Where to go on a trip Dlhá Ves

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.

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.

The Slovenský kras National Park, on its territory, besides a quantity of beautiful limestone canyons and surface and underground karst formations, hides a copious water spring called Biela vyvieračka. It is located by the road opposite the fairytale Gombasecká jaskyňa, whose passages are decorated with sinter tubular stalactite straws. A marked hiking trail of approximately 1.5 kilometers will lead you to the karst spring from the village of Slavec. If you long for an easy hike with refreshment at the end, head out to Biela vyvieračka, which is also known under the name Margitin prameň.

The Náučný chodník Gombasek educational trail will guide you through several attractive places in the surroundings of Gombasecká jaskyňa. The seventh stop is precisely Biela vyvieračka. In the past, in an effort to increase the output of the spring, the water source was impounded by a high wall set into the slope. Water with a temperature of 6.2–12 °C flows to the surface through a metal pipe positioned about 1 meter above the ground. The rest of the natural spring flows underneath through the base of the wall, which is currently no longer watertight. During periods of high water levels, an abundant part of the flow passes over the overflow wall, creating an interesting scenery of a waterfall emerging from underground.

While exploring the karst spring, you will certainly be intrigued by the freshwater limestone, the so-called tufa, which was formed by the precipitation of chemogenic sediments below the springhead. Karst springs are a traditional home to rare plant species such as yellow anemone, yellow star-of-Bethlehem, or Waldsteinia ternata. If you get lucky, you will also come across charming and rare representatives of fauna, including the legally protected spotted salamander. In the afternoon, take a trip to Rožňava and indulge in water relaxation in the pools of Kúpalisko Rožňava. If you prefer active rest and would like to learn more about the history of the Rožňava district, visit the Historická expozícia Baníckeho múzea and the Galéria Baníckeho múzea. In the early evening, check into a family guesthouse and plan trips around Gemer. Top accommodation near Biela vyvieračka can easily be booked via the accommodation in Slavec page. Be sure to add Kaštieľ Betliar, Hrad Krásna Hôrka, and the unique Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa cave to your holiday list.

If you decide to visit the Gemer region, you have a unique opportunity to see the remains of one of the oldest Slovak castles. Hrad Gemer or also Gemerský hrad is located on an elevated hill above the village of the same name at an altitude of 232 m a. s. l.

The castle was built on the site of an old Slavic hillfort, probably in the late 11th century. The first written mention of the castle dates back to the late 12th century. It got its name after its first owner, the knight Gumurum (or Gumur). Originally a timber-earth castle, it played its first important role in the fights against the Tatars. Between 1241 and 1242, it was rebuilt into a stronger stone tower-type object. It was the property of the king and fulfilled not only a guarding and defensive role, but also an important economic one.

The ore- and forest-rich region of Gemer developed relatively quickly. In the 14th century, Gemer became the seat of the county and was the second largest small town in the region with the right to hold markets. In the 15th century, two bridges were built across the Slaná river, where tolls were collected. The castle, which guarded the bridges, was never very large. It was more of a guarding fortress surrounded by an earthen rampart. In the 15th century, the structure was conquered by the Hussites. In 1459, the castle was reconquered by King Matej Korvín, while being destroyed. Later it was restored and changed owners several times. In the 16th century, it was definitively destroyed in the Turkish wars.

If you plan a trip to it, you will find that not much is left of the castle today. However, the attentive eye of a visitor will not miss the castle plateau with configuration waves from the destroyed structures. There is a beautiful view of the surroundings from the castle hill. If you climb there, you can learn something about the famous Hussite Panna Cinka. Or will you be more interested in the legend about King Matej Korvín? His stay at this place is also commemorated by a life-size bronze statue. It is interesting because it is the only statue in Europe that depicts a monarch with a working tool.

There is also plenty to admire below the castle. In the 19th century, an Evangelical gymnasium was established in the town, where such significant personalities as Janko Matuška, Ján Kalinčiak, or Janko Kráľ studied. One of the most important poets of Slovak romanticism, Samo Chalúpka, influenced by this place, describes the hard anti-Turkish struggles in the Gemer region in his poem as follows: Sharp sabres flash, spears crack, and the Slovak earth drinks the blood of its sons.

History lovers will probably also be interested in the story of the nearby Hrad Jelšava. Or will you rather visit one of the most impressive Slovak castles Krásna Hôrka? On hot summer days, you certainly won't refuse cooling refreshment in the waves of the Vodná nádrž Teplý vrch water reservoir or boating on the coldest Slovak dam Palcmanská Maša. A unique natural phenomenon that is worth visiting is the magnificent Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa.

This amazing region will provide you with several options where you can lay your head and rest before another wonderful day. Book accommodation near Gemerský hrad. Will you be appealed by the offer of romantic Gemer cottages, or will you rather prefer comfortable and affordable Gemer apartments? We will leave that solely to your choice.

Národný park Slovenský kras extends over the southwestern part of our country, along the border with Hungary. It reaches into the districts of Rožňava and Košice-okolie, with a portion of its buffer zone extending into the Revúca district as well. Its area covers 34,611.08 ha, while the buffer zone comprises 11,741.57 ha. The territory of the national park is formed by a system of karst plateaus, river canyons, gorges, and a multitude of surface and underground karst phenomena. Slovenský kras is the most extensive plateau-type karst area in all of Central Europe. 78% of its area is covered by forests.

Slovenský kras was declared a Protected Landscape Area on August 31, 1973. On March 1, 1977, the area became the first in Slovakia to be inscribed into the international network of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves under the Man and the Biosphere Programme. The area officially became a national park on February 13, 2002. Currently, more than 1,350 caves and chasms are known, which are inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List. Probably the most significant cave is the unique Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa. The territory is renowned for the diversity of its natural conditions. These allow for the occurrence of animal and plant species representing mountain, forest-steppe, and steppe habitats.

Climate of the national park and its “Highlights”

The climate in Národný park Slovenský kras is mild. The area falls within the moderately humid and moderately warm climate zone, while higher elevations fall into the moderately cool climate region. The average temperature in January ranges from -4 to -6 °C, whereas in July it climbs to between 19 and 20 °C. Snow cover blankets the territory from 50 to 115 days, reaching an average maximum height of 45 cm. Annual precipitation is not particularly high, reaching between 630 and 990 mm. Water seeps into underground cavities, subsequently creating so-called karst springs (vyvieračky, e.g., Brzotínska, Ardovská, Kečovská, and others). In the national park, you will encounter two waterfalls (Hrhovský, Hájske) and several smaller water reservoirs. These include various ponds, such as Jasovské rybníky or Hrušovské rybníky.

Národný park Slovenský kras boasts several "bests". The highest point sits at an altitude of 925 m above sea level on the peak of Matesova skala. The lowest point is located at an altitude of 217 m above sea level at the foot of Plešivská planina. The longest and simultaneously deepest cave is the cave system of Skalistý potok (length 8,123 m, elevation difference 373 m, vertical range 376 m). The oldest nature reserve dates back to 1925 (Jasovská jaskyňa). The lowest-lying classic ice cave (Silická jaskyňa) is located at an altitude of 503 m above sea level. The smallest nature reserve covers an area of 1.22 ha (Pod Fabiankou), while the largest (Brzotínske skaly) covers an area of 433.78 ha.

Slovenský kras has a diverse representation of flora and fauna

Národný park Slovenský kras features flora represented by various regions. Plants, together with their communities, belong among the most impressive components of the local nature. The influence of both Carpathian and Pannonian flora is clearly visible here, creating a mosaic-like vegetation pattern. In fact, all species of rumenica (Onosma) occurring in our country grow here. Given the altitudinal range of Slovenský kras, 3 vegetation tiers are distinctly defined, planar, colline, and submontane. Currently, chudôbka drsnoplodá Klášterského (Draba lasiocarpa subsp. klasterskyi) is considered an endemic species of the national park. It replaced rumenica turnianska (Onosma tornensis), which until recently was regarded as a local endemic. Other endemics of the territory include, for example, šafran spišský (Spiš crocus), poniklec prostredný (middle pasqueflower), or peniažtek slovenský (Slovak penny-cress). Calciphytes and xerothermic species have the largest representation. Their main feature is high adaptability to the environment; they survive in conditions of drought as well as extreme frosts. Up to 1,500 taxa of higher plants occur in Národný park Slovenský kras, but other "bests" are also tied to it. You will find here the largest area covered with kandík psí (dog's-tooth violet) and the lowest altitude where astra alpínska (alpine aster) occurs.

The fauna of Národný park Slovenský kras is equally diverse. The territory is home to all our carnivores, a wealth of invertebrates, and almost all species of bats. Avifauna (birds), herpetofauna (reptiles), and batrachofauna (amphibians) are also richly represented. Thanks to suitable living conditions in caves and underground spaces, spiders and mollusks occur alongside bats. A bat census takes place annually during their hibernation in cave systems. During that period, 24 species represented by more than 50,000 individuals live here. However, the fauna of the steppe and forest-steppe zones is particularly typical of this area. Interesting animals of the national park include sága stepná (predatory bush-cricket), krátkonôžka štíhla (snake-eyed skink), jašterica zelená (European green lizard), užovka stromová (Aesculapian snake), syseľ pasienkový (European ground squirrel), sova dlhochvostá (Ural owl), and ďateľ čierny (black woodpecker). The fauna of Slovenský kras also has its "bests". The largest hibernating colony of bats lives in the national park, our largest bird of prey (golden eagle) as well as our smallest feathered creature (firecrest) nest here, and our largest mammal (brown bear) has its den here.

Great place for walks, hiking, and rock climbing

The national park comprises 6 nature reserves, 10 national nature reserves, and 16 national natural monuments (mainly caves). Each of these locations is exceptional in a different way and stands out with a unique asset that attracts tourists. Tourists can visit them year-round. It is possible to plan easy walks as well as multi-day treks. It is all down to considering your own abilities, strength, and options. In summer, hiking, cycling, and rock climbing are typical in the national park. In winter, meeting cross-country skiers is nothing unusual. As for the mentioned rock climbing, year-round climbing is permitted only in the locations Stienka za chatou, Stienka nad potokom (from the creek side as well as from the Masív Zadného komína wall), and Májová Veža. In other locations, due to a high level of nature protection, seasonal closures apply from February 1 to July 31. The main rock climbing center in Slovenský kras is NPR Zádielska tiesňava.

Among other opportunities offered by Národný park Slovenský kras are agritourism, fishing, and horseback riding. A perfect trip awaits you to Turniansky hrad, Štítnik, or Plešivec, which are castle ruins. It is also very lovely near Zádielske hradisko, Hrad Krásna Hôrka, or Kaštieľ Betliar. On our website, you will find an offer of accommodation in the vicinity of Národný park Slovenský kras, thanks to which you will be truly close to the local attractions. After that, your only task is to pack your backpack, put on your walking shoes, and set out to explore its beauty.

A popular spot for longer walks during sun-drenched days is Brzotínsky rybník. It is a system of 9 bodies of water located in the village of Brzotín in the Rožňava district, on the left bank of the Čermošná stream below Silická planina.

This place is enjoyed especially by fishermen. The ponds are used commercially for fish farming. In their waters, you can mainly find the gracefully swimming common carp. However, a pike, tench, or eel might also flash before your eyes or catch on your fishing hook. The water reservoirs also serve an aesthetic and tourist function. Unfortunately, swimming enthusiasts will not find what they are looking for here. Various plant habitats are found on the shores of the lake. Thanks to the broadleaf cattail and reeds, water birds such as the little reed warbler and the Eurasian reed warbler have made their home here. The list of animals living in this locality also includes ducks, storks, and herons.

A total of 9 ponds are managed by the Slovenský rybársky zväz. A path leads around the water surface, which you can also take. By doing so, you will do something good for your health and enjoy a pleasant time here. In addition to your body, your soul especially will get a perfect rest in this quiet environment. The view of the calm water surface reflecting the rays of the sun, the pleasant chirping of birds, or soaking in the unique atmosphere of this place will certainly captivate you.

Rejuvenated, set off to discover other attractions of the region. You can look at the world from horseback at Konský Dvor. Admiring a system of plateaus, river canyons, gorges, and a multitude of surface and underground karst phenomena is possible in the Národný park Slovenský kras. Do you love summer and all the fun associated with it? In that case, it is worth visiting the Kúpalisko Rožňava. You will learn about the infinite universe, its secrets, and phenomena if you visit the Hvezdáreň Rožňava.

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.

In the beautiful environment of Slovenský kras, in the village of Rudná, lies a "paradise of horses and other small animals". On the map, you can find it marked as Minifarma Wattani Rudná or Ranch Wattani.

This facility was once established as a mini-farm located on the edge of Národný park Slovenský kras. The excellent natural environment guarantees the opportunity for perfect relaxation here, where man is in harmony with nature. Not only animal enthusiasts will find something to their liking here, as pony Žužu, Shetland pony Luna, small mare Sunny, a herd of Cameroonian and Ouessant sheep, as well as dwarf rabbits and German checkered giant rabbits have found their home on the farm. Visitors who just need a change of scenery will also comfortably enjoy themselves here.

In addition to these animals, you can go horseback riding. Courses are prepared here where, as beginners, you will be taught to ride these majestic steeds, and you will also be told everything else about their care. More advanced riders might be interested in the option of a horseback ride out into nature. In addition to the classic style, it is possible to try the Western style of riding, show jumping, or what horse dressage preparation looks like.

Little visitors are usually satisfied with just petting or cuddling our cute sheep. Mothers are incredibly happy and therefore take photos of their children with the animals so they have at least some souvenir from this place. Fathers, on the other hand, are glad that their loved ones experienced an unusual time in this place.

After a day spent in nature and surrounded by animals, be sure to set out for other interesting places in the surroundings. If you are tickled by hot sun rays and feel like cooling down, treat yourself to true refreshment and plunge into the pools of Rožňavské kúpalisko. After this amazing experience, you can also set out for a tour of Banícke múzeum v Rožňave, where a great experience from it will also be ensured by a ride on a mining train. After all, who would not want to become a miner here for a little while? The region is rich in mineral resources, and you will learn how it used to be here a long time ago in the Historická expozícia Baníckeho múzea. You can observe stars in the sky or space phenomena if you head to the beautiful Hvezdáreň v Rožňave.

We believe that you will enjoy your stay in this location to the fullest. To enrich it, you can choose accommodation near Minifarma Wattani Rudná. The offer of accommodation capacities includes beautiful cottages in Rudná preferred by families as well, but apartments in Rudná are also popular. Everything depends solely on you and the type of accommodation you choose.

Relaxation in the water inherently belongs to summer. If the hot sunbeams are already tickling you, indulge in true summer refreshment and dive into the pools of Rožňavské kúpalisko. This municipal family-type swimming pool offers its visitors a beautiful, quiet, and well-maintained environment with plenty of greenery. In addition, plenty of trees will provide you with protection from the sun as well as pleasant shade. Just put on your favorite swimsuit and the water fun can begin!

Experienced swimmers will certainly be pleased with the classic large swimming pool measuring 50 x 25 m with a 3-story diving tower. The water depth in this pool reaches 120 – 400 cm. Another three pools are designated primarily for children visitors. The water is heated to 24 - 26 °C. Experienced lifeguards supervise your safety in the pools. After swimming, spread out a blanket on the grassy area and sunbathe in peace. For a small fee, you can rent a beach lounger and a sun umbrella. Before sunbathing, do not forget to apply a suitable sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn and harmful UVA and UVB rays.

If you prefer active relaxation, make your time spent at the swimming pool more pleasant on the tennis court or the minigolf course. If needed, you have the option to rent a volleyball, basketball, or soccer ball. For little children, a smaller children's playground with a sandbox, climbing frames, and swings has been built. Your little ones will also enjoy real fun on the children's traffic playground with original road markings. Refreshments within the swimming pool complex are offered by as many as five buffets. Outdoor seating on benches with sun umbrellas or a covered summer terrace is a matter of course. The swimming pool also conducts morning swimming on weekdays between 6:00 and 8:00 AM.

So that you do not have to rush home for the evening, book accommodation near Kúpalisko Rožňava. Accommodation in Rožňava offers quality services of larger and smaller guesthouses as well as the privacy of stylish cottages. Spend the following days taking trips to the surrounding area. We bring to your attention the beautiful Kaštieľ Betliar manor house, Hrad Krásna Hôrka, and Krásnohorská jaskyňa. Also discover the natural treasures hidden in Národný park Slovenský kras. Within its territory lies the unique Ochtinská aragonitová jaskyňa cave, which is one of only four accessible caves of its kind in the world.