At Kremenec, the borders of Slovakia, Poland and Ukraine meet. Cross-border routes through this landscape include Veľká Ravka–Kremenec–Nová Sedlica and Wetlina–Riaba skala–Runina; both were established in 2013. Border areas, forests and cultural sites give Snina District different facets to discover as you explore.
Forests and Trails in the Vihorlat Mountains
NPR Stužica lies within the cadastral area of Nová Sedlica. There, extensive stands of pristine forest retain a primeval character. Bears, wolves and bison live permanently in the protected area. Rare animal species can also be found around Sninský kameň.
The trails to Sninský kameň are also easy to distinguish by their markings. The yellow-marked hiking trail from Zemplínske Hámre starts at the car park by the quarry and leads to the Tri tably saddle. From there, a red-marked hiking trail continues to the summit plateaus. Both plateaus can be reached by iron ladders. If you are planning this route, check the current access conditions in advance.
The Zemplínske Hámre Tourist Information Centre provides information about hiking and cycling trails and Poloniny National Park. It is located near the quarry at the start of the main trails to Sninský kameň and Vihorlat; free parking is available for visitors. The information provided there can be a practical guide to the trails as you plan your trip.
If you prefer to travel by bike, the Sninské Rybníky–Zemplínske Hámre cycling route offers a different perspective on the Vihorlat Mountains: it passes through the mountains along the 016 Carpathian Cycle Route. At the Čierťaže trail sign, it connects with the yellow-marked 8903 cycling route. As route numbers and access conditions can change, it is worth checking the current trail signs before setting out.
Museums, Churches and History
Two permanent exhibitions are the focus of the Múzeum Zemplínske Hámre. One explores the history of mining and ironworking in the Vihorlat Mountains. The ethnographic exhibition features folk architecture, agriculture and crafts, as well as the traditional costumes of the residents of the Josefsthal settlement. In one building, you can discover both the mountains’ working history and aspects of everyday life.
The museum is housed in the oldest building in the municipality: a stone structure dating from the early 19th century, originally built to accommodate the management of the ironworks. A building in Snina also tells a story of local history. The Klasicistický kaštieľ there was completed by Jozef Rholl in 1800. Exhibitions, concerts and other events are part of the cultural programme at Sninský kaštieľ; there is also a permanent exhibition on the region’s art and history. The programme may change, so it is advisable to check the current events before visiting.
Comparing the churches in Topoľa and Uličské Krivé reveals different periods of sacred art. The church in Topoľa has a bell tower dating from the second half of the 17th century. Its iconostasis dates from the mid-18th century and includes several 17th-century icons. The church in Uličské Krivé has a Baroque iconostasis from the 18th century; some of its icons date from the 16th century. The different dates show that the building, the iconostasis and individual paintings each have their own historical context.
Another Way to Experience the Landscape
Ranč pod Sninským kameňom offers horse-riding activities for all ages and experience levels. These include rides along forest trails and through meadows, with views of the Vihorlat Mountains. Hiking and cycling are not the only ways to explore: on horseback, you can also experience the landscapes described here from a different perspective.
Discover more destinations: Snina, Stakčín, Medzilaborce District, Humenné District, Stropkov District, Poprad District, Vranov nad Topľou District, Prešov.
Return to the regional travel overview: Prešov Region.
