Havaj lies in the Low Beskids, in the valley of the Poliansky potok. The cadastral area of Havaj is part of the Laborecká vrchovina Protected Landscape Area. Its valley setting and protected-area status give the village distinct geographical connections. For your travel planning, a cycling route, nature conservation, and the history of the settlement and its church are also key considerations.

Protected landscape and birdlife

The Laborecká vrchovina area includes deciduous forests and adjoining agricultural landscapes. A mosaic of shrubland lies between them, providing favorable conditions for a diverse group of protected bird species. Key conservation targets include the lesser spotted eagle (Aquila pomarina), red kite (Milvus milvus), black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius), grey-headed woodpecker (Picus canus), and common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis). Information about the protected area is thus closely tied to specific habitats and named bird species—a special point of interest for travelers interested in nature and conservation.

Cycling to Havaj

The “Bicyklom na Havaj” cycling route is 25 kilometers long. It passes through the forested landscape from Malá Poľana to Havaj, the route’s main destination. Havaj is therefore not just part of the route’s name, but its explicitly named destination. The route’s length provides a concrete reference for planning your trip; also check the route conditions before setting out. By comparison, the church can be understood through its architectural style and furnishings: the route represents a focus on cycling, while the church building offers a cultural and historical theme.

The church and the history of the village

The Greek Catholic Church of St. Nicholas is a Baroque-classical, single-nave building with an integrated tower. A single-nave layout refers to a church space with one main nave; the tower is incorporated into the building. The interior furnishings also have their own historical dating: the iconostasis, main altar, and side altar date from around 1824. An iconostasis is a screen decorated with icons that separates the sanctuary. Style, architectural form, and furnishings can thus be considered as distinct features of the church building, without assigning them all the same date.

The history of the settlement goes back further: it was founded in the 14th century. Before 1430, Havaj was acquired by nobles from Perín; in the 17th century, the village was part of the Stropkov estate. Another historical trace dates to 1741. In May, news spread throughout the Stropkov estate of an icon weeping in Havaj, in Zemplín County. These references reflect different historical periods: the early history of the settlement, ownership arrangements, and a religious report from the 18th century.

On August 13, 2026, the municipality reported a selfie point in Havaj where visitors can take photos. Check when you arrive to see whether the point is still there.

Discover more destinations: Stropkov, Bžany.

Return to the main travel overview: Okres Stropkov.