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Photo: Región Šariš, Šariš region
Short nature, conservation, and historical educational trail from Veľký Šariš leads to the ruins of Šariš Castle. It presents the unique natural, geological, and historical values of the volcanic hill and its surroundings.
The educational trail leads visitors from Veľký Šariš to the top of Šariš Hill with the ruins of the castle of the same name. Along the ascent, you will learn about the natural values and geological structure of this prominent volcanic hill, which is also a national nature reserve. Along the way, you will also get views into the ancient history of settlement in this area – from prehistoric times to the glorious era of Šariš Castle.
The stops on the trail are thematically divided – the first part (stops 1 – 5) is devoted to nature, the second part (6 – 10) to the history of the castle. The informational panels are prepared in several languages (SK, EN, DE, HU, PL). There are additional information boards in the castle area itself. The dominant feature is the prism tower – donjon – with a view of the Torysa Basin and surrounding mountain ranges.
Author’s recommendation
- At the beginning of the educational trail, we recommend visiting Archopark presenting traditional medieval life.
- We recommend combining the trip with a visit to the center of Veľký Šariš or one of the cultural events (e.g., City Days).
- At the top of Šariš Hill, there is a maintained castle area with benches, a lookout tower, and a seasonal guide.
- On the way back, you can use alternative routes – old access roads outside the marked trail.
- Ideal place to combine hiking, history, and natural beauty – also recommended for families with children.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Rest stops
Šariš ParkVelki Saris
Safety information
- The route follows forest trails with gentle to moderate inclines – we recommend sturdy hiking shoes.
- In case of rain or snow, the surface may be slippery.
- Move carefully in the castle area – it is a ruin with steep slopes and unsecured edges.
- Do not leave the marked trail, protect yourself and nature.
Tips and suggestions
On the route and at the castle:
- Benches and gazebos are placed in the castle area for relaxation.
- Picnic possibility – bringing your own refreshments is recommended.
- In the summer season, a small buffet is usually open at the castle (depending on events and opening hours).
- Areas with an increased presence of insects – suitable repellents advised.
Attractions on the route and in the surroundings Šariš Hill (570 m a.s.l.): a distinctive forested andesite elevation – a volcanic outcrop with remarkable flora and fauna
- National nature reserve: occurrence of protected species – Šariš clover, golden-headed lily, rock owl
- Šariš Castle: one of the largest castle complexes in Slovakia, originally royal, later rebuilt into a fortress
- Veľký Šariš: historic town with monuments (St. James Church, St. Kunhuta Chapel, steam mill, J. Tomášik-Dumín memorial, ruins of Mlynska džurka)
- Šariš Brewery: the largest brewery in Slovakia (founded 1964)
- Routes E8 and the SNP Heroes' Trail: long-distance hiking routes crossing the town
Roadbook
Names of information panels
- National Nature Reserve Šariš Castle Hill. Educational trail Šariš Castle Hill route (two panels)
- Forest communities
- Vegetation
- Geomorphology and geological structure
- Fauna
- Please visitors. Houfnagli engraving (two panels)
- Prehistoric settlement of the castle
- Beginnings of the castle. Castle in the 15th century (two panels)
- Imperial fortress. Decline and disappearance of the castle (two panels)
- Castle at present
Information panels in the field are not marked with the name of the educational trail.
Šariš Park
Kaplnka sv. Kunhuty
Mlinská džurka - parný rušeň
Velki Saris
Kamenický hrad
Hrad Šariš
Public transport
Public transport from Prešov (Veľký Šariš), then on foot along the yellow marked trail (1 km, elevation gain 65 m)
Parking
Parking lot below the castle
Coordinates
Equipment
Hiking shoes, a water bottle, windproof jacket.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
User Questions