The best hiking routes in Chránená krajinná oblasť Poľana

Chránená krajinná oblasť Poľana is a heavily forested volcanic caldera in central Slovakia, dominated by a massive, collapsed crater rim. Unlike the sharp limestone peaks found in other Slovak ranges, this landscape is defined by its rounded, dark andesite ridges, deep radial valleys, and steep rocky walls like Kalamárka. Underfoot, walkers will mostly encounter damp forest soil, thick leaf litter, and exposed volcanic rock roots. The dense canopy of spruce, fir, and beech creates a dark, enclosed atmosphere that opens up only occasionally at rocky viewpoints or mountain meadows.

As you walk the trails, the volcanic origin of the terrain is visible in the massive stone blocks and cliffs that break through the forest. The area is not a place for wide, open ridge walks; instead, the paths wind through thick, quiet woodland where fallen trees are left to decay naturally. Water is a constant presence, with small streams cutting through the volcanic clay and feeding the Bystré waterfall, where the trail uses iron ladders to negotiate the steep rock face.

In late September, the beech forests on the outer slopes turn a deep copper color, contrasting with the dark green of the spruce on the higher ridges. The area is known for its large, undisturbed forest tracts, meaning that signposting can be sparse in the deeper valleys and some sections require careful navigation. While the main peak of Poľana itself is forested and offers no panoramic views, the surrounding volcanic cliffs provide clear vantage points over the caldera basin.