Where to go on a trip Stožok

The Folklórne slávnosti pod Poľanou v Detve festival represents one of the most significant and authentic festivals of folk culture in Slovakia, which annually brings to life the distinctive traditions of the Podpoľanie region.

The event takes place every year during the second weekend of July in the town of Detva, in the district of Detva, in the Banskobystrický kraj region. The venue is the Prírodný amfiteáter v Detve, which is known for its unique wooden architecture and location at the foot of the extinct volcano Poľana. The festival is famous for its effort to preserve original forms of folk expression, dominated by intricate dances (cifrované tance), playing the fujara (listed by UNESCO), and rich Detva folk costumes with the typical short shirt. The festival program includes large stage performances as well as intimate shows in courtyards and on small stages that bring the everyday life and customs of ancestors closer to visitors. An important part consists of accompanying events such as a folk craft fair, dance school, or presentations of folk musical instrument makers. During these days, Detva becomes a living museum where visitors naturally find themselves at the center of the action, surrounded by the sound of button accordions (heligónky) and the taste of traditional Podpoľanie specialties. Thanks to its strong focus on authenticity, the festival maintains a high professional standard and is considered the peak of the season for every lover of genuine folk culture.

What can you find here?

On the amphitheater grounds, you will find the main stage for large folklore ensembles, craft courtyards with manufacturing demonstrations, and sales stalls with folk products. Gastronomic zones offering halušky, pirohy, and homemade bread are available, as well as exhibitions of period photographs and folk costumes. The program also includes a traditional Sunday parade through the town and the Krajanský dvor, which presents the culture of Slovaks living abroad.

Who is the place suitable for?

The festival is ideal for lovers of folklore, history, and ethnography, as well as for families with children looking for an authentic cultural experience in nature. It is also sought after by foreign tourists who want to experience Slovak traditions in their purest form. Given the summer weather and the outdoor nature of the area, headwear, sturdy shoes, and plenty of fluids are recommended during a full-day stay in the sun.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

Located directly in the town is the Podpolianske múzeum with exhibitions on the town's history and the crafting of fujaras. Within easy reach is the Poľana protected landscape area (Chránená krajinná oblasť Poľana) with the unique Vodopád Bystré waterfall or a lookout tower. For lovers of sacred art, the distinctive village of Hriňová is within accessible distance, featuring numerous carved wooden crosses scattered across the surrounding scattered settlements (lazy).

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.

Despite the fact that Poľana is not among the highest peaks of our country, it is certainly one of the best-known. It owes this not only to folk songs that even small children know, but also to the fact that it is the most famous extinct volcano in Slovakia. And perhaps it is right in its immediate surroundings that you will experience the best skiing.

The ski resort Poľana nad Detvou will surely surprise you with the quality of skiing that you will be able to experience here. The resort itself lies on the southern slopes of the well-known Poľana, in a protected landscape area. This fact alone hints that something exceptional awaits you here. Beautiful nature and piles of snow in winter. What more could one wish for?

You can get to this ski resort from Hriňová, which is famous for its healing stays or water reservoir. From there, you will continue along a mountain road for about another 12 km. The Poľana nad Detvou resort can also be reached from Detva, which is famous for its folklore. If you choose this option and do not go via Hriňová, you will discover typical Detva scatter-site settlements.

You will certainly be surprised by the breathtaking view into the valley. You probably do not expect the ski resort to be spread out at a high altitude. However, the opposite is true. The ski slopes start at an altitude of 1184 and end at 1320 meters above sea level. In the ski resort, you will find a trio of ski lifts that ensure comfortable and fast transport for all skiers. Poľana nad Detvou boasts a pair of ski slopes that will mainly appeal to less demanding skiers. The first ski slope is marked in blue and is intended for absolute beginners or children. More experienced skiers will certainly appreciate the red, moderately difficult ski slope. Once again, we must remind you of the breathtaking view that awaits you while traversing the snow-covered plains.

The total length of the ski slopes in the resort is 1.7 km. A ski kindergarten and a separate children's lift are intended for the youngest toddlers. Here they will learn the art of skiing either accompanied by their parents or through qualified ski instructors.

In addition to everything mentioned, the rich offer of additional services and the quality background of the ski resort will also please you. A free parking lot, a buffet, a quality restaurant, a ski equipment rental and storage, and a ski service await you here. The Poľana nad Detvou ski resort also thinks of cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Here they will find up to 7 km of maintained trails in the beautiful environment of the surrounding forests.

Considering that the resort is located deep in the mountains, you will have to count on the fact that accommodation will be somewhat further away. An exception is the mountain hotel directly on the slope. However, in the surrounding villages, there is a sufficient number of various cottages, private rooms, and apartments that will satisfy even the most demanding. You no longer need to think about it, just pack your bags and hit the road.

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.

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.

We invite you into the company of majestic steeds, where you will forget the worries of everyday life and enjoy views of the world from horseback. Come relax at Ranč Haferník, which is situated in the heart of the unique nature of the Slovenské rudohorie mountains.

You can find the picturesque village of Detvianska Huta in the Podpoľanie region, near the town of Hriňová. In addition to admiring traditional log houses, you can go horseback riding at the local ranch. This agritourism facility is located on the edge of the village, near the Čechánky locality. You can reach it comfortably by car, which you can park in the free parking lot.

Ranč Haferník offers horseback riding services for beginners as well as experienced riders. Those sitting on a horse for the very first time are attended to by a professional instructor from the beginning. Advanced riders can saddle up their four-legged friend and unwind in its saddle while wandering through the Podpoľanie countryside. However, when organizing these trail rides, it is necessary to form a group of at least 5 riders.

The youngest visitors have not been forgotten either. In the summer season, children's camps are organized for them. The rich offer also includes weekend stays in the saddle or the opportunity to visit this facility during a school trip. Children from kindergartens and primary schools gladly take part in it. If you do not directly long for equine company, you will be pleased by the opportunity to pet other farm animals here, such as sheep, goats, or cats.

Recharged for new days and with photos on your mobile phone, you do not have to rush back home. You can support the local ranch and treat yourself to a little refreshment in the form of a drink at a small family-run snack bar. Not only city children will be thrilled by the opportunity to roast food over an open fire in a fire pit. Has the offer to step away from modern civilization for a moment and enjoy everything this place has to offer caught your attention? If so, book accommodation near Ranč Haferník.

Since the ranch operates during the winter months as well, fathers and sports enthusiasts appreciate the proximity of Ski centrum Košútka. The groomed slopes offer excellent conditions for both skiing and snowboarding. An interesting family walk can be taken to Vodopád Bystré. Those who enjoy heights and beautiful views can head over to the lookout tower Rozhľadňa na Jasenine. Its observation deck offers a breathtaking view of the Juhoslovenská kotlina basin and Hungarian mountain ranges. During the summer season, relaxing in the pools of Kúpalisko Detva comes in very handy. Although it is among the smaller ones, it offers all basic services in its lineup.

We realize that all the above-mentioned activities cannot be managed in a single day. Accommodation providers who present their accommodation facilities on the MegaUbytovanie portal will gladly prepare everything necessary for your pleasant stay. It is entirely up to you whether you choose to sleep in a cottage in Detvianska Huta or decide on a wooden cabin in Detvianska Huta. We will gladly assist you with your choice.

Visit the peaceful village in the district of Banská Bystrica, the village of Čerín. Right here you will find one of the most valuable monuments in the surroundings of Banská Bystrica, namely Kostol sv. Martina. Upon visiting this Early Gothic church, you will be transported in time and place, experiencing for a moment the atmosphere of medieval England.

This artistic and historical gem is located on an elevated spot above the village of Čerín. Its history dates back to the 14th century when it was built by Pavol of Krtíš. In the church's exterior, you can view amazing medieval wall paintings or other works of art. Why visit this particular church? Definitely to see with your own eyes the impressive 17th-century wooden bell tower built next to the church. The church as such is fortified with a stone defensive wall featuring loop-holes. This was mainly because the Turks attempted to conquer the village.

Originally built in the Gothic style, the church was rebuilt three times during its journey to the present day. Its Gothic architecture has been preserved in many places to this day. Intrigued, you might find it interesting that the church was painted just a few years after its construction. For that era, this was a very unusual phenomenon, as decoration usually took place only half a century after construction. The 16th-century wooden painted ceiling will captivate you so much that you will remain in silent awe for a moment.

We do not need to remind you of its high artistic and historical value. Several years ago, 12 heritage-protected objects were listed within the church interior. It is well worth looking around at the main altar of St. Martin (crafted in the workshop of the Master of Kremnica), statues of saints, the Late Baroque empora, the 18th-century pulpit, or the wooden benches from the Renaissance period. You will also surely notice the Gothic baptismal font or the baptismal font from the Baroque period. The eye of an enthusiast will also appreciate the hanging painting of St. John of Nepomuk. There is truly a lot to admire in the church. However, it will be even better if you attend an announced mass and share a spiritual experience together with other believers.

Even though the church was struck by artillery during World War II, many paintings and frescoes were successfully saved. So be sure to plan a trip to this attraction and enjoy perhaps nearby accommodation near Kostol sv. Martina. From there, after morning mass, you can also head to the ruins of Hrad Dúbravica. Nearby is also Hronsek, home to a wooden articular church as well as other attractions of Hronsek. For a larger group, simply choose a suitable cottage in Čerín and treat yourself to a wonderful summer holiday exploring historical monuments in Slovakia.

If you are a lover of relaxation and enjoy resting in thermal water, visit the pools of the Termálne kúpalisko Sliač thermal swimming pool. It is situated surrounded by the beautiful nature of the spa town of Sliač.

During hot summer days, you can try all the services that this swimming pool complex offers. In the large rectangular thermal pool, you can swim various swimming strokes. The water in it is filled from the spa spring. Its constant inflow and outflow throughout the day ensure its continuous cleanliness. You do not need to worry about its brown coloration. This is due to its strongly mineralizing effect of iron. The spring has excellent effects on body regeneration.

The swimming pool is mostly sought after by families with children. The builders did not forget about the little ones either, who have a small circular pool at their disposal. You can refresh yourself with a cold drink at the snack bar right inside the complex. The shade of the trees will protect you from the sunlight. You can get your rested bodies moving on the volleyball court, the small football pitch, or one of the 4 tennis courts. Equipment for these sports can be rented directly within the complex.

Except for Tuesday, which is a sanitation day, you can visit the summer Termálne kúpalisko Sliač thermal pool anytime throughout the week and enjoy everything offered within its rich services. After replenishing vitamin D in your body, you can continue to other interesting places in Sliač. Local accommodation near Termálne kúpalisko Sliač will also provide good advice on where to go for a trip.

If you are looking for a holiday or another type of stay with horses, horseback riding at Farma Agrobell is an excellent choice for you. You can also direct your steps to Arborétum Borová hora, where you will find diverse species of trees and plants. You can experience a somewhat more exciting program during a visit to Hronsek. Right here stands the Drevený artikulárny kostol (Wooden Articular Church) and an interesting baroque manor house. A hero who was almost forgotten can be found at the exhibition of three armored trains—Hurban, Štefánik, and Masaryk, titled Pancierový vlak Hurban in Zvolen.

You can end your journey in the soft bed of an accommodation facility found in the town of Sliač. For longer stays, rooms in a hostel in Sliač are well suited, while apartments in Sliač offer a bit more comfort. We believe that thanks to our accommodation, you will enjoy a great stay.

Ružiná is an artificially built reservoir in the Lučenec district. It extends into the cadastral territory of two villages, Ružiná and Divín. Thanks to its location at an altitude of 385 m above sea level, it is among the warmest water reservoirs in our country, with an average water temperature of 23°C. It is set in the enchanting nature of the Lučenská kotlina basin, surrounded by its forests and greenery.

It was built on the Budinský potok stream between 1969 and 1973, with its area ranging from a minimum of 45 ha to a maximum of 170 ha. Its original purpose was flood protection and industrial use, balancing the flows of the Budinský potok and Krivánsky potok streams. However, ever since its construction, it has also been a popular sports and recreational location with a wide range of activities. Naturally, you can go swimming or surfing here, or rent boats and paddleboats. You can play various sports, as volleyball courts and tennis courts are available. It also offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and active relaxation. This can include increasingly popular cycling, as a cycle path is even built around the dam.

The dam reaches a maximum depth of 7 m, and its bed is home to a large population of freshwater bivalves, specifically duck mussels and painter's mussels. In addition, various protected species of waterfowl nest here. Not far from the dam are the nature reserves Príbrežie Ružinej and Ružinské jelšiny.

A beautiful view of the dam and its surroundings opens up to you from the hill where the ruins of Hrad Divín lie. Apart from the ruins, this small village hides other sights worth seeing. Specifically, these are the Renaissance manor house Zichyho kaštieľ, the Kostol Všetkých Svätých church, the Kaplnka sv. Anny chapel, and the rectory building, which features the oldest sundial in Novohrad.

Spending the summer at Ružiná is a great idea. You will get a wonderful rest, recharge your energy, and have a fantastic time. All that remains is to find suitable accommodation near the Ružiná reservoir. Take a look at the accommodation Divín or accommodation in Lučenec dostrict page, and you will surely find options that suit you.

Jazdenie na koňoch Ružiná is a family-style rural agritourism facility. It is located in the small village of Ružiná, in the Lučenec district. A peaceful and quiet environment, the presence of animals, and an interesting range of equestrian activities make this place a popular excursion destination for horse lovers, families with children, tourists, and active vacationers. Do you also feel like exploring the Novohrad region from the saddle? Be sure to plan a stop at this hospitable family farm.

Majestic horses are undoubtedly the biggest attraction of the farmyard in Ružiná. Its owners will gladly initiate you into the secrets of riding, as well as horse care and even training. Your little ones will enjoy a safe ride in the saddle under the supervision of an experienced instructor. Seasoned horse lovers can take advantage of the offer of trail rides into the surrounding nature. They say the world is most beautiful from horseback. Come see for yourself with your own eyes.

Horses, however, are not the only animal residents of the family farm. Along with them, you will also be greeted by dogs, several chickens, or quails. You can get to know them, learn more about farm work, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside environment. If you have your own dog, the owners will gladly advise you on its training. The surrounding nature offers a pleasant setting for a walk or a family picnic. We recommend leaving your mobile phone at home.

Accept the invitation to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Novohrad countryside. Combine horseback riding with recreation at the Ružiná water reservoir and a tour of the magnificent Haličský zámok. In the surrounding area, you can also go on a trip to Divín castle or go check out Zichyho kaštieľ manor house. Excursion options here are truly diverse. If you feel like spending an extended weekend in this region, search on our portal for accommodation near the Jazdenie na koňoch Ružiná attraction. You can choose from the accommodation offer in Ružiná or opt for nearby accommodation in Lučenec. In any case, you can look forward to plenty of interesting experiences.

The ruins of Hrad Dúbravica are situated directly in the center of the village of the same name, not far from the local church. The small foothill village of Dúbravica lies in the Banská Bystrica district, in the Severné Podpoľanie region. The ruins, which in the past were probably a chateau or a smaller castle and upon which the tooth of time has already left its unmistakable signature, will catch visitors' attention at first glance. Many even stop, letting themselves be lured by its stone walls and the atmosphere of times long past.

The preserved castle walls were once a representative chateau built in Dúbravica by the Croatian family of Dúbravickí. The history of the site is shrouded in a veil of mystery. The Late Gothic structure dates back to the 15th century. Its newer extension on the northern side was completed two centuries later. The castle belonged to the Dúbravický family until approximately the 18th century. Since that period, its owners have been unknown. In the immediate vicinity of the castle, a mill and several farm buildings were built in subsequent centuries.

Despite the fact that the castle is in ruins today and, with the exception of the younger part, does not have preserved roof structures, its walls catch the eye of every visitor to the village. The castle occupies a dominant position here on a gentle rocky elevation in the center of the small village. The tourist attraction is thus easily accessible to a wide spectrum of tourists, from families with small children and history lovers to seniors who are deterred from visiting historical monuments by hiking trails. It is located right by the main road in the village, approximately 50 m past the church, near which you can park comfortably.

You can combine a trip to Dúbravica with a visit to the nearby village of Čerín, famous for its mineral spring. This spring wells up right at the entrance to the village. Here, you can draw your favorite medium-mineralized water, sit in a gazebo, and fully enjoy the charm of the surrounding nature. Will you let yourself be invited to a trip to the castle ruins with pleasant refreshment by the mineral spring? If you also visit the district town of Banská Bystrica, be sure not to miss an inspection of the night sky during an excursion to the local Hvezdáreň observatory after walking through the square. Book accommodation near Hrad Dúbravica today. Accommodation in Dúbravica and its surroundings is primarily a wide selection of cottages and chalets, as well as pleasant apartments that are guaranteed to fulfill your holiday expectations.

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.

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.

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.