Donovaly, situated on the border of Veľká Fatra and Low Tatras, is known for its beautiful nature, clean air and many hiking opportunities. One of the most popular destinations is Nová hoľa (1361 m), which offers breathtaking views and easy access for everyone - whether you are a skilled hiker or a family with children.
Start: Residence Hotel **** Donovaly
The hotel is located in the centre of Donovaly and is an ideal starting point. There is a car park in front of the hotel and there are several marked hiking trails in the area. From the hotel it is only about a 5-minute walk to the lower station of the Telemix Nová hoľa cable car, which can take you comfortably almost to the top. It is up to you which of the options you choose.
WALKING ROUTE TO NOVÁ HOĽA
Basic information:
- Length of the route: approx. 4.5 km (one way)
Elevation: approx. 550 m
Ascent time: 1:30 - 2:00 h (depending on the pace)
Difficulty: moderate hike
Marking: green hiking trail
Step-by-step route:
1.Start of the route: from the hotel head towards the Telemix cable car valley station (Donovaly - Nová hoľa).
2.Follow the green hiking trail that will lead you through meadows and sparse forest.
3.Section through the forest: the path continues along the forest path with a gradual ascent. The trail is well maintained and marked.
4.Viewpoints.After about 60-70 minutes of climbing, you will start to cross the more open parts of the ridge, where the first views start to appear.
5.The final section: the last 20 minutes or so of the climb takes you across meadow slopes directly to the top of Nová Hole.
What's waiting for you at the top?
At the top, you will have panoramic views of the Low Tatras, Veľká Fatra, the Starohorské vrchy Mountains, as well as the distant peaks of the High Tatras in good visibility. There is also an upper cable car station and the possibility of sitting on benches or picnic in the grass.
CABLE CAR ASCENT - COMFORTABLE FOR EVERYONE
If you are not planning hiking or have children or elderly family members, the Telemix Nová hoľa cable car is a great choice. It's a combination cable car that offers both cabins and seats - you can choose according to weather and preference.
Cable car - practical information:
Cable car length: 1.8 km
Elevation: approx. 500 m
Ride time: approx. 8 minutes
Operation: daily during the summer season (from approx. June to September), depending on the weather
Price list (indicative):
Adult: approx. €12 round trip
Child/senior: approx. €9
Family tickets and discounts available
Tip: In summer, there is also a children's amusement park at the top station of the cable car or activities such as mountain carts or paragliding - check the official website for the current offer.
See the official website for the latest information on the ski lifts and the current season's information on the ski lifts.
RETURN BACK - HOW TO CHOOSE A ROUTE
1.By cable car down: the ideal choice if you've walked up - you'll save your knees.
2.Walk down: Same route as up, but expect a steeper descent.
3.Alternative via Záhradište: From the top it is possible to continue along the ridge towards Záhradište (eastern direction) and descend back to Donovaly by a different route - a roundabout option.
Advice in conclusion:
Footwear: hiking boots are recommended, even if the trail is not extremely difficult.
Weather: the summit can be windy - take an extra layer.
Camera: Don't forget it! The views are worth it.
A trip to Nová Hora from Residence Hotel **** Donovaly is an excellent choice for a weekend stay in the mountains. A hike will delight active hikers, while a cable car will make the beauty of the mountains accessible to those who prefer a more comfortable trip. Whatever the method of ascent - the summit will always offer you the reward of a beautiful view and the tranquillity of the mountains.
