Ruins Vtáčnik

If you love history and are drawn to the unknown, visit the village of Podhradie, near Lehota pod Vtáčnikom not far from Prievidza, and discover the remains of Hrad Sivý Kameň. It was built around 1330 by two brothers – Mikuláš and Ján – castellans from the nearby Bojnický zámok castle. As you have probably guessed, they named the castle after the color of its building material, which was based on gray stone ("sivý kameň").

The construction of the castle was necessitated by the conditions that arose after the death of the oligarch Matúš Čák Trenčiansky in 1321. Since there was no other castle in the area besides Bojnický zámok, the need arose to build another administrative center. During its existence, it belonged to many families. In 1430, it returned to the hands of King Sigismund of Luxembourg, who a year later, as a token of respect for merits in battle against the Turks, gave it to Gregor Majthényi.

The end of the 16th and the beginning of the 17th century was an era of disasters for this fortified residence. In 1524 it burned down, and two years later, in the Battle of Mohács, Gregor Majthényi's grandson, Bartolomej, fell into Turkish captivity. The ransom, as well as the repair of damaged parts, drained the family financially. To make matters worse, in the early 1540s the castle was plundered by the robber knights Ján and Rafael Podmanický and later by the Transylvanian prince Gabriel Bethlen.

The severely damaged fortress lost its defensive and strategic importance, and the landowners moved their estate to Nováky. Only a prison for offenders and a warehouse remained here. During the uprising of Francis II Rákóczi, when Kuruc troops fought against the Imperial forces in Horná Nitra, it was completely destroyed. The work of destruction was completed by the residents of Podhradie, who used it as building material.

A marked path will lead you to the castle hill directly from the village. The entire ascent will take you about 15 minutes at an easy pace. The modest remains of the castle now only indicate its original size. From the top of the andesite cliff, you will enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the entire village of Podhradie as well as Partizánske. In 1973, the castle was declared a National Cultural Monument.

The beautiful surrounding nature with its numerous rock formations provides plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. After this easy walk, head straight to the Rybníky & GRILL recreational and relaxation area, located in the nearby village of Sebedražie. In addition to excellent grilled trout, a 30-meter-long shipwreck and a unique crayfish farm await you here.

One day will certainly not be enough to get to know the Hornonitrianske region. Therefore, book your accommodation near the ruins of Hrad Sivý Kameň right now and plan your activities in the surrounding area. Accommodation in Podhradie offers a rich selection of cottages and chalets, as well as comfortably furnished guesthouses. If you want to visit the ruins in the winter season, you can look forward to great skiing at the Cigeľ Priedavky - Šabľová ski resort.

You can find the ruins of the Gothic Hrad Revište castle on a steep andesite hill, on the right bank of the Hron river, in the Revištské Podzámčie district of Žarnovica. It was built at the same time as Šášovský hrad, which is located on the opposite bank of the river. Their significance lay in protecting a narrow pass through which a trade route led to the central Slovak mining towns.

The fortress is first mentioned in 1265, and later, in 1331, as a royal castle. It was built at a strategically advantageous location and joined the system of watch castles along the Hron river. During its existence, like other castles in Slovakia, it passed through many owners. Their shared history is very closely linked, even regarding the castle lords. In 1647, after the extinction of the Dóczy family line, this fortified residence, along with the adjacent villages, once again became royal property.

During the uprising of Imrich Thököly, it was ransacked and damaged, but was repaired shortly thereafter. However, it is not known how its ultimate downfall occurred. The last surviving accounts from 1701 mention the cleaning of the castle chimneys. It is clear that during the first phase of Rákóczi's uprising, the castle definitively lost its defensive function and began to fall into ruin. The end of this fortified residence is confirmed by a detailed description of the Revište estate from 1801. The document states that it was the original seat of the landowners, but had not been inhabited for more than a hundred years.

Originally, it consisted of an inner fortified tower and a courtyard with a Gothic palace. The entrance from the lower to the upper courtyard was protected by a circular bastion. From the southern side, a rampart wall connected to the tower, defining a narrow longitudinal courtyard. Part of the courtyard was also a cistern, which has been preserved to this day.

Since 2012, the yellow-marked Náučný chodník Majitelia hradu Revište leads to the ruins directly from the Pod Hradom restaurant. At a brisk walk, the ascent will take you no more than 30 minutes. From the castle hill, you will enjoy a fantastic view of the entire Hron valley, the town of Žiar nad Hronom, and the Štiavnické vrchy. The castle grounds come alive especially during the summer, when various festivities take place, such as the Strašidelná noc hradov a zrúcanín, Rozprávková cesta, or the children's Spartan race King Race.

Also interesting is the legend of the beautiful Selima and the castle lord. Selima was the daughter of the main Turkish captain stationed at Levický hrad. One day, she planned an escape with her beloved, and this fortress became their hiding place. When the Turk found out, he challenged the castle lord to a duel. On the fateful day, a strange figure in knight's armor appeared before the Turkish captain. He did not hesitate and drew his sword. When the knight fell dead to the ground, he discovered that beneath the knight's attire was his beloved daughter Selima, who wanted to save the castle lord from certain death. Unable to bear his deed, the Turk took his own life as well.

A sweet conclusion to a lovely day in nature can be a stop at the nearby Zveropark. After a day full of discovery, relax and stay at the Žarnovická chalúpka. You can browse the full range of accommodation options near Hrad Revište on our accommodation in Žarnovica page.

The surroundings of Žarnovica hide many great attractions worth seeing. A summer vacation without swimming would hardly be a vacation at all. Take your family to the Kúpalisko Žarnovica pool and enjoy the sunshine by the water. We also recommend the popular Vodný raj Vyhne, which is open year-round.

The ruins of the Uhrovec castle rank among the best-preserved in Slovakia. They are located on a castle hill above the village of Uhrovec. This craft town with market rights is the famous birthplace of such prominent personalities as Ľudovít Štúr and Alexander Dubček. The castle, which has guarded this charming town for centuries, stands on an outcrop of the Nitrické vrchy hills, part of the Strážovské vrchy mountain range, at an altitude of 591 m above sea level.

You can reach the castle from the village of Uhrovské Podhradie. Park your car in the former quarry above the village. From there, follow the trail to the information board. Turn right behind it. Afterwards, you have the option to choose either the steeper green trail or the more comfortable blue-marked hiking trail. Depending on which one you choose, the walk will take you 40 to 60 minutes. The total elevation gain of the trail is 276 m.

Upon reaching the top of the hill, you will find relatively well-preserved castle ruins. The layout has a triangular shape with corner bastions rising at the corners. One of them was triangular, the second was prismatic, and the third was a donjon type. The latter is a residential tower that served as the final refuge for the castle garrison during a siege. The Late Romanesque chapel with an emporium is also remarkably well-preserved and unique in Slovakia. Originally a Late Gothic palace, it underwent extensive Renaissance renovations. It fulfilled a defensive function mainly during the Turkish raids. In the 18th century, it was destroyed by fire. As the nobility preferred living in the more comfortable manor house in the village, the castle slowly fell into ruin. Today, efforts are underway for its conservation and partial reconstruction.

The origin of the castle is historically dated to the second half of the 13th century. Its construction was brought about by the wealthy Trenčín ispán (župan) Báša. However, the first written record of its existence, stating that Matúš Čák Trenčiansky exchanged land in Tekov for the Uhrovec castle, dates back to 1295. He owned the castle until his death in 1321. Subsequent owners included his successor King Charles Robert, Sigismund of Luxembourg, Stibor of Beckov, and Albert of Habsburg. In the 15th century, the castle was owned by the Pongrác family, who are associated with money counterfeiting. The last prominent noble family associated with the castle for two centuries was the Zay family.

Two legends are tied to the castle. One originates from the period of the Turkish raids. It mentions that the lady of the castle at the time mortally wounded the commander of a Turkish troop with an arrow from her bow while he was bathing in the stream below the castle. When his companions saw this, they panicked and galloped away. They were stunned by the accuracy and power of a woman's shot and imagined what would happen once the men started shooting. And what is the second legend about? You will find out from the information board during your visit to the castle.

After ascending to the castle, you have several options for how to spend your time. On hot summer days, you might enjoy a refreshing swim or fishing at the Prusy water reservoir or the Termálne kúpalisko Pažiť thermal pool near Bánovce nad Bebravou. You can enjoy a view of a sky full of mysteries at the Hvezdáreň Partizánske observatory. You also have the option to visit the reconstructed manor house in Šimonovany. The region offers many cultural attractions, but especially various thermal pools, such as the Termálne kúpalisko Malé Bielice or Termálne kúpalisko Chalmová, which are definitely worth a visit.

Tired from hiking and thermal waters, you will certainly appreciate the accommodation options offered by our providers, so book your accommodation near the Uhrovec castle. We recommend cozy Uhrovec apartments, as well as romantic cottages and cabins. Which choice you prefer is entirely up to you. You will experience unique moments everywhere.

Hrad Šášov castle stands atop a massive rock formation on the left bank of the river, in the outer area of the Štiavnické vrchy mountains, directly above the valley of the Hron river. You will find it in the district of Žiar nad Hronom – Šášovské Podhradie. Many legends revolve around its origins. One of them tells of the unprecedented heroism of the court jester Ladislav. The lord of Zvolenský hrad castle got lost deep in the forest during a hunting trip. Suddenly, a enraged she-bear appeared before him and bit him in the back. Seeing this, the jester did not hesitate, used his agility, and struck the bear in the head with an axe. Touched by his bravery, the nobleman promised out of gratitude to build him a castle on that very spot. Soon, a fortress bearing the name of his savior's profession stood on Orlia skala rock.

The castle is first mentioned in a document from 1253. It was most likely built by the brothers Vincent and Peter Vanch. Around 1306, Matúš Čák Trenčiansky seized it, and after his death, it passed through the hands of many different owners. Among the most famous were King Matej Korvín, the Archbishop of Eger Urban Dóczy, and the Hungarian prefect Gašpar Lippay.

A major turning point came in 1677, when it was captured and plundered during the Thököly Uprising. The subsequent destruction was completed in 1708 by imperial troops. From that time on, it lost its defensive function, remained abandoned, and began to fall into ruin. Gunfire during World War II in 1945 also caused difficult times when part of a retreating German army unit set up position in the castle tower.

Šášovský hrad castle was built on the Pohronská hradná cesta (Pohronie Castle Route) and was meant to serve as a defensive and watch fortress. Originally, it consisted of a Gothic palace, residential and farm buildings, a chapel, a water cistern, defensive towers, and, by all accounts, had two outer baileys. Two fortified courtyards protected the Gothic-Renaissance upper castle, and a round bastion guarded the entrance to the palace.

To this day, perimeter walls several meters high have been preserved. The best-preserved parts are the remains of the upper castle, the Gothic palace, and the triangular tower. In 2015, the remains of a bread oven of unusual dimensions were found here, indicating the presence of a castle bakery. Since 2003, conservation and restoration work has been underway to preserve the remains for future generations.

A green-marked hiking trail leads directly from the village to the ruins. The ascent takes about 20 minutes, and the gently sloping terrain can easily be handled by children. From the castle rock, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the Hron river and the entire valley of Šášovské Podhradie.

If you have planned your hike to the ruins on a hot summer day, head straight from your walk to the refreshing pools of Plážové kúpalisko Žiar nad Hronom. Another interesting place worth visiting is Krajská hvezdáreň a planetárium Maximiliána Hella, where you have a unique opportunity to see our galaxy up close.

An adrenaline adventure in the form of riding Monster scooters awaits you in the nearby village of Lehôtka pod Brehmi. If you wish to continue exploring this beautiful region, book accommodation in the vicinity of Šášovský hrad castle. Accommodation in Žiar nad Hronom includes charming cottages and cabins as well as comfortably furnished guesthouses. It is entirely up to you what appeals to your heart most. We wish you a pleasant and peaceful stay.

The original knight's Hrad Skýcov ranks rather among manor houses with its current architecture. It is situated in the village of Skýcov located in the Zlaté Moravce district. The fortified historical building in the Romanesque style with corner towers dates back to the late 17th century. However, the history of this mysterious place began to be written a full 200 years earlier. A Gothic stone small castle, around which the floor plan of today's building developed, probably stood here as early as the 15th century. The interior of the cultural monument is currently not accessible to the public, but the building with an atmosphere of ancient history creates a beautiful setting for a walk with the opportunity to admire the neo-Romanesque architecture.

The sprawling three-story double-tract manor house is the dominant feature of the village center. Originally a Renaissance building with an "L"-shaped floor plan, it was rebuilt into a romantic neo-Romanesque chateau in the 19th century. Its center consisted of a ceremonial hall intended for magnificent celebrations and feasts. Here, the nobility entertained themselves and feasted. The backdrop was formed by magnificent vaults stretching all the way to the top of the tower. Part of the fortified core is a number of towers, dominated by a round stone corner tower. In its time, it received a characteristic name, Nebojsa. The property was protected by a moat, across which a drawbridge led.

The manor house was burned down after World War II, and its restoration did not take place until the 1990s. In addition to the dominant corner tower, an attraction for tourists is also the picturesque decoration of facades with rustication and buttresses with a touch of romance. Will you also let yourself be invited for a romantic walk with the backdrop of a beautiful historical building? The surroundings of the manor house are easily accessible with the option of parking just a few meters from the property.

You can extend your trip into history by visiting the ruins of Hrušov castle or taking a walk to the guard Živánska veža. You can then treat yourself to a bird's-eye view of the adjacent nature by climbing the Rozhľadňa na Drieňovej observation tower, and you will surely visit the Zubria zvernica Topoľčianky bison enclosure with children. Search for accommodation in the vicinity of Hrad Skýcov on our portal right now and start planning your adventurous stay. Whether you decide on accommodation in Skýcov or find accommodation in Zlaté Moravce, you will have local points of interest and attractions at your fingertips.

Did you know that in the Pohronie region, you can plan a trip to Hrad Nová Baňa – Zámčisko together with your significant other or children? Visit roughly 10 km west of Nová Baňa above the settlement of Stará Huta and Bukovina, where this archaeological ruin, also called Zámčisko, is located.

Just pass the Drozdovo bus stop in the village of Stará Huta just a few meters along the road and reach the local water reservoir. From here, follow the green trail towards Veľký Inovec on a hike, where after 500 m you turn left off the trail and continue through a dense forest to the top of the hill to your destination. The route can be managed by seniors, families with children, and couples in love who want to treat themselves to a little time for each other.

You will be able to admire a 430 m long earthen rampart here, which was part of the protective system of the hillfort. Although the terrain is undulating and rugged, thanks to it, the hillfort was a shelter for local residents during times of wars, raids, and other unrest. This hillfort was located on an important communication route that led from upper Požitie to middle Pohronie. The castle in Nová Baňa was built around the 11th century. In addition to the mentioned perimeter wall, it also consisted of watchtowers from which you can observe dry-stacked stones while walking.

You will conquer the steep hill in less than 20 minutes. The location is freely accessible, and do not expect any fees or other restrictions here. You might be tempted by the idea of how people could have lived here once and had to hide from various dangers. If you are brave and not afraid to stay here to observe the beauty of the surrounding nature, feel free to pitch a tent near the walls and stay overnight. A sky dotted with stars can bring you a beautiful fairy-tale atmosphere. Not really your type? Then book accommodation near Hrad Nová Baňa – Zámčisko.

The Pohronie region also offers other points of interest that are worth seeing with your own eyes. As part of the attractions of Nová Baňa, you can cool your heated bodies in Tajch. It is a local lake that is sought after mainly by a group of vacationers craving water. A trip connected with water is possible to the Starohutský vodopád, which is one of the most massive and most beautiful waterfalls in the locality. You can entertain children with horseback riding at the Jaderecký areál sv. Františka.

Perhaps you don't have acquaintances on hand, and perhaps even more distant family won't offer you lodging. We therefore recommend booking accommodation near Nová Baňa. Our warm accommodation providers will gladly rent you their cottages and chalets in Nová Baňa. Or will you rather choose some from the offer of Nová Baňa apartments? You can find the complete offer of accommodation facilities on our portal.

On the forested Hrádok hill, which rises above the village of Tekovská Breznica in the Žarnovica district, you will find the ruins of Breznický hrad castle. From the 13th century, it served a guard function on the western edge of Štiavnické vrchy. Set out along the hiking trail directly from the village for approximately 1.5 km and enjoy the far-reaching views that Hrad Breznica has to offer.

The castle remembers a lot in its history. It experienced several pillages and was conquered by almost all lords who set their minds to it, including Matúš Čák Trenčiansky and Matej Korvín. After being conquered by Turkish forces, the castle was occupied by robber knights and gradually fell into ruin starting in the 18th century. However, the view that greets you after climbing to the ruins is well worth it. You can see all the way to the monastery in Hronský Beňadik or the town of Nová Baňa. In the vicinity of Breznický hrad, you will also find the remains of two structures, namely Hrádok na Sokolej skale and the Strážna veža watchtower at the Pustý hrad site. Legend has it that after dark, the ruins and their surroundings are haunted by a cursed maiden who, according to folklore, was a traitress and helped facilitate an enemy attack on the castle.

You can also enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature in the stredné Pohronie region by visiting Starohutský vodopád waterfall in Nová Baňa, in the Stará Huta area, or enjoy relaxation, peace, and sunshine by the Tajch water reservoir. Tajch, whose surroundings are framed by the Pohronský Inovec mountain range, is a great place for swimming in the summer and for ice skating in the event of a freezing winter. So, if you visit stredné Pohronie in the winter, do not miss the nearby Ski centrum Drozdovo in the village of Veľká Lehota.

Haven't you visited this beautiful region yet? Simply choose from our offer of accommodation near Breznický hrad castle and find the right date. Book a picturesque cottage or wooden house in Tekovská Breznica, or find comfort and convenience in one of the guesthouses on offer. Whether you are going on a trip with children or friends, we believe you will enjoy your time together.