Lipany lies on the upper reaches of the Torysa, between the Šarišská vrchovina highlands and the Čergov Mountains. Historic churches, a lookout tower, an archaeological park, and activities involving animals and water offer several ways to shape your stay. You can tailor your trip to your interests, whether you are especially drawn to architectural history, scenery, or activities.
Churches and historic sites
The Church of St. Martin of Tours was built in the late Romanesque style around the turn of the 14th century. Its tower served as a lookout post for Kamenický Castle. The Chapel of the Holy Cross was added to the north wall in the Baroque-Rococo style; it was intended as the crypt of the Dežöfiovci/Dessewffyovci family. The church, tower, and chapel thus bring together different historical associations in one building.
Another place with its own history is the Chapel of the Transfiguration of the Lord, in the old cemetery in the center of Lipany. Local resident Andrej Leško arranged for it to be built in 1837. The tradition of celebrating the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord at the same cemetery on August 6 continues to this day. The site’s history thus encompasses both a specific reason for its construction and an annual feast day.
Balažka: views and hiking trail
Balažka is part of the Hromovec Mountains and features a geological microfold. The lookout tower stands at an elevation of 598 meters, is 13.69 meters high, is made of spruce wood, and opened to visitors in 2019. From there, you can see the Čergov Mountains and the Levočské vrchy; on a clear day, the Slanské vrchy are also visible.
A green-marked hiking trail leads from the old cemetery in Lipany to the lookout tower. The route is listed as 3.4 kilometers long and taking about an hour. As trail markings and maintenance can affect the route information, check the details before setting out. The trail and the viewpoint offer two clear landmarks for anyone wishing to explore Lipany on foot.
Archaeological park, animals and water
Hradisko Archaeopark brings together a Slavic hillfort site, a historic archery range, an animal enclosure, and a small amphitheater. It is about five minutes from the city center, close to three large ponds, and directly on the EuroVelo cycling route. The park combines a focus on Slavic history with its proximity to three large ponds and its location directly on the EuroVelo cycling route.
At Zverinec Lipany, visitors can feed the animals and take part in guided tours of the enclosure. Zverinec is accessible by car, bicycle, or on foot. From the parking area at Hradisko, a paved path leads there in about a two-minute walk. This gives visitors the choice of exploring independently, joining a guided activity, or taking a short walk from this parking area.
Lipany Thermal Park has 13 water slides and a 1.4-hectare green area. The thermal water comes from a depth of more than 3,400 meters. As attractions may change, check the current information about what is available before your visit.
Culture and city life
For a specific concert, the date is what matters; the format itself is another facet of the city’s cultural life. Lipany City Library is a general public library serving Lipany and the surrounding area. It provides access to information and the internet, as well as library and educational events.
The options range from historic buildings and festive traditions to viewpoints, a cycling route, an animal enclosure, and a thermal park. When planning your trip, you can decide which of these aspects will shape your stay according to your own interests.
Discover more destinations: Sabinov, Drienica
Go to the overview of destinations in the area: Sabinov District.
