The nature trail Čierny Kameň (Sl. Black Stone) is situated in the centre of the village of Liptovské Revúce. It is a modern trail with 8 stops providing visitors with information on fauna and flora in the National Park of Veľká Fatra, Natural Nature Reserve of Čierny Kameň, as well as on sheep farming or local history during the Slovak National Uprising.
This self-guided, bidirectional, circular, summer and winter nature trail follows the red, green and yellow hiking trails. It is one of the more demanding trails, mainly due to its length of 9.5 km, which can be handled in 5 hours by an average physically fit tourist.
Free parking is available at the beginning of the trail at the cemetery behind the church, or at the municipality library (Obecná knižnica) – village part Stredná Revúca, and at the end of the trail at the COOP Jednota shop – village part Vyšná Revúca.
Regular bus service circulates from Ružomberok to the village. There is a bus stop in the village part Stredná Revúca at the fire station and in the village part Vyšná Revúca at the COOP Jednota shop.
There is a shelter on the trail itself for temporary overnight sleeping. Possibilities to get food are limited; therefore we recommend having sufficient supplies with you. Accommodation is available in private accommodation facilities and boarding houses in Liptovské Revúce or Liptovská Osada.
The self-guided, bidirectional, pedestrian, summer nature trail is moderately challenging and passes through the protected landscape area of the National Park of Veľká Fatra. Including 9 stops, the trail is 11.5 km long. It is focused on science, history and conservation.
The trail starts at the top station of the former chairlift on the southeast slope of the Líška hill and ends at the cottage of Chata pod Borišovom. It is parallel to a red-marked hiking trail and the shorter sections with the blue and green-marked hiking trail. The walk takes around 4-5 hours. Due to its top location, however, it is necessary to count on a full-day trip even in good weather.
The full-day trip is quite demanding due to its length. It begins in the village of Liptovské Revúce, part of Vyšná Revúca, from where you ascend to Rybovské saddle and then the route slightly descends to the locality Pod Líškou, where the nature trail starts. It is less than 10km to the trail´s starting point (+3:15 hours). The trail continues through the peaks of Krížna, Ostredok and Ploská to the cottage of Chata pod Borišovom, where you can refresh yourself and take a rest. Then you descend back to Liptovské Revúce, where you will find another nature trail – Červený Kameň. The way back is less than 8km (+2:30 hours). The nature trail can be completed with an overnight stay in the cottage of Chata pod Borišovom.
Free parking is available at the beginning/end of the trail, next to the COOP Jednota shop in the village of Liptovské Revúce, part of Vyšná Revúca.
Regular bus service circulates from Ružomberok to the village. A bus stop is situated in Vyšná Revúca at the COOP Jednota shop.
On the route itself, there is the cottage of Chata pod Borišovom at the end of the trail, which provides both food and accommodation. There are also private accommodation facilities and guest houses in Liptovské Revúce or Liptovská Osada.
The nature trail consists of 5 routes that lead through an area with extraordinary cultural and natural values. The total length of all routes is 12 km and contains 15 information boards. Individual stops accentuate the valuable natural and cultural sights of the surroundings and offer visitors interesting information about living and inanimate nature as well as about the harmonious coexistence of people and wildlife in this harsh but beautiful region.
Vlkolínec is a settlement located in the foothills. It is a conservation area of folk architecture and remarkably well-preserved residential complex, consisting of log buildings typical for Central Europe. Vlkolínec has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1993. Nature trails built in its surroundings complement the whole area under the peak of Sidorovo.
Parking is generally available, regardless of the place where you join the nature trails (Ružomberok, Biely Potok, Vlkolínec). You can also park directly in Vlkolínec, but the car park is paid.
You can get some refreshments in the garden of the Folk Art Gallery in Vlkolínec where there is also a grocery open in the summer season. Food facilities are available in Ružomberok as well.
You can have a stay either in several wooden lodges and cottages in Vlkolínec or in the vicinity of Biely Potok at the beginning of the trail.
ROUTES:
Route nr.1 | Ružomberok Biely potok – Trlenská dolina – Vlkolínec (2,8km)
Route nr.2 | Vlkolínec – Krkavá skala – Ružomberok (4,5km)
Route nr.3 | Vlkolínec – Vrchlúky – Sidorovo (1,5km)
Route nr.4 | Vlkolínec – Laz – Močidlá – Trlenská dolina (2,4km)
Route nr.5 | Vlčia skala – Trlenská dolina (0,8km)
Route Nr.1 | Biely potok – Trlenská dolina – Vlkolínec (2,8km)
Route Nr.2 | Vlkolínec – Krkavá skala – Ružomberok (4,5km)
Route Nr.3 | Vlkolínec – Vrchlúky – Sidorovo (1,5km)
Route Nr.4 | Vlkolínec – Laz – Močidlá – Trlenská dolina (2,4km)
Route Nr.5 | Vlčia skala – Trlenská dolina (0,8km)
The Zlatnica nature trail runs in between the villages of Nižná Boca and Vyšná Boca. The 8-kilometre trail was developed in 2004 and consists of 11 stops with information boards. It focuses on mining history and the surrounding culture. It is available throughout the year for pedestrians and cyclists. At 11 stops you can learn about the history of mining, local attractions and nature. The Zlatnica nature trail passes through the localities Pod Oleškovou, V Kiari, V Kúte, Geplovô, Ochimstál, Pri Mlyne, and follows along the mineral spring of Kyselka, a shepherd´s hut and evangelical churches in Vyšná and Nižná Boca.
If you are looking for a simple trip with children, the nature trail will be an ideal choice for you. Also, the village of Nižná Boca is worth seeing, and especially the observation tower Krajčov Vrch, which keeps an eye on the village from about 1000 meters above the sea level.
The parking space is limited. Free parking is available only on local roads in the villages Nižná Boca and Vyšná Boca. Bus lines from Liptovský Hrádok and Liptovský Mikuláš circulate regularly to both villages.
Several smaller accommodation and food facilities are available in the villages Nižná Boca and Vyšná Boca. Further facilities are available in the locality of Čertovica. There is also an acidulous mineral spring offering refreshment.
The trail was built in the last century, but after the floods and due to time it required reconstruction. It begins in the village of Liptovský Ján at the spring of Teplica, continues through the village to the spring of Medokýš, or the footbridge over the River Váh at Borová Sihoť, and further to the village of Liptovská Porúbka. The trail itself is linear and bidirectional, it has a length of more than 5.5 km and consists of 6 stops with information boards focusing on local history, fauna and flora, and arbours with benches. The walk takes 1.5 – 2 hours. The trail is suitable for both pedestrians and cyclists thanks to its rugged and paved sections.
Parking at the beginning of the trail is free of charge but with limited capacities. Other paid and free parking lots are available across the village of Liptovský Ján which, as one of the tourist centres in the Liptov region, provides sufficient parking capacity.
You can get to Liptovský Ján by bus from Liptovský Mikuláš. The beginning of the trail is just a few steps from the bus stop located in the centre of the village. To get back, take a bus in the village of Liptovská Porúbka or simply head out to the train/bus station in the town of Liptovský Hrádok by foot.
Great food and accommodation facilities are available mainly in Liptovský Ján. But you can also refresh yourself on your half-way, in the Borová Sihoť Hotel.
The Demänovská Ice Cave is one of the only natural phenomena in the world. Its beauty is admired by thousands of tourists from all over the world every year. This natural attraction is accessible by about 750-meter long serpentine walkway supplemented by information boards, forming a nature trail. The boards were created and operated by the Správa slovenských jaskýň (Slovak Caves Administration) and therefore they are thematically focused on local natural conditions (forest communities, animals or the cave system). Written information on the boards are in Slovak, English and German.
The linear, self-service nature trail focusing on natural science and conservation is located in an attractive tourist area and contributes appropriately to the environmental education of the public. This easy – medium demanding and self-guided trail runs along a serpentine access path to the cave, and from the parking lot, it can be completed in half to three-quarters of an hour.
Regular bus service is available on the route Demänovská Valley and Liptovský Mikuláš, which is relatively well-timed to meet the tourists´ needs. The starting point is situated at a bus stop. There is also a spacious car park, for which visitors are charged during the summer season.
At the beginning of the nature trail, there is a hotel and the Riverside Restaurant where you can refresh yourself. The widest selection of accommodation and gastronomic facilities within the Liptov region is directly in the Demänovská Valley.
The nature trail concludes a very popular route leading up to the cottage in Žiarska Valley. It consists of 15 boards that provide visitors with information on local history, fauna and flora, and local sports. The trail also includes rest areas with benches and shelters in case of bad weather.
The first stop is in the mouth of Žiarska Valley near the Mine and there are three themes mentioned on the boards (Žiarska Valley; short history of the village Žiar; inhabitants of the village Žiar during the wars). The second stop is situated at the third bridge, and two more are found below the locality of Hladké and near Mláky, where the trail meets the original old way to the cottage of Žiarska Chata. Themes are as follows: fauna, flora, Smrečianka stream, mountains, avalanches and sheep breeding. The last stop is at the cottage of Žiarska Chata with the following themes: the former cottage of Žiarska Chata and downhill skiing history. The accompanying articles, which are both in Slovak and English, also contain photographs. Žiarska Valley is one of the most visited valleys of the Western Tatras. The natural beauty and easy accessibility make it favourite for visitors – it is only 12 km away from the centre of Liptov – Liptovský Mikuláš town. The end of the valley is formed by massive peaks and ridges. Visitors to the valley, tourists, members of school and family trips will appreciate information on the boards which are placed in the heart of the peaceful, untouched Tatra Mountains countryside.
There is a paid car park at the beginning of the trail at the mouth of Žiarska Valley. There is also a bus stop near the car park. The bus service circulates from/to the town of Liptovský Mikuláš.
There are accommodation and food facilities within the local infrastructure at the beginning of the route and in the cottage of Žiarska Chata at the end of the route.
The Demänovská Cave of Liberty (Slov.:Demänovská jaskyňa Slobody) is one of the most visited natural attractions in the region. It is visited annually by thousands of local and foreign tourists. The cave is situated approximately half-way through the Demänovská Valley and its entrance is accessible from the main road along a 500-metre serpentine pathway.
It is an easy blue marked trail complemented by a nature trail with 6 information boards prepared for visitors by experts from the Správa slovenských jaskýň (Slovak Caves Administration) focusing on natural science and underground karst formations and National Nature Reserve Demänovská Valley. They present the origin and basic features of karst phenomena, the expansion of the karst and accessible caves in Slovakia, as well as natural values, discovery and access to the Demänovská Cave of Liberty.
The linear, self-guided nature trail focusing on natural science and conservation is located in an attractive tourist area and contributes appropriately to the environmental education of the public and can be completed in less than half an hour.
Regular bus service is available on the route Demänovská Valley and Liptovský Mikuláš, which is relatively well-timed to meet the tourists´ needs. The starting point is situated at a bus stop.
At the beginning of the nature trail, there is a hotel and the Riverside Restaurant where you can refresh yourself. The widest selection of accommodation and gastronomic facilities within the Liptov region is directly in the Demänovská Valley.
Starting from the village of Východná, the route will take you past the amphitheatre to the ponds. Walk through the underpass under the railway, from where you follow the forest foopath that first runs alongside the railway track, later turns left and starts climbing gently. The path will lead you along several raised hides, where you can pause in the evening and – with a bit of luck and patience and enough time – you might see forest animals. The route starts climbing more steeply and it snakes through the woods before it brings you to an asphalt road. This is where you turn left and continue ascending to the water reservoir, where you will be rewarded with spectacular views over the whole Liptov. In the distance you will see Chočské vrchy mountain range, on your left there will be the Low Tatras and on your right the Western Tatras and the High Tatras.
You can park in the Východná village. The village is also accessible by bus or train.
There are various accommodation and dining options in the village of Východná.
ROUTE:
The route starts in the village of Trstené, the asphalt road passes through Bobrovec and Jalovec to the Bobrovecká Vápenica crossroads. Here you will join a pebble forest path that leads up to the picturesque Chalet under Náružím. Cyclists can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding villages in several places.
Parking is available in Trstené, Bobrovec or Jalovec or directly on Bobrovecká Vápenica. The bus service runs to Bobrovec.
Accommodation and catering can be used in the village Bobrovec or in the mountain hotel Mnín near Bobrovecká Vápenice. You can also sleep at the Chalet under Náružím.
An undemanding, nice cycling trail that starts in the village of Malužiná. The route leads along the forest paths through the Malužinská Valley to the Malužinský Tajch. Subsequently, the route passes to Chorupné and returns back to Malužiná.
Parking is available in the village of Malužiná.
You start on the asphalt road behind Liptovský Ján. Asphalt quality gradually deteriorates in the valley, the road leads alongside the creek, sometimes less so at other times. The beautiful valley will lead you to the mine where the roads split. Do not turn and continue straight on through the forest path under the fireplace, rock massifs on the ridge on the left will employ your eyes for a long time, somewhere there is hidden and known Janske window, to which you can not get a bicycle. The road is rolling in the woods in the serpentines, and the climb continues, going down to the Svidov saddle. A really nice route especially suitable for mountain bikes.
The village of Liptovský Ján as well as Jánska dolina itself provide sufficient accommodation and catering.
ROUTE:
A good place to start can be Ruzomberok, but you can start anywhere on the route. If you start in Ruzomberok, you leave the town on an asphalt road alongside a beautiful church that is open during the summer season and continue on Liptovska Stiavnica, which is left behind in a short but steep climb. Followed by a move on the panel road to Liptovske Sliačov, a little rest on the asphalt road and again climb the field road to the hill before Partizánská Ľupča. From this village you continue along the asphalt road through the Ľupčianska valley in a gentle slope, which, however, takes on the intensity and elevation at Železná, although it can take on the asphalt road. Followed by a long downhill, views of the ridge of the Low Tatras, walk along the water meanders and in the descent you can also walk through the longest village of Liptov – Liptovská Lúžna. Along the plain and the asphalt road you will reach Liptovská Osada, from where you continue on the field road to Podsuchá, where the asphalt cycling trail starts, which will take you back to the beginning of the route to Ružomberok.
Paid and free parking is available in Ružomberok. There are regular bus and rail services to the city.
Accommodation and catering services can be found directly in Ružomberok or in the villages through which you will go.
Constantly rising from start to finish. The route starts in the town of Biely Potok and continues on the asphalt road to the village of Vlkolínec. Initially, the climb is very mild, but the closer you are to the Vlkolínec, the more it rises. One hundred meters behind it is the asphalt road, then its slope becomes even larger, and the asphalt base is replaced by clay, gravel, and most of the free rocks. This section will push the bike 90% of the visitors. After passing the rocky section, only a short part to the destination of the route awaits you and a magnificent view. If you plan to tackle the hardest part of the route and do not like to give up, we strongly recommend a mountain bike.
Free parking is available in Biely Potok.
Na Biely Potok pravidelne premáva autobusová doprava z mesta Ružomberok. A bus service from Ružomberok runs regularly to Biely Potok.
Accommodation and catering can be used in the town of Biely Potok or in the town of Ružomberok.
ROUTE:
There are benches and kids playgrounds at various points along the trail, which makes the trail an ideal option for bikers who wish to enjoy summer fun in the fresh air. The bike trail leads from the Ondrašová town district, pass the Palúčanský bridge and to the bridge in Okoličné. There are 2 bike shelters along the way and next to the Lodenica Hotel, there is also a public bicycle repair station equipped with an air pump and basic repair tools.
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Liptovský Mikuláš is easily accessible by train and bus. There is paid and free parking available.
Accommodation and catering is available in Liptovský Mikuláš.
Liptovský Mikuláš offers a wide variety of accommodation and dining options.
There are a number of benches and playgrounds along the way, making it the perfect place to unwind in the fresh air in summer. The path leads from the Ondrašová town district, along the Palúčanský bridge and on to the bridge in Okoličné. There are 2 bike shelters along the way and next to the Lodenica Hotel, there is also a public bicycle repair station equipped with an air pump and basic repair tools.
There are both paid and free parking available in the Liptovský Mikuláš town. Liptovský Mikuláš is also easily accessible by train or bus.
There is a range of accommodation and dining option available in Liptovský Mikuláš.
The large cycling circuit around the “Liptov sea” passes through villages and foothills surrounding the largest water reservoir in Slovakia. Exploring the characteristic Liptov villages with traditional churches alternates with rides across vast meadows offering views of the water surface, the scenery of the Low, Western, and High Tatras, as well as the Choč Mountains.
The terrain is varied but without long or overly challenging climbs. The cycling route runs either on less busy second- and third-class roads or on paved and unpaved country roads, making it suitable mainly for mountain bikes and e-bikes. Its total length places it among the more demanding routes, but you can start the circuit from any point along the route, such as from the town of Liptovský Mikuláš, or you can divide the cycling tour into multiple sections.
Enhance your trip with an easy hike to the Kvačianska and Prosiecka valleys, known for their diverse rock formations, waterfalls, and lush flora. Worth a visit is also the Celtic site and archaeological open-air museum Havránok or the remains of the Church of the Virgin Mary, the most photogenic spot on the shore of Liptovská Mara, where you can descend to the water’s edge. In the village of Svätý Kríž, you will be impressed by one of the largest wooden structures in Europe, with a capacity of nearly 6,000 people. The route also includes the Fun Park Žiarce, where you can try the steepest bobsled track in Slovakia in the summer.
The trail starts behind the railway at Liptovský Mikuláš at the crossroads with the blue trail, passes through the gardening settlement and then rises to Háj-Nicovô. At the top of the climb there is a crossroads of cycling trails, the green trail continues to the left with gravel road with beautiful views to the village of Smrečany. In Smrečany it crosses the blue route and the green one continues along the asphalt road through the village of Žiar to the mouth of the Žiarska valley, where the route ends at the crossroads of several cycling routes.
You can get to Liptovský Mikuláš by direct bus and train from Žilina or Poprad. Paid parking is available directly in front of the train station.
There are several hotels or guest houses in Liptovský Mikuláš that offer accommodation. Other possibilities of accommodation especially in privacy are in Žiarska valley. There are several restaurants in the city center offering Slovak, Italian or Asian cuisine. Fast food is also available.
ROUTE:
We start the trail in the village of Kvačany at the crossroads with the Oravská cyklomagistrála. Then we go to the village of Liptovské Matiašovce, from where we continue with a good forest path and slowly start to climb over the village of Upper Liptov. From the route there are beautiful views of Liptov and Tatra peaks.
Gradually, the route comes to Bobrovec to Bobrovecká Vápenica, where it crosses the green cycling route and leads to the Tokarina locality, where the cycling route continues to the right and passes through the stream at the entrance to Jalovecká dolina and continues under the Tatras. Another stop is the mouth of the Žiarska Valley, where three marked cycling routes cross.
Gradually, we go to the location of Usti Bystrej dolina where the route continues along forest paths under the Western Tatras. Finally, we get to Podbanské.
Parking is available at one of the car parks in the area from which you start the route. In the village of Kvačany or Podbanské.
The possibilities of accommodation and boarding are along the whole cycling routes in individual villages such as Kvačany, Liptovské Matiašovce, Bobrovec, Jalovec, Žiar or Podbanské. You can stay in smaller hotels, guesthouses or in private. Catering services are provided by restaurants or buffets.
The village of Bacúch is an ideal starting point for hiking, for example, up to the Low Tatras ridge. As there is a nature trail Bacúch – Vyšná Boca, you can get to know the surroundings during your hike. The tradition says: “Bacúch, Boca, od jedného otca” which means “Bacúch, Boca come from the same father”. Both villages are historically connected by mining as well as by the mountain pass of Čertovica and the saddlebacks of Bacúšske Sedlo and Ramža. It is a kind of symbolic connection between the regions of Liptov and Horehronie.
This medium level blue trail takes about 5 and a half hours. It is 14 km long with an elevation of 690 m and leads mostly through the forest. On the top of the saddleback, there is the meadow Ramža, where there is also a shelter hut (1260 m asl). This is the place where most tourists stay overnight when crossing the main ridge of the Low Tatras. Approximately 300 m west of the hut you will find a spring of drinking water.
It is a bidirectional, linear, self-guided trail with a guide on request, and open to pedestrians in summer. It is a medium level trail. There are 5 information panels along the trail providing data about the village of Bacúch, the water spring of Božena Němcová, about the locality of Podvrch, the saddleback of Bacúšske Sedlo and the village of Vyšná Boca. Individual panels are focused on nature and its protection, history and mining. The trail also includes an entrance to a mine where copper was mined.
Parking is available in the village of Bacúch. The village is very well accessible from Brezno. You can take a bus or train. From Vyšná Boca you can get by car or by bus circulating regularly to Liptovský Mikuláš or Liptovský Hrádok.
Food and accommodation facilities are available in both villages. As for the route, there is only the hut Ramža providing temporary shelter in bad weather.
We recommend that you start this trail in the village of Kvačany. Continue across the village Dlhá lúka, beneath the forest and along the field paths to the beginning of the Prosiecka Valley. From this point, the trail continues along an old asphalt road. After elevation in between Prosiek and Bukovina villages, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the whole Liptov area. Now take a descent to Bukovina, where you will switch to a side road leading to the village of Malatiná along the creek. A lovely forest trail is waiting for you all the way to the village of Malé Borové; and from this point continue along the river through the narrow of the Kvačianska Valley. Just a short detour will lead you to water mills Oblazy that´s definitely worth seeing. From this beautiful place, you need to ascent above the river again, and taking short ups and downs along the viewpoints you will get back to the village of Kvačany.
Catering and accommodation is available in the Kvačany village.
The town of Liptovský Hrádok is Skalka. The undemanding route will take us to its top. From where we can see the whole city, the river Belá, but also the surroundings of Liptovský Hrádok. On the top of the hill we find a double cross and under Skalka there is a memorial with a memorial plaque dedicated to the victims of the 1st and 2nd World War, inhabitants of the villages of Belánska dolina. The monument was built by L. Pollák – an academic sculptor.
Parking is available just below Skalka and is free of charge. Regular bus connections to Liptovský Hrádok.
Catering and accommodation is possible in the town of Liptovský Hrádok or Hotel Grand Castle Liptovský Hrádok is located directly opposite Skalka.
Sidorovo (1099 m a. s. l.) is a striking peak, located above the village of Vlkolínec, near the top station of Hrabovo cable car. It offers great views of Low Tatras and High Tatras and the Great Fatra. Numerous cliffs are very suitable for trips with children, who will be pleased to visit a mini-zoo located directly on the meadows below Mt Sidorovo. We recommend a visit especially in autumn when weather is constant and you can enjoy nice autumn leaves colours.
You can start the hike at the Ružomberok Calvary and continue along the blue trail with a mild elevation up to Vlkolínske Lúky (Vlkolínec Meadows). The second option is to take a cable car from Hrabovo, near Hotel Hrabovo. From the top station of the cable car to Vlkolínske Lúky you will go along the red trail. If you have time, we recommend that you take a short detour to Haliny – a cliff view point on the left side. The turn is marked directly after getting out of the cable car. You can have a snack on your way in hotel Malina. Fathers and teenagers can “stop” at Bike park Malinô Brdo. If taking a few-minute walk along the yellow trail from the crossroad Vlkolínske Lúky, you can visit a mini-zoo with a playground. If undertaking approximately one hour elevation along the red trail from the crossroad Vlkolínske Lúky you´ll reach the peak of Sidorovo. We can either go back along the trails described above, or continue along the red trail towards the Ružomberok Calvary. The trail runs through a nice pine forest and in the last section above the Calvary you can enjoy a wonderful view of the panorama of Ružomberok town, the Choč´s Mountains and the Westernern Tatras.
Free parking is possible under the valley station of the cable car from Hrabovo.
Several accommodation and catering facilities are located at the valley station of the cable car in Hrabovo. It is also possible to have a stay or refresh yourself at Malina Hotel below the cable car’s top station.
Being situated on the main ridge of the Low Tatras just beneath the peak of Mt Chopok at an altitude of 1985 m, Kamenná chata is the third highest located alpine chalet in Slovakia (following „Chata pod Rysmi“ and „Téryho chata“ in the High Tatras). The chalet is located in a suitable locality and therefore often visited by tourists taking hikes in summer and skiers skiing in the resort Jasná in winter. Kamenná Chata pod Chopkom provides food and accommodation for 12 people in a shelter or double-bed rooms. The chalet was renovated in 2017 which helped to attract even more visitors.
The chalet is accessible from a blue trail leading from the cottage of Mikulášska Chata, Jasná resort. It is a medium – difficult trail taking almost 3 hours. A large part of the trail can also be taken by cable cars that also run to Mt Chopok during the summer.
Free parking is available in the village of Demänovská Dolina or in the resort Jasná. Local bus service from Liptovský Mikuláš is also available.
The village of Demänovská Dolina and Jasná resort offer a wide range of accommodation and food services. Kamenná Chata chalet itself also offers background for its visitors.
Chata pod Náružím (Červenec) is situated in the lap of the beautiful West Tatras scenery, surrounded by peaks of Babky, Malá Kopa and Veľká Kopa, and peaks Ostrý Vrch and Sivý Vrch. The trail starts at the beginning of the valley of Bobrovecká Dolina, specifically in the locality of Bobrovecká Vápenica (lime kiln) where there is a free car park. The route runs along a blue marked trail through a Calvary and along a gravel road, then through the crossroad Pod Babkami, and continuing through the forest road to the cottage of Chata pod Náružím.
The most beautiful yet physically demanding access road leads from Bobrovecká Vápenica along the blue trail. There is an unmarked footpath in the forest leading through “Biele Studnice” (White Wells), then between the rocks of Mt Sokol and Mt Mních (the most demanding section secured by chains) and connecting to the main access road in Nižný Červenec (15 min. to the cottage). We recommend that you take this trip only with an experienced guide.
Directly at the starting point of the trail in Bobrovecká Vápenica, there is free parking with sufficient capacity. The bus stop is situated about 2.5 km by walk from Bobrovecká Vápenica, at the crossroad with the village Jalovec, where you can get by suburban line from Liptovský Mikuláš.
You can refresh yourself or spend a night at Chata pod Náružím. Near the starting point of the trail, there is Horský Hotel Mních (Mountain Hotel Mních). On the way from Jalovec it is possible to visit the shed Salaš Pastierka. Moreover, there are reserved camping sites.
Cottage Magurka is one of the modern cottages with a relatively large capacity of beds and with quality services (sauna, tub, and restaurant). It is also accessible by car using an asphalt road which is also a great place for walking and visiting the cottage. The cottage itself is located in the former mining settlement Magurka, in the beautiful natural environment of the Low Tatras at the end of the valley of Ľupčianska Dolina under the peaks of Latiborská Hoľa (1648 m), Ďurková (1749 m) and Chabenec (1955 m). We can find other dwellings or a church in the settlement.
In summer you can make full use of three marked hiking trails – blue, yellow and green which fork to the main ridge in Magurka. The way back in the opposite direction along the green trail is also very nice. It runs through Železnô to Salatín offering beautiful views.
There is an official car park in the valley. Parking is only possible along the road around Tajchy (artificial water reservoirs) but visitors can also use public transport at the starting point.
You can stay directly in the cottage offering double to five-bedrooms with an extra bed or in family bedrooms with two separate rooms. All rooms have their own sanitary facilities . Beverages and food are also available in the Chata Magurka cottage.
A roughed and undemanding mountain path runs through it. This is why it is popular with tourists of various ages, especially families with children. However, the destination is also attractive for water mills Oblazy and two observation spots that were built just a few years ago. At the end of the year 2013 the first secured Observation Platform Malý Roháč was added – a platform placed between trees directly on a rocky boulder with an authentic view of the upper part of the valley and a big rocky needdle. The platform is about an hour´s walk from the mouth of the Kvačianska Valley along the red trail and just a few minutes from the mills Oblazy.
There is paid parking right at the mouth of the Kvačianska Valley. Regular bus links circulate to Kvačany from Liptovský Mikuláš.
Food and accommodation facilities are available in the village of Kvačany. There is also a buffet at the car park at the mouth of the valley.
(Map preview: hiking.sk)
During your tour around the Liptov region, we recommend that you also visit the mountain village of Pavčina Lehota located on the northern side of the Low Tatras, at the entrance to the Demänovská Valley. There is an educational path with 11 learning points stretching about 10.5 km across the village and its surroundings. An observation tower with a unique view of the entire Liptov region is part of the path. The tower is just a few minutes’ walk from the car park in the ski resort Žiarce. The road to the tower leads across a meadow and still offers views of the surrounding area. There is also a mountain bobsleigh track at Žiarce which is undoubtedly a great attraction for adrenaline enthusiasts.
A free spacious car park is available at the ski resort Žiarce. Bus service is available from Liptovský Mikuláš to the village of Pavčina Lehota.
Accommodation facilities are either available in the village of Pavčina Lehota or in the nearby Demänovská Valley, just like quality food facilities.
Vavrišovo is a village located near the town of Liptovský Hrádok, close to the D1 motorway entrance. The village is one of the most beautiful in the region, also due to unique barns with exceptional architecture that complements the whole landscape. The Museum of the Battle at Vavrišovo was built in memory of the battle that took place on the territory of the village in August 1709 as part of the uprisings of František II. Rákoci between the rebels (kuruc people) and imperial army (labanc people). During the battle Vavrišovo was burned. The museum also has an observation tower providing you with an exceptional view of the village, the Western and Low Tatras, peaks of Kriváň and Ďumbier, and the barns.
Parking is available next to the museum and it is free of charge. Regular bus link circulates between the town of Liptovský Hrádok and the village.
Food and accommodation facilities are available in the village and also in Liptovský Hrádok.
(Náhľad mapy: hiking.sk)
St. John’s Lookout Tower rises above the village of Liptovský Ján and offers views of the entire village and wide surroundings. The lookout tower is wooden, its shape and used materials are based on traditional Slovak architecture. Located in Stráne above the cemetery below Kameničná Hill (829 m above sea level).
You can reach it directly from the village or from the thermal spring area Teplica (via the Štiavnica brook). There is a simple walkway leading to the observation tower, which starts from the nearest road near the cemetery, where it is possible to park but in limited mode. The route is unpretentious with minimal climb. It is therefore suitable for both children and seniors.
Free parking is available within the village of Liptovský Ján. At the starting point of the walkway to the lookout tower, parking is limited to the minimum number of vehicles. Regular bus service runs from Liptovský Mikuláš to Liptovský Ján.
Catering and accommodation is possible in the whole Jánska valley. Where you will find restaurants and traditional cottages.
The observation tower on Sousava Hill is a 16-meter-high view point, which allows the mountains of Rohace, Choc Mountains and Mala Fatra as well as Orava Magura and Babia Mountain to be seen over the trees.
Due to its demanding nature, the route is also manageable for smaller children. The lookout can be reached after about a half-hour walk with a 160 m climb. You can count on 45 minutes if you choose a longer route that bypasses the hill from the right side. The way back leads downhill, making it a few minutes faster. Often, the beginning of a shorter route leads to the often muddy forge due to logging. If it was raining before the trip, use a longer route around the hill for a trip.
Parking is free. Regular bus connections to Liptovský Mikuláš.
Catering and accommodation is possible in the village of Veľké Borové.
(Náhľad mapy: www.hiking.sk)
The Kvačianska Valley is a pleasant place to spend free time. A roughed and undemanding mountain path runs through it. This is why it is popular with tourists of various ages, especially families with children. However, the destination is also attractive for water mills Oblazy and two observation spots that were built just a few years ago. One of them is the Observation Platform Kobyliny – a metal structure located above the canyon of the River Kvačianka that is deep up to 70 meters. The spot is only a few minutes walk from the mouth of the Kvačianska Valley where you will be led by the red marked trail.
There is paid parking right at the mouth of the valley. Regular bus links circulate to Kvačany from Liptovský Mikuláš.
Food and accommodation facilities are available in the village of Kvačany. There is also a buffet at the car park at the mouth of the valley.
(Náhľad mapy: hiking.sk)
“Prosiecka a Kvačianska dolina” Nature Trail (Prosiecka and Kvačianska valleys) Prosiecka and Kvačianska valleys are the most visited localities in the region of Liptov in summer. For their undemanding terrain, they are very popular with families having kids. Except for the mills Oblazy, a waterfall and wooden observation decks, the hiking trail is complemented by a nature trail. The trail has 12 stops with information boards consisting of geographical, biological and historical data of the amazing locality.
There are paid car parks at the beginning of both valleys. The size of the car parks is sufficient; the car park in Kvačany has an asphalt surface.
Bus service is available from the town of Liptovský Mikuláš to the villages of Prosiek and Kvačany. A timetable is available here.
Apart from the basic services (grocery store, pub) available in both villages, there is also a buffet at the car park (the starting/finishing point of the trail) situated at the end of the village of Prosiek. Roughly about halfway along the trail, there is a village of Veľké Borové with its local pub offering refreshments. Since 2006, the local craft brewery with a restaurant has been operating in Kvačany.
There are several facilities to offer accommodation, such as private houses, cottages, log cabins or smaller guest houses in Prosiek, Kvačany, and Veľké Borové.
The Račkova Valley is one of the often visited valleys in Liptov. It is attractive for the Museum of Liptov Village which is located directly at the beginning of the valley close to a main road. Here is enough space for parking. Higher in the valley we can find a favorite ATC campsite and several guest houses. Mt Klin with its height of 2173m is the dominant feature of the valley. For its rugged area and amazing views of the whole region and unique mountain tarns Račkové Plesá with a walkway around, climbs up the peak are very popular. The tour is partialy circular because when we reach the locality Pod Klinom we can decide which side of the mountain to choose to go along. The tour can be enriched by a visit to Bystrá which will take only a minimum amount of time.
The nearest stop is located in the village of Pribylina
There are several guest houses and hotels in the valley besides the ATC campsite mentioned above.
(Náhľad mapy: hiking.sk)
A wooden cottage with an observation tower was built in the village of Nižná Boca just recently, in 2014. For its height of 14.5 metres and a unique location in the arms of nature as well as an amazing view of the minig settlement and the valley of Bocká Dolina the observation tower became a popular finish point of tourists. To reach the tower, take the path leading through the village. It is an easy tour taking just a few minutes. At the top of the tower you will get familiar with the history of the village and the photo documentation with the description will provide you with information about the surrounding hills. The cosy mountain cottage providing accommodation as well as a garden house with sheltered fireplace are part of the observation tower.
The cottage can sleep about 10-15 people on mattresses using own sleeping bag in two rooms upstairs. Downstairs you can find a fully-equipped kitchenett, a small stove, a fireplace and a toilet. There is water and electricity in the cottage. The whole cottage can be rented year round but in winter the access to the cottage is much more complicated due to snow.
Free parking is available in the village of Nižná Boca. At the starting point of the route there is also a bus stop. The village is reachable by bus from the town of Liptovský Hrádok. During the observation tower opening hours you can also get some refreshments. Food service is not provided in the property.
Food and accommodation facilities are available in the villages Nižná Boca and Vyšná Boca as well as in Malužiná.
(Náhľad mapy: hiking.sk)
Ostredok is considered to be the highest peak of the mountain range Veľká Fatra (Great Fatra). An ascent can be carried out from the village of Liptovské Revúce, namely from the location of Vyšná Revúca. There are several routes up the mountain and we recommend a combination of routes throug the locations of Ploská and Chyžky with a return through the Zelená Valley. This trail is rugged and offers unique views of the surroundings as well as a pleasant walk through the forest. The trail has only a mild supperelevation. It is not very difficult but quite long and takes all day.
Parking is available in the village of Liptovské Revúce. Regular bus links run into the village from Ružomberok.
Private accommodation facilities are available in the village of Liptovské Revúce. There are no similar facilities on the trail just a shelter for occasional use. Food facilities can be find rarely, therefore we recommend taking enough food with you.
We start the tour in the centre of Ružomberok – at Andrej Hlinka Square – from where we continue through the local Calvary to the ski resort of Malinô Brdo. There we will take the blue hiking trail and continue through the Čutkovská Valley. The valley is one of the most favourable tourist spot for relaxation not just for Ružomberok inhabitants but also for the tourists all over the world. It is a great place to take a rest in the countryside mainly sought-after by families and children.
Food facililies and parking places are also available in the locality as well as bus links to Ružomberok where we started our tour. The nearest bus stop is located only 5 minutes from the end of the valley, just at the main road.
There is a hut offering traditional Slovak cuisine in the valley, and you can find several food facilities also in the ski resort.
It is undemanding hiking trail starting at the cable car valley station in the resort of Malinô Brdo also called Hrabovo. There are no problems with parking as well as to find food facilities in the locality. Also a rope course Tarzania is situated here as well as a water reservoir with a possibility to rent a boat. The trail starts at the yellow marker that is leading to the local Calvary and continuing onto the well-known meadows of Vlkolínske Lúky where you can admire the majestic rock formations and the surrounding mountains. A slight climb will lead us to the jewel of the entire region protected by UNESCO – Vlkolínec. This historical area is a sought-after place for tourists from around the world. We are returning back along the same trail to the car park in Hrabovo.
In Hrabovská dolina, you can park comfortably and for free in the parking lot right next to the cable car boarding station. The hike from Hrabov, through Kalvária, Vlkolínske lúky to Vlkolínec (720 m.a.s.l.) takes approximately 1.5 hours. You can make a pleasant walk easier by taking the cable car, which will save you an hour of travel. You can get from Vlkolínec this way again (by cable car or on foot through Vlkolínske luky and Kalvária) or the other way through Trlenská dolina to Biele Potok.
Public transport line No. 5 runs to Hrabov from the bus/railway station and Rybárpole railway station in Ružomberok. The line stop is located directly at the main parking lot, where the starting point of the route is also located.
Parking options are also sufficient in the free parking lot at the valley station of the Malinô Brdo cable car or in the lower parking lot, where the second bus stop is located.
You can pass the night either in the valley of Hrabovská Dolina or at Malinô Brdo or directly in wooden huts and cottages in Vlkolínec. All the three places offer refreshments during your hike.
(Náhľad mapy: hiking.sk)
Žiarska Chata situated in the middle part of the valley of Žiarska Dolina is the only alpine cottage in the West Tatras. It is very often visited by tourists as it is a starting point for different hikes up to Mt Baníkovo and Mt Baranec. It is attractive for families with children, seniors and less experienced tourists, as well as cyclists. The trail to the valley of Žiarska Dolina starts at the mouth of the valley where there is a paid parking place. The whole trail runs along an asphald road with a possibility to turn onto an old tourist trail through the forest. A pleasant, smooth climb is complemented with the cave of Medvedia Štôlňa, especially attractive to children.
Parking is available at the mouth of the valley of Žiarska Dolina for some fee. Guests staying in the cottage are allowed to drive their cars to the cottage to park their car on a car park.
Good accessibility is also ensured by local bus transport from Liptovský Mikuláš. The final bus stop is located approximately 400 m from the trail´s starting point.
At the beginning of the trail there is a cottage Kožiar offering drinks and food. Žiarska Chata cottage itself also offers background for its visitors.
Map preview (Hiking.sk)
I parked my car at the end of the village near the wooden bell tower, which turned out to be the ruins of a 13th-century church that burned down in 1805. We first turn into the last street in the village, but here the map fools us and the path simply ends at a gate, behind which the owner was shouting at some barking dogs and, apparently for the fourth time, had to explain that the real route is higher up the slope. You just need to walk a little deeper into the valley.
Steep paths to Jánošíkov stôl
This time, from the correct slope, an inconspicuous path turns upwards. I check the map just in case, and we follow it. After the downpour the night before, the clay surface is a little slippery. After a while, another joins from the right and, to my surprise, there is a red mark on a tree. I don’t know where the route starts, but this explains why the trail is so well trodden. It should be added that it is relatively steep. We are sometimes offered a view of Liptovská Mara through the trees. The ascent is strenuous but I enjoy it immensely because the forest smells of the night’s rain and the greenery is breathtaking – after all, we are in Liptov in mid-July!
We steadily climb, pass a distinctive rubble field and then an impressive rocky cliff appears overhead. I explore this intriguing wall but don’t see any pitons or ropes anywhere – perhaps nobody climbs here. A cross appears above, and the heated rock really resembles a table, or rather it creates a very comfortable bench, ideal for a picnic. The end of the red trail is marked on the rock, but there is no signpost anywhere. While we are rooting through our backpacks for food, I am haunted by the thought of the inconspicuous path that continued further into the Čerenová massif before the turn to the rock terrace. On the one hand, I am not excited by the idea of descending the same path, and on the other, I feel like a bit of improvisation. On the digital map, I find an unmarked but distinct trail that runs along the hillside and only slightly crosses the contour lines.
Hunting trail under Čerenová and Lomné
I hear thunder somewhere above Veľký Choč and the weather forecast says there is a threat of occasional showers and storms, but this one will miss us. I continue along an inconspicuous path from the saddle behind the rock. It climbs steeply at first, so I start harbouring doubts, but then turns to the left and follows the contour line as it should. The map wasn’t lying. This trail is like something out of the most secret dreams of a tourist!
It is not entirely clear to me how it originated, but I assume it was used by hunters or gamekeepers in ancient times. In some places they have employed pickaxes and shovels, while in others it is quite inconspicuous, created only by the walkers’ feet and overgrown with juicy grass. It steadily climbs, yet the slope is mostly pleasant and the wilderness is pure heaven.
Several sections lead directly above rock walls, so the route requires some concentration. I probably wouldn’t take small children here, as the chasms under our feet sometimes take our breath away. I whistle and sing because this is the perfect place to meet a bear. According to the head of one national park (a bear expert), they like to hang around hunting trails because this means they can move around without using too much energy and they are not disturbed as often as on marked hiking trails. Those prints in the clay I see are just deer, but we don’t want to take risks, especially where we cannot see around the corner, and so we make loud noises to make sure we don’t surprise anything. I check our progress on the map from time to time and we are making decent progress. At one point we see Veľký Choč through the trees and over the neighbouring ridge. Here and there the surface of the narrow path is clay, at other times needles and roots, often grass and occasionally gravel. When we are below the peak of Lomné, the trees part and we see into a clearing revealing the impressive amphitheatre at the end of the Annina dolina valley. Clouds are gathering just over the ridge, along which the green hiking trail runs.
Biblical rain
We rush through the clearing, but here the terrain is the most treacherous. The vegetation rises above our knees and in places even up to our armpits, and the tall grass conceals branches left after logging, stones and other hazards. We are continuously searching for the trail as it keeps disappearing, but a little further ahead I see a clear line that will lead us to the saddle of Rovne between Lomné and Heliaš. We have mostly been heading north so far, but here we change direction towards the west and I have to say the sky looks slightly apocalyptic. It darkens and the rain arrives almost like an advancing wall. We shrug off our backpacks and put on our waterproofs. As expected, we link up with the green trail and normally we would follow it to Pravnáč and the car, but in this downpour we just look for the shortest way to the valley.
The forest path turns into a stream of dirty water, but in the end the downpour does not last even half an hour. At its narrowest point, the path is cut into the rock, over which water pours. Our wet things are steaming. Purple bear droppings on the road confirm that we were right to be cautious – clearly blueberries were on his menu.
Before long, the world is once again bathed in summer sunlight, as if the whole downpour were just a dream, leaving behind only fragrant air. I look towards the slope of Čerenová and realize that our route has led us over white rocks that rise in many places along the steep slope. Only a few hours ago, I had no idea about the existence of this amazing trail down the mountainside, and it was only some strange coincidence that gave us the opportunity to get acquainted with this creation in the unforgettable nature of Liptov, previously unknown to us. There are doubtlessly more such hidden treasures of inconspicuous unmarked trails, and perhaps we will get to see more of them (www.hiking.sk).
Starting point: 49.150079, 19.467067
Free parking is available in the village.
By train or bus to L. Mikuláš and then by bus from L. Mikuláš to the village of L. Anna. – timetable.
In the village of Liptovská Anna there are only a few accommodation facilities and these are quite small (private accommodation). We recommend staying in nearby villages, such as Bobrovník, Liptovská Sielnica, Potok, or Bešeňová. Food is available in both summer and winter in the surrounding villages in hotel restaurants, guest houses or huts.
A panoramic view from Mt Poludnica (1549m) is unforgettable. You will have the whole region of Liptov at your fingertips and believe us, it is not a difficult tour at all. The tour begins and ends in the village of Liptovský Ján, at the car park and bus station in front of Hotel Ďumbier where the green trail starts. From the very beginning, the trail is ascending steeply across two ski trails which are part of the local ski resort. From the top of the hills you can enjoy amazing views of the Liptov region. The trail continues up to the saddleback of Rakytovica and further along a steep yellow marked path towards the locality of Predná Poludnica. The trail is rugged, full of panoramic views of Liptov and rocky formations that are reachable from any place along the whole section. There is another steep climb along a cave in which, according to a memorial tablet, about 40 Jews from Slovakia and Poland were being hidden from autumn 1944. All of them survived thanks to inhabitants from the village of Závažná Poruba who helped them despite risking their own lives. The following location is Predná Poludnica with excellent panoramic views of the water reservoir Liptovská Mara and the Western Tatras from where it is just a few steps to the peak of Poludnica (1549m). We will get back along the same trail or we cann prolong it along the blue trail towards the locality of Kúpeľ, and from there along the green trail back to the saddleback of Rakytovica.
The bus station is directly at the starting / finish point of the tour. You can get there by bus with direction Liptovský Mikuláš to Liptovský Ján. The parking space is also suficient and free of charge.
There is neither mountain cottage nor lodging house in the vicinity of the trail to offer some food and bed. But directly at the car park there is a buffet and a restaurant – a traditional shepherd´s hut – which offer local specialties and accommodation. But there is a wide selection of year-round accommodation and food facilities in the village of Liptovský Ján.
Map preview (Hiking.sk)
The story of water is a modern experiential trail designed especially for families with children. It is located in the lower part of Demänovská Valley, and in its entire length, it passes through the riverbed of the Demänovka stream. Visitors will learn interesting facts about the water element and its natural significance through educational boards and stops. What´s more, they can recharge their batteries in rest places.
The trail is 4 kilometres long and not demanding. The whole trail is divided into two imaginary parts with regard to access possibilities and attractiveness. The first part leads from the Hotel Bystrina (bus stop) to the Hotel Chopok, where the route passes smoothly to the other side of the flow through a wooden bridge. This part of the route is more attractive and leads from the Chopok Hotel around the Demänovská Ice Cave to the most visited Slovak cave, the Demänovská Cave of Liberty.
Demänovská Valley is connected with Liptovský Mikuláš by regular bus service, which is relatively well-timed for the needs of tourists. The starting point of the tour is located right at the bus stop as well as at the finishing point. There is also an official car park at the starting point. It is free with sufficient capacity.
While ascending the nature trail, you can refresh yourself right at the beginning of the nature trail in hotels Bystrina, Tri studničky and Chopok, or in the Restaurant Riverside.
The widest selection of accommodation and gastronomic facilities within the Liptov region is directly in the Demänovská Valley.
Chata Generála Milana Rastislava Štefánika pod Ďumbierom (General M.R.Stefanik Chalet under Mt Dumbier) is one of the most popular chalets in the Low Tatras. It is situated just 1 hour walk from Mt Ďumbier, the highest peak of the mountain range. It was built in 1928 and is rightly considered a star of the development of tourism in the Low Tatras. The chalet provides accommodation and food services and it is also a strategic point for relaxation and recharging new energy while hiking around the national park. Not far from the chalet, there is a well-known Dead Bats Cave open to tourists.
Using the Jasná resort´s cable cars which take tourists to the crossroad beneath Mt Chopok, the route is undemanding. From the foot of Mt Chopok, a trip to „Štefánička“ takes less than 2 hours. Therefore it is also suitable for families with children. The chalet is accessible from a ridge hike through the Low Tatras, from Ďumbier peak or Chopok peak, and also from the region of Horehronie, the southern side of the Low Tatras.
Free parking is available in the village of Demänovská Dolina or in the resort Jasná. Local bus service from Liptovský Mikuláš is also available.
The village of Demänovská Dolina and Jasná resort offer a wide range of accommodation and food services. Chata M.R.Štefánika chalet itself also offers background for its visitors.
A nature trail focused on Shepherd´s thematic area is a pleasant path to diversify the route leading from the valley of Račkova Dolina to the top of the Western Tatras – Klin. We will find there 5 boards with information and photographs about sheep culture and history which lead us to the highest located shepherd´s hut in Slovakia. The rebuilding of the “komárnik” (a cheese warehouse – where cheese matured in the fresh air) in front of the hut and an establishment of an exposition of photographs in the hut bring the public how shepherds lived, their manifestations in the field of spiritual culture and folklore.
The trail begins at the mouth of the valley of Úzka Dolina, continues along the historical “tajch” (a water reservoir which was built for the needs of mining in past), passes through an old sheep road through the localities Nižná Lúka, Sigoť and Prostredné, and ends at the end of the valley of Račková Dolina, at the shepherd´s hut “Pod Klinom”. It is not an easy trail but the views of the Western Tatras are amazing.
There are free parking lots with limited space. There are no official parking lots at the mouth of the valley of Úzka Dolina. In particular, the vehicles park along the road and around the starting point. A paid car park is located a few km away, at the Open-Air Museum of Liptov Village (Múzeum Liptovskej dediny Pribylina).
The bus service runs from Liptovský Mikuláš to the Open-Air Museum of Liptov Village or the village of Pribylina.
For visitors, who take the tour by bus, the route is 7 km longer along the green trail called “Skanzen Pribylina – ústie Úzkej doliny” (Open-Air-Museum Pribylina – the mouth of the valley of Úzka Dolina).
There is no mountain cottage on the route. Temporary accommodation is available in the hut Koliba pod Klinom. There are several mountain hotels and boarding houses at the beginning of the trail and its vicinity (Horský hotel Akademik, Chata Orešnica, …) to offer food. There is also a campsite. You can also use the facilities in the village of Pribylina.
Covering history of medieval castles spanned with secrets and hitting the road on a bike – this is the route worth the try. Follow the life of medieval men documented behind remains and ruins of majestic castles gimped with legends, always the places where you can let your fantasy free.
If you are willing to free your mind during a pleasant “velo” trip and to get to know a track where low profile steam engines used to drag freshly cut wood in its cars – this is the right choice. At the end of the day you will be marveled by the scenery and effort delivered. This trip is a welcomed time spending activity at the foothills of The Low Tatras National park especially for history lovers; trip will lead to a splendid time of forestry railway. Visit Pribylina open – air museum to see the steam engine and few cars live on static display
Čutkovská Valley is one of the most visited destinations in the region, not only by Liptov residents but also by tourists from abroad. It is a great place to relax in the countryside mainly preferred by families with children mainly for the children´s amusement park “Obrovo”. The valley is picturesque along its entire length, which was further accentuated by the recently built nature trail Známa – Neznáma Čutkovská dolina (Known-Unknow Čutkovská Valley), but the most beautiful is its end by the water reservoir and establishment “Koliba u dobrého pastiera” (At the Good Shepherd).
The nature trail was created by enthusiasts from Černová district. The trail with several deviations is 6.1 km long and has 10 boards, 6 bridges and 3 benches for sitting. The biggest attractions are up to 24 meters high waterfall and a 64 meters long gorge.
10 educational boards along the length of the valley reveal the secrets of the local fauna and flora. Three boards are located in not easily accessible forest terrain, in the wild. They teach tourist about natural gems as magical waterfalls, gorges, and dense forests reminiscent of primeval forests. The highest point of the trail is a gorge at an altitude of 850 meters. The canyon of the gorge is 64 meters high and was created by the Čutkovský Potok River.
The nearest bus (public transport) stop is located just 5 minutes from the beginning of Čutkovská Valley, right by the main road. Availability of public transport connections to the bus/train station in Ružomberok is sufficient. There is free parking in the car park near At the Good Shepherd.
In addition to accommodation, there are several chalets and huts in the Čutkovská Valley offering traditional Slovak cuisine.
Mt Baranec (2184m) is a peak overlooking Liptovský Mikuláš. Along with Mt Kriváň, it is a dominant part of the town’s panorama and undoubtedly one of the most visited peaks of the Western Tatras and the region of Liptov. The reason is that the trail leading to Mt Baranec can also be a circle, complemented by a stop at the cottage of Žiarska Chata.
The tour starts at the paid car park at the mouth of Žiarska Valley, from where you take a steeper ascent along the yellow trail up to a forest and a fork of Holý Vrch (a peak) offering stunning views of the whole region of Liptov. After reaching the peak of majestic Mt Baranec (2184m) you will take an easy descent through Smrek up to the saddleback of Žiarske Sedlo (1917m) and then a steeper descent along the green and blue trail through the Žiarska Valley towards he cottage of Žiarska Chata. There you can get some food and drinks all the year as well as use accommodation services. From the cottage you have various options where to go hiking. You can continue downwards along an asphalt road or use the blue former hiking trail through the forest with an educational path or you can rent a scooter to get down to the car park – your finish poin
You can park on the paid spacious car park loacated at the mouth of the valley. You can also use the local bus service from Liptovský Mikuláš. The end bus stop is located approximately 400m from the starting point.
There are several food and accommodation facilities in the village of Žiar and the Žiarska Valley. At the beginning of the trail there is the cottage of Chata Kožiar providing accommodation and food as well as the cottage of Žiarska Chata which is situated at the hiking trail.
