Oravský Podzámok is a small village in northern Slovakia, sitting at the foot of Orava Castle, one of the country's most famous medieval fortresses. It lies in the Orava region, about 11 km north of Dolný Kubín, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Orava Highlands. The Orava River flows through the area, shaping both the landscape and the history of the settlement. The village has a long history, with evidence of habitation dating back to the turn of the first millennium. However, it was first mentioned in writing in 1267, mainly in connection with the castle. For centuries, it was a settlement of castle workers and farmers under the rule of noble families like the Thurzos. It remained closely tied to the castle until the 19th century when it became an independent municipality. The main attraction is Orava Castle itself, an impressive fortress built on a steep rock overlooking the village. The castle has sections from different time periods, ranging from the 13th to the 17th century. It includes a lower, middle, and upper part, with defensive towers, palaces, and a chapel. Since the 19th century, the castle has housed a museum showcasing historical artifacts and medieval life. Apart from the castle, Oravský Podzámok has a few other historical sites, such as the Church of St. John of Nepomuk, built in the early 19th century, and several administrative and residential buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the old post office and the former prefecture building. The village has a small population of around 1,300 people, maintaining a quiet, traditional atmosphere. Today, it is a popular tourist spot, especially for those visiting Orava Castle or exploring the natural beauty of the Orava region. The area is known for hiking, cycling, and winter sports, with easy access to the nearby mountains.

Oravský Podzámok is a small village in northern Slovakia, sitting at the foot of Orava Castle, one of the country's most famous medieval fortresses. It lies in the Orava region, about 11 km north of Dolný Kubín, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Orava Highlands. The Orava River flows through the area, shaping both the landscape and the history of the settlement. The village has a long history, with evidence of habitation dating back to the turn of the first millennium. However, it was first mentioned in writing in 1267, mainly in connection with the castle. For centuries, it was a settlement of castle workers and farmers under the rule of noble families like the Thurzos. It remained closely tied to the castle until the 19th century when it became an independent municipality. The main attraction is Orava Castle itself, an impressive fortress built on a steep rock overlooking the village. The castle has sections from different time periods, ranging from the 13th to the 17th ce...

Slovenský raj National Park is one of Slovakia’s most stunning natural areas. The name means "Slovak Paradise," and it fits—the park is a maze of deep gorges, waterfalls, and dense forests, crisscrossed by ladders, wooden bridges, and chain-assisted pathways that turn hiking into an adventure. If you like nature with a bit of adrenaline, this place is for you. The park is in eastern Slovakia, covering nearly 200 square kilometers of rugged limestone terrain. Over centuries, the Hornád River and its tributaries carved dramatic canyons and ravines into the landscape. The most famous of these is Suchá Belá, a gorge with wooden walkways and metal ladders leading past waterfalls. Prielom Hornádu, a breathtaking river canyon, is another highlight, where hikers traverse cliffside ledges and wade through the river itself. One of the most famous viewpoints is Tomášovský výhľad, a rocky outcrop offering sweeping views over the Hornád valley. Rock climbers love it, but you don’t need ropes to reach the top—just sturdy hiking boots and a bit of stamina. Hidden beneath the park’s surface are over 350 caves, but only Dobšinská ľadová jaskyňa (Dobšinská Ice Cave) is open to visitors. This UNESCO-listed cave, filled with massive ice formations, is one of the largest ice caves in Europe and stays frozen year-round. Wildlife thrives here. The dense forests, covering 90% of the park, shelter brown bears, wolves, lynxes, and golden eagles. The meadows are filled with rare flowers, and the park has one of the highest concentrations of butterflies in Slovakia. Tourists flock to the park year-round. In summer, it’s a haven for hikers, and in winter, the trails turn into cross-country ski routes. The main gateways are the villages of Čingov, Podlesok, and Dedinky, where you’ll find accommodations and trailheads leading into the wilderness. If you’re looking for a national park that combines raw beauty with a bit of adventure, Slovenský raj is a must-visit.

Slovenský raj National Park is one of Slovakia’s most stunning natural areas. The name means "Slovak Paradise," and it fits—the park is a maze of deep gorges, waterfalls, and dense forests, crisscrossed by ladders, wooden bridges, and chain-assisted pathways that turn hiking into an adventure. If you like nature with a bit of adrenaline, this place is for you. The park is in eastern Slovakia, covering nearly 200 square kilometers of rugged limestone terrain. Over centuries, the Hornád River and its tributaries carved dramatic canyons and ravines into the landscape. The most famous of these is Suchá Belá, a gorge with wooden walkways and metal ladders leading past waterfalls. Prielom Hornádu, a breathtaking river canyon, is another highlight, where hikers traverse cliffside ledges and wade through the river itself. One of the most famous viewpoints is Tomášovský výhľad, a rocky outcrop offering sweeping views over the Hornád valley. Rock climbers love it, but you don’t need ropes...