You wake up to perfect weather outside – and you know today is the day for a proper trip. A quick shower, pack a few things, and you’re off. From Zvolen, Central Slovakia by Bike: 74km through Slatinské Lazy and Zaježová. Departure from home around 11:00.
Vígľaš
The ride through Lieskovec and Vígľaš goes smoothly, at a relaxed pace. We used to chase each other in the ruins of Vígľaš Castle. Today it’s renovated and transformed beyond recognition. It now bears the contemporary name of The Grand Vígľaš**** hotel. Beyond Vígľaš, the landscape begins to change. Gentle climbs, peace and quiet that’s hard to describe. It’s one of those moments when you tell yourself you need nothing more.
Viera Spring
Past Slatinské Lazy, I turn towards Lohyňa. Just beyond the village is Viera spring – a stop I never skip. Cold, lively mineral water. I refill my bottles, sit in the shade, and just take in the surroundings. I sip the cold mineral water and let time flow.
From Lohyňa to Zaježová
From Lohyňa, the road starts to climb – the section through Blýskavica is challenging, but worth it. Forests, meadows, and views alternate. In the distance, an information board – there’s a small spring, I refresh myself again. From there, it’s just a short hop to Zaježová.
Zaježová
Zaježová and Pliešovce are the gateway to the Krupina Highlands. A place many tourists call the Slovak Tuscany. You can take photos here without risking every shot being ruined by a pole, power line, or other disturbing element. Simply put, it’s an undiscovered piece of Slovakia that you need to return to regularly. Quiet settlements, old orchards, gardens, and a peaceful life at a different rhythm. A short break at the education center – a bit of rest, and I continue on.
The route from Zaježová to Sása is unforgettable. The descent from Zaježová towards Sása is pure poetry. Smooth asphalt, gravel, winding paths, picture-postcard nature. No cars, just wind and the rustle of trees. I truly savored this section – pure joy of riding.
Dobronivský Pond
From Sása, I head towards Dobronivský pond. A small refreshment, some quiet, a few fishermen, a couple on a bench. Calm water surface, the scent of summer, absolute tranquility.
Back to Zvolen
The last kilometers are just about returning. Familiar roads, but I perceive them with new eyes. Legs are tired, but the mind is clear. I pass familiar landmarks and realize how much I’ve experienced today.
Central Slovakia by Bike
- Route: Zvolen – Lieskovec – Vígľaš – Slatinské Lazy – Viera spring – Zaježová – Dobrá Niva (pond) – Zvolen
- Distance: 74 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 1324 m
- Time: approximately 8 hours on the road.
Not for performance, but for that good feeling. A beautiful cycling trip across Slovakia.
