Undoubtly, Slovakia, is famous for its resorts, historical attractions and many others. But in the North-West of the country the tourists will find another Slovak surprise - Malá Fatra National Park. Through all its territory extends the same mountains. The entire park covers an area of 22,630 hectares, the protected area is 23,262 hectares.
In a relatively small area nature lovers will find various mountain formations: mountain ridges, defiles, gorges and valleys. The dominant component in the composition of the rock mass is granite. The northern and eastern slopes, unlike the southern ones, exposed to granite, consist of quartzite, sandstone, slate, marl, limestone and dolomite. The nature endowed these places with unique rock formations, gorges and canons. Vrátna valley is especially popular with tourists. Breathtaking and rocky cliffs, wooded slopes and excellent ski resorts please the eye. The crystal cave under Malý Rozsutec with garlands of calcite, Šutovský waterfall, the northern 7 km long section of the Vag river located between Dubná skala and Strečno, and all these gems, spread on these places are awaiting for their visitors. The highest place of the National Park is Greater Tatra Krivanya crest (гребень Большого Татранского Криваня) that is 1709 m high.
More than half of the park area is covered by mixed forests, predominantly beech. The tourists, arriving in this wonderful place, are waiting for a meeting with a large number of representatives of the local flora and fauna. Flora presents more than 900 kinds of plants. The bear, lynx, otter, eagle rock, rock owl, capercaillie, etc. are the brightest representatives of the fauna here.
For several decades these places attract not only Slovak, but also a large number of foreign tourists. The most popular centres are Vrátna valley, and Štefanová Martinské Hole. In summer the tourists are offered an extensive network of hiking trails and in winter Malá Fatra National Park receives ski enthusiasts as there are trails for beginners as well as professionals here.
