Where to go on a trip Heľpa

The attraction of the village of Závadka nad Hronom, which lies in the Horehronie region, is its indoor pool. The picturesque village provides the services of an indoor pool, measuring 25 meters in length and featuring three swimming lanes, to the general public in the afternoon hours. Take a swim in water with a pleasant temperature of 25–26 °C, and after your athletic performance, relax in the dry sauna, which offers a cooling box. If you are a fan of less active relaxation, you will certainly appreciate the professional massage services offered by the swimming pool. The swimming lanes welcome families with children, seniors, or young athletes, who might one day become Olympic champions.

If you decide to visit the village of Závadka nad Hronom, do not miss a visit to the local municipal museum. The museum, housed in a traditional wooden house, is designated a national cultural monument. Through its interior, it seeks to introduce visitors to traditional folk architecture and the culture of the last century.

The village of Závadka nad Hronom, located in the district of Brezno, is an excellent starting point for visiting surrounding attractions such as Národný park Muránska Planina, Rozhľadňa Zbojská, or Vodopád pod Orlovou. The indoor pool in Závadka nad Hronom will perfectly complement your itinerary even after a day of skiing at the nearby Ski Centrum Čertovica. Treat your body to relaxation and unwinding in the heated pool or sauna. The indoor pool is also frequently sought after by educational institutions, for which the morning hours are reserved for swimming training, or employers who utilize the pool for employee rehabilitation.

If you have worked up an appetite after your athletic performance, fast food services located within the premises of the pool are at your disposal. The comfort of the indoor pool is further enhanced by fully air-conditioned spaces throughout the entire year. Are you tempted to visit this picturesque village in central Slovakia? Are you looking for accommodation near Krytý bazén Závadka nad Hronom? Choose from our selection of local cottages, traditional wooden houses, or apartments, and enjoy relaxation and peace.

"Where water falls from the rock" is an expressive and common local name for Vodopád pod Orlovou. The waterfall has a height of 5 m and is fed by the Kopanica stream. It lies at an altitude of 1,165 m above sea level, beneath Orlová, a majestic Low Tatras peak. Although it is not among the most famous waterfalls, it is extraordinarily impressive, especially during periods of its peak flow. When you are near the village of Pohorelá, be sure to take a trip to see it.

A path along a circular hiking trail from the aforementioned village of Pohorelá leads to it year-round. It is not a demanding hike at all, and no extra special physical fitness is required. Families with children and seniors can easily handle it. A great benefit of the trail is the surrounding area through which you pass. Along the way, wonderful views open up to you, namely of the peaks of the Nízke Tatry mountains, Muránska planina, and the Hron valley.

The surroundings of the waterfall are beautiful. Rocks, greenery, and trees are everywhere. Added to that are the sounds of falling water and a gurgling stream, just like in a fairytale. While walking, look not only around you but also beneath your feet. You might notice tree roots and mushrooms, as well as vipers, especially during the warm season. Locals will also warn you about bears, so it is good to keep that in mind and make "natural noise" in the forest.

During your wanderings through the nature of the Nízke Tatry mountains, we definitely recommend stopping at this lovely spot. It is advisable to book accommodation near Vodopád pod Orlovou, ideally on the page accommodation in Pohorelá. And bring your family or friends along too. Nature itself is beautiful, but in good company, staying in it takes on a completely different dimension.

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.

In the heart of Slovakia, surrounded by picturesque yet rugged nature, lies the largest village of Horehronie. In Polomka, you can still meet women dressed in traditional folk costumes on the street to this day. Here, life is lived in harmony with traditions and nature, a unique dialect is spoken, and skiing is enjoyed. The local ski resort Polomka – Bučník boasts excellent snow conditions and slopes that meet the expectations of both more and less experienced skiers. It is situated on the northern slopes of the Slovenské rudohorie, 18 km east of the district town of Brezno. Come and experience a true winter adventure in close contact with nature.

The Polomka – Bučník ski resort has three slopes prepared for winter sports enthusiasts. A low-difficulty trail with a length of 600 m is particularly suitable for the youngest and less proficient skiers, who can fully dedicate themselves to training their sports skills here. Two other slopes run parallelly, both boasting an impressive length of 1,580 m. Here, even the most experienced skiers will find plenty to enjoy. Naturally, three ski lifts with an hourly transport capacity of 1,200 people are available.

Alongside the excellent snow conditions, a major advantage of this ski resort is the always groomed slopes with artificial snowmaking. A varied range of services is taken for granted. Skiers have at their disposal a snack bar, a restaurant offering tasty meals, a ski service, a ski equipment rental shop, and a ski school.

If you prefer cross-country skiing, excellent cross-country trails have also been prepared for you in Polomka. The summit cross-country trail is located above the slopes and has a length of 5 km. The starting point of the second trail, with a length of 8 km, is at the lower station of the ski lift.

If you want to avoid large ski resorts during the winter season that are literally bursting at the seams under the influx of visitors, be sure to come skiing in Polomka. And when you feel like having a pleasant swim after a cold day on the slopes, head to nearby Závadka nad Hronom. The local indoor pool with heated water offers visitors three swimming lanes. Relax your cold-stiffened body and pleasantly regenerate. Recharged like this, you might feel like discovering the cultural and historical treasures of Horehronie. The Horehronské múzeum Brezno will guide you through them by means of its three engaging exhibitions. Filled with memories, you will certainly enjoy a great night's sleep at accommodations near the Polomka - Bučník ski resort. Cottages and chalets in Polomka and the nearby area will certainly not disappoint you and will become the icing on the cake of your winter holiday.

Muránska planina National Park covers the western part of the Slovenské rudohorie mountains. It is considered one of the youngest national parks in the Slovak Republic. The goal of its establishment was the protection of Muránska planina. The national park extends into the districts of Revúca, Brezno, and Rimavská Sobota. Its area covers 20,318 ha, with a buffer zone spanning 21,698 ha. Tourists will find plenty to enjoy thanks to marked hiking trails and educational paths stretching up to 300 km.

The area was declared a national park on October 1, 1997, and its administration is based in the town of Revúca. Forests cover 86% of its territory. Like every national park, Muránska planina has its own "bests" that attract many visitors. The highest point of the national park is the summit of Stolica at an altitude of 1,476 m above sea level. Here you will also find the lowest-lying dwarf pine in our territory, growing at an altitude of 750 m above sea level.

Climate of Muránska planin

Thanks to the fact that the national park territory is located in a temperate climatic zone, we do not encounter extreme temperature fluctuations here. Most of the territory falls into an area with a cold mountain climate. The buffer zone has areas with a moderately warm climate; the lowest southern parts have a type of moderately cold mountain climate, while a cold mountain climate is typical for the peak areas. Average air temperatures in January reach values of -6 to -7 °C, while temperatures in July range between 11.5 and 13.5 °C. Annually, approximately 1,000 to 1,400 mm of precipitation falls in the area. As for snow cover, it stays on the ground for about 140 to 160 days a year, with the maximum depth exceeding 75 cm in places.

The core of the national park consists of a limestone and dolomite plateau. These minerals are characterized by being easily susceptible to the process of karstification. Mainly thanks to this, Muránska planina National Park is full of various surface and subsurface karst phenomena. To date, more than 500 caves and chasms have been discovered, with more than 250 caves not being open to the public. Bobačka, which is the most extensive of the local cave systems, is over 5 km long and boasts rich sinter decorations. Furthermore, the park area contains various gorges, rock towers and needles, karst pavements, sinkholes, and rock gates.

What plants and animals will you find in Muránska planina National Park?

The territory of the national park is extraordinarily rich in the diversity of animal and plant species. The flora of Muránska planina National Park includes many plants, from more demanding thermophilic species to subalpine and alpine species. To date, more than 1,400 plant species have been discovered and described here. Forests cover most of the area. While beech and fir-beech forests dominated in the past, today it is a mix. Lime-loving beech woods stretch from the south, transitioning into linden-maple and thermophilic oak forests. The plateau areas are covered mainly by beech and fir-beech forests, with spruce also mixed in. Coverage by spruce woods and mixed spruce-beech forests is typical for the northern parts. Relict pine and larch forests have been preserved on the rocky ridges.

Muránska planina is home to several protected and rare tree species (yew, Hazslinszky's rowan, Mišulka's rowan, Alpine honeysuckle), dwarf pines (mountain pine), and herbs (red helleborine, white helleborine, lady's-slipper orchid, Komorica helleborine, dog's tooth violet). The color of the area is complemented by submontane meadows and pastures, some of which are also very rare and endangered. A valuable natural community is completed by rock vegetation and steep slopes. It is right on these slopes that the rarest plant in the area is located, the Muráň daphne (Lykovec muránsky). It is a rare remnant dating back to the Tertiary period. Wetland communities are perhaps the most threatened. These are home to gems of our nature (such as globe-flower or mealy primrose) and have a significant impact on the healthy functioning of the landscape. Interesting plants living here are the common butterwort and round-leaved sundew. Both are carnivorous.

The fauna of Muránska planina National Park also includes some now endangered and rare animal species. The brown bear, gray wolf, wildcat, and Eurasian lynx hide in the forests. Clear mountain streams are home to many fish, even some native species, as well as our rare predator, the Eurasian otter. But it is not the only one lurking for aquatic animals. Along with it, the rare black stork feeds on them. Among the birds that have found their nesting ground right in Muránska planina, we can mention the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, Eurasian pygmy owl, boreal owl, and the endangered western capercaillie. 23 species of bats hibernate in the cave systems. The numbers of vertebrates (more than 270 species) and invertebrates (more than 2,700 species) found so far are also remarkable. Endemics of Muránska planina include ground beetles (behúnik and snehulčík), as well as the common jarva and bound flea beetle.

Tips for trips

Interesting tips for trips include educational trails such as Stožky (13.5 km), Jakub Surovec (4 km), Tŕstie (6 km), or the trail with the most original name Poďte s nami za sysľami ("Come with us to see the ground squirrels", 6.3 km). Speaking of ground squirrels: Sysľovisko Biele vody is one of the biggest attractions of the national park. From around March, you can watch one of the largest European ground squirrel colonies in Slovakia here. Despite being a very shy animal under normal circumstances, the ones here are accustomed to human presence. So much so that at the beginning of the season, when they are still starved, they take food directly from your hand. Offer them carrots, sunflower seeds, apples, beetroot, oats, barley, or walnuts. The ground squirrels will enjoy a treat, and you will have an unforgettable experience, both children and adults alike. Visit also Lesnícky skanzen Vydrovo, Muránsky hrad, or Chmarošský viadukt in Telgárt.

There are many trip options. To be as close to them as possible, book accommodation near Muránska planina National Park, for example on the page accommodation Slovenské rudohorie. It is up to you who you come with or where you go. The important thing is to enjoy the trip, appreciate the beauty of nature, and remember that the national park is our most important natural heritage. Treat nature attentively, with humility and respect. Take care of its protection and instill love for living things, plants, and animals in children from an early age. Nature will thank you for it.

Kráľova hoľa, with its height of 1,946.1 m a.s.l., is the highest peak of the Kráľovohoľské Tatry. It belongs among the most visited peaks of the Nízke Tatry. It is questionable whether this is because it has been shrouded in legends and praised by poets for years, or due to the incredible view it offers. From it, you will see Spiš, Liptov, Horehronie, the Vysoké Tatry, and much more; you can even see all the way to the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Ukraine.

Kráľova hoľa is also called the "mother of four rivers." The springs of the largest Slovak rivers, specifically the Čierny Váh, Hnilec, Hornád, and Hron, rise below it. A television and radio transmitter has been located on its summit since 1960. Its mast has a height of 137.5 m, and the radio broadcasting antennas are at a height of 59 m. The signal covers a quarter of Slovakia's territory.

Kráľova hoľa boasts one incredible record. The Apuseni Mountains in Romania were observed and documented from it. This means that a viewing distance of more than 300 km was documented. This is the first time this record has been broken in Slovakia, and by all accounts, within the whole of Central Europe as well.

This famous peak is attractive in both summer and winter. In summer, it is bustling with hikers, cyclists, and runners. The trail running event Nízkotatranská stíhačka is interesting, though only very fit runners dare to attempt it. In winter, meeting ski mountaineers there is no exception.

You can reach Kráľova hoľa only on foot or by bicycle. An asphalt road leads from the village of Šumiac (approximately 3 hours), but marked trails also lead from the villages of Telgárt (red trail or green trail via the Kráľova skala peak, approximately 3.5 hours), Liptovská Teplička (green trail, approximately 5 hours), and Spišské Bystré (blue trail via Smrečínske sedlo, approximately 7 hours). The blue hiking trail also leads through Predné sedlo from the village of Šumiac and is ideal if you want to avoid the asphalt road. If you choose the route from the village of Šumiac for your ascent, you can stop at Chata pod Kráľovou hoľou roughly halfway along the way.

Do you know the famous sentence: "A green tree stands on Kráľova hoľa."? Of course, who wouldn't know it. But have you seen it with your own eyes? It really is there. Or is it not? There is only one way to find out. Come there and verify it for yourself. Book nice accommodation near Kráľova hoľa, for example on the page ubytovanie Šumiac or ubytovanie Telgárt, and set off on an adventure.

Sysľovisko na Bielych vodách near Muráň represents one of the largest and most popular ground squirrel colonies in Slovakia, where these small rodents have become accustomed to the presence of people.

The location is situated on the southern edge of the Národný park Muránska planina (Muránska Planina National Park), approximately 2.5 kilometers past the village of Muráň in the direction of Predná Hora, in the Revúca district. The ground squirrel habitat was established in a place where ground squirrels thrive thanks to the regular grazing of cattle and donkeys, which keep the grass short—a factor that is crucial for these animals in terms of safety from predators. Thanks to years of work by conservationists, the local ground squirrels are remarkably tame and are not afraid to come up to visitors if they sense food in the form of sunflower seeds, apple pieces, or carrots. In addition to hundreds of ground squirrels, the area is also home to the aforementioned donkeys, which are equally affectionate and complete the idyllic atmosphere of a mountain pasture. The observation season is limited by the ground squirrels' winter hibernation, so the location is mainly accessible from March to the end of September. The entire space is sensitively maintained with an emphasis on nature conservation and educating visitors about the importance of biodiversity in the national park.

What can you find here?

In the area, you will find extensive meadows dotted with hundreds of ground squirrel burrows and information boards about the life of the European ground squirrel and the protection of Muránska planina. At the entrance, there is a small snack bar or stall where you can purchase suitable food for the animals, and simple seating is also available. Part of the location includes a pasture for donkeys that move freely among people and love to be petted.

Who is the place suitable for?

The place is a total paradise for families with young children, who will be thrilled by direct contact with the animals and the opportunity to feed them by hand. It is also sought after by nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and tourists as a pleasant and easy stop while exploring Muránska planina. Given the grassy terrain, sports footwear is recommended, and on sunny days, one should not forget headwear, as the meadows are not shaded.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

From the nearby village of Muráň, a marked trail leads to the majestic Muránsky hrad, which is the third highest-located castle in Slovakia. You can also visit the recreational area at Predná Hora with a wellness center or go on a hike to the hunting lodge on the meadow below the castle. For cyclists, numerous routes are available in the area leading through the mountain passes of the plateau, such as Sedlo Zbojská with its popular shepherd's hut (salaš).

Predná Hora is a popular recreational resort surrounded by the pristine nature of Národný park Muránska planina. The recreational resort combines a top-class wellness center, various types of reconditioning stays, relaxation and rehabilitation programs for its clients, accommodation options, and an excellent restaurant. Relaxation in the resort will heal your body, and a stay in the picturesque nature will heal your soul. Visitors leave this place rested, full of energy, and in a good mood.

The history not only of the Predná Hora treatment facility, but also of the entire surrounding area dates back to the reign of the Bulgarian Tsar Ferdinand Coburg. He loved the whole region and continued to visit Slovakia regularly even after his abdication. His residence was Kaštieľ Svätý Anton (Antolský kaštieľ), which in even earlier times served as a hunting castle for the Coburg family. Tsar Ferdinand also began building his winter residence, a manor house, but unfortunately, he did not manage to complete its construction. It eventually became a treatment institution.

Today, it is utilized as Odborný liečebný ústav psychiatrický, n.o. Predná Hora. Originally, it served as a tuberculosis sanatorium. It treats patients who voluntarily or by court order undergo treatment for addiction to alcohol, drugs, and pathological gambling. Patients need not only professional help, but also nature, which has helped to heal since time immemorial. That is exactly what they receive here to the fullest. All that is needed is strong willpower, the support of loved ones, and the entire mind will heal.

Rekreačný areál Predná Hora offers a wellness center (as part of the guest house), a wooden hut (koliba), an observatory, sports grounds, a children's playground, and accommodation facilities. It is a popular destination for various groups of guests. Families with children, corporate clients, groups of seniors, or hikers, everyone is welcome here. And everyone will find exactly what they need. The resort is multifunctional, and thanks to the fact that Muránska planina is not yet widely discovered by tourists, you will experience privacy here that is so very rare nowadays.

Families with children will appreciate the children's corner, Water World, where even the smallest ones can have a blast. They can climb up the castle (a children's playhouse), slide down the slide, and play with plenty of toys. An interactive screen with numerous games is also a big attraction. Parents will appreciate the entrance to the children's corner, as it is accessible only from the Wellness Bar. This means that while your children play and make friends, you can enjoy a drink undisturbed. All without the fear of your child running off unnoticed after surrounding attractions. Another children's corner lounge is located right next to the restaurant and bar. In favorable weather, be sure to spend time at the outdoor wooden playground with climbing frames, swings, a slide, and a sandbox. Older children will enjoy the game room with table football, billiards, darts, and a poker set.

The resort is an ideal place for companies and is virtually tailored for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities. You can hold a smaller training session in a lounge equipped with modern technology. If it is not sufficient in capacity, you can use the restaurant premises. Many companies have already completed training or teambuilding here, which helped them energize their team, strengthen relationships, and gain a new perspective on their colleagues, the company, and their overall work.

Rekreačný areál Predná Hora even has its own brewery. In limited quantities, focusing not on quantity but on quality, they have been brewing specialty beers since 2017. They feature various flavors and top-quality ingredients, which is not always a given with commercially available beers. Enjoy relaxation to the sounds of pleasant music, tasting beer and various snacks, accompanied by a view of the beautiful Stolické vrchy mountains and the hamlets of Muránska Zdychava.

Various hiking trails and routes pass through the area, where you will find red, blue, yellow, and green hiking trail markers. Šindliarka, Salašná, Hrdzavá dolina, or Jaskova Muka. The entire Národný park Muránska planina opens up before you. We recommend visiting Muránsky hrad, the ruins of the third highest-located castle in Slovakia. You can also make a great trip to Vodopád pod Orlovou, Rozhľadňa Zbojská, or Slavošovský tunel. In winter, you can ski in the resorts Bánovo and Rejkovo in Tisovec.

To be able to experience all of this, the first step will be finding suitable accommodation near Rekreačný areál Predná Hora. The page accommodation Muráň will offer you the closest possible accommodation so that you are just a stone's throw away from the recreational resort. We will leave the rest of your trip planning to you, but if you want to use our tips for trips around the village of Muráň, we will gladly inspire you.

The Chmarošský viadukt viaduct near Telgárt is one of the most elegant and most photographed technical monuments in Slovakia, recalling scenes from historical movies with its monumental brick architecture.

The site is located on the edge of the village of Telgárt, in the Brezno district, in the Banskobystrický kraj region, at the border of three national parks. The viaduct is part of railway line number 173, known as the Central Slovakian Transversal Railway, and was built in the 1930s. The structure, with a length of 113.6 meters and a height of 18 meters, consists of nine stone and brick arches that create an impressive curve in the open landscape. The viaduct still serves railway transport today, and a train passing over this historical structure is one of the greatest experiences for passengers and photographers waiting under the bridge. The architecture of the viaduct was designed with an emphasis on aesthetics, making it a unique example of engineering construction from the period of the first Czechoslovak Republic. Thanks to its location near the Besník pass, the surroundings of the viaduct offer fresh mountain air and the typical atmosphere of the Horehronie region, where the meadows change into different shades in every season. The viaduct has become an important point for tourism in the region, with its popularity constantly growing thanks to social networks that have turned it into one of the most visited technical monuments in Central Europe.

What can you find here?

In the area under the viaduct, you will find well-kept grassy areas suitable for photography and picnics, information boards about the history of the track, and marked trails leading to the best viewpoints. A nearby parking lot along the main road is available, as well as a stylish café located in a historical train carriage offering refreshments with a direct view of the bridge arches.

Who is the place suitable for?

The location is ideal for photographers, technical monument enthusiasts, and families with children looking for an easy walk with an attractive destination. It is also sought after by railway fans and tourists passing through Horehronie towards Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa cave. Standard walking shoes are sufficient to access the base of the bridge, but maximum caution and adherence to the prohibition of entering the tracks themselves are required when moving near the railway.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

Right in Telgárt, there is another technical rarity, the Telgártska slučka loop, and the nearby Telgártsky viadukt viaduct. You can visit the source of the Hron river in the Besník pass or ascend the legendary peak Kráľova hoľa, which is the cradle of Slovak natural poetry. For history and geology lovers, Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa cave or the picturesque village of Šumiac with its unique bell museum are within easy reach.

If you enjoy putting on your hiking boots, set out to discover the beauties of nature in Muránska planina. In the village of Tisovec, which is a well-known birthplace of Slovak painters, politicians, and artists, you will have the opportunity to spend a day in this national park. This is also possible thanks to the Náučný chodník zbojníka Jakuba Surovca educational trail in Čertova tiesňava.

The educational trail begins in the village of Tisovec. From the local sheep farm (salaš), where you can treat yourself to a tasty bite to eat, set off directly towards adventure. Crossing this trail is at your own risk. The trail is one-way, has a length of 4.7 km, and an elevation gain of 268 m. The hike will take approximately 3 hours of your time. The difficulty of the loop trail is medium, so it is good to have very good footwear. During the winter months, in spring, and also during heavy rains, the terrain is dangerous and visiting is not recommended. However, as a group of 4 or more people, you can arrange a guide who will enrich your walk along the route with an engaging commentary.

Just as the highwayman Juraj Jánošík is well known in Slovakia, the highwayman Jakub Surovec is known in the Malohont region. He was the leader of a group of highwaymen who robbed wealthy people not only in Slovakia but also in parts of Poland. That is also why the trail leading through the untouched nature of Čertova dolina, through which he escaped from the gendarmes long ago, is named after him. The most beautiful spots on this trail are attractive gorges, which you can conquer here using wooden ladders.

After starting your journey from the sheep farm, heading upstream along the creek, you will enjoy bird song in the canyon-like valley, the soothing sounds of falling water from the waterfall, and the rustle of the forest, dominated by fir, spruce, beech, and valuable broadleaf trees on limestone bedrock with karst relief. At the beginning, you will be surprised by a legend about a local monk, which you can read on the 1st of the 7 panels. The route continues to the cave in Remeta. Do not miss Rizňa either, a wooden chute used for sending timber down. You can also stop by a miraculous spring, but we do not recommend drinking water from it. There are 2 information panels placed in Makové koryto. One concerns hunting and the other forestry. Following Masarykova cesta, continue to Čertov viadukt, where an information panel with information about the rack railway line Pohronská Polhora – Tisovec awaits you. You can refresh yourself and enjoy a moment of rest at Vyvieračka, a modified spring. Continuing into Čertova dolina, where Zbojnícky vodopád, the narrow pass Surovcov stisk, Malý vodopád, dams, the narrow pass Posledná barikáda, and a cave are located, you will enjoy beautiful views of the surroundings. At Pacherka, a panel will introduce you to information about sheep farming and highwaymen. At Galička, a true Carpathian sheep farm with a shepherd (bača), farmhands (vlasi), and sheep is located.

This longer hike will give you a workout, but it is well worth completing. Perhaps you will still have enough strength to step into a carriage of the steam rack railway Parná zubačka Tisovec. In the winter season, it is great to enjoy the slopes of the ski resort Tisovec - Rejkovo and Tisovec - Bánovo. From another perspective, the lookout tower Rozhľadňa Zbojská offers views of the world. Are you warm and feel like cooling off not only from the inside? Then visit the pools of the swimming pool Klenovec. Rest assured that you will not be bored in this region.

For a longer stay, we recommend booking accommodation near Náučný chodník zbojníka Jakuba Surovca. The cheapest solution during the summer is to set up a tent. This option does not suit everyone, so it is good to choose from the range of cottages and chalets in Tisovec or treat yourself to comfort in a room at Hotel Tisovec. We will gladly help you with your choice.

A slope set in the beautiful environment of the Nízke Tatry mountains is a dream come true for every skier. You too can fulfill your boldest skiing dreams at Ski Park Liptovská Teplička. This popular ski resort is located in the village of the same name, Liptovská Teplička, lying on the northern foot of the Nízke Tatry in the Poprad district. Its location alone hints that in this ski park, you will be skiing surrounded by truly gorgeous nature. So review your skier's code of conduct. It is time to hit the slopes.

Ski Park Liptovská Teplička lies on the northern side of Kráľova hoľa, at an altitude ranging from 880 to 990 m a.s.l. Its slopes are situated on the northeastern side. The resort features three ski lifts with slopes of varying levels of difficulty. In addition to a lift for more experienced skiers, there is one training lift and one lift for children. Top-quality groomed slopes always guarantee a great skiing experience.

This smaller ski resort appeals to sports enthusiasts as well as families with children. Besides excellent skiing conditions and breathtaking mountain scenery, visitors are also drawn here by high-quality services. Parking is provided right by the lifts. Skiers have access to a snack bar and a ski rental shop. A ski school and the option to arrange skiing lessons under the supervision of an experienced instructor come as a standard.

There is no such thing as too much perfect skiing. However, if you happen to ski to your heart's content at Ski Park Liptovská Teplička, you can go enjoy great water relaxation at the nearby AquaCity Poprad. Unwind in pools with pleasant thermal water and then head right back to the slopes. Or would you prefer an experience with a touch of history instead? Visit the Podtatranské múzeum museum in Poprad and immerse yourself in the history of the Tatras region. A holiday in the Tatras is unequivocally worth it in any season. Proof of this is the wide range of accommodation options near Ski Park Liptovská Teplička. Accommodation in Poprad and its immediate surroundings attracts visitors with a rich selection of guesthouses, cottages, and popular Tatras wooden chalets. Or would you prefer staying in Liptovská Teplička and its adjacent areas? Let yourself be tempted by local cottages, apartments, or popular private lodgings.

Banícky dom in the Liptov village of Vyšná Boca is an external exhibition of the Liptovské múzeum v Ružomberku. It authentically depicts the traditional way of life and housing of a mining family. The house, which is a national cultural monument, was donated for museum purposes by its last owner, Mr. Daniel Böhmer.

The house features a five-room exhibition with a preserved original heating system as well as its original furnishings. The entrance to the house is an anteroom, which had a communicative function but was also used for food preparation. The front room was a space inhabited only very occasionally and rarely. The back room, used for daily life and sleeping, is an exhibition on the history of mining in the surroundings of Vyšná Boca. There are two pantries in the house. One of them, the room-adjacent chamber (izbenná komora), served for occasional sleeping and the storage of clothes and bedding. The second pantry served for storing food and household utensils.

Part of the homestead is also an outbuilding (staj), which houses an exhibition on cattle and sheep farming and meadow management. These were very important for the village of Vyšná Boca, as after the decline of mining activity, these became the main occupation of the local residents.

During the summer season, various accompanying programs take place here, such as "Bocké batohy" with demonstrations of traditional forms of hay transport. Events dedicated to the mining traditions of the Bocianska dolina valley are occasionally organized.

When planning a trip to individual attractions in Liptov, definitely do not forget Banícky dom Vyšná Boca. For a comprehensive experience, we recommend making your trip around the area a multi-day one. To book accommodation, you can use our accommodation Vyšná Boca page, where you will find, for example, great cottages and traditional cabins for rent.

The Nízke Tatry attract crowds of tourists like a magnet, and in winter, skiers as well. This is well-deserved; it is a mountain range in a beautiful environment offering top-class services. If you want to explore the Nízke Tatry on skis, specifically their eastern part, pay a visit to Čertovica.

Čertovica lies directly on the ridge of the Nízke Tatry. You do not have to worry about having to wander down a deserted road somewhere in the forest. Čertovica is located directly on the main road connecting the Liptov and Horehronie regions. You can reach it from Brezno or Liptovský Hrádok. It is situated in a forest environment, while its higher parts are characterized by dwarf pine. You will feel as if you are in truly big mountains.

The ski slopes are located right by the main road, just a short walk from your parked car. The ski resort extends at an altitude of 900 to 1,145 meters above sea level on the northern slopes of Čertova svadba. Northern orientation, relatively high altitude, and on top of that, the climatic conditions of the Nízke Tatry. Only one thing follows from this: plenty of snow.

The Čertovica ski resort is one of the larger resorts. It should be said that beginner skiers should look elsewhere instead. You will find only a single blue, least demanding slope here. The other slopes are intended for intermediate and advanced skiers who will truly enjoy themselves here. They will find approximately 12 km of slopes, 5 ski lifts, and a variety of hills. These are primarily red, meaning they are intended for the widest range of intermediate skiers. However, even the best skiers will find plenty to enjoy, with several black sections prepared for them.

The Čertovica ski resort offers skiing throughout the entire winter. The snow cover remains on its slopes from mid-December until mid-April. The artificial snowmaking system significantly helps with this as well. You won't wait in long lines either, as the capacity of the resort is more than 3,000 skiers per hour.

In Čertovica, you will enjoy yourself in ways other than just on skis. Try it on a snowboard or alpine touring skis (skialp). You can rent these at the equipment rental shop and try out a hike. Given its location on the ridge of the Nízke Tatry, you could not choose a better place. Likewise, the cross-country skiing trails in the area with beautiful views are extremely popular. Čertovica is also popular with hikers. A trip to Ďumbier is an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views of the entire Liptov and Horehronie regions and, of course, the Vysoké Tatry.

Čertovica offers various accommodation options. You will find mountain huts, wooden chalets, and guesthouses here, all in a beautiful environment. Alternatively, you can choose accommodation in the nearby village of Vyšná Boca, where there are plenty of options for affordable accommodation. If you long to stay in a beautiful and healthy mountain environment, the choice is clear: it is Čertovica.

Skiing in the Nízke Tatry always has its charm, regardless of which part of the mountains you happen to be in. Everyone knows Donovaly or Jasná, but how about Bačova Roveň

You will find the resort near the village of Vyšná Boca. It is located directly in the Nízke Tatry, on the road leading from Liptov to Horehronie. Specifically, you will come across it if you head out from Liptovský Hrádok towards Banská Bystrica via the Čertovica mountain pass.

In the beautiful surroundings of the Nízke Tatry, skiing is an experience for all groups of skiers. At the Bačova Roveň ski resort near Vyšná Boca, you will find slopes of all difficulty levels. Children, intermediate skiers, and experts alike will find something to enjoy. Despite not being among the largest, the resort offers a surprisingly wide range of options.

Interestingly, European Cup races are also held on the slopes of Bačova Roveň. The resort offers a total of three slopes: one blue, one red, and one black. The blue slope is short and intended primarily for children or complete beginners. This is followed by a pair of slopes for intermediate and advanced skiers.

The total length of the slopes in the resort is 3 kilometers. Transport around the resort is provided by 3 ski lifts. The entire resort is equipped with an artificial snowmaking system, though this plays only a supplementary role. The climate of the Nízke Tatry is known for high precipitation. Furthermore, the resort is situated at an altitude of 1,000 to 1,360 meters above sea level.

Bačova Roveň also offers other additional services. Given sufficient interest, night skiing is available at the resort, as it is equipped with artificial lighting. Right on the slope, you will find a snack bar where you can eat or warm up with delicious drinks. The resort offers the option to hire a ski instructor who will teach you or improve your skiing skills. Likewise, you can rent complete ski equipment, so you don't have to burden yourself with heavy skis on the way.

The Nízke Tatry provide plenty of options for wandering through nature. Numerous hiking trails and especially the ridge of the Nízke Tatry attract crowds of tourists. Winter hiking with snowshoes or ski touring equipment also has its own unique charm. Popular destinations in the area include Čertovica, Mýto pod Ďumbierom, and Tále.

Vyšná Boca is an important starting point for hikers, and naturally, thanks to Bačova Roveň, it also attracts skiers. The village offers many private rentals and guesthouses with typical home-cooked meals and welcoming locals. Another option for accommodation in this beautiful and healthy environment is renting an independent cottage or traditional wooden cabin. With the slope right above your head—simply wonderful.

Are you planning to spend your winter holiday on skis? If you answered yes, we have a great tip for you. Not far from the picturesque central Slovak village of Tisovec, you will find the Lyžiarske stredisko Tisovec – Bánovo ski resort. The stamp of uniqueness is added to this area by the fact that you will ski here exclusively on natural snow. If you long for a peaceful family skiing trip, you are in the right place.

The ski area provides its visitors with the opportunity to ski on 3 ski slopes. From easy to challenging ones. Their total length is 2,100 m. The excellent combination of terrain difficulty provides the joy of skiing for both beginners and experienced skiers. You will find the best snow conditions here in the months from December to March. Smooth transport of skiers in the resort is provided by the Tatrapoma H130 ski lift with a total transport capacity of 900 people per hour. The valley station is located at an altitude of 610 m above sea level. The total elevation change is 190 meters. The ski slopes are regularly groomed by a snowcat.

Would you like to teach your little ones how to ski, but don't know how? Enroll them in the ski school. During your stay, experienced instructors will teach them the correct basics of skiing. Natural snow is made for building snowmen and various forts. Surprise your kids and build an igloo with them. A proper sledging ride will certainly ensure an unforgettable experience.

During your skiing, don't forget to replenish your fluids. The right choice is definitely hot herbal tea. A wide selection of drinks and meals will be provided by the restaurant located directly below the slope. Among the main benefits of skiing in Tisovec – Bánovo are, besides the family atmosphere, the beautiful nature of the Národný park Muránska planina national park. Treat yourself to a winter adventure you won't forget anytime soon.

After a day spent on skis, treat yourself to relaxation in a pleasantly heated cottage. You can browse the entire accommodation offer near the Lyžiarske stredisko Tisovec – Bánovo ski resort on the website accommodation in Tisovec. Regenerated and rested, set out to discover interesting attractions of which there is no shortage around Tisovec. You can start with a walk to the Rozhľadňa Zbojská observation tower, which you will find near the well-known sheepfold. A great experience will also be a ride on the Parná zubačka Tisovec steam cog railway on the Tisovec – Zbojská – Pohronská Polhora route. Directly at the railway station, you will also find the Múzeum ozubnicovej železnice cog railway museum. We wish you a pleasant stay.

The Vodná nádrž Čierny Váh reservoir was built in the second half of the 20th century on the middle course of the Čierny Váh river. It was constructed for the purpose of pumping water for a power plant. The Čierny Váh power plant itself is not only our highest-located, but also our largest and most powerful hydroelectric power plant. The waterworks consists of an upper reservoir (circular) and a lower reservoir (elongated).

Let us imagine the first of them, the upper water reservoir, which is located in the territory of the Národný park Nízke Tatry. It is built on the Vysoké Sokoly karst plateau, near the village of Kráľova Lehota. Its construction took place in the years 1976–1979. The reservoir is situated at the top of a hill and has a water volume of 3.7 million cubic meters. Water is pumped into it from the lower reservoir, overcoming an elevation gain of more than 400 meters in the process.

The upper reservoir of Čierny Váh is considered one of the most beautiful places in the area, offering you a virtually fairytale view of the entire Horný Liptov region and the panorama of the Tatry mountains. You can reach it via one of the marked cycling routes or hiking trails. The most commonly used routes lead from Východná, through Svarín and Kráľova Lehota. Although an asphalt road leads to it, it is private with a strict prohibition of entry for motor vehicles.

For the public, entry to the upper reservoir site is prohibited. However, (for now) it is mostly tolerated by the power plant. When you set off toward it, a sign immediately catches your eye: "Water level fluctuations. Swimming in the reservoir is prohibited." Those who nevertheless make the trip all the way to the top will walk 1,660 meters during a circuit around the reservoir. The view of the water surface is truly calming. To some, the water on the black asphalt coating resembles pitch. The difference between the minimum and maximum water levels of the reservoir is 26 meters.

An interesting fact is that in order for water to be pumped from the lower to the upper reservoir, more energy is consumed than generated. Bizarre? Perhaps. But no one has come up with a better idea so far.

Approximately 1 kilometer from the water reservoir is the Lesnícky cintorín Čierny Váh forest cemetery. It includes the Kaplnka sv. Trojice chapel and a wooden bell tower. It is a publicly accessible attraction that was established in the territory of Kráľova Lehota in the first half of the 18th century.

If you want to take a trip and see live one of the most beautiful views that Slovakia has to offer, you should definitely visit Čierny Váh. You can book accommodation in the immediate vicinity of the Vodná nádrž Čierny Váh reservoir on the accommodation Kráľova Lehota pages. And once you are in Liptov, it would be a shame not to check out other attractions that this extremely popular region offers as well. Will it be a visit to one of the water parks, ski resorts, open-air museums, or one of the caves? It is entirely up to you, but whichever option you choose, you will certainly not regret it.

One of the most popular mountain ranges for skiers in Slovakia is undoubtedly Nízke Tatry. And where is there the most snow if not directly on the ridge of the mountain range? Here, for example, you can take a look at the Čertovica pass, which spreads at an altitude of up to 1,238 meters above sea level.

Where is the Čertovica pass located? It forms a natural connection between Liptov and Horehronie. A well-known road passes through it, connecting Liptovský Hrádok with Brezno. An excellent location right on the ridge of one of our highest mountain ranges predestines Čertovica to be one of the snow-richest resorts.

There are many slopes at Čertovica, but we will focus on the Ski resort Čertovica STIV. The ski resort is intended for less demanding skiers who are primarily looking for peace and affordable skiing. Despite the fact that the total length of the slopes is only approximately 1 km, all groups of skiers will come into their own here. The resort is served by a pair of ski lifts. The shorter one serves complete beginners; this slope is marked in blue. It is intended for beginners or children.

The longer lift offers wide opportunities for sports activities for a variety of skiers. The central slope is marked in red, so intermediate skiers will come into their own on it. Čertovica is equally suitable for lovers of off-piste skiing. A freeride zone runs parallel to the central slope here.

Thanks to the fact that the Ski stredisko Čertovica STIV ski resort is located at a high altitude ranging between 1,238 – 1,381 meters above sea level, it cannot complain about a lack of snow. And if there happens to be a bit less snow, count on a well-thought-out artificial snowmaking system at Čertovica that will take care of the snow cover throughout the winter.

Čertovica STIV is also inclined towards day-trippers or those who want to hit the slope for just a few hours. A ski school, regularly groomed slopes, and refreshment options at a snack bar are a matter of course at the resort.

If you decide to visit, you can enjoy Čertovica in ways other than just on skis. The attractive environment of Nízke Tatry mainly attracts hikers. Right along the ridge of the mountain range, you can head east towards Kráľova hoľa or west towards Ďumbier, for example. Nízke Tatry are also known for the occurrence of beautiful caves; true adventurers can visit Jaskyňa Mŕtvych netopierov, for instance.

This important mountain resort is prepared for an influx of tourists throughout the entire year. Therefore, it provides them with plenty of accommodation capacities, such as guesthouses, apartments, private rooms, or chalets in one of the villages below the Čertovica pass. Perfect skiing does not have to cost an entire paycheck. An example is the Ski stredisko Čertovica STIV, which is located in an attractive setting and offers skiing at a reasonable price.

The year was 1896 when an exceptional technical work of that time, the Ozubnicová železničná trať Tisovec, was created between Tisovec and Pohronská Polhora. You might say that in the 19th century, railway transport in the territory of Slovakia experienced a great boom, and the effort was to bring a railway connection to every factory or extensive forest complexes. However, the steam cog railway in Tisovec is exceptional because it perfectly copies the steep slopes of the valley, overcomes dangerous gorges, and large elevation changes.

Precisely in places with a steep gradient, the track had to be supplemented with a rack, into which the locomotive's cogwheel meshed. This system ensured not only sufficient climbing of the train, but also its braking when traveling downhill.

The route of this exceptional technical monument started from the village of Bánov, continued through Zbojská, Pohronská Polhora, Podbrezová, and Brezno all the way to Tisovec. The main task of this line was to connect iron-producing factories in Podbrezová, Hronec, and Tisovec. The most difficult, most dangerous, and most interesting section of this route for visitors is the massif of the Slovenské Rudohorie. The total length of the track was 41.2 km. The highest point it passes through is the Zbojská saddle at an altitude of 785 m a. s. l. In the steepest sections, the gradient reaches up to 50.2 per mille. That is also why additional security had to be laid in these places.

Originally, Austrian steam locomotives from the Florisdorf company operated on the line. At that time, they were the most massive tender rack locomotives in all of Europe, operating at speeds of up to 25 km/h. There are numerous bridges, viaducts, and one tunnel with a length of 786 m on the track.

Today, the line serves only partially. It is used for scenic rides for tourists. If you plan a trip here, it is necessary to know that you must book tickets in advance. Although the train ride is not among the cheapest, the experience of riding through beautiful nature is worth it and will leave you with unforgettable experiences. And if you are lucky, a historic steam locomotive with an authentic plume of steam and the scent of smoke will also take you in historic carriages. At the railway station Tisovec, you can also tour the cog railway museum with interesting information panels, models, uniforms, and railway equipment.

And when the little railway takes you up to the Zbojská saddle, take a short walk with your little ones along the educational trail to the Rozhľadňa Zbojská. After the trip, you might enjoy a cooling bath at the Kúpalisko Klenovec. If you are hiking enthusiasts, you cannot bypass one of Europe's most beautiful national parks, the Národný park Muránska planina, or the history-shrouded Muránsky hrad.

After trips, you will probably appreciate a bit of rest with our accommodation providers, so it is nice to book accommodation near the Parnej zubačke v Tisovci. Will you prefer romantic and cozy Tisovec cottages or will you prefer the comfort of apartments? We will leave this choice entirely up to you.