Discover Slovakia’s Velka Fatra: hike the stunning peaks Tlsta and Ostra, explore caves, valleys and family-friendly trips near Blatnica.
Two Limestone Giants Above Turiec
If you’re chasing the best hiking trails in Slovakia’s Velka Fatra, start with the iconic duo – Tlsta (1,373 m) and Ostra (1,247 m). Locals swear no self-respecting hiker leaves the Turiec region without conquering these two limestone giants towering above the Gaderska and Blatnicka valleys.
The Adventure Up Tlsta
The blue trail starts right in Gaderska Valley, near the ruins of Blatnica Castle.
Halfway up, don’t miss Mažarná Cave – a 130-metre long cavern with traces of prehistoric humans and cave bear bones.
The final push to Tlsta rewards you with sweeping views of the Turiec Basin, the rugged ridges of Mala Fatra, and even Ostredok and Krizna on the Velka Fatra main ridge.
Tip: The grassy summit of Tlsta, framed by giant limestone cliffs, feels a bit like Slovakia’s own Tomášovský View in Slovensky Raj.
Ostra – The Spiky Beauty
From Tlsta’s summit, follow the green trail for about 30 minutes along the ridge.
The climb to Ostra gets spicy: a chain-assisted scramble leads through a natural rock window – a photo spot you won’t forget.
The reward? One of the most photogenic rocky pinnacles in Slovakia with a 360° panorama of Turiec.
Descend via the yellow trail toward Muráň and Ústie Konského dolu; expect more hidden caves and unexpected rock formations.
Gaderska & Blatnicka Valleys – Easy Family Trips
Not every trip here requires a sweat-dripping summit push.
- Blatnica Castle: An easy 2 km walk (160 m elevation) from Blatnica – perfect with kids.
- Čertova Brána (Devil’s Gate): A gentle asphalt walk through Gaderska Valley; 16 km there-and-back with 250 m elevation, stroller-friendly.
- Blatnicka Valley: A 12 km out-and-back gravel path under the rocky walls of Ostra – ideal for a relaxed family hike.
Cycling Options for Gravel Lovers
- Gaderska Valley gravel loop: 32 km, 600 m ascent – continues into Dedošova Valley and up toward Kralova Studna.
- Blatnicka Valley trail: 12 km there-and-back, 200 m ascent. Combine both for a full-day MTB adventure.
Getting There
- Starting point: Village Blatnica, about 15 km south of Martin, Slovakia.
- By car: Parking near the entrance to Gaderska Valley.
- Public transport: Trains or buses to Martin, then local bus to Blatnica.
Before You Go
- The full hiking loop (Tlsta + Ostra) is about 15 km with 1,150 m elevation gain.
- Allow at least 6 hours for the full circuit.
- Ostra’s summit section is not suitable for small children.
- Bring sturdy hiking shoes and don’t skip water – the limestone sun can be brutal.
Why You’ll Love It
Because Velka Fatra National Park in central Slovakia hides a wild, less-touristy side of the Carpathians. Tlsta and Ostra deliver drama: caves, rock windows, prehistoric legends and endless panoramas – all without the crowds of the High Tatras.
Pro tip: Pair this hike with a visit to the historic town of Martin or a spa day in nearby Turčianske Teplice for the ultimate Turiec weekend.
