The Route for Adventurers

Note: All prices are provided as a guide only and were correct as of May 2026.

This journey offers a striking change of pace, celebrating the rare geological wonders, wildlife encounters and mountain experiences that define Slovakia’s natural landscape.

• Total Driving Time: Approximately 5 hours
• Total Distance: 330 km
• Theme: Rare geology, wildlife encounters and mountain sports

Ochtinská Aragonite Cave – A Geological Unicorn

Entering Slovakia from the south, this UNESCO-listed cave is one of the country’s most extraordinary natural rarities. Unlike most caves filled with stalactites, this one is formed of ‘aragonite flowers’ – delicate white, branch-like crystals.

There are only three accessible aragonite caves in the world, making this a small, intimate and surreal underground experience.

• A dedicated parking lot is located at the end of a forest road. It is quiet and easy to navigate.
• Parking Fee: EUR 3.00
• Entry Fee: EUR 10.00 per adult
• Tours run hourly (9:00, 10:00, etc., until 16:00)
• Photography fees have been abolished, so you can take photos freely. However, bring cash as card payments can be unreliable in this remote area.

Muráň Souslik Meadow (Sysľovisko) – The Ground Squirrel Encounter

A short, scenic drive through Muránska Planina National Park brings you to one of the most charming wildlife encounters in Slovakia.

Hundreds of wild European ground squirrels live here. They are incredibly tame and will run right up to you, especially if offered sunflower seeds or small pieces of apple.

• Use the parking lot near the site (approx. 2.5 km from Muráň towards Predná Hora).
• Parking Fee: EUR 6.50 – EUR 7.50. July is peak season, so it’s higher than average.
• Entry Fee: Free, though donations for donkey and squirrel feed are encouraged.
• Buy a bag of sunflower seeds at the entrance! It’s the ‘key’ to the best photos. Feeding the squirrels is a highlight for many visitors and offers some of the most heart-warming moments of the trip.

Final Destination: Grand Hotel Kempinski & Padel

The journey concludes with a climb into the High Tatras to Štrbské Pleso.

• After a day exploring nature, try the hotel’s padel court. It is a unique blend of tennis and squash.
• Playing a match at 1,351 metres above sea level, with views of the glacial lake, is an experience you won't find anywhere else in Central Europe.
• It is available exclusively to hotel guests and club members. Court bookings should be made via the hotel concierge. It is open daily from 8:00am to 8:00pm.