On the southern edge of Ihráč, the Ihráčske kamenné more nature monument brings distinctive geological features together with a valley where you can discover other rock formations. There is also a 20th-century church and evidence of earlier ways of life. Nature and local history, paths through the valley and a longer cycling route are therefore central to planning your trip; swimming is a seasonal option.

Geology on the Southern Edge of Ihráč

The Ihráčske kamenné more is designated a nature monument, lies on the southern edge of the village and covers 2.2 hectares. The area contains a collapsing volcanic vent, a remnant of a natural lava channel. The geology is predominantly andesitic and dates back to Tertiary volcanism. This makes it possible to understand the rock formation not only as a landscape feature, but also in terms of its volcanic origins.

The route to the nature monument follows the path to the church, passes the football pitch and then turns right onto a grassy track. Check local path conditions before your visit. The Biely potok flows through the valley where Ihráč lies; downstream of the village, it is called the Ihráčsky potok. Mount Chom rises above the valley, reaching an elevation of 1,012 metres.

Rock Formations and Cycling Route

The valley offers other destinations, each with different planning details. The Prieboj–Železné vráta rock formation lies about two kilometres upstream of Ihráč in the Biely potok valley. Continue farther up the valley to reach a narrow rocky gorge after about ten minutes. It was formed by volcanic activity in the Kremnica Mountains.

For a longer ride, the 49-kilometre “Pohronsko - kremnický cyklookruh” circular cycling route passes through Ihráč. Before setting out, check the current route and the surface and access conditions, as these can change.

Church and Earlier Ways of Life

The earliest written record of Ihráč dates from 26 February 1388. The Church of Christ the King in Ihráč was built in 1938. These dates point to different aspects of local history: the earliest written record and a specific building from the 20th century.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, charcoal burning was a source of income for some families. Working with wood was also part of traditional life, and many families made their living from forest work. Common foods included bread, cabbage soup, barley soup, boiled beans, Trhance and Halušky; potatoes were added later. Together, these details offer a glimpse into earlier work and eating habits.

Seasonal Swimming and Practical Information

The municipality has a recreational facility with an artificial pool. In the summer months, visitors can swim and relax there in a natural setting. The facility is four kilometres from Ihráč. Motor vehicles are prohibited, except for visitors who have rented the recreational facility. As seasonal swimming options and access rules can change, check them before travelling.

This lets you plan your trip around your own interests, rather than reducing Ihráč to a single excursion destination.

Discover more destinations: Stará Kremnička, Trnavá Hora, Horná Ves, Vyhne, Kopernica, Dolná Ves, Bzenica, Sklené Teplice.

For the overview of the wider area: Žiar Nad Hronom.