The trek will begin with a short transfer from the town of Ružomberok to the starting point of the trail in Vlkolinec (remote village listed in UNESCO World Heritage). From there, you will begin your journey through the Velka Fatra Mountains, passing through dense forests, open meadows and several peaks. You’ll spend three days walking, with two nights spent in the mountains, in a remote hotel and a remote mountain hut.
One of the highlights of the trek is the chance to experience the beautiful and clear night sky, as the Velka Fatra Mountains National Park is one of the Dark-Sky Parks of Europe. You’ll be able to enjoy the stunning starscape from the doorstep of your accommodation, adding an extra element of adventure and excitement to the trip.
Throughout the trek, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the area, with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. The trail is suitable for beginner trekkers, but there are a few challenging sections, which includes steep ascents to the peaks on the way.
The Skyline Velka Fatra Trek is a fantastic way to explore the wilderness of the Velka Fatra Mountains, away from the crowds of other hikers. With stunning views, remote accommodations, and the chance to experience the beauty of the night sky, this trek is sure to be an unforgettable adventure for all who embark on it.
GENERAL INFORMATION
• Meeting point: Krakow Airport in Poland at 16:00 on Wednesday
• Drop off: Krakow Airport in Poland at 12:00 on Sunday
You can fly to Krakow from all over Europe.
Perfect for:
This is the perfect getaway if you’re seeking an active weekend getaway in beautiful, yet less known part of Europe. The trip includes hikes and activities of moderate difficulty (12km of walking a day on average with elevation of up to 700 meters). The whole trek is 38 km long with cumulative elevation of 2200 meters.
Learn more about the details in the itinerary or FAQs.
This tour can be organised as a private group tour as well. Contact us for a quote at [email protected].
What is included in this tour?
- 2 nights accommodation in twin rooms, in 3* hotels
- 2 nights accommodation in dorm rooms in mountains
- All breakfasts
- Lunches on days 2, 3 and 4
- Dinners on days 2 and 3
- English speaking local guide
- Krakow Airport group transfers
- Meals as described
- Travel expenses to Krakow
- Personal expenses (drinks, gratitudes, etc)
Itinerary
Tour Plan
Arrival
You will meet with our taxi driver at the Krakow Airport on the first day at 16:00 and you will be driven you to your hotel in the town of Ružomberok.
Our guide will meet you in the evening for dinner to meet the whole group and to review the whole plan.
Overnight in the town of Ružomberok, in a 3* hotel and twin rooms.
From Vlkolinec to Smrekovica
The first day of The Skyline Trek begins in the picturesque village of Vlkolinec, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, you’ll start your trek through dense forests. This day serves as an introduction to the trail and the area, and you’ll get to experience the peacefulness of the forest.
As you emerge from the forest, you’ll be greeted with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. From there, you’ll continue your trek along the ridgeline, with the occasional climb and descent.
After a full day of trekking, you’ll arrive at Smrekovica, where you’ll spend the night in remote resort in the mountains. This will be a great opportunity to relax and recharge before continuing on to the more scenic parts of the trail on days two and three.
Length: 11 km, Total elevation: 880 meters, Estimated walking time: 6 hours
From Smrekovica to Borišov
Today you will continue the trek from Smrekovica, climbing up towards the peak of Rakytov and Ploska. This part of the trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it one of the highlights of the trek.
After reaching the peak of Ploska, the group will continue their trek towards a remote mountain hut under peak Borisov, where you’ll spend the night. If the evening is cloudless, you’ll have the option to ascend to peak Borisov above the hut to enjoy the sunset and take in the stunning views from the top.
This day is more challenging than the previous one, but it is also more rewarding. With the opportunity to experience the beauty of the sunset from peak Borisov, it is sure to be an unforgettable day for all who embark on The Skyline Trek.
Length: 14 km, Total elevation: 750 meters, Estimated walking time: 7 hrs
From Borisov to Kralova Studna
On day three you will continue the trek along the main ridge of the Velka Fatra Mountains, passing through vast meadows where local shepherds bring their herds of sheep to graze during the summer months. The scenery is breathtaking, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The trail continues through peaks Ostredok and Krizna. The terrain is relatively easy, with a gentle climb and descent, making it a great day for enjoying the scenery and taking in the fresh mountain air.
The day will end at Kralova Studna, where you will take a bus down to the town of Banska Bystrica for overnight. This will be a chance to rest and relax after three full days of trekking, and to explore the charming town with its rich history and culture.
Length: 13 km, Total elevation: 500 meters, Estimated walking time: 6 hrs
Overnight in the town on Banska Bystrica, in a 3* hotel and twin rooms.
Departure
You will be picked up by a taxi driver and taken back to Krakow Airport. If you have a late flight, you’ll have some time to explore the city of Krakow before your departure. The city is filled with historic architecture, charming streets, and delicious food, making it a great place to spend a few hours.
You will be back at the airport at around 12:00, so it is safe to book the flights back after 14:00.
