Slovenský Raj: Slovak Paradise
In order to get to Slovak Paradise one can take a train from Bratislava to Spišské Tomášovce and from there walk into the countryside.
My first experience of the magnitude of the location was coming to the edge of a ravine and looking out into the National Park as a climber made her way up the cliff face that I was on top of. The route to the accommodation, for my party basic chalets beside an old ruined monastery, involved an exciting mix of grills attached to the side of rocky overhangs with chains to hold on to, and metal ladders, some very long. Whilst feeling a modicum of trepidation before attempting the route, I managed to complete the route and felt a great sense of achievement having completed it. There were quite a few fallen trees along the route, with the branches removed, leaving spiky stumps to avoid. If one is to attempt the route a reasonable degree of fitness is recommended given its nature. The view on reaching the monastic site was spectacular to say the least, with snow covered Tatras in the distance.
The campsite allowed easy access to the National Park with many different routes possible. The pièce de résistance was a series of ladders of almost 100m in total. Good preparation for the journey is essential. The campsite has a bar/café that is rather well stocked. Do check health requirements before attempting and consider what you will require to take with you. I had a great time.
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