Discover Krpeľany

Krpeľany brings together water engineering on the Váh, a nature trail, archaeological traces and local culture. The reservoir and the Tiesňava nature trail offer a different focus from Hrádok Pohanovo, a Neoclassical manor house and folk traditions. If you are looking for accommodation in Krpeľany, first consider which of these aspects you want to shape your stay.

Reservoir, nature trail and routes

The Krpeľany reservoir was built on the Váh River between 1952 and 1957 and is part of the Vážska kaskáda dam cascade. Its approximate volume is 8.3 million cubic metres, and the flooded area covers 1.26 square kilometres. These figures give a concrete sense of the scale of the water engineering project.

A stop at the technical facilities of the hydroelectric power station and reservoir is one possible focus for an excursion. At this point, the Váh splits into two branches. Access to the technical facilities may be restricted, so check access arrangements in advance if you plan to stop here.

The Tiesňava nature trail is in Krpeľany, beyond the Váh canal, and has four information panels. It can be reached by bus, train or car; parking is available at the introductory information point. Check current connections and parking arrangements before your journey.

Cycling is another possible focus. A cycle route runs from Sučany along the Váh diversion canal to Krpeľany. A cycle route is suitable for trekking bikes and mountain bikes.

Archaeology, architecture and folklore

The Hrádok Pohanovo archaeological site, also known as Pohanovo, lies southeast of Krpeľany. A perimeter rampart is part of the site. It is listed in the Central Register of the Slovak Cultural Heritage Fund under number 2198/1 and was used in the La Tène period and the Middle Ages.

After the Slavs arrived in the Turčianska kotlina basin, Hrádok Pohanovo was inhabited from the second half of the 10th century until 1250. This allows different historical periods to be distinguished: its use in the La Tène period and the Middle Ages, and the more precisely defined settlement period from the 10th century to 1250.

Krpeľany is also home to a Neoclassical manor house dating from the first half of the 19th century. It adds a much more recent building to the archaeological traces. Those interested in local history will therefore find several different periods here, rather than just a single historical theme.

Children’s and adult folk groups keep Krpeľany’s cultural traditions alive with their own folk music. Local sports facilities also include a ski lift and a sports complex. These topics add to the choice between waterside scenery, history and local traditions.

Getting there and finding accommodation

Krpeľany has a railway station on Line 400 between Žilina and Košice, with direct passenger services. Road 01893 connects the village to the E 18 national road. As timetables, connections and road layouts can change, check the current travel arrangements before your journey.

Make your choice based on this focus and the excursions you actually plan to take.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Lipovec, Sučany, Bystrička, Turany, Košťany Nad Turcom, Martin, Laskár

Back to the regional travel guide: Okres Martin.