Where to go on a trip Kocurany

Zoologická záhrada Bojnice as the first zoological garden in Slovakia has been welcoming its guests since 1955. It is among the most popular attractions in Bojnice, along with Bojnický zámok. The advantage is easy accessibility. A short walk takes you from the center of Bojnice to the zoo in a few minutes, while from Prievidza it is a longer 40-minute walk. If you are going by car, you can use designated parking spaces or simply park in Bojnice in a municipal or private parking lot for a small fee. The zoological garden is open every day of the year.

Over an area of 41 hectares, you will find more than 430 species of animals, totaling more than 3,500 specimens. Among the most significant are antelopes, gibbons, kangaroos, leopards, lions, elephants, and zebras. You will also see the cute panda or popular flamingos. And those who are not afraid of snakes are invited to the terrariums, where you will find various species of reptiles, brightly colored poison dart frogs, and spooky-looking toads. Your little ones will have the greatest joy visiting ZOO Bojnice. In addition to families with children, you will also frequently meet couples in love or seniors among the visitors. One thing is certain, you certainly won't be bored here.

However, ZOO Bojnice does not only offer the opportunity to get to know various animal species. The goal is to build a positive relationship with animals in children, educate them about life, and last but not least, help them. Animals that have been injured in the wild and need care often find their way to the zoo. If returning to nature is not possible after treatment, the animals are cared for until the end of their lives. If you are also an animal lover, you can help, for example, by adopting a selected animal through a one-time contribution.

Can you guess how many visitors have already passed through the zoo gates? Imagine that as early as 2008, they welcomed their 20-millionth visitor here. In addition to standard tours, Národná ZOO Bojnice also offers other experiential programs. For one day, you can become a zookeeper, gardener, or chef for the animals. They also have a zoo school for educating children and adults. Today, special programs for schools and other groups are available.

In Bojnice, it is also worth visiting other attractions. Families with children will have fun at Múzeum praveku and Dino park Bojnice. You must not miss Bojnický zámok and the experiential attraction Sokoliari Aquila. After an active day, we invite you to Kúpele Bojnice or Termálne kúpalisko Vodný svet - Bojnice, where you can recharge your energy.

To manage everything nice and important, we recommend spending at least a few days in Bojnice. Get inspired on our portal and find the right accommodation near ZOO Bojnice for yourself. Truly everyone can choose with us.

The castle in the beautiful spa town of Bojnice is among the most beautiful and significant monuments in Slovakia. It is located in Trenčiansky kraj, on the western edge of the town of Bojnice, in the district of Prievidza. It is one of the most popular attractions in Slovakia, not only thanks to its breathtaking appearance and varied history, but also its surroundings.

How a wooden castle became a romantic château

The first mention of the existence of a castle with a settlement below it dates back to 1113, when it was still wooden. Later, in the 13th century, it was gradually rebuilt into a stone structure on an elevation, a travertine hill with a deep crater containing a mineral spring in its center. This spring was later converted into a 27-meter-deep well located inside a deep circular cave. The cave has a diameter of more than 20 meters, is 6 meters high, and has been open to the public since 1967. Small lakes up to 9 meters deep surround the cave.

In the 13th century, the core of the castle was surrounded by a wide fortification. Until then, the castle was property of the Poznan family, but toward the end of the century it was seized by Matúš Čák, who owned it until 1321. The subsequent owner was his illegitimate son Ján Korvín; after the death of King Matthias, the castle was occupied by troops of the Zápoľský family. In 1527, Alexander Turzo received the castle as a gift from King Francis, and the Turzo family rebuilt the core of the castle. As the massive fortification that had been built gradually since the end of the 15th century was sufficient for defense, emphasis shifted toward representation and residential comfort. Thus, the originally Gothic castle transformed into a Renaissance château. After the extinction of the Turzo family in 1636, the castle reverted to the Crown, and a year later Emperor Francis III pledged it to Pavol Pálfi.

In 1643, the Pálfi family (sometimes written Pálffy) received hereditary ownership of the castle, rebuilding began once again, and at the end of the 17th century it ultimately gained a Baroque appearance. Its appearance did not change significantly in the subsequent period. In 1852, after a long period of stagnation and decline, the estate was acquired by its last noble owner, Count Ján František Pálfi. Inspired by various French and Tyrolean Gothic castles, the Papal Palace in Avignon, and early Italian Renaissance architecture, he rebuilt the castle into a romantic château. Although the reconstruction had its own architect, Jozef Hubert, the Count himself designed, drew, and directed all the work of the grand Neo-Gothic reconstruction, which lasted a long 22 years. The Count acquired antiques at various European auctions to decorate the interior. Particularly striking is the Serbia-sourced 17th-century wall paneling of the Turkish Hall. In the chapel, he installed an Italian Gothic altar from the second third of the 14th century. A portrait of the owner is even featured in the cartouche of the carved ceiling in the Golden Hall. Unfortunately, he did not live to see the completed work; he died in 1908, two years before the reconstruction was finished.

Following Pálfi's death, disputes over the inheritance broke out. After an amicable agreement between the Count's heirs and the Czechoslovak state, specific collections were set aside to remain preserved, while the rest were auctioned off between 1924 and 1926. In 1939, the Baťa company bought the château and land, but after the war and the issuance of the Beneš decrees, the property fell to the state.

Since 1950, a museum has been located in the château as part of the Slovenské národné múzeum. Ján František Pálfi had already considered this idea; in his 1907 testament, he expressed the wish that Bojnický zámok along with its artworks be made accessible to the public. For some time, this was indeed the case. However, everything changed on May 9, 1950, when a major fire broke out, destroying all the château's towers, after which interior tours were prohibited. Following the subsequent restoration of the destroyed parts, the château's gates gradually began opening to the public once again. Finally, after structural reorganization and inclusion under the Ministry of Culture of the SSR in 1970, Bojnický zámok became a national cultural monument.

Present day of Bojnický zámok and its surroundings

Visitors continue to be fascinated by the view of the surrounding natural environment. The adjacent castle park, which includes a castle lake with a romantic gazebo, features many magnificent mature tree specimens. Among them is the healing Ginkgo biloba tree with the so-called Matejova lipa. Matejova lipa, also known as Lipa kráľa Mateja, was according to legend planted by Matúš Čák Trenčiansky in 1301. King Matthias Corvinus enjoyed hosting banquets beneath it, and it was named after him. As time passed, it began to deteriorate, making ongoing care necessary. In 1969, it was declared a protected natural creation.

Various events are regularly organized at the château, drawing thousands of visitors. Special Valentine's tours, the theater festival Rozprávkový zámok, or night tours. At the château, you can also meet ghosts, Svetlonos, or even St. Nicholas.

Right next to the château is Národná zoologická záhrada Bojnice. It prides itself on being the oldest and most visited zoo in Slovakia. A tour of the château is most frequently combined by visitors with a visit to the zoo. The exposition at the neighboring Dino Adventure Park will amaze not only children. Giant dinosaur sculptures in some cases even move and make sounds. A tour of Múzeum praveku is also interesting and should not be missed.

Whether you need a health-restoring treatment or simply want to indulge in relaxation, Kúpele Bojnice is perfect for that. If traveling with children, visit the beach swimming pool or the highly popular and sought-after Termálne kúpalisko Bojnice, from whose pools you will look directly at the château's towers. A perfect view also awaits you from Vyhliadková veža Bojnice, giving you a bird's-eye view of the entire surrounding area.

As is evident, exploring the attractions in Bojnice simply cannot be done in one day. The solution in this case is to take a multi-day trip. Book accommodation near Bojnický zámok and set off for the adventure that awaits you here.

In a dense pine forest above the town of Bojnice, you will find Vyhliadková veža Bojnice. This tower is also known as Čajka v oblakoch. It offers you unique views of Bojnický zámok castle and the entire panorama of the town. At the same time, you can also see Prievidza, the Vtáčnik mountain range, and the Kremnické vrchy mountains. The 30-meter-high lookout is also enhanced by a water slide. When booking accommodation in Bojnice, definitely do not miss out on visiting this unique lookout point.

Right after Bojnický zámok and the Zoologická záhrada Bojnice, Vyhliadková veža Bojnice - Čajka v oblakoch ranks among the most sought-after attractions in Bojnice. It is located at an altitude of 415 meters above sea level at the foot of Malá Magura. Its shape is intended to remind visitors of a flying seagull.

The lookout tower in Bojnice is sought after not only by families with children. Wheelchair users and mothers with strollers will also be pleased, as access to the tower is suitable for them as well. At the top, a rope mesh sleeve awaits children, which they can climb through. If you do not feel like walking back down the tower, slide down the water slide.

If you decide to reach Čajka v oblakoch on foot, expect approximately a 45-minute walk along the yellow hiking trail. However, most people choose to arrive by car. Parking is provided in a parking lot, from which the path to the tower takes an easy 5 to 10-minute walk. The lookout tower has its opening hours and ticket prices published directly on the attraction's Facebook page.

If you are afraid of heights, keep your feet on the ground. You can transport yourself to a fairytale world in Šmolková dedina below the lookout. It consists of various houses from the Smurfs fairytale. This village is freely accessible throughout the year. In addition, restrooms are available to visitors, as well as refreshment stands during the summer.

We believe you will not miss out on a great experience visiting this interesting lookout tower with its unmissable steel structure, which offers truly beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding nature. And to make sure you have time during your trip to see the other attractions of Bojnice and the immediate surroundings, be sure to book one of the local apartments. You can also choose from a rich offer of guesthouses, private accommodations, or stylish cabins with plenty of privacy. Extend your stay here for a few days. Bojnice definitely has plenty to offer you.

Experiencing feelings quite similar to being on a beach in summer is possible in Bojnice at the Plážové kúpalisko. This spa town in the Trenčiansky kraj will captivate you thanks to this very summer attraction.

The Plážové kúpalisko Bojnice is located in the western part of the Hornonitrianska kotlina, near the Nitra river. Even by walking, you can reach its gates, where after paying the admission fee, you can use everything that the summer entertainment complex offers.

There is a choice of one of two pools designed for swimming various swimming styles. Whether you do the backstroke or swim freestyle, everything is up to you. The pools measure 25x12.5 m and have a depth of 1.3 m. You can also slide down a water slide into the water. In the case of families with children, a mother can splash around with her child in the children's pool. This pool is 8x8 m wide. Maximum comfort is guaranteed by the water temperature, which is heated by solar collectors.

The dominant feature of the entire swimming pool area is the adjacent large water surface, which visitors use for boating, water biking, or water sports in addition to swimming. And if you like fun, perhaps right in the intoxication of music you will rejoice and celebrate the beautiful sunny days. This swimming pool is namely also characteristic for organizing music events.

The Plážové kúpalisko is open mainly during the summer during regular opening hours. Lounge on a blanket and let your body be caressed by pleasant sunbeams. If you get tired of lying down and are afraid of getting sunburned, feel free to set up your spot under the crowns of trees that complement the overall pleasant appearance of the swimming pool area.

You can tire out your trained body with various activities. A volleyball court for playing beach volleyball is ready at the swimming pool. Children will in turn enjoy the sandbox and play areas for jumping and playing. You can also rent sports equipment and enjoy an activity-filled day. Once hungry, direct your steps to the refreshment stand and then just to the locker room for your belongings. Be assured that if you are here for a longer stay, accommodation near the Plážové kúpalisko Bojnice will certainly come in handy.

From the parking lot, where you can safely leave your car parked, you can plan other trips than just to accommodation in Bojnice. Perhaps you will be interested in some of the animals from the oldest Zoologická záhrada v Bojniciach in Slovakia. Besides it, you can perfectly view the town from a bird's-eye view, and in case of good visibility, you can see Prievidza, the amazing Vtáčnik mountain range, or the well-known Kremnické vrchy from the Vyhliadkovej veže Bojnice.

Perhaps you are history lovers and like traditional things. Treat yourself to a view from your guest house in Bojnice window directly onto the Bojnický zámok. A family atmosphere can also be offered by comfortably furnished apartments Bojnice. In the case of a larger group, your budget will not be burdened by chalets and cottages Bojnice either. The choice is entirely up to you, we can recommend the best accommodation to you.

Forget your worries and treat yourself to relaxation in Vodný svet Kúpeľov Bojnice. Come regenerate and recharge your energy for the new workweek. In addition to the water world and wellness center, you can choose from a whole range of medical procedures and therapies. Try a relaxing hot stone massage or immerse yourself in a beer bath. There are many options to restart your body. Do not hesitate and step right in.

The foundation of medical procedures in Bojnické Kúpele is healing hydrogen-bicarbonate and calcium-magnesium water, which springs from a depth of 1,200–1,500 m. Its beneficial effects act favorably on diseases of the musculoskeletal system and the vegetative nervous system. If you are not among the spa guests, you can still make use of the thermal pools, saunas, and medical procedures in LD Mier and LD Bôrina.

In Liečebný dom Mier, you have 1 outdoor and 3 indoor pools at your disposal, with water temperatures ranging from 30 to 38 °C. Treat your body to a detox and visit Saunový svet as well. Try the salt bath, during which you will feel as if you were by the sea. The herbal bath will rid you of a cold, and aromatic additives as well as herbal extracts will clear your airways. Treat yourself to a stay in a sanarium, where a combination of 5 different spa procedures will lower your high blood pressure and boost your immunity. Finally, visit the Finnish sauna, which will rid your body of toxic substances. Do not forget to cool off with a cold shower after saunabathing.

Liečebný dom Bôrina offers you recreational swimming in 1 outdoor and 2 indoor pools. The water temperature here ranges between 32–39 °C. In both spa houses, as well as in LD Lysec, you can treat yourself to various medical procedures such as massages, different types of baths, wraps, and compresses. Traditional Chinese acupuncture, cupping, oxygen therapy, and electrotherapy are also on offer.

One day will certainly not be enough to experience all these wonderful procedures, so book your accommodation near Termálne kúpalisko Kúpeľov Bojnice today. You can choose from comfortable hotels, cozy guesthouses, and stylishly furnished apartments. You can browse the entire accommodation offer on the accommodation in Bojnice page.

Bojnice ranks among the most sought-after tourist destinations in Slovakia. You can fill the time between swimming and medical procedures with romantic walks around the spa area. If you like animals, visit Zoologická záhrada Bojnice. Be sure not to miss the pride of Bojnice, the beautiful Bojnický zámok. After touring the castle, head 100 m lower and watch an engaging falconry show by Sokoliari Aquila. Among the places worth visiting are Múzeum praveku and Vyhliadková veža Bojnice, from which you will have the whole town in the palm of your hand.

You might sometimes ask yourself what to do during summer days when the temperature on the thermometer exceeds 20 °C. If you are in Bojnice, be sure to visit the pools of the summer Termálne kúpalisko Čajka thermal pool. It is excellent and sought-after mainly because it contains thermal water. And who wouldn't want to enjoy views right from the pool directly toward Bojnický zámok castle?

In the Hornonitrianska kotlina basin, on the eastern foot of the Malá Magura mountains, lies the Kúpalisko Čajka thermal pool, popular with locals and tourists alike. Simply park your car right at the entrance to the pool area and enjoy days when the sun caresses your skin and the water has a beneficial effect on your body. Step down the stairs into the 50 m swimming pool and swim at a leisurely pace. You will certainly be surprised by the pleasant water with a temperature ranging from 26 to 33 °C. Since the pool area is mostly preferred by families with children, the operators have thought of the little ones as well. They can splash around in one of 2 children's pools, which are enhanced with interesting attractions. Sometimes, just a circular fountain or a jet spouting from the edge of the pool is enough to make children's hearts leap with joy.

To prevent your body from reaching a point where your skin becomes completely pruned, spread out your blanket and soak up some vitamin D. Whether you choose a comfortable grassy area where a tree casts natural shade, or prefer to lay out your towels on a concrete area, we leave that up to you. Of course, one of the options is also sun loungers, which are available for rent.

The pool complex is spacious and, in addition to swimming, offers its visitors opportunities to enjoy activities on several sports grounds. Will you play volleyball, football, or consider a game of giant chess? Happy mothers will pass the time with their toddlers at the children's playground. If you get hungry and do not want to leave the complex, your needs will be perfectly met by a fast-food snack bar. Changing rooms and a storage facility for personal belongings are also available to you.

Extend your stay at the pool as long as possible in the summer. Look for accommodation near Termálne kúpalisko Čajka Bojnice. The streets of Bojnice are charming during evening walks as well, when you can see the beautifully illuminated Bojnický zámok castle. Its interiors, however, are even more enchanting. During the day, Sokoliari Aquila will try to entertain you with their interesting shows and various species of birds of prey. You can top off the program for your children with a visit to Zoologická záhrada Bojnice or take them to Dino park Bojnice.

Just as there are many attractions in Bojnice, accommodation facilities in Bojnice are also abundant on our portal MegaUbytovanie.sk. Feel free to book apartmány Bojnice right in the center, keeping everything you want to see within easy reach. A somewhat more intimate atmosphere is provided by family penzióny Bojnice or recreational chaty a chalupy Bojnice. In case you need help, do not hesitate to contact us.

The contact zoo ARAKOVO v Bojniciach offers visitors a fascinating look into the world of colorful exotic birds with which you can establish direct contact.

The attraction is located in the spa town of Bojnice, in the Prievidza district, right in the area below the castle on Zámok a okolie street. ARAKOVO specializes in breeding various species of parrots, especially imposing macaws, cockatoos, and African greys, which are hand-reared and accustomed to human company. Visitors have the opportunity not only to observe the parrots but also to feed them with prepared food, let them land on their shoulder or hand, and take pictures with them. The entire experience takes place in the presence of expert caretakers who provide interesting information about the lives, intelligence, and temperament of individual birds. The facility emphasizes education on the conservation of these endangered species and proper care for exotic birds. Since these are living creatures, operations are partly dependent on the season and weather, so it is advisable to check current availability before visiting.

What can you find here?

In the area, you will find spacious aviaries and contact zones where dozens of parrots of various sizes and colors move freely. Bird food mixtures intended for the birds and professional staff who will teach you how to handle the feathered animals correctly and safely are available for visitors. Information boards about individual species and the option to purchase bird-themed souvenirs are also part of the experience.

Who is the place suitable for?

The place is ideal for families with children looking for an educational yet emotional experience interacting with animals. It is also sought after by lovers of exotic nature, photographers, and tourists who want to enrich their stay in Bojnice with an unconventional attraction. Given the direct contact with birds, individuals with feather allergies or those who have a natural respect for larger exotic birds should be cautious.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

In close proximity is the majestic Bojnický zámok castle and the adjacent Národná zoologická záhrada Bojnice zoo. Just a few steps from the area, you can visit the Zrkadlové bludisko mirror maze or the Dom ilúzií house of illusions. For lovers of history and prehistory, the Múzeum praveku Slovenska – Prepoštská jaskyňa museum of prehistory is within walking distance, while the well-known Kúpele Bojnice spa serves for relaxation.

Among the biggest attractions for visitors to the charming town of Bojnice are undoubtedly Bojnický zámok and the Zoo. Did you know, however, that the Múzeum praveku is also located here? Archaeological research has shown that Bojnice is considered the most precious location of a Neanderthal prehistoric settlement in Slovakia. The museum will tell you more about this interesting topic. So open your eyes, prick up your ears, and enter Prepoštská jaskyňa beneath Bojnický zámok, where this unique museum is located.

The Múzeum praveku v Bojniciach is located just a few minutes from the town center. Perhaps the biggest attraction of this site is that scientists have uncovered as many as 11 layers of prehistoric settlement here. It is assumed that Neanderthal man lived in this area for several thousand years. The discoverer of this unique place is considered to be the Catholic priest and provost Karol Anton Medvecký, who in 1926, along with grammar school students, discovered the remains of a mammoth tooth. In today's museum, visitors can discover various stone tools used by prehistoric man as well as skeletal remains of mammoths, prehistoric horses, deer, prehistoric rhinoceroses, and aurochs. The cave itself is declared a national natural monument.

The museum is suitable for all age groups. Younger visitors will certainly be attracted by the engaging diorama in front of the cave entrance, which captures the life and hunting method of prehistoric man. If you are lucky, you might arrive at a time when the museum is organizing creative workshops or a night tour by the light of burning torches. An original souvenir shop is also located on the premises. Their creators were inspired by the Stone Age and the life of Neanderthal man.

After visiting the cave, you might find it nice to refresh yourself at Termálne kúpalisko Čajka or the Plážové kúpalisko v Bojniciach swimming pool in Bojnice. Your little ones will certainly appreciate a visit to one of the most beautiful zoos in Slovakia, namely ZOO Bojnice. Your stay will also be made more pleasant by the engaging performances of Sokoliari Aquila. Do not miss the unique, already mentioned Bojnický zámok in Bojnice.

Book accommodation near the Múzeum praveku and set off to explore the attractions of Bojnice. After all, such a multitude of attractions that you can visit in this spa town and its immediate surroundings can be found in very few places in Slovakia. It is worth staying longer and accommodating yourself in one of the popular accommodations in Bojnice. Whether you are appealed by apartments Bojnice or rather a cozy room in guests house Bojnice, we will gladly introduce you to our rich offer of accommodation facilities.

Do you like to spend your free time actively? If so, come and take a swim in the Prievidza municipal indoor swimming pool. Did you know that swimming is the most natural path to health and vitality? It is not just a sport; it is therapy for the whole body. Thanks to swimming, you will feel better, relieve accumulated stress, and relax both your body and mind at the same time. In addition, you will strengthen your heart, firm your muscles, and burn excess calories.

The indoor swimming pool is available to its visitors throughout the whole year. You can swim here in a 25 x 12 m swimming pool. The pool is divided into six swimming lanes, and the water depth ranges from 1.2 to 1.8 m. The total capacity is 75 people. In addition to recreational swimming, the pool is also used for school swimming training courses and practices. The water in the pool is clean, crystal clear, and without an unpleasant chlorine odor. Experienced lifeguards oversee your safety throughout your stay. Changing rooms, showers, and sanitary facilities are a matter of course. If you get hungry after swimming, you can buy delicious refreshments at the snack bar.

You can find the indoor pool complex in the sports and commercial zone in the Píly housing estate, near the ice stadium, sports hall, and Plážové kúpalisko Bojnice. Parking is provided in front of the pool building.

Prievidza is also known for its Hornonitrianske múzeum, where you can view a rich numismatic, archaeological, or ethnological collection from the Horná Nitra region. After visiting the museum, plan a trip to nearby Bojnice and take a tour of the beautiful Bojnický zámok.

In Bojnice, it is also worth visiting other interesting attractions. If you are planning a family holiday, your little ones will certainly be delighted if you take them to the Bojnická zoologická záhrada, Dino park Bojnice, and Múzeum praveku. One day will certainly not be enough for you to explore the Trenčín Region. Check out the accommodation in Prievidza page and book your accommodation near the Krytá plaváreň Prievidza right now. It is entirely up to you whether you prefer top-class services in Prievidza hotels and guesthouses or choose the privacy of cottages and chalets on the outskirts of the municipality.

The ruins of the Uhrovec castle rank among the best-preserved in Slovakia. They are located on a castle hill above the village of Uhrovec. This craft town with market rights is the famous birthplace of such prominent personalities as Ľudovít Štúr and Alexander Dubček. The castle, which has guarded this charming town for centuries, stands on an outcrop of the Nitrické vrchy hills, part of the Strážovské vrchy mountain range, at an altitude of 591 m above sea level.

You can reach the castle from the village of Uhrovské Podhradie. Park your car in the former quarry above the village. From there, follow the trail to the information board. Turn right behind it. Afterwards, you have the option to choose either the steeper green trail or the more comfortable blue-marked hiking trail. Depending on which one you choose, the walk will take you 40 to 60 minutes. The total elevation gain of the trail is 276 m.

Upon reaching the top of the hill, you will find relatively well-preserved castle ruins. The layout has a triangular shape with corner bastions rising at the corners. One of them was triangular, the second was prismatic, and the third was a donjon type. The latter is a residential tower that served as the final refuge for the castle garrison during a siege. The Late Romanesque chapel with an emporium is also remarkably well-preserved and unique in Slovakia. Originally a Late Gothic palace, it underwent extensive Renaissance renovations. It fulfilled a defensive function mainly during the Turkish raids. In the 18th century, it was destroyed by fire. As the nobility preferred living in the more comfortable manor house in the village, the castle slowly fell into ruin. Today, efforts are underway for its conservation and partial reconstruction.

The origin of the castle is historically dated to the second half of the 13th century. Its construction was brought about by the wealthy Trenčín ispán (župan) Báša. However, the first written record of its existence, stating that Matúš Čák Trenčiansky exchanged land in Tekov for the Uhrovec castle, dates back to 1295. He owned the castle until his death in 1321. Subsequent owners included his successor King Charles Robert, Sigismund of Luxembourg, Stibor of Beckov, and Albert of Habsburg. In the 15th century, the castle was owned by the Pongrác family, who are associated with money counterfeiting. The last prominent noble family associated with the castle for two centuries was the Zay family.

Two legends are tied to the castle. One originates from the period of the Turkish raids. It mentions that the lady of the castle at the time mortally wounded the commander of a Turkish troop with an arrow from her bow while he was bathing in the stream below the castle. When his companions saw this, they panicked and galloped away. They were stunned by the accuracy and power of a woman's shot and imagined what would happen once the men started shooting. And what is the second legend about? You will find out from the information board during your visit to the castle.

After ascending to the castle, you have several options for how to spend your time. On hot summer days, you might enjoy a refreshing swim or fishing at the Prusy water reservoir or the Termálne kúpalisko Pažiť thermal pool near Bánovce nad Bebravou. You can enjoy a view of a sky full of mysteries at the Hvezdáreň Partizánske observatory. You also have the option to visit the reconstructed manor house in Šimonovany. The region offers many cultural attractions, but especially various thermal pools, such as the Termálne kúpalisko Malé Bielice or Termálne kúpalisko Chalmová, which are definitely worth a visit.

Tired from hiking and thermal waters, you will certainly appreciate the accommodation options offered by our providers, so book your accommodation near the Uhrovec castle. We recommend cozy Uhrovec apartments, as well as romantic cottages and cabins. Which choice you prefer is entirely up to you. You will experience unique moments everywhere.

The swimming pool area is situated in a pleasant and quiet environment near the village of Bystričany, below the Drieňový vrch peak in the Strážovské vrchy mountain range. Directly at the thermal pool complex, there is a campsite with a cabin settlement and a tourist hostel.

Two indoor regeneration pools with thermal water at temperatures ranging from 31 °C to 36 °C are open year-round. During the summer season, a 25-meter-long swimming pool with a water depth of 1.6 meters and a 25-meter-long children's pool with a water depth of 0.8–1.2 meters are in operation. For the little ones, a children's playground is also available, where your kids can play to their hearts' content.

If you love history and are drawn to the unknown, visit the village of Podhradie, near Lehota pod Vtáčnikom not far from Prievidza, and discover the remains of Hrad Sivý Kameň. It was built around 1330 by two brothers – Mikuláš and Ján – castellans from the nearby Bojnický zámok castle. As you have probably guessed, they named the castle after the color of its building material, which was based on gray stone ("sivý kameň").

The construction of the castle was necessitated by the conditions that arose after the death of the oligarch Matúš Čák Trenčiansky in 1321. Since there was no other castle in the area besides Bojnický zámok, the need arose to build another administrative center. During its existence, it belonged to many families. In 1430, it returned to the hands of King Sigismund of Luxembourg, who a year later, as a token of respect for merits in battle against the Turks, gave it to Gregor Majthényi.

The end of the 16th and the beginning of the 17th century was an era of disasters for this fortified residence. In 1524 it burned down, and two years later, in the Battle of Mohács, Gregor Majthényi's grandson, Bartolomej, fell into Turkish captivity. The ransom, as well as the repair of damaged parts, drained the family financially. To make matters worse, in the early 1540s the castle was plundered by the robber knights Ján and Rafael Podmanický and later by the Transylvanian prince Gabriel Bethlen.

The severely damaged fortress lost its defensive and strategic importance, and the landowners moved their estate to Nováky. Only a prison for offenders and a warehouse remained here. During the uprising of Francis II Rákóczi, when Kuruc troops fought against the Imperial forces in Horná Nitra, it was completely destroyed. The work of destruction was completed by the residents of Podhradie, who used it as building material.

A marked path will lead you to the castle hill directly from the village. The entire ascent will take you about 15 minutes at an easy pace. The modest remains of the castle now only indicate its original size. From the top of the andesite cliff, you will enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the entire village of Podhradie as well as Partizánske. In 1973, the castle was declared a National Cultural Monument.

The beautiful surrounding nature with its numerous rock formations provides plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. After this easy walk, head straight to the Rybníky & GRILL recreational and relaxation area, located in the nearby village of Sebedražie. In addition to excellent grilled trout, a 30-meter-long shipwreck and a unique crayfish farm await you here.

One day will certainly not be enough to get to know the Hornonitrianske region. Therefore, book your accommodation near the ruins of Hrad Sivý Kameň right now and plan your activities in the surrounding area. Accommodation in Podhradie offers a rich selection of cottages and chalets, as well as comfortably furnished guesthouses. If you want to visit the ruins in the winter season, you can look forward to great skiing at the Cigeľ Priedavky - Šabľová ski resort.

In case of excellent snow conditions, when a continuous snow cover falls on the southern part of the Strážovských vrchov, you can pack your skis and enjoy skiing in the Ski Park Závada pod Čiernym vrchom. The resort is located near the picturesque village of Kšinná, 20 km north of the district town of Bánovce nad Bebravou.

Getting to this relatively small ski resort is possible by turning off past the center of the village according to the directional sign towards the local sheep farm. Within two kilometers of it, the ski resort is built in the middle of a unique natural scenery. We recommend using snow chains so that you and your car do not end up in a piled-up heap of snow.

The area lies at an altitude of 560 – 760 m a. s. l., and its dominant feature is Čierny vrch. After unpacking your skis and putting on your ski boots, you will be able to enjoy great skiing on the blue ski slope, to which a longer ski lift will take you. The mentioned ski slope is used primarily by more advanced skiers because it has a downhill run 1.3 km long with an elevation gain of 145 m. Thanks to the short ski lift, which is intended rather for beginners, families with children also seek out the resort. It is nice to learn to stand on skis in a resort that is not crowded with skiers.

The resort is smaller, so do not expect any premium services here like in other ski resorts in Slovakia. You can fill your bellies by consuming food or drinks in the local buffet. Since the snow in the resort is only natural, skiing or sledding is possible only in case of good weather. The resort is mostly in operation from December to March, and snowcats take care of trail maintenance. An interesting feature is that the cross-country skiing crossing "Memoriál Jána Kušniera" is regularly organized here.

In the surroundings of the Ski Park Závada pod Čiernym vrchom, you will also be able to look around for interesting attractions. Nearby, you can go up to the ruin of the Uhrovec castle. On the way to it, you can also stop in the village of Uhrovec, which is the birthplace of A. Dubčeka and Ľ. Štúra. After a hearty day of skiing, you can regenerate in the nearby pools of the Termálneho kúpaliska Malé Bielice. Do not miss the glass-making open-air museum Sklársky skanzen Sklenný sen in Valaskej Belej, where you will discover the secrets associated with glass production.

Since skiing is a physically demanding sport, we realize that it is necessary to rest after this activity. Nearby, you will find facilities that will provide you with the best accommodation near the Ski Park Závada pod Čiernym vrchom. In our offer, we have fantastic cottages and chalets in Kšinnej or also private accommodation Kšinná. It all depends solely on your preferences.

Some ski resorts are located in rather unconventional places. You might not expect that you could go for quality and affordable skiing to the Horná Nitra region, in the vicinity of the town of Prievidza. Right here lies the small village of Kľačno. You will find it north of Prievidza, a few kilometers below the boundary of the Národný park Malá Fatra. The slopes are just a short distance from the village, which is only 500 meters away. You will find the parking lot in the immediate vicinity of the ski lifts, so you do not have to worry about a long walk to the slope.

The Ski Kľačno ski resort is situated at an altitude of 450 – 650 meters above sea level. That is not much, but there is still plenty of snow here for more than two months. The guarantee of snow is the northern orientation of the slopes. Interestingly, the resort does not have an artificial snowmaking system. It is thus suitable for those who want to try skiing on guaranteed natural snow.

There are two ski lifts at Ski Kľačno. The first one, shorter with a length of 300 meters, serves a blue slope for beginner skiers. On this slope, they will learn all the necessary basics of movement on skis. The second lift is 550 meters long and serves two slopes. One of them is also blue, suitable for beginners, but there is also one red slope for intermediate skiers. Thanks to this distribution of slopes, the resort is suitable for affordable family skiing where you can teach your children to ski while enjoying great skiing on the more demanding red slope.

The total length of the slopes in the resort is 1.1 km. A snow groomer ensures the quality of the slopes, making all slopes perfectly prepared from the morning. Despite the small size of the resort, you will find night lighting here, allowing you to enjoy night skiing. The Ski Kľačno ski resort also caters to cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Long kilometers of cross-country trails are prepared for them. They start directly in the ski resort, which is why all skiers, both downhill skiers and cross-country runners, gather here. Refreshment options are a matter of course in the resort. You will find a snack bar with favorable prices and an added cherry on top: a fireplace where you can even roast sausages or bacon.

A homely atmosphere, individual approach, and budget-friendly prices, making you feel at home every step of the way. All this is offered by the Kľačno ski resort. A friendly approach emanates from accommodation providers as well. Right next to the slopes, you will find mountain chalets and wooden cottages. You can also choose simpler accommodation in a nature school or more luxurious accommodation in apartments or private rooms. And believe us, you will feel comfortable here and will gladly return.

Pokutský vodopád is the largest waterfall in Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie. It is also probably the only touristically known waterfall in the entire Vtáčnik mountain range. Sometimes you may also encounter its name Vodopád na Pokutskom potoku. You can find it while wandering in the surroundings of Žarnovica. It cascades in small steps over vertically cut andesite rocks. In summer, it is quite subtle due to the low flow rate of the stream.

That is also why we recommend planning your trip to it in spring, or during the period after heavier rains. These are frequent here in autumn, when the surroundings of the waterfall burst with beautiful, warm colors. Then you will enjoy a truly wonderful view. In Slovakia, we have many waterfalls, and each of them is unique. Pokutský vodopád is also beautiful in winter, when its waters freeze and you can see stunning crystal icicles on the individual andesite steps.

You can reach it via an asphalt road that lines the aforementioned Pokutský potok stream. Your starting point in this case will be in the village of Ostrý Grúň, after which you will cross Pokutský most bridge. However, there is another option. In the village of Kľak, you set off along a marked hiking trail that leads you to the summit of Vtáčnik. When you reach Partizánska chata, you must turn left onto an unmarked path, which will bring you directly to the waterfall. The closer you get to it, the more certain you will be in your steps. Nothing else will fill the air except the chirping of birds and the sound of gurgling water. A true balm for the soul.)

Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie offers many other options for more or less demanding hiking. But that's not all, the entire area is very attractive, and anyone who hasn't been here should definitely change that. Start with a visit to the waterfall. Book accommodation near Pokutský vodopád, for example, on the page accommodation Kľak, and you will see that you will fall in love with this place.

Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie, a charming piece of our country, is one of Slovakia's 14 protected landscape areas. You will often encounter the abbreviation CHKO Ponitrie. Covering an area of 37,665 hectares, it spans a relatively broad territory. It stretches across three regions (Banskobystrický, Nitriansky, and Trenčiansky), and its administration oversees multiple districts. It covers the territory of the Bánovce nad Bebravou, Levice, Nitra, Partizánske, Topoľčany, and Zlaté Moravce districts, while also partially reaching into the Žarnovica and Žiar nad Hronom districts. The entire area belongs to two distinct geomorphological units: Tribeč and Vtáčnik.

The territory was declared a protected landscape area in 1985. The elevation range is quite significant, the lowest point sits at 170 meters above sea level in the Tribeč mountain range, while the highest point is the summit of Vtáčnik at 1,346 meters above sea level. Together, the mountain ranges form an imaginary border separating central Slovakia from western Slovakia. The primary focus of protection in the landscape area includes continuous forest habitats as well as forest-steppe and steppe flora and fauna. A level two degree of protection applies across the entire area. Additionally, there are 7 sites of European importance and 1 protected bird area located here, all belonging to the NATURA 2000 network of protected areas.

Explore the Famous Mountain Ranges Vtáčnik and Tribeč

The Vtáčnik mountain range is the second highest mountain range of the volcanic Slovenské rudohorie dating back to the Tertiary period. It falls into a climatically cooler and more humid region. It is characterized by beech stands and native spruce forests, alongside mixed stands of beech and fir. The flora mostly consists of mountain plants. Rare species can be found here, such as Crepis sibirica (škarda sibírska) and a moss of European significance, Dicranum viride (dvojhrot zelený). An interesting feature is the presence of stunted beech growth and isolated pockets of native spruce forest, which mix with blueberry patches and rowan trees (Sorbus aucuparia). The fauna typically includes our native carnivores (wolf, lynx, bear) as well as numerous bird species. Among the unique natural formations are crumbling rock towers on the main ridge of Vtáčnik, a volcanic cylindrical chimney on the peak of Ostrovica, and the canyon of Bystričanská dolina with the rock walls of Hrádok and Veľká skala.

The Tribeč mountain range is part of the Vnútorné Západné Karpaty from the Mesozoic period. Except for its uppermost parts, it falls within a climatically warm mountain zone. Oak-hornbeam forests predominate here. Both fauna and flora are unique, hosting a vast array of protected and rare species. The Podunajská nížina plain also exerts a significant influence, bringing in warmer air. Among the fauna, an interesting highlight is the bison park near Topoľčianky (Zubria zvernica), where European bison have been bred for a long time. Botanically unique is the protected area Jelenská gaštanica, where the first attempt at an artificially established stand of sweet chestnut was carried out in the 13th century. Today, the oldest trees are over 300 years old. In the Tribeč range, the phenomenon of quartzite knolls (Hôrky) is exceptionally well developed, featuring the rare plant Teucrium scorodonia (hrdobarka páchnuca), along with many acidophilic plants (such as common heather and hairy greenweed), flowering herbs (such as mountain scabious and hawkweeds), and ferns. When visiting Tribeč, it is definitely worth checking out Oponický hrad, Gýmeš, or Čierny hrad. A truly unique place in Tribeč is Hôrky, an area of European importance that encompasses the Národná prírodná rezervácia Hrdovická national nature reserve and the nature reserves Solčiansky háj and Kovarská hôrka.

Interesting Fauna and Flora of Ponitrie

The fauna across the entire Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie is exceptionally diverse. Invertebrates are heavily represented, making up a substantial portion of the more than 7,500 currently known animal species occurring in the area. Beetles have a major presence (such as the stag beetle and alpine longhorn beetle), as do butterflies (like swallowtails and the giant peacock moth), along with various other insects, spiders, crustaceans, and mollusks. Numerous streams in the area are home to fish (such as brown trout and European bullhead) and amphibians (like the common frog and European tree frog). Except for the European pond turtle and the European copper skink, reptiles are represented by all species found in our country. Mammals range from small species (like the Alpine shrew) to bats, aquatic carnivores (Eurasian otter), and large carnivores (such as the Eurasian lynx and gray wolf). A large number of birds nest here, from lowland to mountain forest species. Notable mentions include the black stork and the eastern imperial eagle. Furthermore, the protected bird area Chránené vtáčie územie Tribeč is located here, established due to the presence of numerous bird species.

Given the diversity of the territory, the flora of the entire Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie can be characterized by an immense variety of species and vegetation composition. Thermophilic Pannonian as well as mountain Carpathian species grow here. The entire area is predominantly covered by forests, with overall forest coverage reaching 96.8%. You will find a wide range of different plant communities here. Over time, rare drought-loving and heat-loving communities reminiscent of steppes and forest-steppes have formed on cliffs, rocks, and screes. Xerothermic communities are found in Zoborské vrchy. In spring, you will see rare protected species (such as the pygmy iris and spring pheasant's eye) as well as species of European importance (such as the large pasqueflower or the endemic species of Zoborské vrchy and Slovenský kras, Thlaspi jankae). Open woodland areas are characterized by orchids (such as the Adriatic lizard orchid and purple orchid) or various protected plants (such as the field rose and Achillea ochroleuca). The driest rocky spots are characterized by succulents (such as Jovibarba globifera and white stonecrop).

Enjoy the Perfect Combination of Hiking and History

Educational trails are definitely an attractive feature for hikers. You can walk Náučný chodník Zobor (14.7 km), Náučný chodník Buchlov (5.3 km), or Náučný chodník Vtáčnik (5.7 km plus a 2.1 km detour). In total, Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie includes 59 hiking routes covering a distance of 268 km and 52 caves. In addition, you can visit many historical monuments, including various castles, châteaux, and ruins. And perhaps you will be drawn to Tribeč by the story of a Slovak author, which was also adapted into a film based on the original book. Should that be the case, be careful—one never knows whether those stories are fabricated or based on truth. In any case, we recommend booking accommodation near Chránená krajinná oblasť Ponitrie and coming to explore all its beauty in person. After all, nothing beats a firsthand experience. You can find accommodation inspiration on the accommodation in Nitra page, for example.