the abyss ends with an observation footbridge with a glass floor. Here, truly magnificent views of Skalka, Krížna, and the entire Turiec region will open up to you. The most difficult route of the entire system is the F-úha via ferrata, with a length of 45 meters and an 11-meter overhang. This section is extremely demanding and is recommended only to truly experienced climbers. It is a climbing wall in the truest sense of the word, secured with a via ferrata cable. As preparation for conquering it, you can use the Malá výzva E-jha via ferrata, with a length of 16 meters and a 3-meter overhang.

If you love adrenaline and enjoy pushing your limits, be sure not to miss this via ferrata route when visiting Kremnica, one you will not forget for the rest of your life. You can combine your adventure in nature with a visit to the Kremnická mincovňa (Kremnica Mint) or the unique Múzeum mincí a medailí (Museum of Coins and Medals). You can experience a visit to the underground mine in the Banské múzeum Štôlňa Andrej (Mining Museum Andrej Adit). There is certainly no shortage of unique experiences in Kremnica. The same applies to the variety of accommodation offers near the Via ferrata on Skalka. Accommodation in Kremnica and the surrounding areas represents a whole spectrum of popular cabins and cottages, pleasant guest houses, and attractive apartments. Plan a holiday you will never forget.

In the beautiful surroundings of the Ski stredisko Skalka pri Kremnici ski resort, you will find the popular Relax centrum. It offers its visitors a wide range of services and active relaxation. After active sports, you will certainly appreciate a refreshing bath in the water world. Swimming or fooling around in the 25 m pool with your little ones will make your time of rest and relaxation more enjoyable. Although the water depth is only 1.2 m, swimming against the artificial counter-current will definitely give you a workout. And when you no longer have the strength, you can relax on the water loungers or seats. A body massage is also provided by a water mushroom and water jets. The water has a pleasant temperature of 28–29 °C. Your little ones have a children's pool with a temperature of 30 °C at their disposal. You don't have to envy them. You can also warm up perfectly in the sitting pool, where the water temperature reaches a pleasant 36 °C.

You can warm your body in one of five saunas. Will you enjoy the dry Finnish sauna, or do you prefer the steam, herbal, or infrared sauna? Everyone can choose what suits them best. There is also a cooling pool with cold water. You can lie down in the relaxation room with pleasant relaxing music. However, do not forget that the last entry to the wellness area is no later than 1.5 hours before closing time.

You can also pursue your sports activities in the gymnasium of Relax centrum. The multipurpose hall for team sports is over 40 m long and almost 20 m wide. You can play volleyball, basketball, handball, badminton, or tennis here. The synthetic rubber artificial surface also allows gymnasts and karatekas to train.

Right next to the gymnasium is an excellently equipped fitness center. You can thus suitably complement your stay in the gymnasium by strengthening your muscles. Here you will find a stationary bicycle, wall bars, benches, and various weight training machines. If you are a squash lover, we have good news for you. You can have fun with a racket and ball on a separate court. Rackets and other equipment can be rented at the front desk.

The Relax centrum Skalka grounds are also complemented by six outdoor sports fields and a grassy area the size of a football pitch, where you can also enjoy sports to your heart's content. Athletics enthusiasts will also find something to enjoy. The asphalt-rubber running track with a length of 1,800 m can also be used for roller skating or roller skiing. The track passes through the forest and has three levels of difficulty. In the evenings, you can also play bowling or table tennis here.

If you long to explore other interesting places in the surroundings, we recommend booking accommodation near Relax centrum Skalka. We offer several types of accommodation facilities, from apartments in Kremnica to popular cottages and chalets. It all depends on whether you set off on your journey to Múzeum mincí a medailí or take a look at coin production in Mincovňa. The braver ones might set off on a hike along Via Ferrata Skalka. You can soak up the historical atmosphere during a tour of the town castle (Mestský hrad). So, how will your day in Kremnica begin and end?

The fairytale village Habakuky, which is situated in the popular tourist resort of Donovaly, gladly opens its gates to you. Banská Bystrica is just a short drive away by car, and the complex represents an ideal place for families with children, as the entire composition of the attraction invites you into the magical world of Slovak folk fairytales. You can also watch interactive theatrical performances or demonstrations of folk crafts here.

Children will also get a small lesson in financial literacy here, as they exchange euros for the local currency habakuk at the entrance. They can then use the magical coins, for example, to buy small souvenirs or refreshments. The original architecture of various enchanted houses and castles will tempt your imagination toward living in fairytales. Here and there, a living devil might tap you on the shoulder, or a golden spinner might smile at you. You will certainly meet Hansel and Gretel and you can ask them about the wicked witch. The authenticity of your experience will reach its peak. Take your little ones to the large wooden mill, where they can whisper a secret into its ear. Maybe they will even get a sweet reward.

Little kids will also enjoy inflatable attractions, face painting, or trying out various techniques in a creative workshop with the apt name "Negrambľoš". Children's playgrounds with climbing frames and swings are also available, where they can have fun while waiting for the performances. You will also catch sight of various animals that complete the village atmosphere with their sounds. If you have a baby with you, it is better to place them in a baby carrier, as not all paths in the area are suitable for a stroller. Mothers will also appreciate the comfortably equipped baby-changing corner, "Plienkárik". If you get hungry, head to the so-called "Hodovňa" within the complex, where the snack bar staff will gladly prepare a light bite to eat for you. It is also possible to book a program for school trips here, during which students will learn something new while having fun.

Come and experience a piece of the work of fairytale writer P. E. Dobšinský firsthand. In the immediate vicinity of the fairytale village Habakuky, there is no shortage of accommodation. All you have to do is choose from a wide offer of cabins, guest houses, or apartments in Donovaly. While exploring the charm of the Veľká Fatra nature, be sure to stop by the children's town Donovalkovo. If you are an adrenaline lover, try Bobová dráha FunAréna Donovaly. In winter, you will certainly enjoy the groomed slopes of PARK SNOW Donovaly, where you can test your fitness on skis or a snowboard. After all-day activities, great relaxation at the Gothal resort, located in nearby Liptovská Osada, comes in handy.

Do you know which town in Slovakia is dedicated specifically to children? Yes, Donovalkovo in Donovaly is a paradise for children, as well as for parents. Right here, the little ones can try what it is like to be a fearless firefighter, a prudent banker, or a determined doctor.

Donovaly as such is sought after during both summer and winter. In the summer season, from May to October, children in particular will find plenty to enjoy here. One of the popular attractions in Donovaly includes Donovalkovo. This interactive area offers many opportunities for spending leisure time. A total of 23 scaled-down miniature houses create a wonderful space for children. You will find a cinema, a hospital, a fire station, an auto repair shop, and a house resembling a gingerbread cottage. Will you become a farmer for a moment and earn a certificate for it? In addition to the buildings, you will also enjoy an authentic experience thanks to costumes. Animators help keep the fun going here with a rich animation program.

A great bonus for all children across various age groups is a mini-farm with animals such as a donkey, a goat, or rabbits. Among the main attractions of this area is a traffic playground where you will learn the rules of the road. You can ride around the entire little town on a train.

Creative souls can cut, glue, or paint in the gallery here. Face painting is also very popular in this area. You can then take your creations from the whole day home with you. Adults can relax in the lounge area of a nearby restaurant. So children can play out their hearts content all day long, and you will recharge your energy here. It is a wonderful feeling to see the glowing eyes of your little ones. If you visit during the winter, a Vianočné mestečko Christmas town is prepared in the month of December.

With children this tired, all that is left to do is put them to bed in a guesthouse in Donovaly. Accommodation near Donovalkovo will delight you, and you will not have to worry about rushing back home. After all, in the summer you can take a walk in nature or have fun at Fun aréna. In the winter, there are groomed slopes at the Park Snow Donovaly resort. In case you arrive as a larger family, we recommend choosing a chalet in Donovaly instead. You will have more privacy and will not have to quiet down the noise of your children. So which accommodation will you choose?

Do you want your child not only to have fun, but also to learn in an entertaining way? Then head to Donovaly and direct your steps and those of your little ones to Myšiačikov detský park. Throughout the day, your toddler will learn plenty of interesting information in a playful manner while spending the day in the fresh air within a beautiful natural environment.

Myšiačikov detský park is among the popular attractions in Donovaly. This is mainly because you will find entertainment here not only on dry land, but also by the water. Overall, there are as many as 9 interconnected stations within the area.

In the children's rope park, your children will learn to climb ropes with various types of obstacles. However, the playhouse meant for pleasant leisure time will also bring a smile to their faces, from which they can easily slide down a slide. They can also stop by the central house featuring various educational activities.

Within the area, you can also listen to the babbling of a flowing stream, which, in addition to a calming atmosphere, serves as part of many attractions. Children can regulate the flow of running water using small dams and watch how the water changes direction. Preferred activities also include rafting on a small lake or letting marbles run down various tracks. The workings of physical laws can also be tested on irrigation systems or Archimedes' screws.

You will hardly notice how fast time flies here. It should be noted that opening hours are adapted to the time of year. The entrance fee is affordable. Only the full price is paid for children. Parents accompanying a child are charged a fee of only about 30% of the full amount.

The attraction Myšiačikov detský svet belongs, together with the popular Dobšinského rozprávkový svet Habakuky and Donovalkovo, to places that every child will fall in love with. You can also comfortably ride the bobsled track within Fun Aréna. In winter, it is great to go skiing on the slopes of the PARK SNOW Donovaly ski resort.

So that you do not have to rush back home and can enjoy Donovaly to the fullest, we recommend booking accommodation near Myšiačikov detský svet. The offer includes highly sought-after cottages in Donovaly suitable for larger family groups. Smaller groups also choose from local apartments.