Exploring the Wilderness of Slovak Paradise National Park

Tranquility by the Reservoir

Today in Klauzy Slovak Paradise National Park was a day of peaceful exploration and quiet reflection. After the exhilarating climbs and waterfall views of the past couple of days, Katarína and I were ready for something a little more subdued. We decided to visit the Klauzy reservoir, a spot known for its serene beauty and calming atmosphere. It turned out to be exactly what we needed, a gentle reminder of the diverse landscapes this park holds.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Klauzy Slovak Paradise National Park, a must-visit nature preserve in Slovakia.

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Nostalgie, Restaurant-Café in Spišská Nová Ves. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of traditional Slovak pastries filled the air. I opted for the bryndzové pirohy, while Katarína chose a sweet makový závin. Fuelled up, we set off towards Klauzy, eager to see what the day would bring.

The drive to Klauzy was scenic in itself. The winding roads took us through lush forests, the sunlight dappling through the canopy creating an ethereal glow. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. I couldn't help but feel a sense of homecoming, the familiar landscapes of my native Slovakia always manage to stir a deep sense of nostalgia within me.

Klauzy is known for its water reservoir, nestled in the eastern part of the Slovak Paradise on the Biel Potok. As we approached, the reservoir revealed itself, a tranquil expanse of water surrounded by dense forest. The still surface reflected the sky above, creating a mirror image of the surrounding hills. It was a scene of perfect serenity. It's a beautiful forest environment and evokes a low-lying marsh. You can get to this place, for example, from the Čingov resort via Holý kamen or along Bielý potok, against the direction of its flow.

We parked the car and took a leisurely stroll along the marked trail that encircles the reservoir. The path was easy, a welcome change from the previous days' more challenging hikes. We walked hand in hand, enjoying the quietude and the stunning views. The reservoir, also known as Tajch Klauzy, was built in 1781 for the purpose of wood rafting and has been renovated twice. In 1980, it was adapted for fish farming, and in 1985, it was declared a cultural monument. The reservoir is surrounded by hills and dense forests, offering a charming and romantic atmosphere in every season.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in conquering peaks, but in embracing the quiet beauty of a still lake.

As we walked, we noticed the diverse flora and fauna that call this place home. Dragonflies danced over the water's surface, their iridescent wings catching the sunlight. We spotted several species of birds, their calls echoing through the trees. The park is indeed a haven for many rare and endangered species of animals and plants. I wished I hadn't forgotten my binoculars; Katarína would have loved to get a closer look at the birds.

We learned that the reservoir has a rich history, originally built in 1781 to aid in the transport of timber. It was fascinating to think about the generations of people who had relied on this body of water for their livelihoods. The dam was owned by the Csáky family, and the reservoir was renovated twice. In the middle of the upper crown of the dam is a so-called crown overflow of water in the form of a wide wooden trough. Above it, a guard booth with a frame structure and a four-pitched, or hipped, roof was built.

Continuing our walk, we reached a small wooden bridge that crossed a narrow part of the reservoir. We paused here, taking in the panoramic view. The water was so clear that we could see the bottom, the submerged plants swaying gently in the current. I took out my camera, trying to capture the beauty of the scene, knowing full well that no photograph could truly do it justice.

After our walk around the reservoir, we decided to have lunch at Reštaurácia PONIKLEC. We both were quite hungry after our walk around the reservoir. The restaurant offered traditional Slovak cuisine, and we opted for halušky with bacon and cabbage. The food was hearty and delicious, the perfect complement to our day of outdoor activity.


Experience authentic Slovakian cuisine at Reštaurácia PONIKLEC in Hrabušice – where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.

With our bellies full, we made a stop at Nad Tatrou - Slovenské darčeky a dekorácie. I always enjoy browsing local shops, looking for unique souvenirs to bring back home. This shop was filled with traditional Slovak gifts and decorations, from hand-painted wooden ornaments to intricately embroidered textiles. Katarína, with her keen eye for detail, spent a good amount of time admiring the craftsmanship. We ended up buying a few small items, a reminder of our time in Slovak Paradise.


Explore Nad Tatrou for unique Slovak gifts, custom t-shirts, and handmade decorations that capture the spirit of your travels.

For dinner, we decided to try Pizza Fonzy Restaurant in Hrabušice. After a day of traditional Slovak food, we were both in the mood for something a little different. The pizza was delicious, the crust thin and crispy, the toppings fresh and flavorful. It was a satisfying end to a wonderful day.


Experience the best pizza in Hrabušice at Pizza Fonzy Restaurant - where authentic flavors meet friendly service.

As we drove back to our campsite, I reflected on the day's experiences. Klauzy was a welcome contrast to the more strenuous hikes we had undertaken earlier in the week. It was a place to slow down, to breathe, and to appreciate the simple beauty of nature. It reminded me that sometimes, the most rewarding travel experiences are the ones that allow you to connect with a place on a deeper level.

Tomorrow, we plan to hike to Bykárka. From what I've read, it promises more stunning views and challenging terrain. I'm already looking forward to it, but I'm also grateful for the peaceful day we had today at Klauzy. It was a perfect reminder of the diverse beauty of Slovak Paradise.

Before we turn in for the night, I realize I've been meaning to try brewing a traditional Slovak beer. I think I'll set aside some time when we get back to Potsdam to try my hand at it. It would be a great way to keep the spirit of this trip alive, and perhaps share a taste of Slovakia with our friends back home.