Námestovo between the Reservoir and Island Culture

Námestovo between a Large Reservoir and Island Culture

In the area around Námestovo, the Orava Dam combines a vast waterscape with unusual cultural sites and active facilities. The reservoir covers 35 km² and is one of the largest reservoirs in Slovakia. For visitors who want to combine experiencing nature with physical activity, the Orava Dam offers very good conditions for windsurfing. This provides a specific water-sports experience alongside historical and family-oriented excursion destinations.

Slanica Island of Art: History on an Island

Slanica Island of Art holds a special position. The Baroque church and the Calvary on Slanica Island of Art were once the dominant features of Slanica. The history of the place is closely linked to the creation of the Orava Dam: Slanica and four other villages disappeared beneath the reservoir, while Slanica Island of Art was preserved as an island.

The Calvary is a religious Stations of the Cross and complements the Baroque church as the island site's second sacred element. The church on Slanica Island of Art houses the exhibition “Slovenská tradičná ľudová plastika a maľba”. It is complemented by the outdoor exhibition “Oravská kamenárska tvorba”, dedicated to the stonework of the Orava region from the 18th and 19th centuries. A visit thus leads from preserved sacred architecture to traditional folk art and regional craftsmanship. Slanica Island of Art can only be visited during the season and is accessible by excursion boat. Loď Slanica provides a connection between Slanická osada and Slanickým ostrov (Ostrovom umenia) on the Orava Dam.

Parkour and Skateboarding Directly by the Water

Different facilities are available by the water for a more active stay. The PARKOUR PARK was built on the shore of the Orava Dam in summer 2018. It includes elements for beginners and slightly advanced users and is also aimed at experienced parkour athletes, freerunners, and enthusiasts of street-workout exercises. The facility therefore caters to several experience levels without limiting the location to a single sport.

The Skatepark v Námestove is a solid-concrete skatepark located directly on the shore of the Orava Dam. Its central area includes a funbox, a spin, and a bowl with a platform. The multi-level street line features rails, boxes, and a long curb for skaters and bikers. Those who want to consider water sports, parkour, or skateboarding when choosing a destination will find clearly distinct options here: windsurfing on the Orava Dam, exercise facilities at the PARKOUR PARK, and various elements at Skatepark v Námestove.

Other Destinations for Orientation

For comparing other travel destinations in Slovakia, you can also consider Oravské Veselé, Novot, Hruštín, Rabčice, Zákamenné, Oravská Polhora, Sihelne and Bobrov.

To the higher-level travel overview: Námestovo District.