The 10 Best Nature & Parks in Banska Bystrica Region, Slovakia

In the highest point of Štiavnické vrchy with an excellent orbital outlook to all cardinal points. For its imposing location it creates a significant land dominating point. Changing of the Panonian and Carpathian flora is characteristic for this region. There are several protected plant and animal species here. The peak itself was inhabited already in prehistoric ages. During archeological works a huge Lužice stronghold was dicovered here. The medieval castle belonged to Koháry family, later to Coburg family. Sitno and its environs is considerd a birthplace of European tourism in moderate locations. Observation tower at the foot of the peak is in operation from Mai to September, at the same time it operates as information centre and also exposition of CHKO (Nature reserve) is located here.

Centuries of mining brought intensive use of wood and surrounding forests came to its limits. This - among aesthetical values - was the reason why the Botanical garden was established in 1838 on the ground of Mining Academy. Would exotic plants adapt and grow fast enough in Middle Europe climate? More than 250 different kinds of domestic and exotic plants make the scenery. Lean on our Giant Sequoia or Lebanese Cedar to refuel energy or just sit on the bench and relax.

The Pocuvadlo Lake surface mirrors the Sitno Hill since the 18th century. Pocuvadlo is the largest lake in Stiavnica´s water system and one of the most visited natural sites in general. It is popular for romantic walks in the nature, sailing, water biking, swimming in summer and little animal farm loved by children. Pocuvadlo is also the starting point for climbing the mythical Sitno Hill. The legend says, that inside the Sitno hill there are mighty Slovak knights sleeping for thousands of years. When Slovaks got in real trouble, knights will wake up. In fact, Sitno hill was inhabited already in prehistoric times, and a stone castle stands here since the 13th century. The castle played an important role in the provincial defence system and defeated Turkish troops more times. Preserved ruins of the castle are open for visitors; moreover at the very top of the hill you can visit a stone watchtower, supposedly the first in Europe. The landscape around is a mosaic of forests, meadows and pastures with many rare plants and animals. The cliffs at the top of the hill offer a panoramic view, under good visibility the Slovak Tatra and the Hungarian Matra Mountains can be seen.