Exploring the Wilderness of Slovak Paradise National Park

Through the Heart of Hornád Gorge

Today’s adventure was one I had eagerly anticipated: hiking through Prielom Hornádu, a spectacular gorge carved by the Hornád River in Slovak Paradise National Park. After several days of challenging climbs and breathtaking vistas, I was ready for a change of pace, and this gorge promised a unique experience. It was a day of natural beauty, thrilling river crossings, and serene forest trails, a perfect blend that made me feel truly connected to the heart of Slovakia.


Discover the natural beauty of Prielom Hornádu, a stunning nature preserve in Slovakia, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ranč Podlesok. The crisp morning air was invigorating as Katarína and I fueled up with some traditional Slovak fare. I couldn’t help but reminisce about my childhood in Brezno, where mornings like these were a regular part of life. Grabbing a quick coffee, we set off towards the trailhead, excitement bubbling within me.

The starting point was bustling with fellow hikers, a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to explore the natural wonders of Prielom Hornádu. The trail immediately plunged us into a lush forest, the canopy overhead creating a cool, shaded path. The sound of the Hornád River grew louder as we descended, the anticipation building with each step. Soon, we were walking alongside the river, its crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding greenery.

The initial part of the hike was relatively easy, a gentle stroll along the riverbank. Katarína, ever the enthusiastic photographer, was snapping away, capturing the vibrant colors of the foliage and the glistening water. I enjoyed pointing out different plant species, drawing on my knowledge of Slavic culture and history to add context to our surroundings. We passed several families with children, their laughter echoing through the gorge, adding to the cheerful atmosphere. The weather was perfect, a mild September day with just enough sunshine to keep us warm without being too harsh.

As we ventured deeper into Prielom Hornádu, the landscape transformed dramatically. The gorge narrowed, the towering cliffs rising sharply on either side. This is where the real adventure began. The trail became more challenging, requiring us to navigate a series of wooden and metal walkways suspended above the river. These structures, ingeniously engineered, allowed us to traverse sections where the river completely filled the gorge. With each step, the adrenaline surged as we carefully made our way across, the rushing water just inches below our feet.

The beauty of Prielom Hornádu lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel alive, connected to nature, and invigorated by the challenge.

One particularly memorable section involved crossing a narrow metal bridge, with just enough space for one person at a time. The bridge swayed gently with each step, adding an extra thrill to the experience. Looking down, I could see the river swirling and churning below, a mesmerizing sight that both captivated and slightly intimidated me. Katarína, despite her initial hesitation, bravely crossed the bridge, her face beaming with a mixture of excitement and relief.

We continued our hike, encountering more of these thrilling river crossings. Some sections required us to climb short ladders, while others involved carefully stepping across rocky ledges. At one point, we came across a small waterfall cascading down the cliff face, creating a refreshing mist that cooled us down. We paused to take in the scene, the sound of the water providing a soothing backdrop to our adventure.

Midday found us stopping for lunch at Reštaurácia Rumanka. This traditional Slovak restaurant, nestled in the heart of Podlesok, was the perfect place to refuel. We savored hearty portions of *bryndzové halušky* and *kapustnica*, classic dishes that reminded me of my *babka's* cooking back in Brezno. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service added to the charm, making it a truly delightful experience. Katarína enjoyed sampling some local wine, while I opted for a refreshing *Kofola*, Slovakia’s answer to Coca-Cola.


Discover authentic Slovak cuisine at Reštaurácia Rumanka in Hrabušice - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After lunch, we continued our journey through Prielom Hornádu. The afternoon light cast long shadows through the gorge, creating a magical ambiance. We encountered fewer hikers now, giving us a sense of solitude and allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings. The trail continued to challenge us, with more river crossings and rocky climbs. At one point, we had to carefully navigate a particularly slippery section, using ropes and chains for support. It was a true test of our teamwork and determination.

As the day drew to a close, we reached the end of the Prielom Hornádu trail. We emerged from the gorge into a peaceful meadow, the setting sun painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. We paused to take in the view, a sense of accomplishment washing over us. We had conquered the gorge, navigated the rapids, and experienced the true beauty of Slovak Paradise.

For a brief respite, we stopped by Hostinec Čarda, a local bar, for a celebratory drink. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our day’s adventures. The atmosphere was lively, filled with locals sharing stories and laughter. I felt a sense of belonging, a connection to my homeland that warmed my heart.


Experience authentic Slovak cuisine and warm hospitality at Hostinec Čarda in Letanovce, a cozy pub near Slovenský raj National Park.

Dinner was at Reštaurácia U Hudáka. Here, we enjoyed another round of traditional Slovak dishes. I opted for *Sviečková*, a delicious beef sirloin in cream sauce, while Katarína savored *pirohy*, dumplings filled with cheese and potatoes. The meal was a fitting end to a day of culinary delights, showcasing the rich flavors of Slovak cuisine.


Experience authentic Slovakian cuisine at Reštaurácia U Hudáka in Hrabušice - a must-visit dining destination for travelers.

As we made our way back to our campsite, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. Prielom Hornádu had challenged us, thrilled us, and connected us to the natural beauty of Slovakia. It was a day I would cherish forever, a reminder of the importance of adventure, teamwork, and cultural immersion.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Slovak Paradise and head towards Tatranská Lomnica, a charming town nestled in the High Tatras. I'm looking forward to seeing what wonders await us in this new locale. We'll have breakfast at Salaš Čingov, lunch at Chata Kláštorisko, and dinner at Reštaurácia PONIKLEC. Before we leave, I hope we have time to visit DUHA - darčeky, pohľadnice, mapy for some souvenirs. It's always nice to have something to remember a trip by.

As I settle into my sleeping bag, the sounds of the forest lulling me to sleep, I feel a deep sense of contentment. Today, I rediscovered a part of myself, a connection to my Slovak roots that had been dormant for too long. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that this journey is far from over, that there are still many more adventures to be had, many more stories to be told. This is just one chapter in our journey through the heart of Slovakia.