Ponitrianska magistrála: Veľké Pole – Handlová

At a glance

A route of 33.1 km with 1,277 m of ascent from Veľké Pole to Handlová. Estimated walking time: about 10.5 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days. Difficulty: hard. Waymarking: red.

Route stages

1. 0–14 kmClimb of 810 m to Vtáčnik (1,346 m)
2. 14–33 kmDescent of 900 m to Handlová

Steepest kilometre: km 28–29, a descent of 170 m (≈17%), near Veľký Grič.

Water and overnight stays

Springs near the trail: at km 2, 9, 13, 16, 28 and 33. There are no springs between km 16 and 28 — carry at least 2 l of water.

A possible split into days:

1. Day 1: km 0–15, ≈5 h — overnight: no shelter nearby on the map, bring a tent
2. Day 2: km 15–33, ≈5 h — finish

When to go

Best time: May to October. In winter deep snow is possible, so experience and winter gear are needed.

Getting there

Start: Veľké Pole. This is a one-way route: the finish is 25 km from the start in a straight line, so plan your way back in advance.

Directions to the start in Google Maps

FAQ

How long does the route take?

Estimated walking time: about 10.5 h, not counting stops — a very long day, so it is easier split into 2 days.

Is there water on the route?

Springs near the trail: at km 2, 9, 13, 16, 28 and 33. There are no springs between km 16 and 28 — carry at least 2 l of water.