This route was born from a dream. I’d dreamed of the Enchanted Meadow, Kykula, Trojmedzie, and Megonky for years. The problem was always the same – no one to go with. Until now. With the right companion and a hunger to explore, we planned a route that would’ve been difficult to manage separately. The result? MTB Cycling to Trojmedzie: 140 km, 1800 meters of elevation, and an unforgettable day.
From Žilina to Kysuce and the first MTB climbs
We set off from Žilina toward Oščadnica. First stop: the Enchanted Meadow – calm and peaceful, perfect for a short break. Then came our first real climb, through the Vreščovské saddle up to the Polish border. We passed through the village of Zwardoń and returned to Slovak soil – with Kykula rising before us.
Kykula and the biggest bench far and wide
You have to climb to reach Kykula, but the view and the enormous panoramic bench are worth every drop of sweat. At 845 m above sea level, the views from up here deserve their own soundtrack. Pure poetry of nature.
Three Crosses, Skalité, and a well-earned beer
From Kykula, we continued to the Three Crosses on Grúň – another scenic spot. We descended via Gazdíkov to Skalité, where we paused for a short break and our first well-earned beer. But no time to linger – Malé Šance and an unexpected surprise awaited.
A giant swing and Trojmedzie
On the way, a massive swing surprised us – the kind that sends you straight back to childhood. We couldn’t resist. Next stop: Trojmedzie – the point where Slovakia, Czechia, and Poland meet. A symbolic place where you can literally stand in three countries at once. The main border stone is hidden in a stream bed, but we went all the way to it. No half-measures.
Jaworzynka, Hrčava, and the wolf from the past
We crossed from Poland’s Jaworzynka into the Czech village of Hrčava. Time for another beer – locally brewed, with a view straight out of a postcard. But we weren’t done yet. Our next stop: the monument to the last wolf.
The last wolf in the Moravian-Silesian Beskids was shot in 1914. The monument is hidden in thick brush, accessible only by an unofficial trail. We climbed over fallen trees, glancing around nervously – a bit spooky. But we found it. Quick photo and back to the road.
Šance: Guardians of the Jablunkov Pass
A light rain cooled us off as we reached the Šance fortress – specifically, the Great Šance. These historic fortifications were built in the 16th century as protection against the Turks. Later, they defended Silesia and were part of a vast system of 18 forts protecting the southern and southeastern borders. We explored the whole area, although time was running out.
Megonky: Spheres that weren’t meant to be thrown
Our final stop was Megonky – nearly perfectly round stone spheres. A unique geological formation found in only a few places in the world. Today, it’s a protected area, though people once took the stones home as decoration. The site now features benches and information boards.
Back to Žilina
We headed home through Čadca. Cycling to Trojmedzie had worn us out, but the fatigue blended with excitement. In a single day, we experienced breathtaking views, bunkers, border markers, wilderness, and geological wonders. If you’re looking for a cycling trip that’s not just about the kilometers but about the experience – this is it.
