Turňa Castle and Háj Waterfalls

During a holiday in South and Eastern Slovakia, me and my girlfriend have gone to see some of the more well-known places we have not visited so far. One of our goals was the Slovak Karst National Park. It is a territory with plenty of caves and ravines, the most famous of them are Zádielska Ravine and the Domica Cave.

The village of Háj, which lies on the border of the National Park short way from the city of Turňa nad Bodvou, was our starting point. From Háj, 4 hiking trails lead in 4 different directions, you just have to choose. We have chosen the direction of Háj Falls first and we have ridden our bikes there. Asphalt road goes all the way to the village of Hačava on the north border of the park and is a part of a longer cycling route. The road to the waterfalls is easy at first, while riding through the village, but much steeper once you leave the village. It is not too far to the falls though, so no worries.

Waterfalls as such were not astonishing to say the least, but it was probably caused by a lack of rainfall in the week before our visit. The fact, that one can also get there with a car, is a bummer. Number of people who had came to look at the waterfalls corresponded with this fact. It is not a place for quiet contemplation, especially during the weekend.

After a quick look at the waterfalls, we went back to the village, left our bikes behind and went to visit the Turňa Castle on foot. The castle is visible from practically everywhere, so we were looking forward to some nice views of the countryside from the top.

Most of the time we walked on a forest path, which was welcomed, as it was very warm and humid on this July day. The climb was gradual and not very long, even recreational tourists would not run out of breath. From the top of the hill, where the castle ruin lies, we have seen cities and villages on the flatlands to the east and south, and Slovak Karst National Park to the west and north.

Route and profile:

Your guide to Slovakia, Tomas