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ONE of the Slovak regions least spoiled by civilization is Muránska planina national park, which is located within the Gemer region.
Apart from bear, lynx, wolf and wildcat, it is home to a special kind of ground beetle, a relic from the Ice Age.
At the same time the local natural environment is a paradise for botanists. One of the last owners of Muránsky hrad (Muráň Castle), Earl Ferdinand Coburg, gathered herbs from local meadows and forests. Collections on display in the manor house of Svätý Anton demonstrate the love he devoted to his hobby. The desk at which he made drawings of his botanical "catch" is also on display.
Hrdzavá dolina (Rusty valley) is one of the most interesting areas in Muránska planina. It is easily accessible and, in particular, its lower part with wild cliffs and a huge stone tower is extremely impressive. The valley is named after the rust-coloured stream that flows through it, and at which the travellers in this postcard decided to take a rest.
Prepared by Branislav Chovan
