Where to go on a trip Obručné

You can count up to 7 peaks named Minčol while wandering around Slovakia. Let's take a closer look at the one in Čergov, which is the highest peak of the Čergov mountain range. It lies on its western side, on the border of the districts of Sabinov, Stará Ľubovňa, and Bardejov, in the Prešov Region. In the district of Stará Ľubovňa as well as in the entire Šariš region, Čergovský Minčol is even the highest point with its altitude of 1,157.2 m above sea level.

The peak got its name in connection with Wallachian colonization. The origin is to be found in the word "muncel", which translated means a hill or its very peak. After climbing to the top, you will immediately notice a reinforced concrete pylon, which has been here since the times of the first Czechoslovak Republic. Right next to it is a tourist signpost with a summit logbook. The international long-distance hiking trail E3 also passes through here. At the peak, it breaks from the red tourist trail to the blue one.

Some hikers hike up the hill for a good inner feeling, many do it mostly for the views. From the peak, a view opens up into the Topľa river valley, the Ľubovnianska kotlina basin, you will see the Pieniny Tri Koruny, the Polish Beskydy mountains, or the main ridge together with the side ridges of the Čergov mountain range. In case of good weather conditions, you can also see the Vysoké Tatry, Nízke Tatry, Babia hora, or even the Ukrainian Poloniny. However, an even better view than the main peak is offered by its sub-peak at an altitude of 1,132 m above sea level, located approximately 500 m away from it. Its view is panoramic to all cardinal directions. You will also recognize it by the wooden cross that was consecrated here in 1995.

At the peak of Čergovský Minčol, there is the Národná prírodná rezervácia Čergovský Minčol national nature reserve, in which the 5th level of protection applies. It was declared in 1986 and its area covers 171.08 ha. It belongs to the NATURA 2000 network and the subject of protection is typical mountain Carpathian flora, as well as forest plant communities of the highest areas. As many as 15 taxa out of a total of 277 are included in the Red List of Threatened Plants of Slovakia. The reserve falls under the administration of the Štátna ochrana prírody Prešov.

Čergovský Minčol is also touristically attractive because access to it is possible from all cardinal directions. Every year, the event "Výstup na Minčol" is even held, which attracts a lot of tourists here every year. The easiest climb awaits you along the blue tourist trail from the village of Kyjov, which lies towards the northwest of the Čergov mountain range. It is also considered the shortest climb, along with the one from the village of Livovská Huta, which will lead your steps along the yellow tourist trail. Besides these, however, climbing is possible from many other starting points. From the village of Kamenica, both yellow and green tourist trails lead, from the village of Čirč a green tourist trail leads, from the village of Obručné a red tourist trail, and from the village of Šarišské Jastrabie a yellow tourist trail.

No matter which side you set off on your hike from, you will need suitable accommodation near Čergovský Minčol. You will find the best for you on our pages. Approximately at a distance of 23 km from the peak, there is accommodation Stará Ľubovňa for you, at a distance of approximately 22 km accommodation Bardejov, and approximately 16 km away is accommodation Sabinov. Wherever you decide to spend your stay, above all enjoy it thoroughly and prepare well for the hike.

If you have ever driven around the Stará Ľubovňa district, the work in the village of Plaveč – Plavečský hrad certainly did not escape your attention. It spreads above the wide valley of the Poprad river. Its original function was reserved for defense, nowadays it serves rather as a place with magnificent views of the wide surroundings. Do you want to experience a pleasant picnic in an amazing atmosphere or go on a minor hike as a family? Then choose Hrad Plaveč as your trip destination.

The castle was built in the 13th century. Plavečský hrad was built by the nobleman Arnold, son of Ditrich from Spiš. Significant dynasties inhabited it, among them for example the Anjou or the Luxembourg family. In the 18th century, it lost its significance and was rebuilt into a residential mansion. Since the statics of the castle were disrupted, its owners moved to the manor house. It gradually began to decay, and a fire also engulfed it. Now, with the help of volunteers, it is being successfully reconstructed.

This luxurious mansion thus became the attraction of Plaveč, which many tourists visit every year. You can set out for the Deň Hradu Plaveč event, which takes place on the last Sunday of August, or alternatively for children's day during the first Saturday of June.

Access to the castle is very simple. You can start in the village of Plaveč and direct your steps to the Podzámok locality. You will recognize the castle already on the basis of its silhouette. The journey takes about 10 to 15 minutes on foot and even smaller children can manage it. So as not to tire them out too much, we recommend checking out accommodation near Hrad Plaveč. It is one of the ways to spend a nice time.

There are also many other places in the vicinity of the village that you can visit. Many clients of Ľubovnianske kúpele praise the surrounding nature. Do not miss amazing walks along trails or cycling routes. A tour of the slightly more distant Nestville park is also interesting. However, if you plan a wellness stay in the guest house Plaveč, you will certainly be more than satisfied. Slightly more privacy on the other hand is offered by chalets and cottages Plaveč. Of course, the choice of accommodation in Plaveč is entirely up to you.

In Eastern Slovakia, you can discover the beauty of the unique nature of Čergov directly from horseback. You can experience such an opportunity at the family-run Farma Kamenica. It lies in the middle of pristine nature, approximately 2.5 km from the main route Stará Ľubovňa - Lipany, above the village of Kamenica.

Thanks to its fantastic location, Farma Kamenica offers the opportunity for relaxation and agritourism in a beautiful setting surrounded by blooming meadows and mixed forests. In this place, you can learn information not only about breeding farm animals. They raise sheep, goats, chickens, peacocks, turkeys, rabbits, as well as cows and horses. During a tour of the farmyard, the farm owner will provide you with an excellent and interesting presentation.

Riding a horse is also among the popular options on the farm. Choose your steed to complete a horseback riding school with. It is always under the guidance of an accredited instructor, so you do not have to worry about picking up bad habits. Here, they will teach you the basics of how to saddle your horse, how to take care of it, and how to ride it. For those who are afraid of enjoying a ride on horseback, there is an alternative in the form of a carriage ride.

Many interesting events are regularly organized for the public. The farm is also sought after by anglers, who can indulge in their hobby to the fullest here thanks to sport fishing, or simply relax in harmoniously acting nature while catching fish. Not only homemakers will learn how to bake homemade bread in the traditional way. You will not leave hungry either, thanks to the shepherd's chalet with a shop, where the aroma will tempt you to a delicious lunch or to buy products made from sheep's milk as well as lamb and beef. Upon request, it is possible to arrange the rental of premises for family celebrations or smaller team-building events. The farm is open during weekends.

After visiting this unique place, you can enrich your itinerary by exploring the beauty of the Šariš region. Popular attractions in Kamenica also include a visit to a historical structure, Kamenický hrad castle, which offers panoramic views of the wide surroundings. During the summer season, you can refresh your body in the nearby AQUApark Lipany. Its attraction is thermal water, which has a beneficial effect on the human body. An evening walk around Rožkovianske rybníky ponds will, on the other hand, hit the spot for couples in love.

To avoid time stress and fully explore all the attractions, we recommend booking accommodation near Farma Kamenica. Perhaps you will be interested in private chalets here, where you can indulge in cozy family moments in the evening. Or would you rather book a more affordable room in a guesthouse in Kamenica? In case of any questions, do not hesitate to contact us. We will gladly help you find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Slovakia.

You can find the ruins of Kamenický hrad in the Čergov mountain range. The castle hill rises above the village of Kamenica, located in the district of Sabinov. An educational trail with ten stops will reliably guide you through the most interesting places of this historical structure and its surroundings. In addition to the beautiful natural scenery surrounding the limestone castle cliff, you will also enjoy magical views of the panorama of the wider area. In good visibility, you can see as far as Ľubovniansky hrad, Hanigovský hrad, and Šarišský hrad from the top of the castle hill.

The construction of the castle above Kamenica took place at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries. The first written mention dates back to 1306, when the castle belonged to Rikolf Jr. According to documentary evidence, Rikolf built the castle at his own expense. The fortress's location near the Polish border suggests a military and defensive function in addition to a residential one. Throughout its history, the castle changed owners several times, but mostly belonged to the Traczay family. The year 1556 proved fatal for it, when it was conquered and began to fall into ruin. Currently, the preserved remnants are cared for by the civic association Kamenná veža. Among other things, it contributed to the construction of the educational trail, which was opened to visitors in 2009.

Of the monumental fortress, which ranked among the largest castles in Slovakia by area, you will currently find only minor original remnants on the castle hill. Thanks to the aforementioned civic association, the remediation of the remnants of the palace's northern wall was completed, and the mass of the tower and the northern bastion was stabilized. The castle complex is currently open to the public without restrictions. Access is relatively simple. A yellow hiking trail will bring you here directly from the village of Kamenica in about 30 minutes. From the village of Lúčka, you can reach the castle hill in approximately 45 minutes, and from the Potoky locality, also via the yellow route, in about 60 minutes.

Be sure to combine a trip to the remnants of Kamenického hrad with water relaxation and fun at Aquapark Lipany, a walk through the picturesque surroundings of Rožkovianske rybníky, or a visit to Miniskanzen drevených chrámov in the nearby village of Ľutina. There are many, many more tourist attractions and attractive trip destinations in this region. Book accommodation near Kamenického hrad and come see for yourself. You can choose from the selection of accommodation in Kamenica on our portal. Directly in the village and in the adjacent areas, you will find cottages and chalets extremely popular among tourists, which will provide you with an excellent starting location for local attractions. Alternatively, you can look for accommodation in Sabinov, where the options are somewhat broader.

You can visit the remains of Hanigovský hrad above the village of Hanigovce, in the Sabinov district. The castle ruins, also known as Nový hrad, are located at the foot of Čergov, northeast of the town of Lipany. The castle rock reaches an altitude of 771 m above sea level, and you can reach it following the green hiking trail directly from the village of Hanigovce. A yellow hiking trail leads here from the neighboring village of Ľutina. It is an easy walk of approximately 2 km. Your path to the ruins will be made more pleasant by a wellspring with seating and beautiful views.

A wooden fort from the 13th century, built by the nobleman Mikčo, originally stood on the castle hill. In the middle of the 14th century, he asked King Louis I to rebuild the castle into a stone one. He justified his request by stating that the castle was located in the borderlands with Poland and Russia, and that the fortress would strengthen protection. The king granted the request, and a stone structure was built on the castle hill. After the extinction of Mikčo's family line, the castle changed owners several times. The last mention dates back to 1557, when the castle burned down. The Pečovský noble family, who owned it at the time, did not restore it again, and the structure gradually fell into decay to its present form.

The castle area originally had a rectangular floor plan enclosed by castle fortifications. The residential palace consisted of two floors. Access to the fortress led from the southern side and was secured by a watchtower. Emplacements for cannons were created in the fortifications, and the castle was also guarded by loopholes. Other structures in the courtyard were probably made of wood, as no remnants were left after the fire. The stone objects are still clearly identifiable on the castle hill today. The interior of the palace is covered with rubble up to the windows. A significant part of the fortification has also been preserved, reaching up to 3 meters in some places.

If you decide to take a trip to the castle ruins above the village of Hanigovce, be sure not to miss a visit to the Miniskanzen drevených chrámov or water relaxation at Aquapark Lipany in the surrounding area. You can enjoy a magical walk in the picturesque surroundings of Rožkovianske rybníky and beautiful views from the castle rock of Kamenický hrad. The surroundings of Hanigovce offer truly attractive tourist destinations. Come and see for yourself. Book accommodation near Hanigovský hrad and enjoy a stay full of experiences. You will certainly choose from the accommodation offer in Hanigovce on our portal. Visitors to this area especially prefer popular cottages with guaranteed privacy and comfort.

You do not have to belong to a group of strongly devout Christians to visit the Ľutinská hora pilgrimage site. Crowds of tourists regularly flow into this location to honor the site of the apparition of Saint Nicholas, who appeared right here in 1851 to a poor girl, Zuzana Fekete. Ľutinská hora is a sought-after location for tourists behind the village of Ľutina, and the most visited pilgrimage of Greek Catholic believers in Slovakia takes place here every year.

Just 800 m from Ľutinská hora, visitors will find the Bazilika Zosnutia Presvätej Bohorodičky. The beautiful grounds of this sacred building will enchant you with their charm. You will find a total of 4 chapels in it. The Kaplnka Zjavenia Sv. Mikuláša was built in 1930 on the site of a drinking water spring. It was right here that Saint Nicholas spoke to Zuzana Fekete and asked her to have a cross built next to the spring. Priests regularly bless the water from the spring during liturgical rites. The water reportedly has healing effects on various skin and eye problems and has already helped many people. With the help of an underground pipe, it is led from the spring location to the second chapel, Kaplnka Sv. Kríža, where you can draw it into your own containers.

The history of the Kaplnka Zosnutia Presvätej Bohorodičky is also interesting. After the approval of the apparition of Saint Nicholas to Zuzana Fekete by a letter from the Bishop of Prešov, Jozef Gaganec, in 1853, local believers traveled through Vienna, Buda, Transylvania, and Subcarpathia to spread the news of the apparition of Saint Nicholas and collect funds for the construction of the chapel. Pilgrims from Hungary, Transylvania, and Galicia began arriving at the site, bringing stones from which the chapel and the retaining wall were subsequently built. It was completed in 1854. In 1878, both the Kaplnka Sv. Anny and the Kaplnka Sv. Kríža were completed.

On the grounds of this pilgrimage site, there is also the Dom Mikuláša Klimčáka, which serves for spiritual gatherings. At the same time, it houses a permanent exhibition of artworks by Slovak and foreign painters. The well-maintained Záhrada Sv. Bohorodičky also has a spiritual charm, where you can pray the rosary or simply take a walk and enjoy the beautiful views. When you are at this place, definitely do not miss the Miniskanzen drevených chrámov. You will find very interesting, mostly Greek Catholic wooden churches built on a 1:10 scale.

After the spiritual experience from this place, we recommend taking a moment to quiet down. If you feel like exploring the surroundings and are interested in other attractions, you can choose truly interesting places. Tourists will appreciate the opportunity to put on their hiking boots and embark on an easy hike to Hanigovský hrad. Several hiking trails lead to it. From its top, you can see the village of Hanigovce and its surroundings. In the summer season, you can fully enjoy water fun thanks to AQUApark Lipany. Anglers will be pleased with the opportunity to fish at Rožkovianske rybníky.

Slightly tired, but enriched with new experiences, you do not have to return home immediately. Feel free to stay here for a longer period. It is a good idea to book accommodation near Ľutinská hora in advance. From the wide range of accommodation facilities in Ľutina, we can recommend all of them. They are highly rated by clients who have already stayed with accommodation providers thanks to bookings through our portal. Are you already pondering cozy apartments or rather cottages and chalets?

Miniskanzen drevených chrámov is a Slovak rarity built on the grounds of Bazilika minor in the village of Ľutina in the Sabinov district. The replicas of wooden churches, constructed at a 1:10 scale, rank among the gems of folk sacral architecture of eastern Slovakia. In 2011, the mini-open-air museum was opened and consecrated by the Archbishop of Prešov.

The construction of this unique project took place in several stages. Thanks to co-financing by the European Union within the Cross-Border Cooperation Program Poland – Slovakia (first and second stage) and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism (third stage), the exhibition was successfully expanded to include churches from Poland and Ukraine.

The first stage was carried out in the years 2011–2012 and brought 11 miniatures from the surroundings of Snina to the open-air museum. The scale models originate from the villages of Brežany, Hrabová Roztoka, Inovce, Jalová, Kalná Roztoka, Kožuchovce, Matysová, Ruská Bystrá, Ruský Potok, Topoľa, and Uličské Krivé.

The second stage was carried out in 2013 and brought another 10 specimens to the open-air museum, mainly from the surroundings of Bardejov. The scale models originate from the villages of Frička, Hutka, Jedlinka, Kožany, Krivé, Lukov-Venecia, Mikulášová, Tročany, Vyšná Polianka, and Zboj.

The third stage was carried out in the years 2015–2016. It brought further scale models to the open-air museum, this time from the villages of Bodružal, Dobroslava, Hunkovce, Korejovce, Krajné Čierno, Ladomirová, Miroľa, Nižný Komárnik, Potoky, Príkra, Šemetkovce, and Vyšný Komárnik. Scale models of Ukrainian churches were added from the villages of Jaseňa, Kanora, Lazečšina, Rekity, Svaľava, and Užok. The subsequent addition of 9 miniatures from the surroundings of Svidník (2015–2016) was funded by donations from organizations of Slovak compatriots and private donors from the USA.

During the tour of the miniatures, notice their arrangement in the nicely landscaped, fenced, and illuminated area. Each scale model has its own information board with a description and a brief history. Most of the scale models of Slovak churches date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Each of the presented churches is original and exceptional in some way. Their global value is even confirmed by the inclusion of eight churches from the Slovak part of the Carpathian Arc into the UNESCO List.

The village of Ľutina, where the mini-open-air museum is located, is a well-known and sought-after pilgrimage site. So do not hesitate any longer and plan a trip to its surroundings. You can find suitable accommodation on our pages accommodation in the Sabinov district.

You don't have to go abroad to enjoy relaxation and water fun. You can find these pleasures in Slovakia as well. In northeastern Slovakia, between the Bachureň and Čergov mountain ranges, lies the town of Lipany. It is sought after thanks to its natural treasure, thermal water with a temperature of 80 to 90°C. This is utilized in the AQUApark Lipany complex, which belongs to modern, newly built resorts with a rich offer of services.

You can visit AQUApark Lipany not only during the summer when the outdoor pools are available. In the exterior, you will find 2 children's pools and 2 relaxation pools. During lower attendance, the relaxation pools are also used by active swimmers or lovers of various swimming styles. The depth of one of them is 1.2 m and the temperature ranges from 28 to 32°C, and you will also find a unique opportunity to refresh yourself at the pool bar here.

The water in the pools is filled from a geothermal well, the depth of which reaches 3,400 m below the Earth's surface. Hot water is pushed up from it, which is cooled on the surface to a temperature of 30 to 36°C. It is entirely up to you whether you lounge in one of the pools or make use of any of the unoccupied sun loungers, where you can also indulge in rest after a beneficial bath. While watching the surroundings, you might also be tempted by one of the adrenaline attractions. You can slide down a circular water slide or a chute here. There are several to choose from, and it only depends on you which attraction will be close to your heart.

The AQUApark Lipany complex also offers other additional services. You don't have to leave its premises and can peacefully enjoy refreshments at one of the food stalls. Mothers with children especially appreciate the playgrounds on dry land and in the water. A huge plus is the magnificent view of the surrounding countryside. You can hide from the sun only thanks to a parasol, which you need to bring with you, however. There are no trees or shaded spots available in the complex. Showers and changing rooms are a matter of course as well.

You can also make use of the fully built wellness center, which has been accessible to visitors since 2022. Couples in love or seniors can look forward to relaxing in an outdoor whirlpool. Sauna sessions in various types of saunas have excellent effects on the human body. A cooling pool and a relaxation zone are not missing either.

Rested after bathing or enjoying the sauna, you can explore other attractions. The region is rich and offers the possibility of a trip to Rožkovianske rybníky. They are intended mainly for fish farming or long romantic walks around their shores. Hikers can start their day with an ascent to the ruins of Kamenický hrad. Do not miss the Miniskanzen drevených chrámov, which is unique as it provides miniature models of Slovak sacral architectural works. Lovers of majestic steeds will enjoy the opportunity to go horseback riding at Farma Kamenica.

You have many options for where to go on a trip. It cannot be completed in a single day, so we recommend treating yourself to a few days of active stay in Eastern Slovakia. If you need help finding accommodation, just turn to us. Booking accommodation near AQUApark Lipany will be most ideal for you. We offer nice apartments in Lipany or other types of accommodation facilities. You just need to decide on the right one.

In eastern Slovakia, in the charming village of Drienica, lies Lysá Ski Resort. It is a sought-after center for winter as well as summer sports. During the main winter season, the resort's slopes welcome a large number of beginner as well as more experienced skiers. In summer, this place is sought after by tourists, cyclists, or lovers of long walks. If you want to enjoy activities in the resort, which is located in the Čergov mountain range in the Drienická dolina valley, visit right here.

You can enjoy quality skiing on the groomed slopes of the winter resort Lysá Ski Resort near Sabinov. The ski resort lies at an altitude of 700 m above sea level. In total, there is 6 km of skiable terrain available here, where your little ones will learn to ski perfectly, but experienced skiers will not disdain it either. During skiing, unique views into the valley are offered to you. The ski resort has 4 functional lifts and 10 marked downhill trails. The longest descent of one ski slope reaches 1 km. The difficulty of the ski slopes is marked in blue.

The quality of this resort is appreciated by all its visitors also thanks to the services provided. Lovers of evening skiing enjoy great popularity, because more than 1 km of ski slopes is illuminated. Cross-country tracks are not missing either. You can plan cross-country skiing on a trail through Boguš with a length of 5 km, through the Čergovský náučný chodník with a length of 30 km. You can also try the route through the Čergovský prírodný športový areál with a length of 15 km. These tracks are regularly groomed. Snowboarders can also take the chairlift up. Ski mountaineering enthusiasts can use ascents on natural trails. Families with small children use the toboggan run, where they fully enjoy winter fun. You can replenish fluids or fill up with food in several teahouses and fast food stands right on the slope. If you do not have your own skis, you can rent them at the ski rental shop, which is also connected with a service center. For those who have not stood on skis yet, we recommend taking advantage of lessons from ski and snowboard instructors. Vehicle parking is possible in the free parking lot.

When the resort is no longer covered with a continuous layer of snow, you can take trekking shoes or bicycles and take the chairlift up. Marked cycling routes as well as trails for tourists who want to explore Čergovské vrchy are located in the resort. Pre-planned events and functions are organized here. You can also rent a bicycle or an e-bike here and set out to meet adventure. Whether you visit this resort in winter or summer, we definitely recommend booking accommodation near the Lysá Ski Resort in advance.

In the surroundings of Sabinov, there are many beautiful places. One of them is Expozícia filmu Obchod na korze a múzeum, where you will view interesting exhibits. After hiking, you can visit the pools of kúpalisko Sabinov, where you will regenerate your sports-tired muscles. Do not miss the village of Ľutina either, which is known for the Miniskanzen drevených chrámov. You will find replicas of the folk sacral architecture of eastern Slovakia in them. You can conclude your journey with a visit to the Zlá diera cave.

One day is not sufficient for you to explore the beauties of this region. Therefore, we recommend booking accommodation in Drienica and enjoying your stay here to the fullest. Cozy cottages and chalets Drienica, in which you will experience excellent family well-being, can serve you for this purpose. Or will you rather choose private accommodation Drienica, the price of which is lower? The decision is solely and exclusively up to you.