Lookout towers Čierny Balog

During your wanderings in the Veporské vrchy mountains, we also recommend visiting a beautiful landmark of the region Rozhľadňa Zbojská. The entire structure is carried out in the spirit of folk architecture and consists of a square tower covered with wooden shingles. In its lower part, there is Kaplnka sv. Juraja (St. George's Chapel), and the interior of the entire building is a truly extraordinary work.

Both children and adults will be intrigued by every single floor of the observation tower, each carrying a different theme. The small room you find yourself in right at the beginning, upon entering the building, will give you a picture of the local fauna. Here you will find taxidermy mounts of various forest animals living in the surrounding woods. On the first floor, you can greet a carved wooden hermit who guards the commemorative chronicles. The next floor is dedicated to sheep farming, while the third floor focuses on highwaymanship. It is precisely after highwaymen (zbojníci) that the Zbojská locality is named.

The interesting tour ends before a steep staircase, beyond which breathtaking views of Čertova dolina valley or Fabova hoľa await you. Be sure not to miss the opportunity to ring the Zvon Hronca bell located at the top of the tower. Its voice will ring out loudly through the surrounding valleys. In close proximity stands the majestic statue of the highwayman Jakub, which is part of the local Náučný chodník zbojníka Jakuba Surovca (Educational Trail of Highwayman Jakub Surovec). Should you get hungry, the traditional cuisine of the nearby Salaš Zbojská will surely delight you.

You will certainly be pleased to find a wide range of options for accommodation near Rozhľadňa Zbojská. The Horehronie region hides many beautiful corners, and cottages or guesthouses in the Brezno district will offer you the cozy warmth of home. While you are in this region, be sure to also visit the Čiernohronská železnica railway with its picturesque Lesnícky skanzen Vydrovo. Another interesting and popular destination is Horehronské múzeum v Brezne, which will reveal a piece of history to you.

The Rozhľadňa Polomské očko lookout tower above the village of Polomka represents a modern architectural landmark of the Horehronie region, offering visitors a magnificent circular view of the ridge of the Nízke Tatry and the valley of the Hron river.

The location is situated above the village of Polomka, in the district of Brezno, in the Banskobystrický kraj region, directly within the complex of the Polomka - Bučník ski resort. The lookout tower is located at an altitude of approximately 900 meters and its structure reaches a height of 30 meters, which ensures an unobstructed view of the southern slopes of the Nízke Tatry with the dominant Chopok or Ďumbier, and on the opposite side, the peaks of Slovenské rudohorie. Access to the tower is relatively easy, leading along the grassy slope of the ski run or via a forest path, making it an ideal destination for recreational hikers. The architectural design of the tower with glass elements on the observation deck adds a subtle touch of adrenaline to the climb while protecting visitors from the wind, which is frequent at this altitude. The surroundings of the lookout tower are complemented by relaxation spots with benches and information boards that describe the surrounding panorama and points of interest in the region. Thanks to its position above the village, Polomské očko is accessible year-round, with each season transforming the character of the surrounding landscape. From blooming mountain meadows in summer to snow-capped peaks in winter, when the tower serves as an attractive spot for skiers and ski-tourers.

What can you find here?

At the destination point, you will find the lookout tower structure itself, complete with a safe staircase and a covered observation deck. Panoramic maps with descriptions of visible peaks are available, along with benches for resting near the tower, and during the winter season, the amenities of the ski resort, including a snack bar at the bottom of the slope. The route to the lookout tower is lined with the natural scenery of Horehronie.

Who is this place suitable for?

The location is ideal for families with children, seniors, and recreational hikers looking for a short trip with high aesthetic value. It is also sought after by landscape photographers due to excellent lighting conditions and by lovers of peace who want to avoid the most exposed tourist hubs of the Tatry. Standard sports or hiking footwear is recommended for the climb, as the terrain mostly follows a grassy surface.

What can you visit in the surrounding area?

Directly in the village of Polomka, you can visit the Roman Catholic Kostol svätého Jána Krstiteľa church with its rich history, or set out on the route of the Horehronská cyklomagistrála cycle route. Within close reach lies the village of Heľpa, known for its folklore traditions, or the town of Brezno with its town tower and museum. For railway enthusiasts, the unique Čiernohronská železnica heritage railway in Čierny Balog is within easy reach.