Reľov combines mountain scenery at the foot of the Spišská Magura with woodland landscapes and a distinctive Goral tradition. The village is surrounded by high mountains on three sides; most of its municipal territory is covered with coniferous forest. Those looking to combine nature and village culture during their stay will find both here: a landscape close to the mountains and a local history reflected in its architecture and customs.
Mountains, forests and water
The Spišská Magura is the defining landscape feature of Reľov. Together with the high mountains on three sides and the extensive coniferous forest, it shapes the character of the surrounding area. Walks in the forests of Reľov are a specific nature activity to enjoy during a stay. One of the tourist routes listed for Reľov is PI01 Hrebeňom Spišskej Magury – západná časť. The route includes Strednica, Magurka, Bukovina, Smrečiny and Magurské sedlo. This named section adds a specific trail to the general mountain and forest scenery.
Another natural feature is the Teplica spring below Baniská, which does not freeze over in winter. While the mountains and coniferous forest define the landscape on a broad scale, the Teplica is a single, clearly identified spot. This makes it a distinctive detail in descriptions of the village, although it does not offer the same kind of nature experience as a walk in the forest.
Wooden architecture and church history
Traditional architecture is also part of Reľov’s character. Three-room log houses and wooden farm buildings together form enclosed farmsteads. These are not just individual wooden houses, but a cohesive rural farmstead structure. This fits with the agricultural and pastoral character that Reľov has preserved to this day. Alongside the mountain scenery, those interested in rural architecture will find another way to explore local history and ways of life.
The Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross brings together several building phases. It was built after 1787, incorporating an older Renaissance chapel into its ground plan. The presbytery and sacristy are also Renaissance. Its development can therefore be described as a later church building combined with older Renaissance sections. Distinguishing between the building’s parts gives its history more depth than a simple date for the building.
Goral traditions and local cultural life
The traditional Goral dialect is still spoken in Reľov today. Amateur theatre also has a long local history: the tradition dates back to around 1925, and rehearsals resumed in 2009. Nativity plays have survived to this day in a slightly altered form. Language and performing traditions are further aspects of local culture alongside the historic architecture.
Processing wild berries is part of the local culinary tradition. Berries gathered in Reľov are used to make preserves, syrups and jams. In this way, the importance of the woodland extends beyond its appearance to local food preservation. The annual Three Kings’ Day table tennis tournament, a long-standing tradition, is also part of the yearly calendar. Reľov therefore offers a combination of mountain scenery, rural architecture and local customs for visitors choosing a travel destination.
Discover more destinations: Slovenská Ves, Busovce, Stara Lesna, Majere, Zakovce, Spišské Hanušovce, Kežmarok, Veľká Franková.
View the broader travel guide: Kežmarok District.
