Best of Slovakia Stage 3 Orava Castle - Liptovský Mikuláš
It is a scenic route with moderate difficulty. Expect biking up to 858 metres on the first 15 kilometres on road with minor traffic. After traversing villages Pribiš, Pucov and Pokryváč with some longer ascents, you turn left to an unpaved path to enjoy the views from a view tower in the shape of a giant chair at Bačov stolec.
The highest point of today’s stage is before Malatiná. Refresh yourself at a local pub in this village. From here, enjoy a long gradual descent in the valley down to Dušany. Here, you can choose between a bit harder, but a very scenic northern route or a bit easier southern route.
Northern route
From Dušany, you cycle across the hill to Prosiek village, before reaching the Liptovská Mara dam. From Liptovská Sielnica, there is a short section on the main road, before turning right to a paved road almost without traffic. Gravel road leads you up the hill to Trnovecké háje with splendid views. It will be paved after a while, enjoy descent to Bobrovec and cycle through Trstené to Liptovský Mikuláš.
Southern route
There is a marina before Bobrovník. Soon, you will reach an important archeological site, Havránok and a charming medieval church saved from a flooded village on the shore of Liptovská Mara dam.
After crossing the village Vlachy and reaching Krmeš, turn left and follow a gravel road to Galovany. In Svätý Kríž a bit further, turn right to see a massive wooden church Svätý Kríž, also saved from a flooded village nearby. There should be also local ladies to show you around for a small donation.
In Pavčina Lehota, you may be lucky to find a local farm open, selling fresh cheese or other dairy products.
After crossing the road to Demänová, bike up to an unpaved section with cool views and joyful downhill to Ploštín. From here, it is a short and easy cycling trip to Liptovský Mikuláš.
Your accommodation is centrally located. The town offers a museum and several bars and restaurants. Well recommended is especially a craft brewery and restaurant Liptovar, only a few minutes walk from your accommodation.
Malatiná / 17 km
The first local pub on the way and grocery store as well. Well deserved refreshments after the long climb.
Marina Liptov / Bobrovník
Stylish port for yachts on the shore of Liptovská Mara dam. Restaurant with a terrace and views.
Liptovar / Liptovský Mikuláš
Craft beer brewery and restaurant for your dinner at your final destination, just a few minutes walk from your accommodation.
Penzión Rotunda / Liptovský Mikuláš
Guest house with central location in town of Liptovský Mikuláš. Easy to reach the square and restaurants.
Contact information
Address: Námestie osloboditeľov 4, Liptovský Mikuláš
Telephone: +421 903 637 077
Bačov stolec / 13 km
Watch tower in the shape of a giant chair with swing and great views.
Havránok / 30 km
Archeological open-air museum from Iron age with wooden houses above Liptovská mara dam. Need to climb up a bit from the route to reach it.
Svätý Kríž / 45 km
Amazing massive wooden church saved from a flooded village with cool interior with capacity a few thousand people. Local ladies can show you around for a small fee.