Adrenaline, fun and sport Stredné Slovensko

Via ferrata on Skalka can be confidently described as one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Slovakia. It is located in the Kremnické vrchy mountains, near Kremnica, in the direction of Banská Bystrica. The biggest attraction of this appealing route is the longest via ferrata bridge in Central Europe. The biggest challenge is the most difficult via ferrata section in Slovakia, the F-úha via ferrata route with a difficulty rating of category F. The most attractive part of the via ferrata is undoubtedly the glass-bottomed suspension footbridge, offering stunning views of the Kremnické vrchy mountains and the Turčianska kotlina basin.

The operator of the wide network of via ferrata routes on Skalka is the town of Kremnica, which began building them in 2017. Unique experiences in the Kremnické vrchy mountains are offered by two integrated via ferrata systems. Via ferrata Komín was the first to be created and has been accessible to the public since 2017. In 2020, the town completed the unique Via ferratový svet (Via Ferrata World) here, which also includes the most difficult via ferrata route in Slovakia.

Via ferrata Komín includes 5 via ferrata routes. You can reach them via a descent via ferrata, at the beginning of which you can enjoy a beautiful view through the eastern window. However, this is only if you can squeeze through a narrow crevice in the terrain. The uniqueness of the descent route is an old maple tree. Its roots form a tangled network that will lead you to the Tibetský most (Tibetan Bridge). The ascent via ferratas begin with Komín, which, as the name suggests, will require you to squeeze between wedged stones on the way up. You will climb using a ladder or through a narrow hole that literally requires caving skills. In the last meters, the Kominárska ferrata branches off, leading through an 8-meter-long black opening.

An attraction for beginners and families with children is the western side of the ridge, offering an interesting Miniferrata with Jánošíkova diera (Jánošík's Hole). The route is only 30 meters long and located at a low height above the ground. It leads over a steep rock and requires crossing a crevice – Jánošíkova diera. This is a cave in the rock, 9 meters long, with the possibility of a horizontal entry along a safety cable. This via ferrata section is suitable for practicing movement on via ferratas and also offers the smallest adventurers a chance to try out a via ferrata route.

Via ferratový svet consists of 6 via ferrata routes interconnected by technical elements such as bird's nests, a pendulum, a balance beam, or rope bridges. The training via ferrata is designed for practicing the conquering of via ferrata routes and handling via ferrata equipment. Here, you can test your skills before heading out on the Traverz via ferrata, which leads through the rock massif between the ski slopes. It includes various adventure elements, including a bird's nest, bridges, and a ladder. The via ferrata route crosses with the Hrebeňová via ferrata, leading along a prominent mountain ridge.

A more demanding route is the Via Commo via ferrata, leading along a wooden bridge in a rock notch, over the summit rock wall, and up to the rock tower. And here, the real adventure begins – a rope bridge 32 meters long, positioned an incredible 35 meters above the terrain. The arduous journey across the abyss ends with an observation footbridge with a glass floor. Here, truly magnificent views of Skalka, Krížna, and the entire Turiec region will open up to you. The most difficult route of the entire system is the F-úha via ferrata, with a length of 45 meters and an 11-meter overhang. This section is extremely demanding and is recommended only to truly experienced climbers. It is a climbing wall in the truest sense of the word, secured with a via ferrata cable. As preparation for conquering it, you can use the Malá výzva E-jha via ferrata, with a length of 16 meters and a 3-meter overhang.

If you love adrenaline and enjoy pushing your limits, be sure not to miss this via ferrata route when visiting Kremnica, one you will not forget for the rest of your life. You can combine your adventure in nature with a visit to the Kremnická mincovňa (Kremnica Mint) or the unique Múzeum mincí a medailí (Museum of Coins and Medals). You can experience a visit to the underground mine in the Banské múzeum Štôlňa Andrej (Mining Museum Andrej Adit). There is certainly no shortage of unique experiences in Kremnica. The same applies to the variety of accommodation offers near the Via ferrata on Skalka. Accommodation in Kremnica and the surrounding areas represents a whole spectrum of popular cabins and cottages, pleasant guest houses, and attractive apartments. Plan a holiday you will never forget.

Slide Park Jasná: A fun journey into the realm of Tatra animals

Forget about boring walks where kids keep asking when you’ll reach the destination. In Jasná, in the area between Priehyba and Koliesko, Slide Park awaits adventurers both young and old. It is a place where mountain nature turns into a giant playground. The system of seven toboggans is not just about speed. Each slide represents a different inhabitant of the Nízke Tatry mountains, from a majestic eagle to a playful marmot.

Seven slides, seven animal stories

Forget boredom! This route will guide you through seven unique slides, each representing a different inhabitant of the Tatras. Sometimes you will slide down like a swift lynx, other times like a majestic eagle or even bear Max himself. In total, more than 127 meters of fun rides await you, which will immediately draw children into the action. Along with the "speed tests" on the slides, little explorers will find educational panels with stories about our animals at every slide. And to make it even more interesting for children, just scan the QR code and the animal’s story will come to life right on your phone. Moreover, cable cars will take you comfortably to the attraction, so you can focus solely on having fun.

The ideal family morning in the mountains

Slide Park is the perfect place for a family trip, where kids can burn off energy and parents can enjoy the views of the Nízke Tatry mountains. To ensure the ride is safe and enjoyable for everyone, the toboggans are adapted to different age groups. There is a minimum height requirement of 100 cm for riding alone. Thanks to this, both preschoolers and school children can enjoy the attraction.

What else to experience nearby

Jasná is a gateway to a world of adventures. If you have little cyclists at home, the nearby Bike Park offers trails for both beginners and daredevils. For families who prefer hiking, the Nízke Tatry mountains are an endless source of tourist trails. And if you happen to encounter bad weather, the underground kingdom of Demänovská jaskyňa slobody or the ice cave is a great alternative that never disappoints.

Jasná offers accommodation for everyone, whether you are looking for luxury or a cozy mountain setting. Hotels directly by the slopes will offer you a view of the mountains in the morning and cable cars just a stone's throw from the door. However, if you are looking for peace and quiet, Demänovská Dolina is full of apartments and traditional cottages that are perfect for evening relaxation after a day spent in nature. Many of them feature their own wellness facilities, which is a great reward after a whole day in the fresh air.

Yetiland in Valčianska dolina represents the largest family amusement park in the Turiec region, offering a multitude of open-air attractions surrounded by the picturesque nature of the Malá Fatra mountains.

The location is situated in the lower part of Valčianska dolina, in the village of Valča, in the Martin district. The park is designed as a multifunctional playground divided into several zones, dominated by a huge pirate ship and a system of inflatable bouncy castles. Visitors will find modern trampoline fields, rope obstacles for the little ones, and popular aquazorbing in a safe pool. The entire Yetiland area is sensitively integrated into the grassy slope of the resort, which allows children free movement in the fresh mountain air within a fenced and safe area. During the summer season, other activities are available, such as quad biking, archery, or a visit to a mini-zoo with farm animals, which complete the atmosphere of rural relaxation. The staff oversees the smooth operation of the attractions and safety, while the proximity of hotel facilities ensures a high standard of services, including gastronomy and relaxation zones. Thanks to its location, Yetiland has become a sought-after place not only for day trips but also as an important part of a summer holiday in the Turčianska záhradka region.

What can you find here?

In the area, you will find a children's pirate ship with slides, a system of professional trampolines, inflatable slides, and bouncy castles of various sizes. A pool for boats and aquazorbing, sandpits, acacia wood play sets, and a relaxation zone with sun loungers for adults are available. A fast-food buffet is part of the area, and restaurant facilities of the Snowland resort are located in the immediate vicinity.

Who is the place suitable for?

The place is intended primarily for families with children aged 2 to 12, who will find a wide range of activities adapted to their age and motor skills here. It is also sought after by school trips and camps as a safe place for collective games in nature. Given the mountain environment, sports clothing is recommended, and sun protection is advised during sunny days, as most of the attractions are located in open, unshaded areas.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

Directly in the Snowland resort, you can use cycle paths leading through the entire Valčianska dolina or play golf at the local Golf Park Rajec. You can visit the nearby manor house in Blatnica or go on a hike to the picturesque Gaderská dolina valley, which belongs to the most beautiful ones in Malá Fatra. The historic town of Martin with the Múzeum slovenskej dediny (open-air museum) or the spa town of Turčianske Teplice are also within a short driving distance.