In the Horšianska Valley, an easy walk along the Sikenica stream passes through a protected national nature reserve. Levice’s ponds also bring together different aspects of the landscape: they are an important resting place for migratory birds and are also used for fish farming. Water habitats, agricultural landscapes and pastures are typical of the natural scenery of Poiplie. The area is also important for species such as the white stork, kingfisher and European bee-eater.
Landscapes, views and remarkable natural features
Levice lies where the plain of the lower Hron Valley meets the western foothills of the Ipeľ Hills. Santovka is home to two named protected natural features: the travertines by the Búr stream and Tufová kopa. These geological features stand alongside landscapes whose appeal lies more in their expansive views.
Šiklóš (Vápnik) is visited for its unique panoramic view of the region and is associated with the historic mining of “Levický zlatý ónyx.” The site can be reached on foot, by bicycle or by car. Check local trail conditions when planning your visit. This lets you combine the viewpoint with either a walk or a drive, without assuming a particular route.
Hiking routes with different distances and elevation gains
The marked Pukanec–Devičany hiking route passes over the Krížny buk saddle and through Ťatiar, Argaš, Priesil and Žuhračka. It is 17 km long and has an elevation gain of 705 metres. The “Okolo mesta kráľovien” educational trail in Bátovce is a different kind of option: it is 5.3 km long, crosses easy terrain and takes about four hours. You can choose between a longer route with a stated elevation gain and a shorter educational trail with an approximate time estimate.
Discover pottery and history
At the Hrnčiarske Museum of Ján Franko in Pukanec, you can see how ceramics were made in the past and how they are made today in a pottery workshop. The exhibition on the history of Pukanec complements this hands-on perspective with the village’s early history, the development of mining and crafts, and historic kitchen and bourgeois-room interiors. It is located at Námestie mieru 17 in Pukanec. Together, these themes show how to discover crafts both as a practical activity and as part of local history.
The Bohunice Water Mill exhibition also offers a glimpse into technical history: it has been open to the public since 1978, and the mill is designated a technical monument. The Hontianske Museum features permanent exhibitions on the folk culture and history of the Hont region. For visitor groups, the museum and the Ľudovít Simonyi Gallery offer guided tours of the city’s sights. If you are planning a group tour, arrange a date in advance.
Thermal pools and events
The Margita-Ilona recreation complex has four pools with thermal water at 25 to 29°C. As details about the complex may change, check current operating information before your trip. Various events are held at Levický hrad Castle, including the Levické hradné slávnosti; check the dates if you have a particular visit in mind.
The Levický jarmok is currently held in mid-October and features local wines, burčiak, food and crafts over four days. Check the specific dates before your visit. With nature, hiking trails, opportunities to explore local crafts and events, Levice offers different ways to tailor your stay to your interests.
Discover more destinations: Levice, Šahy, Beša, Bielovce, Brhlovce, Čajkov, Čata, Devičany, Dolná Seč, Hronské Kľačany, Iňa, Ipeľské Úľany, Ipeľský Sokolec, Jabloňovce, Jesenské, Kozárovce, Krškany, Lok, Malé Ludince, Nový Tekov, Ondrejovce, Pastovce, Podlužany, Pohronský Ruskov, Pukanec, Rybník, Santovka, Slatina, Šarovce, Tehla, Tekovské Lužany, Tekovský Hrádok, Tlmače, Tupá, Veľké Kozmálovce, Veľké Turovce, Vyškovce Nad Ipľom, Želiezovce, Žemberovce, Sikenica, Hrkovce, Horné Semerovce, Kalná Nad Hronom, Plášťovce.
For the wider travel overview: Nitra Region.
