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Staré Hory Mountains

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Staré Hory Mountains

Staré Hory Mountains

The Staré Hory Mountains are a small mountain range in central Slovakia, located near Banská Bystrica and forming part of the Low Tatras. This area is primarily serves as a destination for hiking and nature walks through forested terrain and mountain trails.

Getting There

The range is located just outside Banská Bystrica. Visitors can reach the starting points of the trails by car or local transport from the city centre. The travel time typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes depending on the specific trailhead.

Duration of Visit

Depending on the chosen trail and fitness level, visitors should allow between 3 to 6 hours to explore the area and complete a hiking loop.

When to Visit

The mountains are accessible year-round, though the experience varies by season. Summer and autumn are suitable for hiking, while winter offers snow-covered landscapes. It is generally less crowded than the main peaks of the High Tatras, though weekends may see more local visitors.

Nearby Points of Interest

The area can be combined with other nearby natural sites and landmarks:

  • Jelenská skala (3.1km)
  • Žiare (3.9km)
  • Panský diel (5.4km)
  • Šachtičky (5.4km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

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Stays near Staré Hory Mountains

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Jelenská skala

Nature

Jelenská skala

Jelenská skala rises north of Banská Bystrica as the highest peak of the Starohorské vrchy range, offering sweeping views in every direction. With no marked trail to the top, hikers get the added thrill of finding their own way up.

3.1 km away

Žiare

Nature

Žiare

Žiar is a mountain in the Starohorské vrchy range near Banská Bystrica, well known for hiking trails through dense forest. Near the summit, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding ridges, making it a favorite among trekkers.

3.9 km away

Panský diel

Nature

Panský diel

Panský diel is a 1,100-meter hill north of Banská Bystrica in Slovakia; a trail to the summit rewards hikers with a sweeping view of the city and surrounding mountains. A lookout point and a horseback riding spot on its slopes make it a popular easy outing year-round.

5.4 km away

Šachtičky

Nature

Šachtičky

Šachtičky, at the foot of the mountains near Banská Bystrica, comes alive in winter with skiers and snowboarders. In summer, cyclists take on its steep slopes, giving the spot a different charm with each season.

5.4 km away

Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord

Temples & religious sites

Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord

This church stands in Špania Dolina, a former Slovak copper-mining village, and still bears traces of early 13th-century Gothic style. A covered wooden staircase leads up from the village square, letting you take in the rustic mountain scenery along the way.

5.7 km away

Basilica of the Visitation, Staré Hory

Temples & religious sites

Basilica of the Visitation, Staré Hory

A Roman Catholic church in Staré Hory, Slovakia, this basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It has been protected as a national cultural monument since 1963.

6.4 km away