Prievidza, the district town nestled in the storied Upper Nitra region, offers more than echoes of its industrial past. (source: visitprievidza.sk)
Prievidza, the district town nestled in the storied Upper Nitra region, offers more than echoes of its industrial past. Hidden between historic streets and forested hills are quietly captivating trails inviting both residents and visitors to slow down and explore.
A new addition, promoted through the In the Footsteps of Prievidza project, introduces walkers to two panoramic viewpoints—an easy, scenic circuit suitable for all ages and fitness levels, according to the regional news website My Horná Nitra.
The circular trail begins near the municipal cemetery on Mariánsky Vŕšok hill, a serene spot crowned by the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, among the city’s most photogenic landmarks. The trailhead is easily reached by car—with parking at the cemetery—or by city bus.
The first viewpoint, on Mariánsky Vŕšok itself, offers sweeping views of the Vtáčnik mountain range, the Banská memorial and Prievidza’s historic centre, where the Handlovka River winds through the city. Visitors will find benches, a double cross and educational panels that illuminate the area’s rich geography and history.
From there, the route continues along the Mariánska Castle Path, punctuated by eight information boards highlighting local points of interest. The path winds through a narrow alley in Skotňa Park, leading to a natural rock opening beneath the hill—a curiosity steeped in local legend.
Folk tales claim this cave-like space once served as a secret tunnel from the long-vanished Prievidza Castle, perhaps reaching as far as Bojnice Castle. In truth, it once functioned as a cellar for one of the town’s first two-storey homes, later serving as storage for the now-defunct Carpathia food factory. Though accessible, entry is at visitors’ own risk.
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The trail then follows Cesta pod Skalou—literally “Path Beneath the Rock”—before branching onto a forest track that climbs gently towards the Kopanice housing estate. Emerging between rows of panelák apartment blocks, the route threads directly to a nearby forest park.
There, close to a public amphitheatre, a modest wooden lookout tower offers a final, understated reward. Built in 1985, the three-metre-high structure, reached by 17 steps, grants tranquil views over Prievidza’s suburban fringes and the Handlovka River below. Wooden trail markers guide walkers through this last stretch.
The entire loop covers about seven kilometres and offers an easy outing for casual walkers, families and anyone seeking a quiet outdoor escape. Conveniently, both viewpoints are accessible by public transport, making this one of the region’s most approachable and rewarding nature walks.
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