The climb from Bartošova Lehôtka to Jastrabská skala takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes; at Jazierko Slobodné, a signpost at the Stations of the Cross points the way. Alongside hiking, discover examples of traditional architecture: a farmhouse with a mini-exhibition about thatched roofs and the Church of St. John of Nepomuk. This lets you balance nature and local history according to the time you have available.
Volcanic Hilly Landscape
The municipality is mostly forested, hilly and gently undulating; like the Kremnica Mountains, it is of volcanic origin. Rhyolite forms the bedrock, while andesite is found in the eastern part. Bentonite clay is also among the municipality’s geological materials. This brings together the general geological classification and the more specific distribution of rocks: one describes the volcanic origin, while the other highlights differences within the municipality.
Hiking and a Rest at Jazierko Slobodné
From Bartošova Lehôtka, you can reach Jastrabská skala via a yellow-marked hiking trail. Allow about 1 hour and 15 minutes for the ascent; this time estimate is for the ascent, not a complete loop. Check the trail conditions before setting out. Jazierko Slobodné can also be reached from Bartošova Lehôtka. A signpost at the Stations of the Cross points the way there.
There is a fire pit at Jazierko, as well as a shelter with benches and a table. When choosing between the two destinations, the practical difference is this: an approximate time estimate is available for the climb to Jastrabská skala, while at Jazierko the signpost and places to rest are the main attractions. Check on site whether the fire pit and shelter are available for use.
Folk Architecture and Thatched Roofs
The farmhouse of Ján Baláž is managed by National Trust n.o. and is listed as a national cultural heritage site. The house has a mini-exhibition about the construction and maintenance of thatched roofs. Individual visitors, organized groups and school groups are welcome. Check the booking details before your visit.
The folk farmhouse serves as a living exhibition of traditional folk architecture and as an example of heritage education. Short-term accommodation is also available. A preserved farmhouse belonging to the Baláž family is an example of the Upper Tekov folk architecture style and is the last thatched-roof house in Bartošova Lehôtka.
Church, Fortification Wall and Statue
The Church of St. John of Nepomuk is a Baroque church built on older Gothic foundations dating from the 15th century. A 17th-century fortification wall with rectangular loopholes surrounds the church. The late Baroque stone statue of St. John of Nepomuk dates from 1783. After restoration, it was moved and is now beside a bridge on the main road. These dates place the landmarks in chronological order: from the Gothic foundations, to the fortification wall, to the statue from 1783.
Discover more travel destinations: Ihráč, Stará Kremnička, Slaská, Krahule, Dolná Ves, Sklené Teplice, Jastrabá, Kopernica
For the overview of the wider area: Žiar Nad Hronom.
