Červená skala v Podbieli
The village of Podbiel lies at the confluence of the Orava and Studená rivers, in the district of Tvrdošín. One of the greatest sights of this distinctive village is undoubtedly the impressive natural phenomenon, Červená skala, which rises proudly above the surface of the Orava river. It attracts tourists not only with its color, but also with a unique view of the village accompanied by picturesque natural scenery of watercourses, dominated in the background by Roháče. This millions-of-years-old limestone gem conceals yet another magical secret: fascinating fossils that will certainly not escape your keen eye if you accept an invitation to take a walk to this enchanting place.
Červená skala is located at an altitude of 690 m above sea level. It is part of the Pieniny Klippen Belt (karpatský bradlový systém). It consists of limestones formed back in the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, an incredible 195 to 65 million years ago. Remarkably, the rock was likely a deep-sea sediment, standing today as proof that Podbiel and the adjacent area were once submerged under the sea. Fossilized imprints of ammonites near the information board below Červená skala further prove this. Ammonites were shelled marine cephalopods that went extinct 65 million years ago.
Červená skala is a true magnet for tourists. The ascent is easy and takes approximately 40 minutes. The starting point is the village of Podbiel, from where you set out along the blue-marked hiking trail. The final climb to the top of the rock leads up wooden steps. Here, a unique panoramic view of the village and surrounding nature will welcome you. It is only at this spot that many realize the village sits almost like on a peninsula formed by two rivers.
And what would a magical rock like Červená skala be without an interesting local legend? In Podbiel, it is said that besides animal fossils, a fossilized human body was also found on Červená skala. However, the finders broke it apart out of curiosity to see what lay inside. A portion of the head saved by a local teacher was then transferred to a museum in Budapest. Yet no one knows exactly which museum it was supposed to be, so the legend remains just a legend. However, Červená skala is very real. If you do not believe it, come see for yourself directly in Podbiel.
And once you visit this picturesque corner of Orava, be sure not to miss a trip to another interesting crag, Biela skala. It is a cliff made of Cretaceous limestones, on top of which a prehistoric hillfort once stood in the past. Or would you prefer a museum visit? The small Podbielanské etnografické múzeum will guide you through the history of this distinctive Orava village via its collection. And if you still crave a bit of adventure, head out from Podbiel towards Zuberec. Along the way, you will come across a location where you can try an experiential Jazda na tanku (tank ride). A real armored personnel carrier will take you on a journey through rugged terrain that will make your blood run cold. Book your accommodation near Červená skala in Podbiel now and set out to explore Orava. Accommodation in Podbiel and its surroundings will guaranteed delight you with a wide selection of chalets and cottages, offering something for everyone.





































































