Forests, hills, vineyards, as well as towns and history - all in the green heart of western Slovakia - the Small Carpathians. The mountains begin in Bratislava and extend to Nové Mesto nad Váhom passing through three self-governing regions including seven cities and nearly fifty villages. The Small Carpathians may not have the tallest hills in Slovakia - the highest peak is only 768 meters above sea level, but they offer visitors fantastic recreational opportunities whether discovering mysterious ruins, cycling or hiking.
There are eleven peaks over 700m in height. It is possible to cover almost the entire range of the Small Carpathians using the extensive network of hiking trails, among the most popular places are Železná Studnička, Kamzík, Zochova Chata, Pezinská Baby and Jahodnik. Whilst walking you might see Red, Roe and Fallow deer or wild boar. 11 species of birds of prey live in the forests, rocks and ruins, among them Saker falcon and Eagle Owl.
The Small Carpathians are said to be mountain
bridges between the Alps and the Carpathian range. Their height does not match
the Alpine massifs, but the manner with which they spring up from the flat,
lowland that surrounds them is striking. They are a popular and sought after
place to relax and unwind. Since 1976 they have been declared a Protected
Landscape Area (PLA) in their entirety. The Small Carpathians provide countless
hiking opportunities for all ages and abilities - families with children,
weekend walkers and experienced hikers alike. Most routes pass through the
delightful mixed beech and oak forests, from the peaks and crests it is
possible to view the Danube lowlands, Záhorie and Austria.
