Nature attractions Zákopčie

Huge stone spheres located in the Čadca district - Milošová in the Kysuce region. This is a unique natural phenomenon. Nearly perfectly shaped rock balls of various sizes, the origin of which has not yet been satisfactorily explained by archaeologists.

It is the largest stone deposit of this type in Europe. You will find smaller stone spheres here with a diameter of 30 cm, as well as larger ones approaching a diameter of 2 meters. The largest sphere named Mary boasts a diameter of approximately 2.15 meters.

Have you ever heard of the geological rarity located in the Kysuce region? It is a European unique feature, a natural crude oil spring. Come and see Korňanský ropný prameň, which is the only one of its kind in Slovakia. You can find this "black gold" spring in the picturesque village of Korňa, near the town of Turzovka. It is a paraffinic type of oil with a low oil content and a smaller amount of hydrocarbons with asphaltic-resinous substances. The spring spans a small area of 0.171 ha.

It is a natural surface oil seep with occasional methane vapors. The oil accumulates in a small pool with a diameter of 1.5–2 meters. Despite being high-quality crude oil, surrounding test drillings, which began back in the 19th century, did not reveal sufficient quantities to make industrial extraction commercially viable. In total, 5 drillings were conducted, the first in 1900 and the last between 1929 and 1933. From the drillings carried out during those times, only 15–16 wagonloads were extracted in total.

In difficult times, during World War II, residents of the village of Korňa used oil from this seep as fuel for lighting, heating, and lubricating vehicles. It was even used to treat skin diseases in cattle. In 1984, Korňanský ropný prameň was declared a natural monument. You can find it at the beginning of the village of Korňa, accessible from a parking lot along the main road, located approximately 150 m away. The characteristic odor and mysterious bubbling will also guide you to the spring.

If this extraordinary place has caught your interest, plan a trip to Kysuce and discover other interesting attractions, of which there are plenty in the area. Book your stay today. You can find a rich selection of accommodation near Korňanský ropný prameň on our accommodation Korňa page. In addition to this rarity, you will find another gem here, the largest linden tree in Kysuce, which grows in the village of Korňa, in the Vígľaš area. If you plan your holiday during the winter season, a great place for skiing is undoubtedly the Turzovka - Bukovina ski resort. We wish you a successful holiday full of unforgettable experiences.