Caves in Slovakia

Caves attract many tourists. Their beauty and mystery, normally hidden from our sight, can take your breath away. Imagine a place where sunlight does not reach—a realm of mythical gnomes. A fairytale idea. We will take you to just such a place. And even something more. Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa is a crystal-clear kingdom frozen in eternal ice.

Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa is far from ordinary. Unique is its ice decoration as well as its location. Compared to other ice caves, the cave is situated at a lower altitude. Due to all these unique features, it is inscribed on the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List. And not just anything makes it onto this list.

You will find the cave near the village of Stratená in the cadastral area of the town of Dobšiná. It lies on the main route between Poprad and Rožňava in a beautiful environment near Slovenský raj. When you arrive in Stratená, you will certainly look forward to the tour. And indeed, there is much to look forward to. Expectation will be raised by an educational trail leading to the entrance of the cave. On the way, you will pass 5 information boards that will familiarize you with the nature of Slovenský raj, its gorges, as well as its plants and animals. In front of the cave, there are additional information panels full of engaging facts focused directly on Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa.

The cave did not always have the grand name known today; locals used to nickname it "ice hole" due to the cold spreading from it. The first explorers entered its depths in 1870, and just a year later it was opened to the public. It thus became one of the earliest opened caves in the world. Definitive electric lighting was installed in the cave in 1887. An interesting fact is that public ice skating was permitted here for a certain period.

The length of the route accessible to tourists is 515 meters of icy magnificence. A half-hour tour will show you the most precious, permanently glaciated parts of the cave, mainly Veľká sieň and Malá sieň. Prepare yourself for a considerable temperature shock; in the coldest parts of the cave, it can drop to -4 °C. So do not forget to bring warm clothing.

In the cave, you will admire not only floor ice, but also ice pillars and icefalls. Be assured that the ice in the cave has accumulated over centuries. The proof is its maximum thickness of more than 26 meters.

The surroundings of Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa are full of points of interest; the beautiful nature of Slovenský raj speaks for itself. Since this is one of the most sought-after tourist locations in Slovakia, you will have no shortage of pleasant accommodation. Pleasant small guesthouses with a family atmosphere predominate here, where you will feel right at home. The offer of chalets in the beautiful mountain environment is also varied, where you will be woken up by the chirping of birds. The environment of Dobšiná is enchanting, and rest assured that you will want to return here soon.

Liptov takes the breath away of thousands of tourists with its beauty. Majestic mountains, fun in Slovakia's best water parks, skiing like in the Alps, or airborne adrenaline. And there is also something to be found below the surface. The longest cave system in Slovakia, which includes Demänovské jaskyne. Let us introduce the most famous one, Demänovská jaskyňa slobody.

You will find this most visited cave in the country just a few kilometres from Liptovský Mikuláš. It lies in Demänovská dolina, which leads to the largest ski resort, Jasná. So you will find nothing but superlatives here.

A trail with educational panels leads to the cave. You might get a little out of breath, but you will be able to rest while gathering information about the history and opening of the cave to the public, as well as about other caves in Slovakia. After the ascent, refreshments in the form of a snack bar will be waiting for you.

The history of opening the cave to the public dates back to 1921, when the first cavers entered it. It happened in an unconventional way, beneath the water surface. Specifically through the lowest sinkhole of the Demänovka stream. The first lighting in the cave was installed just 2 years later, and the first visitors could enjoy its beauty starting in 1924. Since then, newly discovered sections have been continuously connected to the route.

The cave decorations are breathtaking. It is the most varied cave in the entire cave system. Unique features include flowstone water lilies and other forms of karst relief created by the activity of water, such as small cave pearls. There is an underground lake bearing the name Veľké jazero. Its length is up to 52 metres and its width ranges from 5 to 12 metres. Famous areas include Veľký dóm, Jánošíkov dóm, and Ružová sieň. The dripstones in the cave are still growing; those in Veľký dóm grow at a rate of about 2 mm per 10 years. A figure imperceptible to the human eye, yet proof that the cave is still active.

The temperature in the cave fluctuates between 6–7 °C. Prepare for this knowing that you will spend at least an hour underground. The tour along the shorter circuit, measuring 1,150 metres, takes exactly one hour. However, we recommend the tour along the longer circuit, which is 2,150 metres long and takes 100 minutes. It will take you to the most beautiful places of Demänovská jaskyňa slobody, which you cannot reach during the short circuit. Mainly Veľký dóm, the largest accessible underground space in Slovakia, and Ružová sieň.

Underground worlds fascinate many. Liptov and Demänovská dolina in particular offer many opportunities to explore them. Demänovská jaskyňa slobody offers the longest accessible route in Slovakia, and you will enjoy more than enough on it. If it still isn't enough for you, in the very same valley you will find the no less famous Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa. Afterwards, you can head to Chopok or take a ride on the bobsleigh track in Pavčiná Lehota.

You can stay very close by in Demänovská dolina. Here you will find mostly traditional wooden cottages, mountain hotels, as well as the most luxurious hotels for demanding guests. Numerous apartment houses are popular, where you can rent your own fully equipped apartment at various price points for all kinds of clients.

Slovakia is exceptionally rich in caves considering its size. The number of registered caves and chasms has already reached approximately 6,700. Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa is part of the longest cave system in Slovakia, which has a total length of almost 36 km.

Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa is one of the oldest in Europe. Its existence has been documented as early as 1299. It is located near the road leading through Demänovská dolina. If you have ever been to Jasná, you have surely passed right by it. And believe us, it is well worth stopping by.

The cave is unique due to its ice decoration. Intriguingly, just 500 years ago, it was a regular dripstone cave. After the collapse of certain passages and the prevention of air circulation, conditions were created in the cave for the formation of ice. In 1885, a shelter was built near the cave, and the first tourists began visiting it. However, it was not heavily visited; the years 1950–1952 were more significant, when electric lighting was installed. During these years, concerns grew over preserving the ice cover, as the reconstruction damaged the cave and air began circulating inside again. This threatened to melt the ice sheet. Fortunately, the issues were resolved.

An educational trail with interesting information boards leads to the cave. Right before entering the cave, you will become acquainted with the Nízke Tatry National Park and its flora and fauna. The tour route inside the cave is 650 meters long with an elevation gain of 48 m. The tour will take you three quarters of an hour. Dress warmly, due to the ice decoration, the temperature inside stays just above freezing year-round. If you can brave the cold, the cave will reward you with an unprecedented spectacle. Underground, you will admire stalactites and stalagmites, as well as floor ice and ice pillars, which are at their most massive during the spring months.

Eight species of bats have been recorded in the cave. The discovery of bones belonging to the cave bear and other vertebrates proves that it was sought after by animals even in the distant past.

Demänovská dolina is full of other attractions. After exploring Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa, you can head to the neighboring Demänovská jaskyňa slobody. Continuing up the valley, you will reach Jasná, the largest ski resort in Slovakia. But you will not be bored here in summer either. The cable car will take you up to the peak of Chopok, and from there, for instance, to Hotel Srdiečko, which is just a hop away from another famous cave Jaskyňa Mŕtvych netopierov.

You can find accommodation directly in the village of Demänovská Dolina or in nearby Pavčiná Lehota. Both are fully prepared for the influx of tourists, and finding your own chalet or a room in a cozy guesthouse will not be a problem. Private homestays are also booming, and you can stay in almost every house. The advantage of such accommodation is its extremely favorable price. You do not have to go on vacation just for skiing or water, but also to discover underground beauty, and you will hardly find more of it than in Demänovská dolina.

When spending your vacation in the Malé Karpaty mountains or near Smolenice, famous for its romantic chateau, take a trip to Jaskyňa Driny. The cave is among the smaller ones. However, what it loses in size, it makes up for in the beauty of its underground world.

Jaskyňa Driny is characterized by one unique feature. It is the only accessible cave in Western Slovakia. You will find it northeast of the town of Trnava, just one kilometer from the aforementioned Smolenice. You can reach the cave via a comfortable forest road; at its end, prepare to conquer the final 100 stairs. Near the cave, you will find several information boards about the origin of the mountain range, the cave, as well as the animals living in the surrounding forests. After the climb, you can refresh yourself at the adjacent bar with an original name Speleobar.

The first mentions of the cave date back to 1866, when Prussian troops camped near its entrance during the Austro-Prussian War. They did not aim to explore the cave; the first discovery attempts began only in 1920. Interestingly, one of the explorers was also Štefan Banič. Is this name familiar to you? It should be. He is the person who invented the parachute. He explored access to the cave together with his son Ján, who discovered the entrance 9 years later, in 1929. The cave was opened to the public in 1934. Today, the cave is open every day except Monday. On the internet, you can also find the exact entry times depending on whether you decide to visit during or outside the tourist season.

The length of the accessible route is 450 meters, and the cave tour will take you just over half an hour. The elevation gain inside is 10 meters, so you will hardly feel it, while the temperature represents a pleasant 7–8 °C. In the winter months, you will even warm up under the earth's surface.

Inside the cave, on a small area, there are many karst formations, such as sinter pools or curtains with characteristic serrations, typical only for Jaskyňa Driny. The cave was created thanks to a system of fissures that water expanded over thousands of years. In it, you will find mostly narrow corridors and only a few larger cave spaces, or halls. One of them is the Sieň Slovenskej speleologickej spoločnosti hall. Despite the small area of the cave, it is extremely popular with bats. As many as 11 species of these animals have found their home here.

The Malé Karpaty mountains are extremely attractive to tourists in themselves. There are numerous hiking trails, Smolenický zámok, Hrad Červený Kameň, the Jahodník recreational center, and Jaskyňa Driny itself. Thanks to these attractions, it will be no problem to find accommodation in one of the nearby villages. The closest ones are Horné Orešany and Smolenice. Here, demanding clients will find hotel accommodation with all the necessary comfort and care. Family accommodation in guesthouses is also available, or you can rent a chalet just for yourself for your stay, from which you can set out anytime on an expedition into the underground of Jaskyňa Driny.

Underground worlds have fascinated people since time immemorial. Caves provided shelter, and today they are sought-after tourist attractions. If you are planning a holiday to Vysoké Tatry or to Zamagurie, pay close attention. You should not miss a visit to Belianska jaskyňa under any circumstances.

Belianska jaskyňa lies near the village of Tatranská Kotlina. You can reach it from Tatranská Lomnica or from Spišská Belá. It is located on the left side of the road in the Kobylí vrch massif. There are several caves in Vysoké Tatry, but Belianska jaskyňa is the only one open to the public. It features rich dripstone decoration and is well worth a tour. An educational trail leads up to it. In less than a kilometer, you will pass information boards that will familiarize you with environmental protection, flora, fauna, and the history of the cave itself.

The cave was discovered by gold prospectors as early as 1826, but it was subsequently forgotten. It was rediscovered in 1881 and opened to the public in 1884. An interesting fact is that electric lighting was introduced into the cave in 1896—just 12 years after the invention of the light bulb. Another curious fact was the attempt to transform the ordinary dripstone cave into an ice cave. The lower sections of the cave were supposed to be artificially iced over, but this damaged the decorations, so the plan was abandoned.

Let's move to the present. Inside the cave, 1,370 meters of underground beauty, a 125-meter vertical rise, and exactly 860 steps await you. Dress warmly before visiting the cave; the temperature inside hovers between 5 and 6 degrees Celsius, and you will be underground for over an hour. The cave is open year-round, with the exception of a few weeks in the winter months. It is also closed every Monday. It is necessary to check visiting hours in advance online, as they differ during the high season and off-season.

In the cave, you will be captivated by flowstone waterfalls, especially in Vysoký dóm and Vodopádový dóm. Hudobná sieň is also fascinating. Its name is fitting—thanks to its exceptional acoustics, musical concerts have been held here both in the past and present. If you think the underground world is lifeless, you are mistaken. In Belianska jaskyňa alone, there are up to 7 species of bats.

You can enjoy a visit to Belianska jaskyňa from several locations. Right next to the cave is Tatranská Kotlina. There you will find beautiful, stylish accommodation in guesthouses with typical High Tatras architecture. The same applies to cozy cottages suitable both for couples in love and groups of friends. You will also find plenty of guesthouses and private accommodations in nearby Ždiar. Belianska jaskyňa is proof that in Vysoké Tatry, it is not only towering peaks that deserve attention, but also the underground world. Discover Vysoké Tatry from beneath the surface.

In the north of Slovakia, there are several famous caves. In the region of the Vysoké Tatry mountains, only two are open to the public. One of them is Belianska jaskyňa, and the other is Važecká jaskyňa. The cave lies in the village of Važec of the same name, which neighbors the village of Východná, famous for its folklore.

You will find the village of Važec very easily. It is located right by the highway between Liptovský Mikuláš and Poprad. It offers unique views of the entire Vysoké Tatry mountains, and the cave could hardly have a more beautiful backdrop. Važecká jaskyňa features classic cave decorations. Here, you will find many dripstones, sinter pools, stalactites, and stalagmites. You can see with your own eyes what the difference is between them. Inside the cave, refreshment awaits you in the form of temperatures around 7 degrees Celsius. The cave is standardly open almost all year round, with the exception of Mondays.

The entrance to the cave was known to local residents for many years. However, explorers entered its dark depths for the first time only in 1922. The first visitors came in 1928, when it operated in a provisional mode. The definitive opening to the public took place in 1954; until then, research and discoveries of new cave spaces were underway.

The cave decoration is interesting due to its coloring. There are not only classic yellowish dolomites, but also blue-white and glassy blue limestones and dolomites. Under artificial lighting, they create an interesting color contrast.

Važecká jaskyňa is famous for the archaeological discovery of cave bear remains. An exposition focused on this predator is part of the cave's guided tour route. Here, you will find its remains, a restored skeleton, and a statue of a cave bear. This will give you a better idea of its appearance and size. You will learn even more about its life from the educational panels.

The tour route is relatively short, spanning only 235 meters and taking about 25 minutes. Nevertheless, you will learn a lot of interesting information and see decorations in a small area that many other caves cannot boast of, while the cave bear exposition will surely intrigue many of you.

It will be most convenient to stay right in the village of Važec. You have a choice of classic guesthouses at your disposal. If you prefer more privacy, you can stay in a private room or a cottage. The choice is yours; in any case, you will have Važecká jaskyňa around the corner and the beauty of the Vysoké Tatry mountains right outside your windows.

On Slovakia we have many well-known and extremely visited caves. Have you already been in Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa, Harmaneckej jaskyni či Domici and are you looking for some less known one? We have a good tip for you. It is Bystrianska jaskyňa.

It is located in the Nízke Tatry, just like its sisters, the well-known Demänovské jaskyne – Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa and Demänovská jaskyňa slobody. You will find it a piece from Brezno, right before Mýto pod Ďumbierom. It lies in the namesake village of Bystrá. Why visit it?

The character of the cave is somewhat different than the others. In them you will find large spacious domes and halls, but Bystrianska jaskyňa differs from them. In it you will find primarily narrow and high corridors, in which you will feel like a true caver. The cave is mainly from limestone and dolomite, which easily forms and similar karst forms arise in it. In the cave there is also the Peklo abyss, deep up to 56 meters. Despite the narrow corridors, you will also find beautiful halls with dripstone decoration here, for example Sieň Baldachýnov or Zrútený dóm. Company will be made for you during your visit by up to 8 species of various bats.

The entry parts of this cave were known by locals already very long ago. Into their interiors they however didn't dare for a long time, for the first time it was in the year 1923. The cave consists of two parts, Stará and Nová jaskyňa. Into that Nová one was descended through the aforementioned Peklo abyss. To opening for the broad public the cave lived to see in the years 1939-1940.

Today opened route of the cave has a length of 545 meters. It is suitable also for immobile visitors, since you will find here only 20 stairs, which with the help of others is not a problem to overcome. A curiosity of the cave is that the entrance and exit are in two different places. Other caves are sometimes longer, however along one place you go twice. Here you pass through almost all parts of the cave only once and you see more of it. Prepare yourself however for a low temperature and therefore dress yourself better. The whole route is almost without elevation change and you will enjoy it in every age. Do not forget, that on Monday is the cave closed for the public and select yourself for the visit on another day.

The surroundings are full of opportunities for spending free time. You can go to the massive Ďumbier, visit the nearby jaskyňu Mŕtvych netopierov or play golf. As a starting point will serve you stylish mountain accommodation, for example in nearby Mýto pod Ďumbierom, or Bystrá. Popular are cabins in nearby forests or cozy guesthouses or apartments with complete equipment. The Nízke Tatry are interesting also on their southern side and a visit to Bystrianska jaskyňa is ideal to find that out on your own skin.

Stanišovská jaskyňa is the only cave open year-round in the Liptov region. You can find it in the Nízke Tatry mountain range, in the charming Jánska dolina valley at the end of the village of Liptovský Ján. From the village, you can get here on foot with an approximately 60-minute walk, or by car or bicycle. You can park directly in front of the cave, making it truly easily accessible.

The cave is an ideal place for discovering underground places, especially for families with children, seniors, or beginner hikers. The terrain is not demanding, and the guide engagingly explains various interesting facts from history and the field of speleology. Stanišovská jaskyňa is open to visitors every day of the year. The tour lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Always check the visitor rules and price list on the official website of the cave prior to your visit.

The full name of this natural monument is Malá Stanišovská jaskyňa. Out of a total length of 871 meters, 177 meters are accessible to the public. Its spaces were explored in 1974, and no archaeological or paleontological findings were discovered inside. However, an interesting feature is the numerous inscriptions on the walls left behind by past visitors. The oldest inscription dates back to the end of the 19th century.

In the cave, you will also discover a copy of an Obo shamanic site. An Obo is a sacred structure made of natural materials, which usually stands on mountain peaks, near rivers, or at other significant locations. It is an ancient custom from the regions of Mongolia, China, and other eastern countries. Lamas built these sacrificial sites to honor the spirit guardian of the given place.

Throughout the year, various events are prepared in Stanišovská jaskyňa, where you and your children can try, for example, moving through tight cave spaces, basic climbing, or traditional food preparation. Children in particular, however, will be absolutely thrilled to discover the mythical realm of Aghartha. Diligent cave explorers have so far discovered several entrances to this mystical underground realm.

In addition to Stanišovská jaskyňa itself, explore Medvedia štôlňa in Žiarska dolina, Mincovníčkovo - Podzemie Pod vežami in Liptovský Ján, and Permoníkovo in Podbanské. From each visit, you will take home a precious coin, and during your last visit, you will also receive a rare coin of the Realm of Aghartha.

The Liptov location offers truly many interesting places worth visiting. We recommend visiting the nearby healing thermal spring Kaďa Liptovský Ján, refreshing yourself in the summer at Termal raj Sorea, visiting Hrad Liptovský Hrádok, or the fallen heroes' monument in Lesopark Háj-Nicovô, from where a breathtaking view opens up over the town of Liptovský Mikuláš and the Liptovská Mara reservoir.

If you long for cave spaces again, Demänovská jaskyňa slobody and Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa in the village of Demänová are certainly worth a visit. On our portal, you will find many accommodation options near Stanišovská jaskyňa or accommodation in Liptovský Mikuláš.

The lesser-known Krásnohorská jaskyňa cave is located in Národný park Slovenský kras, near the village of Krásnohorská Dlhá Lúka. Entry to the cave must be arranged in advance, as it is always accompanied by experienced cavers. The minimum number of participants is 4 people, and due to the difficulty of the tour, it is not recommended for small children.

Krásnohorská jaskyňa boasts a unique rarity. It is home to the largest dripstone in the temperate climate zone, standing at an impressive height of 34 meters. This is also why the cave was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. During your tour, you will feel like real cavers, as the conditions closely resemble those experienced by speleologists when discovering underground spaces.

Before the tour begins, you will receive complete caving gear, and off you go to explore. A pleasant temperature of around 9 °C awaits you, and up to 4 species of bats will properly welcome you to the underground kingdom. Your adrenaline will rise as you scramble through rubble, traverse an underground stream, and wade through its shallower parts.

It is not worth visiting Slovenský kras for just one day. We therefore recommend staying near Krásnohorská jaskyňa or finding accommodation in Rožňava and planning further trips in Rožňava and its surroundings. Definitely set aside an entire day to explore Národný park Slovenský kras. A piece of history awaits you at Hrad Krásna Hôrka as well as in the magnificent Kaštieľ Betliar, where the Slovak TV series titled 1890 was filmed. And to properly balance your underground experience, we invite you to enjoy an astronomical adventure right at Hvezdáreň Rožňava.

Jaskyňa nad cestou, also known as Opatovská jaskyňa, can be found at the foot of the slope near the ruins of Kláštor Veľká Skalka, between the villages of Zamarovce and Skalka nad Váhom. The cave entrance is located at an altitude of 230 m above sea level. Take your children and set out on a journey of discovery. You can complete this easy hike in any season of the year. When entering the cave, keep your safety in mind and do not forget to put on a helmet with a headlamp.

The cave space consists of two interconnected limestone corridors formed by flowing underground waters. The western section of the corridors is 38 m long and will surprise you with the fact that whenever you think the path ends here, another space appears around the bend. The southwestern sector is smaller and measures 22 m. Even though it is a karst formation, you would look for karst decorations here in vain. The cave terminates in a clay plug.

Its permanent residents include various species of cave spiders and bats. In the winter months, the interior transforms into an ice palace covered in icicles. Opatovská jaskyňa was declared a natural monument in 1994. You can combine a visit to the cave with a walk along Náučný chodník Benediktínskymi cestami, which features 8 information boards. The penultimate stop is Kláštor Veľká Skalka, the oldest pilgrimage site in Slovakia. Parking is available right at the adjacent parking lot.

After this easy hike, head to nearby Trenčín and treat yourself to relaxation at the summer swimming pool. From there, you will enjoy a wonderful view of Trenčiansky hrad. Among the most interesting and most visited attractions in Trenčín, besides the castle, are Dom mestského kata and Trenčianske múzeum. A visit to the rope park Tarzania Trenčín will also be an exceptional experience.

After an active day spent in the fresh air, stay in a nice apartment or guest house and plan your next trips around the area. You can view the full selection of accommodation near Opatovská jaskyňa on our subpages accommodation in Zamarovce and accommodation in Skalka nad Váhom.

Brestovská jaskyňa cave is located near the village of Zuberec, not far from the Múzeum oravskej dediny open-air museum. It is the first cave opened to the public in the Orava region, in the Západné Tatry mountains. You can reach it easily by car, park at the wooden amphitheatre of the open-air museum, and walk just a few steps to the cave entrance itself.

Regular entries into the cave are limited to a maximum of 15 people due to safety and terrain difficulty, with a minimum required age of 6 years. It is therefore recommended to make a phone reservation in advance for a specific time or to inquire about available spots. Since only small groups are permitted, you will enjoy the entire tour much more. The route is 434 metres long and takes about 50 minutes. A river still flows through the bottom of Brestovská jaskyňa. Thanks to the presence of water, it features remarkable morphology in its individual chambers as well as rare cave fauna. You will be enchanted by the sinter decorations and stalactites, with small sinter pools completing the atmosphere. In their vicinity, it is possible to observe cave crustaceans and other small creatures. Bats are not missing either- Scientists have counted up to nine species here.

We recommend combining your visit to the cave with other interesting attractions around Zuberec. Find accommodation near Brestovská jaskyňa and take an all-day trip on the Roháčsky vláčik train, visit the unique open-air museum Múzeum oravskej dediny, or plan a hike to Sivý vrch, Baníkov, or Roháčske plesá tarns. Children will enjoy a visit to the Tarzanka Zuberec rope park located near the cave. Plan an experiential stay and top it off with perfect accommodation in a cottage or traditional wooden house in Zuberec.

Only a few villages in Slovakia can boast their own karst wealth. One of these exceptional villages is Bretka, located in the Rožňava district, less than 30 km southwest of the district town. On the territory of this small village, you can take a trip through a protected area, which also includes Hutnianska jaskyňa. Its mysterious underground without electric lighting breathes with ancient history.

Through a narrow karst valley, of which the underground corridor is also a part, you will be guided by the Prielom Muráňa educational trail. The starting point of your trip will be the village of Bretka. From here, you will follow an easy loop route approximately 3.2 km in length. Hutnianska jaskyňa will be your last, sixth stop. The underground corridor is 11 meters long. Since the cave is not illuminated, we recommend packing a flashlight or headlamp and sturdy footwear.

The underground is without dripstone decoration, which, however, does not detract from the cave's unique, mysterious atmosphere. Archaeological research has shown that the cave spaces were inhabited as early as the Bronze Age. Later, during World War II, the Germans had their command shelter here. Today, the cave is freely accessible to visitors for recovery and getting to know its natural beauty and historical values. In 1994, the underground was declared a natural monument.

You will probably be surprised, but Hutnianska jaskyňa is not the only accessible underground area in Bretka. Along the educational trail, you will also come across Jaskyňa Peško, whose underground passage is 17 meters long. In the immediate vicinity, we recommend visiting the remnants of one of the oldest Slovak fortresses, Hrad Gemer. And if you enjoy your time underground, head to the nearby Jaskyňa Domica or take a trip through the corridors of Gombasecká jaskyňa. If you decide to stay longer in Gemer, book accommodation near Hutnianska jaskyňa. You can choose from the accommodation offer in Bretka or opt for accommodation in Rožňava.

In a dense forest, on the right slope of the Mokrá dolina valley, in the village of Plavecký Mikuláš in the Malacky district, a unique rock formation of our nature lies hidden. Do not miss an interesting cave when visiting the well-known region of Malé Karpaty. The massive rock overhang, approximately 30 m long, was formed on a tectonic fissure caused by the activity of underground waters and frost weathering. Take a look at the space of Deravá skala, which is about 15 m high and was once inhabited in the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Middle Ages.

If you decide to set out on a 2 km route to the cave, you need to be really attentive when walking through the green forest so that you don't miss the cave. Access to the cave is easy. From the village of Plavecký Mikuláš, you can reach it following the green marker and later via an educational trail through Mokrá dolina. This unique natural monument is also the site of several archaeological finds.

Near Deravá skala, there is another unique sight. The cave Tmavá skala, located approximately 130 m away at an altitude of 425 m a.s.l., is not accessible to the public. Mokrá dolina and both caves are part of the important Kršlenica nature reserve, which is known for its rare flora, fauna, and rock formations and crags. You can combine your visit to the cave with an ascent to the peak of Čierna skala. You can reach an altitude of 662 m a.s.l. along a less demanding route after approximately 4.5 km from the Jahodník recreational center. A shorter route with a length of about 3.5 km leads from Plavecký Mikuláš, but it involves a steeper climb. Let yourself be charmed by the interesting rock outcrops of Malé Karpaty.

Do you enjoy discovering natural or underground beauties? Then do not miss the nearby Jaskyňa Driny. In the village of Smolenice, located approximately 20 minutes away, you will find a small yet all the more interesting cave. The cave with many karst formations is home to as many as 11 species of bats. Along the way, you can make a stop at the Vodná nádrž Buková reservoir. In summer, it is a sought-after spot for relaxation or paddle boating. Fishing enthusiasts will also find something to their liking. The dominant feature of Smolenice is the romantic Smolenický zámok chateau. During the tour, you will be charmed not only by the chateau itself or its park and surroundings, but also by its rich and fascinating history.

If ancient times have tempted you, we have one more tip for you. The nearby Múzeum Molpír museum will introduce you to the prehistoric fort of Molpír, as well as the life of the famous inventor of the parachute, Štefan Banič, in his memorial room. So do not hesitate and book accommodation near the Deravá skala. Choose a comfortable guesthouse or a romantic chalet and enjoy the beautiful places near Plavecký Mikuláš.

Did you know that the lowest-lying ice cave in the world is located in the Slovenskom krase? Silická ľadnica is situated at an altitude of only 503 m a. s. l., and a yellow-marked tourist trail leading from the village of Silica will take you to it. The dominant feature of the Silickej planiny was formed in the Mesozoic middle Triassic limestones of the Silického príkrovu by the underground stream of the Čierneho potoka, which flows into the nearby Gombaseckej jaskyne. Despite the fact that the cave is not freely accessible, a pleasant hike awaits you, which even your little ones can manage.

The journey along the marked forest path will take you approximately 20 minutes at a leisurely pace. The staircase by the cave itself is slippery due to the presence of moisture, so increase your caution when descending. The entrance portal gate, which is partially iced over, will surely captivate you. At this altitude and latitude, this is an exceptional climatic phenomenon. This remarkable ice cave is 1,100 m long and its interior reaches a depth of up to 100 m. Archaeological finds prove that the cave was inhabited as early as the Neolithic period before it became iced over.

Behind the entrance abyss lies a hidden underground world accessible only to experienced cavers. The main, sloping part of the sinkhole is bordered by a 15 m high icefall, which divides the lower surface into two parts. At the bottom of the ice abyss is a 20 m long opening that leads to the Archeologickému dómu. Inside it is the active upper course of the Čierneho potoka, which reaches the surface via the nearby Čiernou vyvieračkou. To get further, cavers must use diving equipment and swim through the 60 m long Kufr siphon. Upon surfacing, they find themselves in an extremely gigantic cave space decorated with magnificent dripstone decoration.

Silická ľadová jaskyňa was formed approximately 2,000 years ago by the collapse of the ceiling of an older underground dome. If you have been wondering why this cave bears the attribute ľadnica, we have a simple explanation for you. Those who guessed that cold air accumulates in it, turning water into ice, are right. Throughout the year, the temperature inside ranges around -2 to -5 °C. Not only the ice decoration but also certain species of bats enjoy the sub-zero temperatures. In the winter months, it is inhabited by the greater mouse-eared bat, the lesser horseshoe bat, and the rare Bechstein's bat. Due to its exceptional value, it was declared a national natural monument in 1982, and thirteen years later it became part of the UNESCO world cultural heritage.

If you still have the appetite to explore, head to the nearby village of Slavec and visit the now accessible Gombaseckú jaskyňu. In addition to majestic stalactites, you will also be charmed by ultra-thin white soda straws up to 3 m long. Book your accommodation near Silickej ľadnice and dedicate a few days to the beauties of the Rožňavského okresu. You will find a rich offer of accommodation facilities on the website accommodation in Silica. Add water relaxation at Kúpalisku Roňava, horse riding at Konskom Dvore, and a visit to the legend-shrouded Hradu Krásna Hôrka to your exceptional experiences.

Jaskyňa mŕtvych netopierov is one of the most extensive and most important high-mountain caves in Slovakia. It is also the only accessible high-mountain cave in the country. It is located at an altitude of 1,520 m a.s.l. on the southern side of the Ďumbier massif in Nízke Tatry.

Accessibility to the cave is possible from several directions. From the village of Bystrá towards Trangoška, and from there on foot for approximately 1 hour via a mountain trail to Chata M. R. Štefánika. The second route also leads from the village of Bystrá, but towards Srdiečko, where you will take the cable car to the Kosodrevina intermediate station, or all the way to the top of Chopok peak, and from there on foot to the aforementioned mountain hut. From the Liptov side, a hike on foot is possible from Liptovský Ján, or from the Jasná - Biela púť ski resort by cable car to Chopok and from there on foot to Chata M. R. Štefánika.

The cave is accessible from March to December on weekends, and during the summer holidays, it is open daily. In the months of January and February, it is completely closed. Before you head out for a trip here, check the admission fees and opening hours directly on the official website. Every entry must be reported and reserved in advance by phone or email.

The cave tour is possible on three routes. Route A, approximately 1 km long, can be completed even with children. It leads through the central 7th floor of the cave and consists mainly of rock paths and wire-rope ladder belays. For the more demanding, there are routes B and C, speleotrekking tours made accessible by the speleological guide service. These are accessible only to physically fit persons over 18 years of age. The first of them is slightly less demanding and takes approximately 2 hours. The second one is for advanced visitors with climbing experience, as the truly demanding cave terrain is exposed almost continuously. It lasts approximately 3 hours.

Kozie chrbty, a relatively small limestone massif with deep folding, is 2 km long and 300 m wide. In its depths, it hides an intricate tangle of corridors across a total of (so far known) 14 floors and 2 parallel branches. The currently mapped length of the cave is 19,885 m, with a depth of 324 m. The largest underground space is located directly under Chata M. R. Štefánika. It is the well-known Bystrický dóm hall with a volume of up to 52,500 m³. It is located on the 7th floor, at a depth of 180 m.

An interesting feature is a huge find site of bat bones, the age of which is estimated at 6,000 years. It is precisely to this largest bat burial ground that the cave owes its name. Besides these, however, bones of small rodents, martens, brown bear, and goat were also found on the edges.

Another interesting feature of the cave is the occurrence of volcanic rocks from the Cretaceous period. These are folded into the limestone formation and appear in several cave passages. You can recognize them by their reddish-brown or green color. White-pink agate is also present here.

Since 2001, the cave has been declared a national natural monument. Its environment is cold, humid, and dark, but it has a beneficial effect on the upper respiratory tract. Its average temperature reaches 3.5 °C, while some of its parts do not exceed a temperature of more than 1 °C year-round. For this reason, warm clothing and, of course, suitable sturdy footwear are required to enter the cave.

To become a real cave explorer for a moment and visit what is probably one of the oldest caves in Slovakia. Are you still hesitating? There is nothing to think about, but we recommend taking enough time for the tour and not rushing. It will be ideal to book accommodation near Jaskyňa mŕtvych netopierov so that you don't rush the excursion, but fully experience it, or combine this unique experience with other nearby attractions.

You can admire nature in all its strength in Jaskyňa Mažarná, located in the cadastral area of the village of Blatnica, in the Martin district, within the Žilinský kraj. This cave is mainly known to hikers who have climbed the Tlstá peak at least once. So put on your hiking boots and discover all the beauty of Veľká Fatra.

The Veľká Fatra mountain range is also sought after for the very interesting Jaskyňa Mažarná. It is located at an altitude of 930 m a.s.l. It is situated roughly in the first third of the ascent to the aforementioned peak, about 3 km from the nearest parking lot. Therefore, if you want to take a break and admire the underground beauty, be sure to include it in your full-day trip itinerary.

The cave itself is not very large, reaching a total length of 130 meters. Inside, you can admire impressive weathered flowstone decorations consisting of thick stalagnite columns, flowstone pools, and soft flowstone in white, yellowish, and beige colors. Its uniqueness also lies in the narrow crevices and fissures created by water action, which give it a distinct character. The cave has two passages, the Garnet Passage (Granátová chodba, named after garnet finds from the SNP) and the Column Passage (Stĺpová chodba), behind which lies the Pool Hall (Jazierková sieň).

An interesting fact about the cave is that it was inhabited by humans in the Bronze Age. The cave thus ranks among the highest-altitude inhabited caves in Slovakia. It is especially worth seeing during the winter season. This is precisely because the cave becomes a home for bats at that time. Note that remains of the cave bear were also found here.

If you choose only the cave as your destination, you can reach it via a 4 km yellow-marked trail from the village of Blatnica through Vápenná dolina. You do not have to worry about any entrance fee or opening hours. The cave is freely accessible. While exploring it, you may notice one of the rock overhangs that reminds many of the half-open mouth of a large animal. Take our advice. It is ideal to book accommodation near Jaskyňa Mažarná. After all, taking in all its beauty takes a bit more time.

Come to the village of Blatnica. Its locals will welcome you with open arms and provide you with the best accommodation in Blatnica. It is up to you whether you choose a cottage or private accommodation in Blatnica. Many visitors have come to love the village for its numerous attractions. Among them is Blatnický hrad castle or Mlynčekovo. Enjoy your stay in our fantastic Slovakia.

You do not have to be a speleologist to discover the secrets of the underground in Jaskyňa Kremenia, which is situated in a quiet part of the picturesque village of Horné Pršany. This natural monument, referred to as Kremenia jaskyňa, is a sought-after destination for many tourists, also because it is one of the few caves formed in rock (quartz) where caves do not usually form.

Do not hesitate for even a minute and put on your hiking boots so you can explore the beauties of Kremenia jaskyňa. You can reach it very easily, following the yellow hiking trail from the village bus stop. During a 20-minute walk, you will listen to the chirping of birds and breathe in the fresh scent of the forest. The route is easy and will lead you safely to your destination. Although the entrance to the cave is slightly turned away from the trail, you can find it easily. You could say that Kremenia jaskyňa looks like a chamber with holes at first glance. It offers its visitors up to five different access points, with one entrance forming a beautiful rock window.

The subject of this protected natural area is to ensure the protection of a site with a pseudokarst cave that documents the final phases of post-volcanic activity in the territory of Kremnické vrchy with a great variety of surface landforms. On its ceiling, small 1–5 mm wart-like calcite sinter formations occur sporadically. You will also learn information about the cave on the information panels along the trail.

You can also make this short hike special by stopping at Rozhľadňa Lažtek, which is part of the local educational trail. In the village of Malachov, you will in turn enjoy the excellently marked Malachovský náučný chodník. Together with children, you can also head to Pony farma Suchý Vrch or have fun for the whole day at Bounce park 17. A refreshment in the pools of Aqualand - Plážové kúpalisko Banská Bystrica will also hit the spot nicely.

You do not want to rush back home? Then try searching for suitable accommodation near Jaskyňa Kremenia. We believe that the offer of cottages Horné Pršany as well as other accommodation in Horné Pršany will appeal to you, and you will decide to stay longer. We will gladly help you with your choice.