Velká Fatra

Famous for its long valleys and extensive forestation with the largest concentration of yew trees in Europe, this huge mountain range offers a magical and varied landscape of dramatic ridges, vast hillside meadows, distinctive rock formations and caves.  Also preserved within its steep hills is the unique and precious wooden folk architecture of traditional Slovak mountain villages.  

Large numbers of ancient and endemic species of plants thrive on the steep, almost rectangular rock faces, overhangs and extreme spots, in avalanche troughs and deep ravines where forest cannot not develop.  In this undisturbed environment, retiring animals such as the wolf, bear, lynx and sparrow-hawk still find it a rare haven. 

This vast and unspoiled area is a paradise for hikers and skiers, with hikers generally concentrating on the Vel’ká Fatra Mountains and Malinné Mountain while the area below the Malinné summit is one of the most frequented ski resorts in Slovakia.