Carpathian Castle Ruins Tour

What to expect

A private day trip by car with Authentic Slovakia to the castle ruins in the forests of the Little Carpathians. Many of these castles were built in the 13th century to guard the land against invasions, and today you reach them on forest paths, away from the city.

Choose the classic version with two castles, or the extended one with four. It suits small groups who like being outdoors and do not mind a proper walk.

Route & highlights

• Pajštún Castle: a ruin above the forests with wide views
• Plavecký Castle: a medieval fortress overlooking the Záhorie lowland and Austria
• extended tour: Dobrá Voda, Čachtice and Branč castles, finishing with a hike to Korlátka or Plavecký Castle; Čachtice is the castle linked to the legend of Countess Elizabeth Báthory
• a drive through the countryside between the castles
• a drink at a local pub on the classic tour, or lunch at a local restaurant on the extended one

Before you go

Pick-up is at SNP Square in Bratislava or at another place you agree with the organiser. The tour usually starts in the morning, though the time can be arranged.

Each castle is about half an hour’s walk each way on unpaved forest paths with steep sections, so the walking is moderate to demanding. Wear hiking boots or sturdy trainers and bring a rain jacket: the paths can be slippery after rain or snow.