Kaľamárka and Waterfall Bystrý stream

Proof that tourism in Slovakia is not just synonymous with the High Tatras or Slovak Paradise is also this trip of ours to the beauties of the Poľana mountain range. Enthusiasts of high-mountain hiking as well as day-trippers will find something for themselves. The highest peak of the mountain range, with the same name, reaches as high as 1457 meters above sea level. This time, we opted for lower altitudes.

Kaľamárka

Or else tall and steep rocks in the form of ovals, towers, or walls are admired not only by tourists but also by rock climbers. You can reach Kaľamárka by a pleasant 2 km walk, partly on a paved road and partly through the forest. It's also possible to drive to the parking lot by car, from where you can continue on foot. Information boards await you on-site, where you'll learn, among other things, about the volcanic origin of Kaľamárka and its formations, as well as the fact that Poľana was originally the largest volcano in Central Europe. From these unique volcanic formations, you'll have multiple beautiful views of Podpoľanie.

Waterfall Bystrý stream

Or else a waterfall with a height of 23 meters, which is among the largest and most powerful in Slovakia. You can get to the waterfall in two ways: either from below from Hriňová, where a nature trail leads, or from above from the path towards Chata Poľana. We chose the second option. We drove by car to the marker, from where we continued downhill through a beautiful meadow and then through a path in the dense forest. In the forest, you'll already hear the sound of the waterfall, as the path to it takes up to 30 minutes. Keep in mind that you'll be hiking back the same way and also that on this side of the path to the waterfall, there are ladders. More precisely, one longer not very stable ladder, composed of several smaller ones.

Therefore, equip yourselves with sturdy footwear. Also, include patience in your equipment, as the asphalt road to the marker is full of large potholes. I recommend setting out early in the morning by car, as you won't have to dodge not only potholes but also oncoming cars. The path is also suitable for cycling. You can hike up to Cabin Poľana, from where you can continue to the peak of Poľana.

Accommodation tip

This time, we broke our tradition of camping and stayed in a guesthouse. If you have a similar inclination, I recommend Penzión Anka. We enjoyed spacious rooms, half-board where you choose your dinner from the menu, and breakfast in the form of a rich buffet. Along with friendly staff, wellness facilities, a peaceful environment, and not being overcrowded with tourists.