Where to go on a trip Krompachy

Skiers in Slovakia often bypass the eastern part of the country. Perhaps they don't even know what they are missing out on. The pristine nature, somewhat hidden from the eyes of tourists, offers something for them as well. Perhaps the best ski resort they can visit here is Relax Center Plejsy.

The ski resort has a more than fitting name, as the services in the resort offer great opportunities for active relaxation. Where can you find all this? Just a short distance from Krompachy. You can get here, for example, from Spišské Podhradie. The resort is spread over the northern slopes of Krompašský vrch. Thanks to its northern orientation, there is always plenty of snow at Plejsy.

Relax Center Plejsy is not just any ordinary ski resort. It is one of those larger and modern skiing centers. Its high level is also evidenced by the organization of international skiing events, such as the European Cup skiing races.

The resort offers more than sufficient elevation gain. It ranges between 470 – 912 meters above sea level. But do you know what is absolute best about Plejsy? That all groups of skiers can enjoy skiing here. You will find slopes for beginners, intermediate skiers, and even total experts. Most of the slopes are designated for intermediate skiers. The resort is therefore suitable for family skiing as well as for every skier looking to refine their skills.

The Plejsy resort offers up to 9 km of slopes. Its pride is the main slope, which contains all levels of difficulty you can encounter. At the beginning, it has the steepest incline, later transitioning into medium difficulty, and the final section has a gentle slope suitable even for beginners. The resort's longest slope is also above average, measuring up to 2,500 meters. Up to 5 ski lifts will take care of your comfort while skiing.

Other additional services at Plejsy are at a European level: plenty of parking spaces, snack bars, a restaurant, a comprehensive artificial snowmaking system, and floodlighting for night skiing. Thanks to this, you will be skiing late into the evening and until early spring. The average ski season lasts up to 123 days, proving that you can ski here for a really long time.

The surroundings of the resort offer options for interesting trips, whether to the nearby Slovenský raj or to the aforementioned Spišské Podhradie. History, culture, nature, and sports enthusiasts will all find something to enjoy here. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts haven't been forgotten either. You will find up to 11 km of cross-country trails here where you can train from morning to evening.

Plejsy is full of life, especially in winter. The high number of tourists requires broad accommodation capacities. These are available here in various quality levels and price ranges. From modern guesthouses and beautiful cottages to pleasant and quiet private accommodations in nearby villages. In addition, right next to the ski lifts, Hotel Plejsy will ensure maximum comfort during your stay. So head on over for a great skiing trip.

In the Košickom kraji, in eastern Slovakia, just 3 km past the village of Gelnica, you will find the foothill so-called Turzovské jazero. At first glance, its surroundings will captivate you with their magnificent coniferous forests and mountain meadows. Did you know that in the past, Jazero Turzov was among the most sought-after spa resorts in Rakúsko-Uhorsku? They were visited mainly by patients with respiratory and nervous system disorders.

The Turzovské kúpele were known throughout the Rakúska-Uhorská monarchy. People went boating on the water surface, and famous Anna bály were held at the spa. There was also a bowling alley and tennis courts. Water from the lake was boiled with pine needles and used for the inhalation of medicinal essential oils. Directly on the shore stood a spa house, which currently provides accommodation and catering services.

The water in Turzovskom jazere is clean and clear, reaching up to 17 meters at its deepest point. During hot summer days, you can swim in it, but only at your own risk. Part of the resort is also the lower lake, by which you will find the detached exhibition of the Baníckeho múzea v Gelnici, the Banský skanzen, and the Jozef adit. The lower lake is not suitable for swimming as it is used for fishing. Both lakes are fed by mountain streams originating in fault zones of rocks, as well as waters from abandoned mining works.

The wonderful environment in the middle of the forest is made for a picnic, so do not hesitate and take a blanket and a basket full of goodies for your trip. Directly on the shore, there is also a fire pit where you can roast delicious sausages. A mining educational trail will lead you to the lake from Gelnica.

After this undemanding walk, set out on a proper hike and conquer Kojšovskú hoľu. The surroundings of Gelnica offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. A great place for relaxation and swimming is the popular Vodná nádrž Ružín. Discover the beauties of the Volovských vrchov and book your stay in Spiši today. You can find the best accommodation offer around Turzovského jazera on our website accommodation in Gelnica. Come and see for yourself what remarkable places Východné Slovensko hides.

In the region of central and western Slovakia, there are two interesting tourist locations associated with the name Green Point and the Kukla hill.

Green Point nad Kluknavou is a unique 35-meter-high lookout tower situated on the Kremenec hill at an altitude of 681 m above sea level. It is the first energy self-sufficient lookout tower in Slovakia, using solar panels and wind turbines to generate its own electricity. This smart structure made of galvanized iron and larch wood is equipped with LED lighting with motion sensors and offers visitors free charging for mobile phones and e-bikes. A circular panoramic view of Kráľova hoľa, Sľubica, Kloptaň, and the panorama of Spiš opens up from its top. The lookout tower on the Kukla hill (564 m above sea level) is located in the Malé Karpaty mountain range above the village of Píla near Modra. The current 12-meter-high wooden structure stands on the site of the original tower and offers one of the most beautiful views of the nearby Hrad Červený Kameň castle. The Kukla hill is steeped in legends of medieval witches and, thanks to its accessibility, is a popular destination for easy hiking. The location is part of a protected landscape area, and marked hiking trails connecting Modra-Piesok with the valley of the Gidra stream pass through it.

What can you find here?

Near the Green Point tower, you will find modern technological facilities, information panels on renewable energy sources, and a relaxation area with charging stations. On the Kukla hill, there is a classic wooden lookout tower with a ladder climb, near which fire pits and seating for hikers are built. In both cases, these are places that combine active relaxation with exploring local nature.

Who is the place suitable for?

Both locations are ideal for families with children and recreational hikers looking for a half-day trip. Thanks to its technological aspect, Green Point nad Kluknavou is also attractive to fans of modern design and ecology, while Kukla in the Malé Karpaty attracts lovers of traditional hiking and history. The ascent to both view points is moderately demanding and can be handled by seniors or active cyclists as well.

What can you visit in the surrounding area?

In the vicinity of Kluknava, you can visit the Baroque-Neoclassical manor house in Kluknava or the historical wooden bridge over the Hornád river in the village of Štefanská Huta. Near the Kukla hill, there is the majestic Hrad Červený Kameň castle, an educational trail in the Zochova chata locality, or the rock formation Traja jazdci. For wine lovers, numerous wineries are available in the town of Modra and its district Kráľová.

Červené skaly is a locality in the territory of the Spišská Nová Ves district in the Košice Region, which has been declared a national nature reserve. It falls under the state nature conservation of the Slovenský raj. The reserve extends into the cadastral areas of the villages of Poráč, Olcnava, and Slovinky. The most beautiful part of the first-mentioned village's territory is precisely the Poráčska dolina, where you will also find a canyon up to 300 meters deep in places, featuring Červená skala. Despite its name, the latter is rather white from a distance. Červené skaly form the wall of the canyon of the Poráčsky potok, which is also the subject of protection. The canyon with a semi-karst character cuts through the Galmuská planina. This locality with rock, meadow, and forest communities is a typical representative of the biogeocenosis of the Slovenské rudohorie. It has an area of 390.5 ha and was declared a protected area back in 1981.

Protect nature, walk only on marked trails

The bedrock of the Poráčska dolina is formed predominantly by limestone, which, with the help of the Poráčsky jarok, enabled the formation of canyon-like valleys and numerous karst phenomena such as turrets, rock windows, waterfalls, and caves. Rising above the Poráčska dolina is the triple peak Slovinská skala. Due to the ruggedness of the relief, there are two areas in this territory that differ in their flora. In the north of the valley, beeches and thermophilic flowers mainly occur. In the southern part, fir-beech forests, spruce forests grow, and besides thermophilic vegetation, cold-loving mountain plants appear in the shadows. Dealpine pine bushes thrive on the rock ridges, and alder forests thrive in the floodplains of the Poráčsky potok. Among the protected species, one can find the Carpathian bellflower, the Moldavian monkshood, the alpine clematis, or the Slovak pasque flower. In the forests and meadows, red deer, roe deer, wild boar, lynx, fox, and especially in recent years, the wolf find their home.

The national natural monument Červené skaly is protected by the 5th and 4th levels of protection, therefore the territory can be visited only within marked hiking trails, cycling and cross-country skiing routes, and economic activity is prohibited here. The canyon of the Poráčsky potok is best accessible from the villages of Slovinky and Poráč. A foot crossing from one village to the other through the Poráčska dolina takes approximately two and a half hours and is an undemanding hike with an elevation gain of 319 m.

Make the most of your time spent in Červené skaly

In the vicinity of the nature reserve, there are many natural attractions such as the Šarkanova diera cave. For those who will have a taste for a bit of history after a walk in nature, the Markušovský hrad in Markušovce or the Banský skanzen in the village of Hnilčík are nearby. It is also not far to Spišská Nová Ves, which offers a zoological garden, or to Spišské Podhradie, where besides the Spišský hrad, there is also St. Martin's Cathedral (Katedrála sv. Martina).

Book your accommodation near the Červené skaly nature reserve and get to know this area more closely. You will be closest to the rocks if you stay in one of the cottages in Poráč. If these facilities are occupied, try browsing the offer of apartments in Spišské Vlachy or other accommodation in Jamník. A bit further away, in Spišské Podhradie, you will also find other quality accommodation options. Just choose a date and you can start looking forward to a wonderful trip.

If you enjoy going on trips into nature, head up to the cliff behind the town of Gelnica and discover the remains of Gelnický hrad castle. The history of this once grand residence dates back to 1234. In ancient times, it was also known as Thurzov hrad castle. Take a pleasant walk with your family and enjoy quality time spent together in nature. A marked hiking trail leading from the Banícke múzeum museum will guide you to the remains of this medieval fortress.

You will find the ruins of the castle in a place called „zámčisko“. The purpose of constructing the castle was to protect the town and its mines. Since its establishment, it went through many hands. During times of unrest and continuous battles for the Hungarian throne between Ferdinand I of Habsburg and John Zápolya, the castle was destroyed. Following Zápolya's defeat, Ferdinand I gifted Gelnický hrad castle to the nobleman Alexej Thurzo, who had it rebuilt and expanded.

The Thurzo family owned the castle until 1636, when its last male descendant, Michal Thurzo, passed away. For a short time, the castle became state property. In 1638, King Ferdinand III granted it to Count Štefan Csáky and his wife Eva Forgách. During the reign of the Csáky family, several uprisings broke out, during which the castle and the town changed hands repeatedly. The castle began to fall into disrepair, and from 1765 onwards, it served merely as a training ground for the hussars of Gelnica.

The final destruction was brought about by the town itself when it ordered the stone from the walls to be used for the construction of the town hall and adjacent buildings. It is assumed that the castle had four bastions and a main entrance on the eastern side. In addition to the main entrance, there were three other courtyards at the castle. The most well-preserved section is the torso of the castle tower with a window opening and a loophole.

During an archaeological survey in 1963, it was discovered that 14 underground tunnels lead out into the surroundings of the castle. Various artifacts were also found, such as keys, weapons, spurs, and other items. The castle ruins are freely accessible all year round. From the castle hill, you will enjoy a wonderful view over the entire town. If you head to the castle in autumn, your children will certainly be delighted by the chestnuts they find under the trees in the chestnut alley.

After visiting „zámčisko“, set off for Turzovské jazero lake and enjoy a great picnic on its shores. On your travels, you can also stop by the Banícke múzeum, which will introduce you to the history of mining in the area. In the surroundings of Gelnica, there are many fantastic attractions worth visiting. Don't wait and book your weekend stay in the Slovenské rudohorie mountains today. A wide selection of accommodation near the ruins of Gelnický hrad castle can be found on our page accommodation in Gelnica. We wish you a wonderful and undisturbed stay.

There are few cases where natural richness marries cultural heritage so seamlessly. One of them can be found in Spiš, one of the most famous and most visited regions of Slovakia. And it is not just a Slovak, but a European uniqueness. Spišský hrad. One of the largest castles in all of Europe.

Thanks to its majesty, it is impossible to miss the castle. You will see it from afar, right from the highway. Lying below it is the small town of Spišské Podhradie, which is famous for its cathedral and priestly seminary. Spišský hrad castle is situated on a local travertine hill and, with an area of over 40,000 square meters, is one of the largest in all of Europe.

The entire castle rock is even a national natural monument. And the castle itself is inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list.

The travertine mound on which the castle stands enjoys an excellent strategic position. It stands up to 200 meters above the surrounding terrain, with the final meters being almost vertical. In the past, the travertine cliffs posed a great obstacle to enemies. The hillfort was inhabited back in ancient times by early cultures, even in the era before Christ. The period from the tenth to the thirteenth century represented a period of great development for the castle. Due to attacks by the Tatars, there was an acute need for a defensive castle. The first structure to be built was a massive, majestic tower, which was destroyed by an earthquake. In the 13th century, its successor was built, a tower that stands to this day.

During this period, there was vibrant construction activity at the castle. Paradoxically, the castle progressed despite the devastating Mongol invasions in 1241. A century later, a further expansion of the castle took place. The courtyard, measuring 150 x 60 meters, was exceptionally spacious for its time. Over time, the lower massive courtyard, which gives the castle such a large area, began to become a burden. Maintaining guards and defending such a vast area was unnecessary. Therefore, as time went on, it began to be used almost exclusively for economic and utility purposes.

The castle was ruled by the most famous royal and noble families. Worth mentioning are the Thurzo, Zápoľský, and Csák families. Over time, the castle began to fall into disrepair, playing its final role during the uprising. Imperial troops were stationed here, later abandoning the castle. The nail in the castle's coffin was a fire in 1780. The castle then decayed, lasting until 1945. It had to wait a while longer for reconstruction. Rescue and restoration works on the castle only began in 1961.

A tour of the castle offers something interesting for everyone. The castle tower, torture chamber, exhibition of period weapons, or a walk through the lower courtyard offer a wide spectrum of things to see. It would be a shame to miss the surrounding attractions, such as Katedrála sv. Martina in Spišská Kapitula or historical Levoča.

You will find the most convenient accommodation with the best access to Spišský hrad castle in Spišské Podhradie or nearby Žehra, which boasts a small church also inscribed on the UNESCO list. Your choices will primarily consist of private accommodations, but you will also find affordable and pleasant guesthouses. Discover our European-renowned gems and set out to explore the secrets of Spiš.

Do you know the Slovenský raj? Surely you do. And how about skiing in it? Just a stone's throw from its border lies the village of Poráč. What is it famous for? You will find it in the eponymous Poráčska dolina, while driving through which you will have a blissful feeling as if you were at the edge of the world. Perfect relaxation and a feeling of freedom. In winter, you can enjoy it on skis as well.

The Poráč Park ski resort itself is located between the villages of Poráč and Slovinky in the Poráčska dolina. The best access is from the direction of the east from Krompachy and from the west from Spišská Nová Ves.

This pleasant ski resort is characterized by a family atmosphere where everyone knows everyone. Yet you will find the most important thing here: ski slopes of all categories. Two ski slopes are intended for beginners. They will appreciate the gentle slope and sufficient length of the slopes, which forgives many mistakes. An ideal terrain for learning not only for small ones, but also for big ones. You will also find a pair of steeper ski slopes here. One of them is for intermediates and the last one for the best skiers, who are not intimidated even by the black color with which it is marked. A pair of ski lifts takes care of all these ski slopes.

You can enjoy the slopes of Poráč Park every year depending on the snow cover, most often between December and March. A total of 3 km of ski slopes will be at your service. Cross-country skiing trails also run through the surrounding mountains. These are not groomed, which is why they are more suitable for more adventurous cross-country skiers. The nearby mountains are also exceptionally suitable for tourists. Just borrow ski-mountaineering equipment or snowshoes and nothing prevents you from leaving the rushed world behind.

Additional services at the resort that will make your moments on the slope more pleasant are a matter of course. During skiing, you can refresh yourself in the buffet or warm up in the bar. There is a restaurant, ski service, ski rental, and ski storage.

Considering the resort's focus on families and beginners as well, you can use the services of the ski kindergarten for children or the ski school for others. Qualified instructors can handle even the biggest timber, and after a couple of days, you will already be able to say: “I am a skier!”

After skiing, the fun does not end. Rent skates and head out to the nearby ice rink. It is up to you whether you will just skate around and talk with acquaintances or dive into the whirlpool of a hockey match.

Poráč is an attractive village that offers a pleasant ski resort in winter, and tourist and cycling trails in summer. You will find plenty of small cottages, tourist hostels here, or you can look around for some of the local private accommodations. Escape from the mundane and rushed reality for at least a few days. The Poráčska dolina will gladly provide you with shelter.

You cannot miss Ranč FAH during your wanderings around Spišská Nová Ves. It is situated 1 kilometer south of the dominant Spišský hrad, in the settlement of Hodkovce, which falls under the village of Žehra. The ranch offers a pleasant relaxation area for the whole family. You will find a passion for horseback riding here and appreciate the magnificent views of the rock massifs of the Dreveník protected landscape area.

The little ones will not miss out either, as the staff will gladly saddle up a pony for them. If you would like to improve your riding skills, an instructor is available for you and will happily help you. You can also tour the nearby sights in a horse-drawn carriage. You will feel just like in a fairy tale. When nature wraps itself in a white blanket, do not hesitate to take a ride on a sleigh pulled by local steeds.

There is something here even for adrenaline lovers. It is the so-called skijoring, which is essentially skiing while being pulled by a horse. Believe it or not, powder snow will be all around you. If your stomach starts rumbling while collecting unusual experiences, you will certainly appreciate the rich selection of home cooking, where you can also taste handmade organic farm products. For those who love wine, a tasting of this precious beverage is prepared.

Spiš has its charm, and the people here are very warm-hearted. Come and see their hospitality for yourself, which you will experience in cottages or guest houses in Spišské Podhradie. Great accommodation options can also be found near Ranč FAH. While you are here, certainly do not miss a visit to Katedrála sv. Martina or learn the art of pottery at Spišský hrad. Children will surely enjoy Zoologická záhrada Spišská Nová Ves, where they can observe animals undisturbed.

If you are planning your trip to the surroundings of the village of Fričovce near Kežmarok in the Prešov Region, we recommend trying an adrenaline-pumping ride on an armored personnel carrier. A ride on a modified BVP (bojové vozidlo pechoty / infantry fighting vehicle) will especially appeal to families with children and military technology enthusiasts.

This experience is offered to you by the company Bajonet s.r.o., which has been operating sightseeing rides for tourists for several years. Explore the interior of this armored tracked military vehicle weighing nearly 13 tons, or enjoy the view of the landscape from specially adapted seats on its roof platform. You will find two types of rides on offer. The simpler one is 3 km long, during which you will complete a ride in less demanding terrain around the agricultural cooperative. For more demanding customers, a 4 km long route in tougher terrain is also available.

So, did we catch your interest? If so, we have an extra bonus for you. For a surcharge, you have the unique opportunity to try driving such an armored personnel carrier yourself. Come and experience the roaring hum of the engine, the powerful grip of the steel tracks, and the breeze blowing through your hair while conquering difficult terrain and fording a stream. Perhaps this experience will captivate you so much that next time you will book this unique machine for the whole day. The minimum number of passengers is 2 people. The vehicle can carry a maximum of 16 interested passengers. The maximum speed reached is 40 km/h.

At the same time, you have a unique opportunity to create original photos and videos that you will be able to show off to your colleagues, acquaintances, or family members. Given that the company Bajonet has been involved in buying and selling movable property of the military administration since 2006, it is possible that during your visit you will also have the opportunity to see other military vehicles and technology. So do not hesitate and take your children on an adrenaline ride they will not soon forget.

After this adrenaline experience, we also recommend visiting the gem that this village offers. It is the beautiful Renaissance manor house Fričovský kaštieľ, whose true jewel lies mainly in its exterior sgraffito figural decoration depicting around 150 historical and mythological figures. Put on your hiking boots and explore the remains of Lipovský hrad, located northwest of the village of Lipovce. You do not have to fear evil even inside the cave Zlá diera. In Slovakia, there is a place where the law of gravity does not apply. Want to take a look at it? Then plan a trip to the gravity anomaly Lačnovská gravitačná anomália.

To enjoy your trip to the fullest and indulge in all the fun activities in Fričovce or its surroundings, we definitely recommend booking accommodation near the armored personnel carrier ride. You can take advantage of all accommodation options in Fričovce. We have accommodation providers who will gladly offer you their apartments Fričovce or private accommodation Fričovce.

Surrounded by the picturesque nature of the Horný Šariš region, in the district of Prešov, in a quiet part of the village of Fričovce, you will find a true gem of Slovak Renaissance architecture. The beautiful Kaštieľ Fričovce manor house dates back to the beginning of the 17th century, when the construction of manor houses in Slovakia was at its peak. Its uniqueness lies primarily in its exterior sgraffito figurative decoration depicting around 150 historical and mythological figures. In addition to its beautiful architecture, the manor house attracts visitors with an excellent restaurant and an adjacent park with small ponds and historical trees.

This charming monument was built between 1623 and 1630 by the Berthóty family. The author of the figurative decoration is the painter and sgraffito artist Martin Waxman. He created the artwork on the building's facade using the two-color sgraffito technique, utilizing ivory and greyish-black charcoal. An interesting feature of the figures is their larger heads compared to their bodies. During creation, the author took into account the vertical perspective of the viewer looking up from below. In terms of content, you can admire up to 150 figures from various fields on the decoration. Here you will find ancient gods, figures symbolizing human virtues, figures from Hungarian and Polish history, kings, sultans, and emperors of the Roman Empire.

In 1998, the Tomko family became the owners of the manor house, breathing new life into the dilapidated building after more than 40 years. Extensive reconstruction included structural repairs, restoration of the exterior, interiors, outbuildings, and the park. The foundation of the greenery consists of deciduous trees reaching ages of 100 to 150 years. You can admire old linden trees, chestnuts, maples, as well as wingnut, mulberry, tulip tree, and ginkgo. Small ponds complete the beautiful scenery. In addition to touring the historical building and taking a walk through the picturesque park, you can also treat yourself to a delicious lunch or sit down for a fine coffee in the manor house. Directly inside the historical premises of the manor house, you will find a popular restaurant with a selection of culinary specialties of Slovak cuisine.

You can combine a tour of this beautiful manor house in Fričovce with an exciting adrenaline adventure: a ride in an armored personnel carrier. Would you like to step into the role of a soldier for a moment and explore the surrounding nature from aboard a tank? Or do you prefer a journey into history and making a trip to the ruins of Lipovský hrad castle? In nearby Lipovce, you can also venture into the mysterious underground of the unlit Zlá diera cave or to an interesting spot defying the laws of physics called the Lačnovská gravitačná anomália. Will you uncover its secret?

This region boasts a wide range of points of interest and attractive, albeit lesser-known, hiking trails. To have enough time to discover them all, we recommend booking accommodation near Kaštieľ Fričovce. The selection of popular cottages in Fričovce and neighboring villages is truly diverse. If you prefer the comfort of a guesthouse or accommodation in apartments, we recommend choosing from the accommodation offer in Prešov. You are sure to find a holiday base according to your expectations here.

In the east of Slovakia, in the town of Spišské Podhradie, lies its separate part named Spišská Kapitula. From a distance, you will notice the massive Katedrála svätého Martina. This monumental building from the first third of the 13th century is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Not only history lovers or people seeking spiritual renewal will find what they are looking for here.

This Romanesque-Gothic building features two towering spires. Inside, you can find stunning Gothic altars, statues, tomb slabs, bells, or frescoes dating back to 1317 depicting the coronation of King Charles Robert. These are very rare pieces. You also will not miss the oldest Romanesque sculpture in Slovakia, Leo Albus.

Katedrála svätého Martina in Spišská Kapitula will offer you a perfect spiritual experience. In addition to visiting the cathedral from Tuesday to Sunday, you can also attend a religious service. The singing echoing through the spaces of this gigantic structure will delight your ears and soul. Upon request, a tour can be arranged for an organized group. You can choose a basic route with a guided commentary, or without one. It consists of the ground floor of the cathedral and the south sacristy. During the summer months, you can find a bit more information in the extended route, where you will see everything from the basic route plus the upper floor of the cathedral, which houses the canonical library, the archaeological exposition of the cathedral, and the westwork - the royal chapel (Leo Albus White Lion).

From a distance, you will see the silhouette of Katedrála svätého Martina as well as Spišský hrad. Plan a trip to these two interesting attractions of Spiš. Keep in mind, however, that perhaps thanks to accommodation near Katedrála sv. Martina in Spišskom Podhradie, you will soak up an amazing atmosphere. It is an environment where you can feel the antiquity of a sacred place and even a fortified one.

You can reach the cathedral from several directions, with a highway exit right in Spišské Podhradie. Do not miss the aforementioned largest castle fortress in Central Europe, Spišský hrad. In the summer season, potters here will convince you to make your own ceramics. A unique winter experience is provided by the exceptional Lesná sauna in Spišský Hrhov. However, the effects of saunas are beneficial for the body in every season.

If you stay at a cottage in Spišské Podhradie, you will certainly be close to Ranč Fah as well. You can indulge in sunsets with a glass of wine in hand in a guesthouse room in Spišské Podhradie. We know that the friendly approach of accommodation providers and comfortable rooms in any property guarantee a perfect feeling during your stay. The best accommodation in Spišské Podhradie can only be found with us.

Kojšovská hoľa, with an altitude of 1,225.7 m above sea level, is the highest peak of the Kojšovská hoľa sub-subunit, in the area of Slovenské rudohorie within Volovské vrchy. It is also the highest point of the entire Košice-okolie district. The peak is located approximately 16 km west of Košice, between the villages of Kojšov, Opátka, Prakovce, and Zlatá Idka. Tourists visit it year-round. It is used for hiking as well as for sports and recreation.

In summer, the peak is very attractive for tourists. It features a beautiful natural scenery overgrown with heather, cranberry and bilberry bushes, raspberries, and wild strawberries. You can also pick various mushrooms and medicinal plants. But beware, many of the plants you will find here are protected; please only look at them and enjoy their beauty. The red-marked Cesta hrdinov SNP trail passes through here. Together with Zlatoidská hora, Kojšovská hoľa forms a very popular hiking duo-combination. Tourists even say that one of the best views from Volovské vrchy is from here. The view of the Tatras is simply unique. Especially at the beginning of winter, when their snow-dusted peaks contrast sharply with the still brown-and-green rounded hills down below them. In the distance, you will also see into Poland, Hungary, and Ukraine.

In winter, Kojšovská hoľa transforms into a skiing paradise. The Kojšovská hoľa – Skipark Erika ski resort is a great space for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy themselves. The resort is accessible by cable car, and high-quality cross-country ski trails also lead through the surroundings. On the way to the peak, you will certainly also encounter ski mountaineers or ski touring enthusiasts. And feel free to build a snowman here too, because winter should be about the joy of snow.

An observatory of the Slovenský meteorologický ústav is located at the peak of Kojšovská hoľa. Right next to it stands a bronze commemorative plaque from 1981 bearing the inscription "česť a sláva hrdinom SNP". Likewise, you will find a box with a summit register here, and about 200 m further on, 49 peace poles with the inscription "nech je mier na Slovensku". They have stood here since 1997 as a symbol of peace in Europe. Slovakia received them as a gift from a Japanese company. You will also see a SNP monument along with an anti-tank gun here since 1999.

Several different routes lead to the peak. You can get here from Gelnica, Kojšov, and Zlatá Idka along the blue trail. You can get to Kojšovská hoľa from the village of Prakovce along the yellow trail. Calculate your hiking time to be approximately 3 hours; in summer, we naturally also recommend sitting down on the sunny peak. So that you do not have to rush home for the hike or from it, book accommodation near the Kojšovská hoľa peak. Try it, for example, on the accommodation Kojšov or accommodation Košice page. You will surely find one that will be just right for you.

The manor house in the village of Markušovce is one of the most representative buildings of the southern Spiš region. Together with the summer house Dardanely, it is situated in the setting of a magnificent French park with three stepped terraces. Come and see the unique exhibition of keyboard musical instruments and historical furniture. At the same time, the summer house is a place where various musical events regularly take place, especially classical music concerts.

The history of the manor house dates back to 1643 and is associated with the name František Mariássy. The original building was in the Renaissance style. Following a change of owners, it was rebuilt into the Rococo style between 1770 and 1775. Shortly after, the new owner Wolfgang Mariássy had the summer house Dardanely built in the garden. The manor house served its owners as a fortified residence for over 100 years. Following extensive reconstruction of the manor house, which took place between 1983 and 1994, a permanent exhibition of historical furniture is located here.

The main goal of the historical furniture exhibition is to point out the development of individual types of interior accessories and their chronological arrangement from the 17th century to the beginning of the 20th century. Individual pieces originating from the older period of classicism, empire, or Biedermeier can be found on the upper floor. Furniture from the younger period, representing historicisms, can be found on the ground floor. The exhibition is complemented by examples of crafts and applied arts, and you can also find collections of glass, porcelain, and period costumes. Also interesting is the collection of historical weapons, clocks, and mirrors. A special part consists of paintings by prominent painters such as J. Rombauer, J. Czauczik, or J. J. Stunder. The exhibited pieces of furniture come from Kaštieľ Markušovce as well as Kaštieľ Hodkovce.

The magnificent representative hall in letohrádok Dardanely is decorated with grand frescoes and still serves as a concert hall today. Did you know that this charming building was constructed specifically to welcome Emperor Joseph II? In the summer house, you can view a splendid exhibition of historical keyboard musical instruments, which is the only one of its kind in Slovakia.

The manor house in Markušovce together with summer house Dardanely is definitely worth visiting. And if you still have the urge to explore, put on your hiking boots and head to the Hornádska kotlina. Approximately 5 km from the village of Markušovce, you will find Markušovský skalný hríb, which is reportedly the largest of its kind in all of Europe. Children will surely be delighted if you visit the zoo and Alex park in Spišská Stará Ves with them. The Spiš region is practically packed with great attractions, so book your dream holiday today. You can find a wide range of accommodation in the vicinity of Kaštieľ Markušovce on our page accommodation Markušovce. We wish you a successful holiday full of unforgettable experiences.

The Spiš region can boast a unique feature that you will not find far and wide. On the edge of the forest, near an old orchard in Spišský Hrhov, you will find the original Lesná sauna with a breathtaking view of Spišský hrad. At first glance, the sauna will catch your attention with its unconventional shape and semi-transparent construction. The modern concept conceals a traditional Scandinavian-style sauna inside. Come and try sauna bathing in the open air, which is furthermore free of charge.

The Lesná sauna is built of wooden beams with jute fiber insulation in between. The floor is wooden and the shell is made of polycarbonate. If you try it at night, the outer shell glows like a Chinese lantern. This architectural masterpiece was designed by architect Lívia Gažová and the Woven association. The sauna was built and financed by the municipality in cooperation with generous sponsors. In case you are heading to the sauna, visit the operator's website and book the date and time of your visit. The only things you need to bring are drinking water, a towel, or a light source. The wood in the sauna, as well as the cold water in the tub, will already be waiting for you. The keys to the sauna will be handed over to you upon arrival by the manager, and you will be able to heat it up to the required temperature.

Sauna bathing has a beneficial effect on the entire organism. It relieves nervous tension, strengthens blood circulation, thereby also strengthening the heart and thus reducing the risk of a heart attack. In addition, it rejuvenates the skin and speeds up metabolism. Furthermore, the hot air in the sauna induces sweating, through which harmful substances are eliminated from the body. A stay in the sauna should not exceed 15 minutes. Sauna bathing can be repeated 3 to 4 times after replenishing fluids and thoroughly cooling down.

Do something for your health and book your stay in the sauna today. Accommodation near the Lesná sauna can be found on our website accommodation in Spišský Hrhov. After a great experience, go to nearby Levoča and view Bazilika sv. Jakuba, which was elevated to a minor basilica by Pope František in 2015. Also go to Mariánska hora, on which another holy place, Bazilika Navštívenia Panny Márie, stands. Stop for a brief moment and soak up the exceptional atmosphere of this oldest pilgrimage site in Slovakia. We believe that you will like your stay in Spiš and return home relaxed and full of great experiences.

The popular ski resort Búče is situated on the outskirts of the village of Renčišov, in the district of Sabinov. It is located only about 28 km northwest of Prešov. In addition to slopes of all difficulty levels and a large capacity of ski lifts, this winter area can also boast perfect snow conditions. It owes them to its mountain environment and altitude. The surroundings even favor fans of cross-country skiing and ski touring.

The resort is equipped with five ski lifts with a transport capacity of 2,000 people per hour. Slopes of all difficulty levels are available with a total length of 4 km. A ski school is prepared for the youngest skiers. More advanced skiers can use a classic T-bar lift. More experienced winter sports enthusiasts will find what they are looking for on the 400 m long slope and on the ski lift serving two intermediate slopes. A slope is also prepared for proficient skiers and snowboarders.

A pleasant part of the resort is a mountain hut offering delicious meals. Cross-country skiers will enjoy several trails in the immediate vicinity ranging from 3 to 8 km in length. Ski mountaineers, on the other hand, can take advantage of numerous routes suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced lovers of this increasingly popular sport. The beautiful views from the ridge over the wide surroundings, capturing panoramas of Slovakia's highest mountain ranges, are an added bonus.

Access to the ski resort is from the adjacent village of Renčišov, where a park-and-ride lot is located. From there, it is approximately 1.5 km to the lifts. You can travel this route by ski bus or by 4x4 vehicle or using snow chains. In that case, you can park at the upper parking lot, right by the lifts. All that remains is to pull out your skis and gear and set off for a winter adventure.

Near this popular ski resort, you can also visit a sensitively made accessible cave without electric lighting bearing the somewhat intimidating name, Zlá diera. On the way to the cave, you will encounter an extraordinary attraction that defies the law of gravity. We are talking about the Lačnovská gravitačná anomália, a unique place where a stream flows uphill. Is that really so? Come and see for yourself. Book your accommodation near the Búče ski resort right now and start preparing your ski equipment. On our portal, you are guaranteed to easily find a cottage in Renčišov or in the immediate vicinity that fulfills your ideas of a winter vacation.

Košice belongs to the more southerly located cities with a relatively warm climate. Precisely due to this fact, it is difficult to find a place in the immediate surroundings where you can enjoy great skiing. And yet! We have a great tip for a ski resort for you that you simply must visit when traveling to eastern Slovakia.

We are talking about the ski resort Erika - Kojšovská hoľa. You will find it on the edge of the village Zlatá Idka, which is located only 25 km from Slovakia's second-largest city, Košice. The slopes here are spacious, wide, long, interesting, and lead almost to the very top of Kojšovská hoľa. The ski resort Erika lies at an altitude of 730 to 1,215 meters above sea level. Thanks to this and its location in Volovské vrchy, it always has plenty of snow, and you will not find a place in the area that beats Kojšovská hoľa when it comes to snowfall. The ski season is therefore quite long, and you can look forward to top-class conditions.

Skipark Erika - Kojšovská hoľa is a ski resort for everyone. Trails of all difficulty levels await you here, so it does not matter at all whether you are a beginner or an advanced skier. However, most of the trails are marked blue, which are the least demanding slopes.

In total, there are up to 7 slopes in the ski resort. Only those in the upper part of the resort have artificial snowmaking; the rest rely on mother nature's snowfall. The local slopes boast great length, with the longest of the medium-difficulty trails measuring 920 meters. The black slope is only a few meters long, as it is just one section of a trail, but despite this, Kojšovská hoľa can appeal to demanding skiers as well. The longest slope in the resort measures up to 2,200 meters, which is more than enough. The total length of all trails is approximately 6 km, making the resort one of the larger and more extensive ones.

A trio of ski lifts and one three-seater chairlift take care of comfortable transport around the ski resort Erika. This is sufficient for the resort, and you will not encounter long queues here. The transport capacity of the resort can handle thousands of skiers per hour, so you do not have to worry about not getting to ski to your heart's content.

In addition to a varied selection of downhill slopes, there is also a pair of cross-country skiing trails here. One of them measures 2 km and the other 5 km. Furthermore, they lead through beautiful surroundings, and you won't know where to look first. Excellent skiing is the most important thing, but without quality additional services, it wouldn't be the same. In Skipark Erika - Kojšovská hoľa, you will find a snack bar, a tea room with many delicious teas, a ski rental shop, and a ski school. You can park your car near the slopes, and if you don't have a car, a shuttle service is at your disposal. Therefore, anyone can get to the ski resort.

Right below the slopes in Zlatá Idka, guesthouses and private accommodations are available to you, and they will certainly be happy to welcome you. They are located in a beautiful mountain environment where you are guaranteed to recharge your batteries for everyday life. On the slopes of Kojšovská hoľa, you will forget all your problems and definitely enjoy your winter vacation to the fullest.