Hradová nature trail
Route description
Tisovská Hradová (887 m above sea level) is one of the most striking landscape features in the surroundings of Tisovec. This massive and extensive hill of limestone boulders with numerous caves has provided people with safe housing since the Neolithic Age. Traces of prehistoric settlement can still be found almost all over the ridge. The peak of Hradová also hides the remains of a medieval castle, surrounded by many legends and rumors. Due to its undeniable natural values, it was declared a national nature reserve. This educational trail will introduce you to the natural beauties, attractions and history of Hradová.
The nature trail leads from the town of Tisovec along the southern slopes to the ridge itself. It has a total of 9 stops, the first of which is the information point, which is located next to the building of the Secondary Vocational School in Tisovec. The initial part of the nature trail runs parallel to the blue marked tourist trail (no. 2640) and heads SW from the information point below the foot of Hradová. Here is the 2nd stop, where you can learn information about the protected area you are entering. From this point, the nature trail runs parallel to the yellow marked tourist trail (no. 8483) and begins to climb significantly.
The nature trail ends at a small summit meadow, where a settlement of people of the Kyjatic culture stood in the Early and Late Bronze Age. For families with children and less able tourists, we recommend turning around at this point and continuing back along the same route of the nature trail.
Tip for the discerning
Hradova Circuit
If, after completing the nature trail route, you decide to continue on to Okrúhla skala and complete the circuit that will take you back to Tisovec, you will need a considerable amount of courage to overcome this exposed part of the rock ridge.
This section is marked as dangerous, so caution is really in order. This route is definitely not suitable for people who are afraid of heights, families with children and inexperienced tourists (in certain parts of the route you will move on rocky terrain, which requires experience with rock climbing).
The yellow marked hiking trail will take you to the rocky ridge of Hradová with beautiful views of the surrounding area and the view of Okrúhla skala. This place is a real reward for your efforts.
Practical information
The starting point is located directly in the town of Tisovec, near the Municipal Office. You can reach the town of Tisovec by road no. 531 or road no. 72.
Parking lot
parking lot approx. 200 m from the starting point - near the Tisovec bus stop, Námestie
Safety precautions
The nature trail route is intended exclusively for pedestrians. Continuing from the destination of the nature trail towards Okrúhla Skala leads through an exposed section of rocks. We do not recommend it for people suffering from vertigo, children and inexperienced tourists. We recommend choosing the way back to Tisovec along the nature trail.
