Baranec (2,185 m above sea level) ranks among the most dominant and most popular peaks of the entire Western Tatras. It rises directly above the Liptov Basin as a mighty guardian and offers a panorama where the raw beauty of the Roháče meets the sharp silhouette of the High Tatras, led by Kriváň.

Interesting facts about Baranec:

• Exception to the winter closure: Unlike most high-altitude trails in the Tatras, the route from Žiarska dolina (or from the mouth via Holý vrch) is usually accessible even in winter, making Baranec a top destination for winter hiking and ski touring.

• Third highest in the "Western Tatras": With an elevation of 2,185 m above sea level, it is the third highest peak of the Western Tatras, after Bystrá and Jakubina.

• A proper dose of elevation gain: Since you don't start from high mountain saddles, but directly from the mouth of the valley (approx. 890 m above sea level), you must overcome almost 1,300 meters of elevation gain of pure climbing without flatter rest sections.

• Natural amphitheater: From the summit, there is a unique view deep into the Jamnícka and Žiarska valleys, as well as onto the exposed ridge of Otrhance directly opposite.

Location map:

 

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The Nová Bystrica water reservoir is among the most photogenic and at the same time the quietest corners of the Kysucká Highlands. Unlike other Slovak dams, you won't find crowded beaches or motorboats here – it is a strictly protected drinking water reservoir that offers peaceful nature, dramatic history, and excellent cycling facilities.

Interesting facts and history

• Flooded villages of Riečnica and Harvelka: The construction took place between 1983 and 1989. Two distinctive Kysuce villages and dozens of surrounding hamlets and settlements fell victim to it. Nearly 3,000 residents had to be relocated from their homes.

• The solitary church in Riečnica: Of the original buildings, only one structure remains – the brick Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary from the late 19th century. It stands on an elevated bank above the water level and serves as a memorial site for the original locals.

• Second largest water reservoir: After the eastern Slovakian Starina, Nová Bystrica, with a volume of almost 33 million m³, is the second largest drinking water reservoir in Slovakia. It supplies the districts of Čadca and Žilina.

• Two-armed fjord shape: From above, the dam resembles a mountain fjord. The Kýčery massif divides the water surface into two long arms that follow the original riverbeds of the Bystrica River and the Riečnica stream.

• View of Veľký Rozsutec: From several sections of the shore and the dam, there is a direct view of the rocky silhouette of Veľký Rozsutec in Malá Fatra.

  Important notice: As this is a hygienic protection zone of the 1st and 2nd degree, bathing, water sports, boating, camping and sport fishing are strictly prohibited in the entire reservoir.

Availability

• By car: From road II/520 (link between Krásno nad Kysucou and Oravská Lesná). Parking areas are located at the turnoff to the dam wall in Nová Bystrica or at the Granátovci locality.

• By bus: Regular lines run from Žilina and Čadca towards Nová Bystrica and Vychylovka.

• By bike: The dam is directly connected to the Bystrická cycle route.

Activities and trip tips in the area

• Cycling loop around the reservoir (Cycle route no. 2434):

  The looped route measures approximately 28 – 30 km with a paved asphalt and gravel surface. It leads around the entire water area through the abandoned Riečnica and Harvelka. The profile is slightly undulating, ideal for trekking bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes.

• Museum of the Kysuce Village in Vychylovka (Open-air museum):

  Just a few kilometers from the dam, you will find a unique open-air museum of folk architecture, where original log houses transferred from the flooded villages of Riečnica and Harvelka also stand.

• Historic forest switchback railway:

  Part of the Vychylovka open-air museum with a functional switchback system, which ranks among technical monuments of world significance.

• Slovak astronomical clock in Stará Bystrica:

  In the neighboring village stands the only astronomical clock in Slovakia with wooden sculptures and a noon procession of apostles.

• Hiking to surrounding peaks:

  Marked trails lead to viewpoints in the Kysucká Highlands (e.g., Kýčera, Okrúhlica, or Vojenné) or further to the ridge of Malá Fatra.

A paradise for anglers and birdwatchers

While the nearby Liptovská Mara attracts swimmers and yachtsmen, Bešeňová is a quieter oasis with its own rules.

• A fishing rarity: The reservoir is literally a paradise for sport fishermen who come here for catches of trout and grayling.
• Bird reserve: The peaceful shores of the reservoir provide an ideal refuge for waterfowl. If you are a fan of birdwatching, don't forget to pack binoculars. Especially during spring and autumn migrations, you can observe rare species here.

What fish are caught here?

Since salmonid fish were not extensively artificially stocked into the reservoir in the past, the original stock came from the tributaries (for example, the Ľupčianka). Thanks to the rich food supply, however, the fish thrive fantastically here.

The main catches include:

1. Brown trout and lake trout (its lacustrine form): These fish commonly reach an average length of about 50 cm here, but real trophy specimens exceeding 70 or even 80 cm are also caught.
2. Rainbow trout: A favorite catch of fly fishermen, it is a very fighting fish and occurs here in beautiful sizes.
3. Common carp: Although Bešeňová is a trout fishery, at full water level in the bays (e.g., sections above flooded old roads) carp also stay, which anglers like to catch for fun, especially during summer lunches.
4. Grayling: It occurs mainly around the mouths of tributaries and in the more current parts towards Liptovská Mara.

Fishing at Bešeňová is referred to as a "university", as larger, older fish are already extremely cautious and experienced (it is said that they "know all artificial flies by name").

Travel back to the times of mysterious druids. Archeoskanzen Havránok will reveal the ancient secrets of Celtic settlement, ancient sacrificial sites, wooden fortifications, and the remains of a medieval castle – all with a breathtaking view over the waters of Liptovská Mara.

Archaeological Open-Air Museum Liptovská Mara – Havránok

The Archaeological Open-Air Museum Liptovská Mara – Havránok is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Liptov. It was established with the idea of preserving and presenting to the general public the results of long-term research that had been conducted here since the mid-1960s in connection with the construction of the Liptovská Mara water reservoir. In 1991, this hillfort was declared a national cultural monument.

Currently, there is a permanent exhibition of reconstructed structures from two historical periods:

• Younger Iron Age: Visitors can see a residential manor with a pottery workshop and farm buildings, a sanctuary with a paved floor and sacrificial pit, as well as multiple fortifications with entrance gates.

• Middle Ages: From the period of the 12th – 16th century, there is a timber-and-earth fort with fortifications. In addition, near the harbor pier, the original tower of one of the oldest churches in Liptov, the Church of the Virgin Mary, has been preserved.

Significant objects at the hillfort

Fortifications and Celtic sanctuary Hillforts in the northern Carpathians represented a stable place in the settlement structure from the Bronze Age to the beginning of the Roman period. The basis of the local fortification was a rampart made of a wooden grid filled with stones and clay. With the arrival of Celtic cultural influences, double-faced stone walls and complex systems of defensive gates began to be built.

• From the 2nd to 1st century BC, two bands of the front facing wall made of sandstone have been preserved.

• Between these bands, a stone stele was discovered with a hearth and various sacrificial gifts, such as jewelry, coins, grain, vessels, and agricultural tools.

• The entrance to the sanctuary was protected by a semi-tongue tower gate from the second half of the 1st century BC, which had an elevated northern part reinforced with a wooden structure and was protected from the inside by a terraced wall. A wooden palisade stood in inaccessible places.

Residential homestead The homestead is an example of a reconstruction of the way of living in the 3rd – 1st century BC. This residential area consists of several important parts:

• Dwelling: It is a two-room log house built on a stone foundation with a gable roof covered with reeds. Inside, traces of a stone hearth were found. The space was used for living, household chores, and craft activities.

• Pottery workshop: It consists of a shelter on beech posts, covered with a combined roofing of reeds and bark. There is a two-chamber kiln with a stoking pit used for firing ceramics, which in its current form is used for experimental purposes.

• The courtyard area also includes a well and other farm buildings.

In addition to the objects mentioned on the information boards, the Havránok archaeological open-air museum also hides other interesting places and secrets revealed by archaeological research.

• Druid sanctuary with a dark history: The Celtic cult site is complemented by a wooden colonnade decorated with animal skulls. During archaeological excavations, not only animal bones but also human bones with traces of violence and ritual sacrifice were found in the sacrificial pit. The Celts performed magical rituals here to win the favor of the gods (for example, to summon rain).

• Wooden watchtowers: As you walk through the area, you will come across watchtowers that were once used to observe the surroundings. Today they serve as excellent viewpoints offering a beautiful panoramic view of the entire Liptovská Mara and the peaks of the Tatras.

• Details of the medieval fort: The medieval timber-and-earth fort (with the basement of a wooden residential tower and a paved courtyard) also includes a reconstructed defensive moat with a bridge. From the 12th to the 15th century, this fort withstood Hussite raids and provided refuge for the inhabitants from marauding knights.

• život a rituály naživo (počas sezóny): Havránok nie je len statickým múzeom. V letných mesiacoch sa areál mení na "živú osadu", kde sa konajú podujatia (napr. Cesta históriou alebo S deťmi za Keltmi). Môžete tu vidieť ukážky starých remesiel, historického šermu, razenia mincí či rekonštrukcie keltských obradov.

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What awaits you in Lúčky and its surroundings?

• Relax in mineral water: The local Kúpele Lúčky spa is famous for its gypsum-sulphur water from the Valentín spring. Not only are women's and musculoskeletal problems treated here, but recreational visitors will also find something for themselves in the modern AQUA-VITAL Park (open year-round) with outdoor pools.

• A waterfall right in the village: Few villages in Slovakia can boast a 12-metre travertine waterfall right in their centre. The Lúčanský vodopád national natural monument falls into a turquoise lake, where free swimming is even permitted during hot summer days!
• Wild thermal springs in nature: A short distance from Lúčky, in the neighboring village of Kalameny, another treasure springs forth. The natural thermal spring Kalameny (also called Medokýš) creates a small free pool in which the water has a pleasant 33 °C – ideal also for an evening or winter swim under the stars.

• Hiking in the Choč Mountains: For the more active, the surroundings are an ideal starting point. From Lúčky and Kalameny, hiking trails lead directly to the majestic Veľký Choč (1,611 m above sea level) or to the ruins of the highest-situated castle in our country – Liptovský Castle.

Lúčanské travertíny: A living geological laboratory in the heart of Liptov

The process of their formation is fascinating:

• The age of the Lúčanské travertines is estimated at 200 to 140 thousand years, which falls into the previous interglacial period.

• Dimensions and formations in Lúčky: In Lúčky, these formations reach a massive thickness of 40 to 50 metres and were formed from thermal calcium-sulphate springs with a temperature of 17 °C to 33 °C. 

• Conditions and process of formation: The existence of an important fault line along which thermal springs emerge was crucial for the formation of travertines in Lúčky. The process begins with surface rainwater seeping through permeable rocks, such as limestones and dolomites, to a depth of several kilometres. At this depth, the water heats up and becomes enriched with minerals from the surrounding rocks, and subsequently, under hydrostatic pressure, it returns to the surface through the fault lines.

• Crystallization and fossilized imprints: When mineral water emerges at the Earth's surface, its temperature and pressure change, and gases escape from it, especially carbon dioxide (CO2). These changes, together with the influence of the plants and animals present, cause the process of calcium carbonate crystallization from the springing waters. Organisms die during this process, but they leave behind cavities and imprints in the rock that are especially characteristic of the Lúčany travertine.

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How to get there?

Access is trouble-free and Lúčky is a great destination for day trips:

• By car: Lúčky is only a few minutes' drive (about 15 km) from the town of Ružomberok, roughly 10 minutes from the main D1 highway (exit near Ivachnová). There are parking areas in the village and directly by the waterfall.
• By bus: From the train and bus station in Ružomberok (or from Liptovská Teplá), regular suburban lines run directly to the centre of the village and to the spa.
• On foot / by bicycle: The villages in Liptov are well connected by low-traffic asphalt roads and forest paths. A walk from Lúčky to the Kalamen spring takes about 30 minutes at a comfortable pace.

Map of the surroundings:

 

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 An unassuming, yet all the more enchanting hill in the Lučanská part of Malá Fatra, Čipčie (926 m above sea level).

Why is it worth visiting Čipčie?

For many years, Čipčie was not among the most famous peaks, but recently its popularity has been rightly rising. What awaits you at the top and along the way?

• Panoramic views: From the unforested summit, a beautiful circular view opens up. You will have the Žilina Basin, Rajec Valley, and Súľov Mountains at your fingertips, and with good visibility, you can also see the ridges of the Kysuce Highlands or the Moravian-Silesian Beskids.

• Summit cross and seating: Right at the top, there is a large wooden double cross and a bench where you can comfortably rest after the climb and enjoy a snack from your backpack.

• Peace and quiet: Although the location is becoming increasingly well-known, you still won't encounter the crowds you find on nearby Minčol or Kľak.

Access and route description

The most popular starting point is the village of Turie. You can plan the trip as a loop, so you won't have to walk up and down the same path.

• Ascending via the blue trail marker: The route starts directly in the village of Turie, climbs through the Pod Żelezom locality, and then winds along the western slope all the way to the summit of Čipčie.

• Combination of yellow and blue trail markers: A yellow route also leads from Turie (slightly more to the east). The ideal loop is therefore usually done by combining these two routes (for example, up the steeper blue trail and down the gentler yellow trail via the Nad Zadným junction).

This fascinating rock formation, almost 14 meters high, resembles a huge clenched fist or a wooden club stuck into the ground with its narrow part. It acquired its extraordinary shape thanks to the erosive activity of water, which shaped it for long centuries. It is rightly ranked among the most beautiful natural phenomena in our country.

Access Options

The trip to the budzogáň is manageable even for beginner hikers or families with children. Several routes lead to the rock, from which you can choose according to your fitness:

• From Rajecké Teplice (Educational Trail): The most popular route starts directly in Rajecké Teplice. It is a yellow 🟡 marked Educational Trail Stratený budzogáň, which is approximately 7 km long. Along the way, 6 information boards await you, gradually telling you the entire legend of the giant and Hromodub. The route takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
• From Zbyňov: If you are looking for a shorter alternative, you can start in the village of Zbyňov. The route connects to the yellow trail and the ascent from here is significantly shorter and faster.
• From Súľov: You can also get to the club from the opposite side of the hill, from the village of Súľov via Sedlo Patúch. This route takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Files for download

#	Route for download	Format
	Offline route for the Locus Map, Google Earth app	.kml

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Legend of the Giant and the magical Thunder Oak

Once upon a time, in a beautiful land, stood the most beautiful and largest tree that ever grew in the world - a majestic Thunder Oak. This miraculous tree belonged to all the people and animals in the area. Every child in the land knew its story and knew that the Thunder Oak had to be cared for with love. People regularly washed its leaves, gently cleaned its roots, and kept watch over it day and night.

How the Giant Traveler fell in love

One day, the Traveler Giant visited this peaceful land. When he arrived at the place where Thunderoak stood, he fell in love with it at first sight. After all, it was the most impressive tree he had seen during his travels around the world. The Giant did not hesitate and immediately began to devise dark plans to acquire this gem for himself alone, and forever.

How Janko Spáč kept watch

The fateful night came when a boy named Janko Spáč was supposed to keep watch by the tree. Janko, true to his name, lay down on the ground, closed his eyes, and fell fast asleep. He slept so deeply that if you were to lie down on the ground and close your eyes now, you would fall asleep exactly as he did then. It was this very moment of inattention that the Giant seized, taking hold of the defenseless Hromodub.

How it all ended

The giant tore the Thunder Oak straight out of the ground with his enormous hands and carved a huge club from it. However, that enormous noise woke up all the inhabitants of the countryside. They were truly angry! They were not going to let him take their beloved Thunder Oak just like that. They managed to outwit the giant and, as punishment, smeared his legs with sticky pitch.

The Angry Giant realized he couldn't move. In a fit of rage, he plunged his new mace from Thunder Oak deep into the ground and cursed it to turn to stone. And so it happened. The mace turned to stone and has remained standing there to this day, as a reminder of the greedy giant and the famous Thunder Oak.

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Looking for an ideal tip for an active weekend that even a family with children can easily handle? Swap the car for a bike and set off on one of the most beautiful cycling routes in northern Slovakia! The route directly from Žilina to Jánošík's region will offer you everything you expect from a perfect trip. A safe asphalt path away from busy traffic, a refreshing ride along the Váh river, and breathtaking views of the majestic peaks of Malá Fatra await you.

What awaits you on the route: From the water to the mountain peaks

1. Start at the Žilina Water Works

The trip usually starts at the Žilina Waterworks. Right at the beginning, you will be greeted by a pleasant recreational atmosphere. You can watch sailboats, paddleboarders, or flocks of swans and ducks. The smooth asphalt path will lead you along the water's edge with views of the surrounding hills, which is ideal for warming up your muscles.

2. Confluence of the Váh and Varínka rivers and the "flying" Straník

As you approach the village of Varín, the route will take you around the confluence of the Váh and Varínka rivers. If you look at the Straník hill rising above Žilina, on sunny days you will almost certainly see dozens of colorful parachutes. Straník is, after all, the mecca of Slovak paragliding, and the sight of circling pilots completes a great scenery.

3. The refreshing company of the Varínka River

A significant part of the cycle route follows the course of the mountain river Varínka. Thanks to this, the ride is pleasantly cool even during hot summer days. Crystal-clear water, babbling cascades, and picturesque corners with wooden footbridges are ideal places for short stops, a picnic, or at least dipping your feet in the refreshing water.

4. Safe riding through picturesque villages

The new cycle route is the pride of the region, as it is largely segregated – separated from the main car traffic. You will pass through the cadastral areas of villages such as Krasňany, Stráža and Belá. Along the way you will see traditional and modern rural architecture, sheep grazing on the surrounding meadows, and benches ready for a rest.

5. Fun and relaxation at Camping Belá

Before the gates of Terchová you will pass the famous Autocamping Belá - Nižné Kamence. It is a perfect strategic point for a break, especially if you are going with children. There is a mini zoo with animals, children's playgrounds and refreshment stands where you can replenish fluids (for example, with draught Kofola) and energy before the final climb.

6. Panorama of Malá Fatra and arrival at Jánošík

As you approach Terchová, the best part begins to unfold before you. Right from your bike, you'll have an exclusive view of the rocky ridges of Malá Fatra – the dominant Malý and Veľký Rozsutec or the Sokolie massif. At the very destination in Terchová, watching over you from the hill is the majestic stainless steel statue of Juraj Jánošík.

The route will be enhanced by views of the Malá Fatra mountain range

Warning: The cycle highway connecting Žilina with Terchová is a beautiful and popular route, but to ensure a smooth and safe ride, we would like to draw your attention to the following important situations you will encounter on the way:

• Safety bollards in the cycle lane: On several sections, especially at the entrances to wooden bridges and at crossings, bollards are placed directly in the middle of the cycle path. Be particularly cautious, especially if you are riding in a group or closely behind another cyclist, so that you have enough time to react and safely pass the obstacle.
• Sharp and blind bends: The route follows the terrain and includes several sharp bends. In these sections, it is essential to slow down significantly and pay more attention. Blind spots may hide oncoming cyclists or pedestrians, so always adjust your speed so that you are able to stop safely in time.
• Crossing a road: At the turnoff to Lysica, the cycle route briefly crosses a road, specifically through an unclear section over a bridge into the village of Lysica.
• Final section of the route to Terchová: It crosses the main road for cars, but it is possible to bypass it and thus avoid traffic.

Watch out for safety bollards before the footbridges

Road crossing and blind section (Lysica)

Ride sensibly, adapt your speed to the surroundings, and enjoy a beautiful and safe ride all the way to Terchová!

At the Terchovské srdce lookout tower, we can take a photo with the heart and the mountain panorama

Location map:

Accommodation:

Wooden cottage complex just a 10-minute walk from the center of Terchová.

🏡 Maisonette apartments: Soundproofed cottages in a traditional wooden style.
🧖 Wellness and spa: A relaxation pool and original beer spa.
🦖 Activities for children: A rope playground and Dino Park just 15 meters from the cottages.
🔌 Charging station: Convenient electric vehicle charging directly at the resort.

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Apartmán Vrátna: A mountain apartment in Terchová with a terrace and direct ski-in access.

🛋️ Furnished apartment: Bedroom, living room with TV, bathroom and terrace with a view.
🍳 Kitchen: Equipped kitchen with fridge and dishwasher.
🎿 Ski service: Ski-in access, ski storage and equipment rental.
🚗 Comfort: Free Wi-Fi, private parking and an excellent location for hiking.

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Chalúpka Jánošikove diery: A stylish mountain chalet with a hot tub at the entrance to Jánošíkove diery.

🏡 2 bedrooms and a terrace: A living room with a TV, a modern bathroom, and a river view.
🛁 Hot tub: Private relaxation and recovery after a full-day hike.
🍳 Fully equipped kitchen: Everything you need to cook for yourself.
🚗 Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking right at the property, and a great location.

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Zvonica u Marunov is not just an architectural monument. It is the heart of the settlement and a silent witness to times when the sound of the bell guided daily life, warned of danger, and united people. Today, this exceptional place offers visitors a window into the past and the unique atmosphere of traditional countryside surrounded by beautiful nature.