Where to go on a trip Pliešovce

If you enjoy wandering through nature, the stone watchtower Vartovka stands atop the Strážvar hill above Krupina. It was built in 1564 as part of an early warning system in case of an invasion by Turkish troops. Come and enjoy the magnificent views of the town, Štiavnické vrchy, Krupinská planina, and the nearby Bzovícka pevnosť fortress.

The watchtower with a square footprint is approximately 13 meters high. A metal spiral staircase is installed around its wall, leading you to a wooden gallery. The main task of Vartovka was to protect not only local residents, but also important mining towns from approaching danger.

It fulfilled its role until the beginning of the 18th century. Today, it is a popular location for families with children, hosting various cultural events and being visited by youth as part of school trips. The surroundings of the tower are clean and well-maintained. You will find an information board, wooden benches, and a fire pit here. So do not forget to pack sausages and bacon in your backpack and enjoy a great bonfire roast with your children.

A blue-marked hiking trail starting in the center of Krupina will lead you to the lookout tower. A pleasant walk at an unhurried pace will take you about an hour. Those who prefer more comfort can drive up by car.

If you have chosen a hot summer day for the hike, you can spend the afternoon in the pools of Kúpalisko Tepličky Krupina. After a great day, stay in a romantic cottage or a stylish wooden cabin. If you would like to view the full range of accommodation near Vartovka, click on the accommodation in Krupina page.

Spend the following days exploring the surroundings through adventure. Visit the aforementioned Pevnosť Bzovík or take a trip to see Kaštieľ vo Svätom Antone. Horseback riding at Ranč Nádej will certainly be an unforgettable experience. There are many options for spending an active holiday. The kam na výlet v Krupine page will help you when putting together your holiday plan.

In the district of Kráľová, approximately 11 km from the town of Zvolen, lies a ski resort ideal for recreational skiers. Situated at an altitude of 650–800 m above sea level, absolute beginners as well as more experienced skiers will find something to enjoy. Technically snowed slopes will not disappoint any visitor. So come and enjoy a skiing trip with your friends or family.

In the area of the ski resort Kráľová pri Zvolene, up to 5 ski lifts await skiers. The longest ones are 730 m and 590 m in length. The medium lift is 360 m long. For beginners and children, 2 lifts with a length of 120 m are available. The interconnected lifts will take you to slopes ranging from easy to medium difficulty. The slopes reach a total length of approximately 2 km.

If you do not manage to ski during the day or have other plans, thanks to artificial lighting you can enjoy great regular night skiing. The comfort of the resort is enhanced by a restaurant and a sports equipment rental, where you will find not only skis or snowboards, but also sleds and bobsleds.

If you have skied to your heart's content during the day, we have a great tip for you to finish off. Visit Holidaypark Kováčová after skiing and warm up your body. In the outdoor and indoor pools, you can unwind and treat your body and mind to relaxation. Water attractions will keep your children entertained. The year-round accessible aquapark is always the right choice.

Do you prefer something smaller, or do you just want to take a peaceful swim? Then Krytá plaváreň Zvolen is here for you. Open every day in the afternoon and evening hours, it offers you a 25 m long swimming pool, and for the little ones, a children's pool with a depth of 0.6 m. Do not hesitate and book your accommodation in the vicinity of Kráľová pri Zvolene. Choose one of the cosy cottages or book an apartment in the wider area and enjoy a winter holiday in central Slovakia.

There is no doubt that Slovakia is a country of castles. Historians estimate that over 180 of them were built during the Middle Ages. However, only 17 of them have been preserved to this day. Among the castles that were not so lucky is Hrad Dobrá Niva. You can find the ruins of the Gothic fortified residence on a hill above the village of Podzámčok, just 4 km from the village of Dobrá Niva.

In the past, Dobronivský hrad played a very important role. It protected the old trade route leading south of Zvolen through Liptov and Orava all the way to Poland. This important postal and trade route was once called Via Magna. The first written mention of the fortress comes from 1305, where it is referenced as Castrum de Dobronya. In 1306, Matúš Čák Trenčiansky became its owner, taking it from Demeter Zólyomi. After his death, it passed through many owners. The Eszterházy family owned it the longest, from 1614 until 1804.

Not only good people always lived at the castle. One of the cruel rulers was Štefan Verböci, who entered history with the infamous Tripartitum code of laws. It cast many inhabitants of former Hungary into serfdom.

It is not known when the castle fell into ruin. In 1805, it was purchased by the Royal Court Chamber for the needs of the Mining Chamber, and from then on, the fortress began to decay. Local villagers also contributed to its present state by using it as building material for their dwellings.

The fortified residence once consisted of a two-story Gothic palace with a cellar, a tower, and stone ramparts. A ring of a moat and rampart fortifications wound around the hill. The entrance was protected by two gates, a bastion, and strong fortifications.

To this day, the restored corner of the palace with window openings and two stone consoles that originally supported a bay window have been preserved. In 1996, the ruin underwent reconstruction and conservation works.

A path starting near the church in Podzámčok will lead you to Dobronivský hrad. The entire ascent will take you approximately 20 minutes at a slow walk, and even your little ones can handle it. On the castle hill, a well-maintained area awaits you with restored stairs, benches, and a fireplace where you can roast delicious sausages.

If you still feel like having another adventure, head to Zvolen, where the modern complex Športový areál Orlík awaits you. In Zvolen, you will also find a replica of the Pancierový vlak Hurban armored train, which participated in fighting during the Slovak National Uprising. A very nice excursion will be a trip to Zvolenský hrad castle and to the ruins of Pustý hrad.

One day will certainly not be enough for you to discover the beauties of the region, so book accommodation near Hrad Dobrá Niva and plan trips around the surrounding area. You can choose whether you succumb to the charm of wooden cottages and chalets or prefer a guesthouse with a restaurant. You can find the entire offer on our subpage accommodation Podzámčok.

Kalvária v Banskej Štiavnici is an impressive Baroque sacred complex ranking among the most beautiful in all of Europe. It is situated on Scharffenberg hill, translated as Ostrý vrch, at an altitude of 726 m above sea level. It was created at a time when Banská Štiavnica belonged to the largest and most important free royal towns in the Kingdom of Hungary. It was precisely these favorable economic conditions that drove the development of the town culturally as well. Thanks to this, Kalvária Banská Štiavnica was built on the initiative of the Jesuit František Perger.

The foundation stone of the Horný kostol, one of the 22 structures of the calvary, was laid and solemnly blessed on September 14, 1744. The church, also referred to as the "German" church, was completed in 1745, when it was also consecrated. The rest of the complex was gradually built and subsequently consecrated as well. It took seven years, exactly until September 14, 1751. The construction was made possible thanks to financial donations from townspeople. The most prominent among them have their coats of arms placed on the facades of the chapels. On Trinity Sunday in 1751, the calvary was even visited by Emperor Francis Stephen of Lorraine himself.

Despite the construction of the calvary during the peak of the Baroque period, the structures maintained appropriate restraint. Their appearance was not distracting and primarily encouraged the inner reflection and contemplation of pilgrims. The entire complex consists of 17 stations (chapels), 3 churches (Dolný kostol, Sväté schody, Horný kostol), the Ecce Homo station (dungeon), and the Holy Sepulchre (Svätý hrob). The chapels are characterized by an unusual arrangement, as the story of Jesus begins in Nazareth. This is precisely what makes the Banská Štiavnica calvary exceptional.

The first three chapels are preparatory, leading to Dolný kostol. From there, the path continues to the seventh chapel and subsequently to Sväté schody, from where the path forks. The chapels on the left side depict the condemnation and torture of Jesus, ending with the scene of his crucifixion in Horný kostol. You walk around Svätý hrob and return along the other side, where the chapels depict the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary. The statuary of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows is the culmination of the entire pilgrimage, located down below again, near Dolný kostol.

As is often the case with buildings, they require reconstruction over time, and the Banská Štiavnica calvary was no exception. The chapels were reconstructed for the first time in 1894. When the coup came in 1948, the ownership of the calvary passed to the state, which resulted in its gradual deterioration. Between 1978 and 1981, the state funded repairs that were mostly carried out by volunteers from the ranks of local believers. The Velvet Revolution probably had the greatest impact on the calvary; its decorations were stolen and subsequently sold off, and the buildings were devastated. What could be saved was relocated to Slovenské banské múzeum located at Starý zámok. Currently, visitors can view these items during the "Kalvária v azyle" exhibition. In 1993, Banská Štiavnica along with the calvary was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The year 2007 was marked by the calvary's inclusion in the list of the 100 most endangered monuments in the world. It was threatened with complete destruction, but since 2008, an extensive reconstruction has been underway to save this unique place. The buildings are being gradually restored; the reconstruction of Dolný kostol was completed first in 2013, followed by some chapels, the amphitheater, sculptural production, and in 2018, Horný kostol as well.

The calvary is among the popular spots in Banská Štiavnica. However, it is not visited only by believers, although pilgrimages, Holy Masses, or various other cultural events are often held here. Tourists are also interested in the history of the site, its flawless architectural design, the painting and artistic craft underlining the details, as well as the overall setting of the location into the natural environment, with which it creates perfect harmony. If you wish to visit this monument, on our website you will find truly beautiful accommodation near Kalvária v Banskej Štiavnici. Book lodging on the page accommodation Banská Štiavnica and come to experience the unique atmosphere of this magical place and the entire mining town firsthand. You will certainly appreciate our tips for trips and attractions in Banská Štiavnica.

Above the confluence of the Hron and Slatina rivers, at an altitude of 475–571 m above sea level in the cadastral area of the city of Zvolen, rises Pustý hrad. It is a complex of two parts, Dolný hrad and Horný hrad, spanning a total area of 7.6 hectares. Between these parts lies an almost 400 m long connecting corridor, which at Dolný hrad is formed by a wall with a length of 206 m. Despite being a ruin, it is rightfully spoken of as one of the largest castles in the world built on a hill. Since 2009, archaeological research sponsored by the Slovak Academy of Sciences in Nitra has been conducted here.

During extensive archaeological research at Horný hrad, the existence of a prehistoric rampart on which the castle stood was proven. In addition, pottery shard material from the Late Bronze Age was found, along with finds from the Lusatian, Piliny, and Baden cultures, shards of the Kyjatice culture, and ceramics from the La Tène period. Research at Dolný hrad revealed the existence of a slightly older prehistoric rampart. Various finds were made here as well, specifically from the Younger and Late Bronze Age.

The history of the castle dates back to the 12th century, from which the tower of the Zvolen royal county (comitatus) originates. This was followed by the construction of a large fortification in the years 1241–1255. At the southernmost tip of its fortification, Horný hrad had a monumental passage tower gate built, the remains of which are a symbol of the entire site. The keep (donjon), a residential tower of Dolný hrad, is the most significant architectural feature of Pustý hrad.

After a Gothic castle was built in the city, which became the new seat of the royal county, the castle lost its importance. Over time, it became accommodation for military units until it was destroyed by fire in 1452. Since then, it has been a ruin.

Like most castles, Pustý hrad also has its legends. The most famous one is about the cursed Barát. He is a monk with a horse's hoof instead of one foot who guards local treasures. He can appear to visitors in the form of a hermit or an animal and usually scares them to death.

There are several ways to reach Pustý hrad, but definitely the most interesting of them is the route along the Náučný chodník Pustý hrad educational trail. Another route begins near Zvolenský zámok, across the Slatina river, continuing along the main road. When you arrive at the parking lot at the end of Zvolen, at the signpost you can choose a route along the blue or green hiking mark. From the castle, a view of Zvolenská kotlina together with the surrounding mountain ranges will then open up to you.

Find pleasant accommodation near Pustý hrad, follow in the footsteps of our ancestors, and visit places where people lived as early as the Younger Bronze Age. In addition to Pustý hrad, which is sometimes also called Zvolenský hrad or Starý Zvolen, you will also find other attractions in Zvolen and its surroundings waiting for you to visit them. Allow at least a long weekend to explore the area. Also visit the page accommodation in Zvolen, where you will surely find the right choice for you and plan a great trip.

In Svätý Anton, the manor house is among the village's dominant landmarks, visited annually by thousands of tourists from all over Slovakia. The manor house is also referred to as Koháriovský kaštieľ or Kaštieľ Antol. It is classified as a Baroque-Neoclassical manor house. A beautiful English park is an integral part of it. Come to Kaštieľ Svätý Anton, which is situated in the stunning environment of Štiavnické vrchy.

The manor house itself originally originated as a museum in 1962, when several collections from the forestry and timber museum in Zvolen found their permanent place here. In the manor house as such, you will find several exhibitions. Among the main and most attractive is the hunting exhibition, which, in addition to rare game trophies, also contains many weapons, paintings, books, magazines, and other artistic objects.

The Koháry and Coburg families are tied to the manor house. Their representatives concentrated wealth from various corners of the world here. It reflects the lifestyle, taste, and hobbies of these two families at the time. A unique feature is that the original furniture has been preserved within the manor house, which was otherwise stolen or sold by people in those times.

A beautiful chapel where the inhabitants of the manor house spent their days in prayer forms part of the estate. A Baroque stone fountain is located in the courtyard. If you come just to contemplate, plan a walk through the English park, which features two small lakes with waterfalls and cascades. You surely have not heard that an artificially created cave, a grotto, is located within the manor house premises.

A legend connected with calendar symbolism circulates about the manor house. The manor house originally had 4 entrances symbolizing the seasons, 7 arcades recalling the days of the week, 12 chimneys for the months, 52 rooms denoting the weeks of the year, and 365 windows – just as there are days in a year. You can notice these details during a tour of the manor house from the outside. Artists from Western Europe truly took great care with the work.

If you also decide to discover all its nooks and crannies, do not forget to view and book accommodation near Kaštieľ Svätý Anton in advance. You can choose either a guesthouse in Svätý Anton or a room in private accommodation. The selection of accommodation is varied. The offer of many attractions is rich as well. After all, the town of Banská Štiavnica with its nativity scene, Banka lásky, or historic square is close at hand. We look forward to your visit directly to the manor house.

The area of Štiavnické vrchy is also known because gold was mined here a long time ago. Energy was needed for its mining, which led to the construction of "tajchy" (artificial water reservoirs). One of the popular and well-known reservoirs in this area is Halčiansky tajch, also known as Halčianske jazero. Come and enjoy your summer holiday right in the village of Banská Belá.

The sun-drenched forest environment and high temperatures will be appreciated by every single holidaymaker in Banská Belá. Right in this village lies an undiscovered treasure of the region, which was created in the second half of the 18th century by damming a stream. This stream flowed in from the settlement of Halča, which belonged to Banská Belá. The original purpose of the reservoir was to power stamp mills and metallurgical facilities in the local village as well as in the Kozelnícka dolina. In 1909, the reservoir was handed over to the Vysoká banícka a lesnícka škola v Banskej Štiavnici. Later, the reservoir served for fish breeding and fishing.

Halčiansky tajch is an artificially created water reservoir. Many locals use it for recreational purposes because it is not as heavily sought after. You enjoy relative peace, solitude, and perfect relaxation here thanks to its more secluded location compared to other lakes. The depth of the reservoir is 13 meters, which is also great for fish farming. Spanning an area of more than 4 hectares, you will easily find your own little spot for sunbathing.

As we have already mentioned, the lake also serves fishing purposes. In addition to breeding, fishing is also permitted here. Within the overall environment, it forms an important landscape feature. Take in the surrounding views and notice the viaduct from the dam, over which a train occasionally passes. To fully enjoy your stay with joy, we recommend booking accommodation near Halčianske jazero. Plan your holiday during the second Saturday of July and rest assured that a fantastic experience awaits you. Every year, a wooden crocodile is retrieved from the lake during a special event.

The village of Banská Belá is an attractive destination from a tourism perspective. Nearby is the district town of Banská Štiavnica, which offers numerous historical monuments and other interesting attractions. It is nice to have a coffee or ice cream at Námestie Svätej Trojice and enjoy the architecture of this ancient mining town. On the way, you can stop and explore the exhibitions at Kaštieľ Svätý Anton. On the way back, try horseback riding at Ranč Nádej. The best solution for you will be to book a chalet near Banská Belá, from where swimming and discovering the surrounding beauty will be right at your fingertips. Will you accept the offer for this type of holiday in Slovakia?

The unique Arborétum Kysihýbel, which you can find near Banská Štiavnica, is definitely worth noticing and visiting. It is located about one kilometer from the Drieňová housing estate, in the direction of Banský Studenec. The forest area covering nearly 8 hectares is covered with a stand of exotic tree species. The arboretum was founded in 1900 and 50 years later it was declared a protected area. Entry is possible only with a guide and your visit needs to be announced and arranged in advance.

The main mission of the forestry arboretum is the study of the acclimatization of exotic tree species. The area is divided into 350 smaller plots and 282 species of various trees have been planted here. The rare tree species come from the Northern Hemisphere, having been mostly imported from North America. The rarest species include the Amur cork tree, paper birch, false cypresses, Douglas fir, and giant sequoias.

Feistmantelova záhrada, as the arboretum is often called, is one of the stops on the Náučný chodník Kysihýbel educational trail, which begins in the village of Banský Studenec. The route consists of a 6-kilometer loop and can be easily managed by the whole family. Right at the beginning of the trail, in the Kysihýbel settlement, it is worth stopping at the Barlangy underground stone quarry. It looks like an overhang rock wall and the underground space has a length of 50 meters. Traces of manual stone extraction can be seen on the walls, and a small lake opens up to your view at the end of the quarry. Building stone has allegedly been mined in this location since as early as the 14th century.

During your holiday in the Štiavnické vrchy, you certainly will not be bored. Accommodation is not in short supply near Arborétum Kysihýbel. Guest houses and cottages in Banská Štiavnica will provide you with a pleasant background, and you can thus happily discover other corners of the Banská Bystrica Region. Experience the magical atmosphere around the artificial water reservoirs known as tajchy, such as Počúvadlianske jazero or the Richnavské jazerá. History enthusiasts will certainly appreciate a visit to the Banské múzeum v prírode - Banská Štiavnica, where the most extensive mining exhibition in Slovakia is prepared for you.

A hero who was almost forgotten. The railwaymen of Zvolen etched their names into the famous history of the Slovak National Uprising primarily through the express construction of three armored trains: Hurban, Štefánik, and Masaryk. Hurban was the second armored train in sequence to fight for our freedom. As it was severely damaged in battle, today in Zvolen you can view only its replica, which was produced in 1974 for a movie about the SNP.

The production of improvised armored trains was driven by the fact that the insurgent army faced an acute shortage of motorized artillery and tanks. The order for their construction was issued by the Command of the 1st Czechoslovak Army in Slovakia on September 4, 1944.

The train J. M. Hurban was manufactured at the beginning of October 1944, and work on it lasted only 11 days. Since it was the second in sequence, it was technically better constructed, even though in this case too, it was armored only with ordinary 7 mm boiler plate. However, its armament was stronger than that of its predecessor. Its weapons equipment consisted of a field howitzer 14/19 with a caliber of 100 mm in a gun wagon, 3 cannons with a caliber of 37 mm in tank wagons, and 10 heavy machine guns with a caliber of 7.92 mm.

Its command was entrusted to Capt. Martin Ďuriš-Rubanský and 1st Lt. Dominik Miartuš. The train was driven by a civilian locomotive driver, Pavol Maťaš. The crew consisted of 75–80 soldiers and civilians. Electrical lighting, a telephone line with field telephones, and a device for operating the steam whistle from every wagon were installed on the train.

The entire combat unit consisted of an armored locomotive, tank wagons, an ammunition and machine gun wagon, an accommodation and kitchen wagon, and a wagon with sandbags. It was deployed in battle on the lines Hronská Dúbrava – Žiar nad Hronom and Banská Bystrica – Brezno – Heľpa, where it operated from October 3 to October 25, 1944.

On October 4, 1944, it was deployed in battles near Banská Bystrica, which the Germans wanted to reach through Malý Šturec. The order was clear: stop the enemy's advance, push them out of their defensive position, destroy the position that the Germans had about 800 m northwest of the Čremošné station, and thus allow our own units to restore the original defensive position. The Germans were surprised by the unexpected attack of the insurgents, which was accompanied by effective fire from the train, and so they retreated.

The train was seriously damaged in combat, but within two days workers not only repaired it, but also improved it and reinforced the tank turrets with additional armor. After replenishing the crew, it moved to the Červená Skala area and later to the section Banská Bystrica – Brezno – Heľpa, where it covered the retreat of insurgent units. It engaged in battle for the last time on October 23 near Heľpa.

However, the Germans were approaching from all sides, so the commander received an order to move the train into a tunnel in Harmanec after rendering the weapons and machinery useless. Here they met with the third train, which suffered the same fate. The combat journey of the trains ended here, and their crews left to fight in the mountains alongside the partisans.

The Germans captured the train sets and towed them away. After the war, two locomotives were found in the territory of Austria and the former Yugoslavia. You can find the replica of the armored train J. M. Hurban in the Park Štefana Višňovského under Zvolenský zámok.

After viewing the combat train, stay in the area below the castle and take a tour of the aforementioned Zvolenský hrad. If you feel like discovering the beauties of Podpoľanie, book your accommodation near Pancierový vlak Hurban right now and start planning your trips. You will find a rich selection of accommodation on the page accommodation in Zvolen. During your stay, be sure to visit Športový areál Orlík and do not miss Arborétum Borová hora.

He was profoundly convinced that everything he created belonged to Slovakia, and through his work, he tirelessly proved how beautiful and rich it is. Ján Kulich is one of the most prominent representatives of 20th-century Slovak art. It is precisely to his life's work that Galéria Jána Kulicha, situated in the heart of the village of Zvolenská Slatina in the Zvolen district, is dedicated. The gallery building with a large adjacent garden is located between the school and the Evangelical church. Here, you can admire the artist's work in all its diversity. Wooden statuettes from his childhood, drawings, and sketches, as well as monumental sculptures, have been preserved. You will not easily forget this artistic experience.

The modern gallery has its home in a simple linear building. The structure is oriented toward the north, where an old vicarage stood in the past. It was right here that historical figures once gathered, and it was also the birthplace of Terézia Vansová. Part of the gallery grounds is a restored fragment of one wall of the original vicarage with artistic embellishment. Before entering the gallery building, an engaging frontal sculpture will welcome you. It will look familiar if you have ever visited the village of Terchová in the past. It is a scaled-down version of the monumental statue of Juraj Jánošík that guards the entrance to Vrátna dolina. Its author is none other than the artist Ján Kulich.

The main mission of the gallery is to preserve and present the work of Ján Kulich to the public. Right here, you have the opportunity to get acquainted with the broad range and content scope of the great national artist's creation. The gallery's collection consists of almost 3,700 original works. You can admire wooden statuettes from the author's childhood creation, drawings, sketches, and paintings, as well as medals, reliefs, sculptures, and portraits. All presented works are assembled into several thematic circles of the artist's lifelong key themes. The exhibition is updated annually.

An interesting part of the gallery's activity is the implementation of educational programs targeted not only at children and youth. Cultural projects, creative workshops, and cultural-social events in the garden are organized here. Children love participating in fun trivia competitions and activities, playing detectives, searching for treasure, or taking part in drawing mini-workshops. The gallery also offers its unique premises for rent. If its grounds charm you, you can organize, for example, a family celebration, wedding, or wedding photoshoot here.

After a beautiful artistic experience in Zvolenská Slatina, we also recommend a trip to the nearby Vígľašský zámok castle, recreation in Športový areál Orlík in Zvolen, and a tour of the majestic Zvolenský hrad. A trip to Pustý hrad and a tour of the picturesque wooden articular church in Hronsek are also unique experiences. There are many more tourist attractions and sights in this region. Come and see for yourself. Book accommodation near Galéria Jána Kulicha and combine relaxation with discovering cultural and historical wealth. You can choose from the accommodation offer in Zvolenská Slatina and adjacent areas, or you can opt for accommodation in Zvolen. On our portal, you will certainly find facilities that meet your requirements.

Detské centrum Hoplandia in Banská Štiavnica represents a modern indoor world full of games and movement, offering a safe haven for families with children in any weather.

The location is situated in the town of Banská Štiavnica, in the Banská Štiavnica district, in the Banskobystrický kraj region. Hoplandia is designed as a multifunctional indoor playground dominated by a multi-level climbing structure with a maze of corridors, slides, and a ball pit filled with colorful balls. For the youngest children under three years of age, a separate, softly padded zone is reserved, where they can safely explore their first motor skills without contact with older children. The center also includes trampolines, interactive walls, and creative corners, which are regularly inspected for safety and hygiene. Parents will appreciate the comfortable café area with a direct view of the play area, allowing them to relax over a coffee while keeping their children under constant supervision. The premises are fully air-conditioned and adapted for organizing children's parties. Hoplandia is an excellent alternative to outdoor activities, especially during rainy days or the winter season, providing a stable foundation for active family recreation.

What can you find here?

In the center's premises, you will find a large climbing tower, a tube slide, slides, a trampoline, and a ball pit. A separate zone for toddlers, a café offering drinks and light refreshments, a baby changing table, and free Wi-Fi connection for adults are available. Facilities also include cloakrooms for storing shoes and outerwear, as well as areas reserved for birthday parties.

Who is the place suitable for?

The place is intended for families with children aged one to approximately ten years, with attractions divided according to age categories. It is sought after by local residents as well as tourists looking for a relaxing program for children after exploring the city's historical monuments. Due to the indoor nature of the facility, entry in socks is required (for hygiene reasons), and comfortable sportswear is recommended for children.

What can you visit in the surrounding area?

Right in Banská Štiavnica, you can visit the unique Terra Permonia exhibition, which focuses on playful science and technology. Just a short walk from the center lie Starý zámok and Nový zámok, or the popular interactive mining exhibition at the Banské múzeum v prírode. For a family walk, the nearby "tajchy" reservoirs, such as Klinger or Veľká Vodárenská, are ideal, offering picturesque surroundings around the town.

In the district of Banská Štiavnica, the highest peak of Štiavnické vrchy, the Sitno peak, is the dominant feature. Right on it, you can find the ruins of the famous Sitno castle, which provided defense against enemies. Visit the village of Ilija, into whose cadastral area Sitniansky hrad falls.

The history of Sitno castle dates back to the 13th century, when it was established as a fortified hillfort on this peak. Three centuries later, a gate with a defensive function was added. The castle consisted of two parts: the upper castle palace and the lower castle. This castle was not lacking a courtyard, a water cistern, or loopholes either. Unfortunately, in the 18th century, estate uprisings definitively destroyed the castle, leaving only a ruin.

During its era of greatest prosperity, the castle was besieged in 1548 by royal troops. At that time, it was seized by the robber knight Melichar Balassa. Less than a hundred years later, the castle passed into the permanent care of the Koháry family. They remained the owners of the castle until its destruction. After 1710, at the end of the anti-Habsburg uprisings, the castle served as a source of building material for Rozhľadňa na Sitne and Kaštieľ vo Svätom Antone.

If you are intrigued by the history of the castle and remember various legends, one tells the tale of the fate of two brothers, the knights of Sitno. The older one received the entire estate from his father on his deathbed; the younger one was not happy with this and built his own castle on Malé Sitno. There may be some truth to these legends shrouded in mystery about Sitno castle.

You can reach Sitno castle by car from the village of Ilija. Following the green hiking trail (an asphalt path through Vlčia jama), the ascent is less demanding, though it takes longer. A path also leads to the castle from Počúvadlianske jazero, also along the green trail past cottages through the forest. After a while, you will reach Tatárska lúka with an educational trail, from where you can take the blue trail directly to the castle.

Along with visiting the castle, it is a great idea to plan an ascent to the Sitno peak. It is also possible to complete it on horseback. A horse, along with a professional guide, can be rented for you at Ranč Nádej in Svätý Anton. You can travel back into history at Kaštieľ vo Svätom Antone. If you come as a family with children, it is a good idea to book accommodation near Sitno castle in advance. In the village of Ilija, there is a choice of several guest houses or private accommodations in Ilija. We believe that you will fully enjoy your time conquering this attraction, also thanks to pleasant accommodation in Slovakia.

In the grounds of Botanická záhrada v Banskej Štiavnici, you can admire the beauty of many native and exotic tree species. If you are interested in a particular cone or fruit from various trees, visit the garden grounds and enjoy its atmosphere.

Across a total area of 3,545 hectares, you can see more than 200 species of tree taxa. Among the unique features of the entire garden is the Lebanon cedar. Also popular with visitors is a gigantic tree called the giant sequoia. Even in the past, people were aware of how the soul blossoms in nature. At the same time, forestry students were able to learn how to care for forests thanks to this educational resource.

Plan a tour of Banskoštiavnická botanická záhrada in Štiavnické vrchy and you certainly will not be disappointed. Botanická záhrada is part of Banícka a lesnícka akadémia, which was founded as early as 1762 by Maria Theresa as the first university of its kind with a forestry focus in the world. A few years later, in 1838, Rudolf Feistmantl planted the first trees in the botanical garden.

Set aside roughly 20 to 40 minutes of your time and enjoy everything this place has to offer. Within the garden itself, you can relax on benches and enjoy an easy walk along the paved path in walking shoes. Informational panels will allow you to learn more about each tree. The good energy of the botanical garden will captivate you whether you are a family with children, visiting as part of a group tour, or taking a tour as part of a school trip.

Whether you are walking uphill or downhill, Banská Štiavnica will not only captivate you, but also tire you out. It is therefore wise to keep this fact in mind and book accommodation near Botanická záhrada Banská Štiavnica. As a district town, Banská Štiavnica offers a wide range of accommodation units. If you choose a guest house or hotel in Banská Štiavnica, you can plan a tour of the main square, which hosts various cultural events during the summer. In spring, nature awakens, offering an indescribable charm even if you stay in a cottage in Banská Štiavnica. Choose your preferred accommodation and season yourself. You can find our offer of accommodation on our portal.

Come with us to the land of mythical undergrounds, treasures, and gnomes. Venture below the Earth's surface, to crystal-clear lakes in the middle of green forests, come to paradise. Where can you find it? In Banská Štiavnica. There are only a few places that feature a beautiful castle. And even fewer where you can find two right in one place. Banská Štiavnica is just like that. In addition to Starý zámok, you will also find Nový zámok here, proudly towering over the town.

The Renaissance building originally served as a watchtower. And it is truly majestic, called a castle not just for nothing. Its task was to repel Turkish raids. Construction began in 1564 and was completed 7 years later. The massive tower above the town center had as many as 6 floors, with 4 defensive bastions on its corners. After a later reconstruction, the number of floors was reduced from 6 to the current 4.

High on the hill, Nový zámok played an important role. During periods of threat, it was part of a signaling system monitoring enemy movement from the village of Pukanec all the way to the village of Ľubietová. In addition, the castle was also useful to the general population. The tower's function was to announce the time. Every quarter of an hour by bugling and every hour by ringing a bell.

The role of the castle vanished after the Turkish invasions subsided. Nevertheless, gunpowder needed for mining drift excavations was stored here for a long time afterward. Nový zámok stood out with its strong defense, with up to 21 battle-ready cannons located around it.

What is the current function of the castle? It is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the area. The owner is Slovenské banské múzeum, which has its exhibition nearby right inside a mine. Inside the castle, you will find exhibits focused specifically on the defense of Banská Štiavnica against the Turks. Deep inside Nový zámok, you will learn everything you want to know about the situation back then. And a reward awaits you too: an unforgettable view from the top of the tower over magical Banská Štiavnica.

When you return from Nový zámok, you can also pop over to Starý zámok. Do not miss a walk through the historic town center with its steep, narrow lanes. The local plague column in the square is a true gem. Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. Numerous trails lead through the nearby mountains, showing you the beauty of the tajchy reservoirs. What used to be technical water reservoirs are now popular recreational destinations. You can find a diverse plant world in the botanical garden and clear your spirit with a walk up to Kalvária.

Find stylish accommodation in this medieval town. With us, it will be a breeze. We offer guest houses in historic burgher houses, as well as affordable private accommodations or cottages in the immediate vicinity. You are guaranteed to have Nový zámok right outside your window, as it is simply unmissable.

In the Zvolenská kotlina basin, just 3 km from the town of Zvolen, you will find the beauties and unique features of flora. Visit Arborétum Borová hora, which is accessible to the public from March to October on weekdays. With its diverse woody plants, rose collection, and collection of cacti and succulents, it spreads over an area of almost 50 ha. Do not miss this beautiful place, which, along with an engaging commentary, will enchant you with a magnificent collection of beautiful plants.

The first plants were planted in 1965. In 1981, the territory of the arboretum was declared a protected area. The arboretum belongs to the Technická univerzita vo Zvolene and serves as its scientific and pedagogical workplace. In the collection of cacti and succulents, you will find species originally from North America, Mexico, or other specific regions. The rosarium consists of a collection of approximately 840 varieties of roses. This collection focuses mainly on plants bred back in the territory of Československo.

The purpose of the collection and the arboretum itself is primarily the conservation and archiving of endangered and native species of these plants. During the year, in the months of May and June, Arborétum Borová hora also organizes accompanying events such as the rhododendron week or the rose week. A guide will lead you through the entire area, enriching your tour with an interesting commentary in Slovak or English language. As a souvenir, you can, for example, purchase a houseplant or one of the woody plants that will beautify your garden.

Combine your trip with a visit to Holidaypark Kováčová and enjoy your day to the fullest. Even unfavorable weather will not catch you off guard. The year-round accessible aquapark offers outdoor and indoor pools. If you want to admire the surrounding nature, do not miss a walk to Turovský vodopád. You can reach it from the nearby village of Turová via a route approximately 1 km long. Just choose accommodation in the vicinity of Arborétum Borová hora and set off on a trip. Book a cozy apartment or one of the nearby cottages in Zvolen and enjoy Central Slovakia.