More than 2,300 tree and plant species grow at the Mlyňany Arboretum—a distinctive natural feature of the Nitra Region. Elsewhere, discoveries range from woodland landscapes and stopover areas for migratory birds to historic castles and special visitor experiences. The region lies in southwestern Slovakia and borders Hungary along its entire southern side.
Forests, Plants and Migratory Birds
The Ponitrie Protected Landscape Area lies in the two orographic units of Tribeč and Vtáčnik. Oak-hornbeam and oak forests grow in Tribeč; beech forests are also found at higher elevations. Plant communities that thrive in warm conditions predominate. Elevation is therefore a specific distinction within the woodland landscape described here. Rare and protected plant species also grow in the protected area, including the large-flowered pasque flower and the Turk's cap lily.
Žitavský luh is an important stopover area for migrating waterbirds, particularly the garganey (Anas querquedula). The nature attractions thus offer different highlights: forests and plant life take center stage in Ponitrie, while Žitavský luh is known for its waterbird stopover. The Mlyňany Arboretum adds a great diversity of tree and plant species to this range.
Nature Trails and Climbing Routes
The Zobor nature trail starts at the Liečebný ústav Zobor in Nitra. In the Zubria zvernica Lovce protected area, a 2.5 km forest nature trail features information boards and educational content about the surrounding nature. These offer two different ways to explore nature: a trail with a named starting point in Nitra, and a route whose length and nature-focused content are described.
Via Ferrata Zobor offers secured climbing routes with an instructor and complete equipment. Confirm the arrangements and equipment availability before your trip.
Castles with Distinctive Features
Nitriansky hrad Castle is a national cultural monument. It consists of a cathedral, a bishop's palace, utility buildings and an outer fortification. The diocesan museum in the castle grounds opened in 2007 as the first diocesan museum in Slovakia. The different structures and the museum give the castle grounds several distinct facets.
The ruins of the Gothic Levický hrad Castle were built in the second half of the 13th century. From the summit, you can enjoy views of the city of Levice and the surrounding area. Nitriansky hrad thus represents a multi-part national cultural monument with a diocesan museum, while Levický hrad is a Gothic ruin with views of Levice and the surrounding area.
Stud Farm and Wine
The Topoľčianky National Stud Farm was founded in 1563. Visitor experiences include tours of the stud farm, equestrian shows and horse riding. You can choose between a tour, a show and riding as different ways to experience it.
At Pivnica Radošina, visitors can enjoy wine tastings; the winery also runs tours of the winery and its vineyards. Confirm the arrangements for tastings and tours before your trip.
A Note About the Train Journey
The Nitran Express tourist train departs seasonally every hour on the hour from Svätoplukovho námestie in Nitra. Before travelling, check whether the train is running during your travel dates and what departure arrangements apply.
Discover more destinations: Komárno District, Nitra, Nové Zámky, Zlaté Moravce, Levice, Šaľa, Topoľčany District and Trenčín.
Go to the main travel overview: Slovakia.
