Caves Severné Slovensko

Liptov takes the breath away of thousands of tourists with its beauty. Majestic mountains, fun in Slovakia's best water parks, skiing like in the Alps, or airborne adrenaline. And there is also something to be found below the surface. The longest cave system in Slovakia, which includes Demänovské jaskyne. Let us introduce the most famous one, Demänovská jaskyňa slobody.

You will find this most visited cave in the country just a few kilometres from Liptovský Mikuláš. It lies in Demänovská dolina, which leads to the largest ski resort, Jasná. So you will find nothing but superlatives here.

A trail with educational panels leads to the cave. You might get a little out of breath, but you will be able to rest while gathering information about the history and opening of the cave to the public, as well as about other caves in Slovakia. After the ascent, refreshments in the form of a snack bar will be waiting for you.

The history of opening the cave to the public dates back to 1921, when the first cavers entered it. It happened in an unconventional way, beneath the water surface. Specifically through the lowest sinkhole of the Demänovka stream. The first lighting in the cave was installed just 2 years later, and the first visitors could enjoy its beauty starting in 1924. Since then, newly discovered sections have been continuously connected to the route.

The cave decorations are breathtaking. It is the most varied cave in the entire cave system. Unique features include flowstone water lilies and other forms of karst relief created by the activity of water, such as small cave pearls. There is an underground lake bearing the name Veľké jazero. Its length is up to 52 metres and its width ranges from 5 to 12 metres. Famous areas include Veľký dóm, Jánošíkov dóm, and Ružová sieň. The dripstones in the cave are still growing; those in Veľký dóm grow at a rate of about 2 mm per 10 years. A figure imperceptible to the human eye, yet proof that the cave is still active.

The temperature in the cave fluctuates between 6–7 °C. Prepare for this knowing that you will spend at least an hour underground. The tour along the shorter circuit, measuring 1,150 metres, takes exactly one hour. However, we recommend the tour along the longer circuit, which is 2,150 metres long and takes 100 minutes. It will take you to the most beautiful places of Demänovská jaskyňa slobody, which you cannot reach during the short circuit. Mainly Veľký dóm, the largest accessible underground space in Slovakia, and Ružová sieň.

Underground worlds fascinate many. Liptov and Demänovská dolina in particular offer many opportunities to explore them. Demänovská jaskyňa slobody offers the longest accessible route in Slovakia, and you will enjoy more than enough on it. If it still isn't enough for you, in the very same valley you will find the no less famous Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa. Afterwards, you can head to Chopok or take a ride on the bobsleigh track in Pavčiná Lehota.

You can stay very close by in Demänovská dolina. Here you will find mostly traditional wooden cottages, mountain hotels, as well as the most luxurious hotels for demanding guests. Numerous apartment houses are popular, where you can rent your own fully equipped apartment at various price points for all kinds of clients.

Slovakia is exceptionally rich in caves considering its size. The number of registered caves and chasms has already reached approximately 6,700. Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa is part of the longest cave system in Slovakia, which has a total length of almost 36 km.

Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa is one of the oldest in Europe. Its existence has been documented as early as 1299. It is located near the road leading through Demänovská dolina. If you have ever been to Jasná, you have surely passed right by it. And believe us, it is well worth stopping by.

The cave is unique due to its ice decoration. Intriguingly, just 500 years ago, it was a regular dripstone cave. After the collapse of certain passages and the prevention of air circulation, conditions were created in the cave for the formation of ice. In 1885, a shelter was built near the cave, and the first tourists began visiting it. However, it was not heavily visited; the years 1950–1952 were more significant, when electric lighting was installed. During these years, concerns grew over preserving the ice cover, as the reconstruction damaged the cave and air began circulating inside again. This threatened to melt the ice sheet. Fortunately, the issues were resolved.

An educational trail with interesting information boards leads to the cave. Right before entering the cave, you will become acquainted with the Nízke Tatry National Park and its flora and fauna. The tour route inside the cave is 650 meters long with an elevation gain of 48 m. The tour will take you three quarters of an hour. Dress warmly, due to the ice decoration, the temperature inside stays just above freezing year-round. If you can brave the cold, the cave will reward you with an unprecedented spectacle. Underground, you will admire stalactites and stalagmites, as well as floor ice and ice pillars, which are at their most massive during the spring months.

Eight species of bats have been recorded in the cave. The discovery of bones belonging to the cave bear and other vertebrates proves that it was sought after by animals even in the distant past.

Demänovská dolina is full of other attractions. After exploring Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa, you can head to the neighboring Demänovská jaskyňa slobody. Continuing up the valley, you will reach Jasná, the largest ski resort in Slovakia. But you will not be bored here in summer either. The cable car will take you up to the peak of Chopok, and from there, for instance, to Hotel Srdiečko, which is just a hop away from another famous cave Jaskyňa Mŕtvych netopierov.

You can find accommodation directly in the village of Demänovská Dolina or in nearby Pavčiná Lehota. Both are fully prepared for the influx of tourists, and finding your own chalet or a room in a cozy guesthouse will not be a problem. Private homestays are also booming, and you can stay in almost every house. The advantage of such accommodation is its extremely favorable price. You do not have to go on vacation just for skiing or water, but also to discover underground beauty, and you will hardly find more of it than in Demänovská dolina.

Brestovská jaskyňa cave is located near the village of Zuberec, not far from the Múzeum oravskej dediny open-air museum. It is the first cave opened to the public in the Orava region, in the Západné Tatry mountains. You can reach it easily by car, park at the wooden amphitheatre of the open-air museum, and walk just a few steps to the cave entrance itself.

Regular entries into the cave are limited to a maximum of 15 people due to safety and terrain difficulty, with a minimum required age of 6 years. It is therefore recommended to make a phone reservation in advance for a specific time or to inquire about available spots. Since only small groups are permitted, you will enjoy the entire tour much more. The route is 434 metres long and takes about 50 minutes. A river still flows through the bottom of Brestovská jaskyňa. Thanks to the presence of water, it features remarkable morphology in its individual chambers as well as rare cave fauna. You will be enchanted by the sinter decorations and stalactites, with small sinter pools completing the atmosphere. In their vicinity, it is possible to observe cave crustaceans and other small creatures. Bats are not missing either- Scientists have counted up to nine species here.

We recommend combining your visit to the cave with other interesting attractions around Zuberec. Find accommodation near Brestovská jaskyňa and take an all-day trip on the Roháčsky vláčik train, visit the unique open-air museum Múzeum oravskej dediny, or plan a hike to Sivý vrch, Baníkov, or Roháčske plesá tarns. Children will enjoy a visit to the Tarzanka Zuberec rope park located near the cave. Plan an experiential stay and top it off with perfect accommodation in a cottage or traditional wooden house in Zuberec.

You can admire nature in all its strength in Jaskyňa Mažarná, located in the cadastral area of the village of Blatnica, in the Martin district, within the Žilinský kraj. This cave is mainly known to hikers who have climbed the Tlstá peak at least once. So put on your hiking boots and discover all the beauty of Veľká Fatra.

The Veľká Fatra mountain range is also sought after for the very interesting Jaskyňa Mažarná. It is located at an altitude of 930 m a.s.l. It is situated roughly in the first third of the ascent to the aforementioned peak, about 3 km from the nearest parking lot. Therefore, if you want to take a break and admire the underground beauty, be sure to include it in your full-day trip itinerary.

The cave itself is not very large, reaching a total length of 130 meters. Inside, you can admire impressive weathered flowstone decorations consisting of thick stalagnite columns, flowstone pools, and soft flowstone in white, yellowish, and beige colors. Its uniqueness also lies in the narrow crevices and fissures created by water action, which give it a distinct character. The cave has two passages, the Garnet Passage (Granátová chodba, named after garnet finds from the SNP) and the Column Passage (Stĺpová chodba), behind which lies the Pool Hall (Jazierková sieň).

An interesting fact about the cave is that it was inhabited by humans in the Bronze Age. The cave thus ranks among the highest-altitude inhabited caves in Slovakia. It is especially worth seeing during the winter season. This is precisely because the cave becomes a home for bats at that time. Note that remains of the cave bear were also found here.

If you choose only the cave as your destination, you can reach it via a 4 km yellow-marked trail from the village of Blatnica through Vápenná dolina. You do not have to worry about any entrance fee or opening hours. The cave is freely accessible. While exploring it, you may notice one of the rock overhangs that reminds many of the half-open mouth of a large animal. Take our advice. It is ideal to book accommodation near Jaskyňa Mažarná. After all, taking in all its beauty takes a bit more time.

Come to the village of Blatnica. Its locals will welcome you with open arms and provide you with the best accommodation in Blatnica. It is up to you whether you choose a cottage or private accommodation in Blatnica. Many visitors have come to love the village for its numerous attractions. Among them is Blatnický hrad castle or Mlynčekovo. Enjoy your stay in our fantastic Slovakia.

Stanišovská jaskyňa is the only cave open year-round in the Liptov region. You can find it in the Nízke Tatry mountain range, in the charming Jánska dolina valley at the end of the village of Liptovský Ján. From the village, you can get here on foot with an approximately 60-minute walk, or by car or bicycle. You can park directly in front of the cave, making it truly easily accessible.

The cave is an ideal place for discovering underground places, especially for families with children, seniors, or beginner hikers. The terrain is not demanding, and the guide engagingly explains various interesting facts from history and the field of speleology. Stanišovská jaskyňa is open to visitors every day of the year. The tour lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Always check the visitor rules and price list on the official website of the cave prior to your visit.

The full name of this natural monument is Malá Stanišovská jaskyňa. Out of a total length of 871 meters, 177 meters are accessible to the public. Its spaces were explored in 1974, and no archaeological or paleontological findings were discovered inside. However, an interesting feature is the numerous inscriptions on the walls left behind by past visitors. The oldest inscription dates back to the end of the 19th century.

In the cave, you will also discover a copy of an Obo shamanic site. An Obo is a sacred structure made of natural materials, which usually stands on mountain peaks, near rivers, or at other significant locations. It is an ancient custom from the regions of Mongolia, China, and other eastern countries. Lamas built these sacrificial sites to honor the spirit guardian of the given place.

Throughout the year, various events are prepared in Stanišovská jaskyňa, where you and your children can try, for example, moving through tight cave spaces, basic climbing, or traditional food preparation. Children in particular, however, will be absolutely thrilled to discover the mythical realm of Aghartha. Diligent cave explorers have so far discovered several entrances to this mystical underground realm.

In addition to Stanišovská jaskyňa itself, explore Medvedia štôlňa in Žiarska dolina, Mincovníčkovo - Podzemie Pod vežami in Liptovský Ján, and Permoníkovo in Podbanské. From each visit, you will take home a precious coin, and during your last visit, you will also receive a rare coin of the Realm of Aghartha.

The Liptov location offers truly many interesting places worth visiting. We recommend visiting the nearby healing thermal spring Kaďa Liptovský Ján, refreshing yourself in the summer at Termal raj Sorea, visiting Hrad Liptovský Hrádok, or the fallen heroes' monument in Lesopark Háj-Nicovô, from where a breathtaking view opens up over the town of Liptovský Mikuláš and the Liptovská Mara reservoir.

If you long for cave spaces again, Demänovská jaskyňa slobody and Demänovská ľadová jaskyňa in the village of Demänová are certainly worth a visit. On our portal, you will find many accommodation options near Stanišovská jaskyňa or accommodation in Liptovský Mikuláš.

Jaskyňa mŕtvych netopierov is one of the most extensive and most important high-mountain caves in Slovakia. It is also the only accessible high-mountain cave in the country. It is located at an altitude of 1,520 m a.s.l. on the southern side of the Ďumbier massif in Nízke Tatry.

Accessibility to the cave is possible from several directions. From the village of Bystrá towards Trangoška, and from there on foot for approximately 1 hour via a mountain trail to Chata M. R. Štefánika. The second route also leads from the village of Bystrá, but towards Srdiečko, where you will take the cable car to the Kosodrevina intermediate station, or all the way to the top of Chopok peak, and from there on foot to the aforementioned mountain hut. From the Liptov side, a hike on foot is possible from Liptovský Ján, or from the Jasná - Biela púť ski resort by cable car to Chopok and from there on foot to Chata M. R. Štefánika.

The cave is accessible from March to December on weekends, and during the summer holidays, it is open daily. In the months of January and February, it is completely closed. Before you head out for a trip here, check the admission fees and opening hours directly on the official website. Every entry must be reported and reserved in advance by phone or email.

The cave tour is possible on three routes. Route A, approximately 1 km long, can be completed even with children. It leads through the central 7th floor of the cave and consists mainly of rock paths and wire-rope ladder belays. For the more demanding, there are routes B and C, speleotrekking tours made accessible by the speleological guide service. These are accessible only to physically fit persons over 18 years of age. The first of them is slightly less demanding and takes approximately 2 hours. The second one is for advanced visitors with climbing experience, as the truly demanding cave terrain is exposed almost continuously. It lasts approximately 3 hours.

Kozie chrbty, a relatively small limestone massif with deep folding, is 2 km long and 300 m wide. In its depths, it hides an intricate tangle of corridors across a total of (so far known) 14 floors and 2 parallel branches. The currently mapped length of the cave is 19,885 m, with a depth of 324 m. The largest underground space is located directly under Chata M. R. Štefánika. It is the well-known Bystrický dóm hall with a volume of up to 52,500 m³. It is located on the 7th floor, at a depth of 180 m.

An interesting feature is a huge find site of bat bones, the age of which is estimated at 6,000 years. It is precisely to this largest bat burial ground that the cave owes its name. Besides these, however, bones of small rodents, martens, brown bear, and goat were also found on the edges.

Another interesting feature of the cave is the occurrence of volcanic rocks from the Cretaceous period. These are folded into the limestone formation and appear in several cave passages. You can recognize them by their reddish-brown or green color. White-pink agate is also present here.

Since 2001, the cave has been declared a national natural monument. Its environment is cold, humid, and dark, but it has a beneficial effect on the upper respiratory tract. Its average temperature reaches 3.5 °C, while some of its parts do not exceed a temperature of more than 1 °C year-round. For this reason, warm clothing and, of course, suitable sturdy footwear are required to enter the cave.

To become a real cave explorer for a moment and visit what is probably one of the oldest caves in Slovakia. Are you still hesitating? There is nothing to think about, but we recommend taking enough time for the tour and not rushing. It will be ideal to book accommodation near Jaskyňa mŕtvych netopierov so that you don't rush the excursion, but fully experience it, or combine this unique experience with other nearby attractions.

In the north of Slovakia, there are several famous caves. In the region of the Vysoké Tatry mountains, only two are open to the public. One of them is Belianska jaskyňa, and the other is Važecká jaskyňa. The cave lies in the village of Važec of the same name, which neighbors the village of Východná, famous for its folklore.

You will find the village of Važec very easily. It is located right by the highway between Liptovský Mikuláš and Poprad. It offers unique views of the entire Vysoké Tatry mountains, and the cave could hardly have a more beautiful backdrop. Važecká jaskyňa features classic cave decorations. Here, you will find many dripstones, sinter pools, stalactites, and stalagmites. You can see with your own eyes what the difference is between them. Inside the cave, refreshment awaits you in the form of temperatures around 7 degrees Celsius. The cave is standardly open almost all year round, with the exception of Mondays.

The entrance to the cave was known to local residents for many years. However, explorers entered its dark depths for the first time only in 1922. The first visitors came in 1928, when it operated in a provisional mode. The definitive opening to the public took place in 1954; until then, research and discoveries of new cave spaces were underway.

The cave decoration is interesting due to its coloring. There are not only classic yellowish dolomites, but also blue-white and glassy blue limestones and dolomites. Under artificial lighting, they create an interesting color contrast.

Važecká jaskyňa is famous for the archaeological discovery of cave bear remains. An exposition focused on this predator is part of the cave's guided tour route. Here, you will find its remains, a restored skeleton, and a statue of a cave bear. This will give you a better idea of its appearance and size. You will learn even more about its life from the educational panels.

The tour route is relatively short, spanning only 235 meters and taking about 25 minutes. Nevertheless, you will learn a lot of interesting information and see decorations in a small area that many other caves cannot boast of, while the cave bear exposition will surely intrigue many of you.

It will be most convenient to stay right in the village of Važec. You have a choice of classic guesthouses at your disposal. If you prefer more privacy, you can stay in a private room or a cottage. The choice is yours; in any case, you will have Važecká jaskyňa around the corner and the beauty of the Vysoké Tatry mountains right outside your windows.

Underground worlds have fascinated people since time immemorial. Caves provided shelter, and today they are sought-after tourist attractions. If you are planning a holiday to Vysoké Tatry or to Zamagurie, pay close attention. You should not miss a visit to Belianska jaskyňa under any circumstances.

Belianska jaskyňa lies near the village of Tatranská Kotlina. You can reach it from Tatranská Lomnica or from Spišská Belá. It is located on the left side of the road in the Kobylí vrch massif. There are several caves in Vysoké Tatry, but Belianska jaskyňa is the only one open to the public. It features rich dripstone decoration and is well worth a tour. An educational trail leads up to it. In less than a kilometer, you will pass information boards that will familiarize you with environmental protection, flora, fauna, and the history of the cave itself.

The cave was discovered by gold prospectors as early as 1826, but it was subsequently forgotten. It was rediscovered in 1881 and opened to the public in 1884. An interesting fact is that electric lighting was introduced into the cave in 1896—just 12 years after the invention of the light bulb. Another curious fact was the attempt to transform the ordinary dripstone cave into an ice cave. The lower sections of the cave were supposed to be artificially iced over, but this damaged the decorations, so the plan was abandoned.

Let's move to the present. Inside the cave, 1,370 meters of underground beauty, a 125-meter vertical rise, and exactly 860 steps await you. Dress warmly before visiting the cave; the temperature inside hovers between 5 and 6 degrees Celsius, and you will be underground for over an hour. The cave is open year-round, with the exception of a few weeks in the winter months. It is also closed every Monday. It is necessary to check visiting hours in advance online, as they differ during the high season and off-season.

In the cave, you will be captivated by flowstone waterfalls, especially in Vysoký dóm and Vodopádový dóm. Hudobná sieň is also fascinating. Its name is fitting—thanks to its exceptional acoustics, musical concerts have been held here both in the past and present. If you think the underground world is lifeless, you are mistaken. In Belianska jaskyňa alone, there are up to 7 species of bats.

You can enjoy a visit to Belianska jaskyňa from several locations. Right next to the cave is Tatranská Kotlina. There you will find beautiful, stylish accommodation in guesthouses with typical High Tatras architecture. The same applies to cozy cottages suitable both for couples in love and groups of friends. You will also find plenty of guesthouses and private accommodations in nearby Ždiar. Belianska jaskyňa is proof that in Vysoké Tatry, it is not only towering peaks that deserve attention, but also the underground world. Discover Vysoké Tatry from beneath the surface.