Babia hora (Babia Góra)

Babia hora, nicknamed the Queen of the Beskids, at 1,725 meters is the highest peak of the Orava Beskids on the Slovak-Polish border. Its silhouette is visible from far and wide, and in good weather offers panoramic views of the High Tatras, Malá Fatra, and the Polish lowlands. The mountain is part of the Horná Orava Protected Landscape Area and has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977, testifying to its unique natural wealth – rare plant species such as Saxifraga paniculata, and habitat for lynx, bears, and wolves.

Climbing Babia hora is a popular goal for Czech tourists. The most convenient access from the Slovak side leads from the village of Oravská Polhora along the red trail via Slaná voda. The route is about 8 kilometers long with an elevation gain of around 1,100 meters. At the summit, you will be greeted by an impressive stone field and remnants of former military observation posts. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before ascending – Babia hora is notorious for its variability and fog, which persists for up to 200 days a year. Don't forget sturdy footwear, warm clothing, and plenty of water, as springs are only available in lower parts.

According to folk legends, Babia hora was a site of witches' sabbaths, adding a mystical touch to the trip. Today, it is popular not only in summer but also in winter, offering terrain for ski mountaineers. For Czech travelers, the area is easily accessible – from Ostrava via the D1 and R59 highways to Žilina, then through Martin and Dolný Kubín to Námestovo or Oravská Polhora. Accommodation can be found in guesthouses and chalets in the vicinity, which also offer other attractions of Orava, such as Orava Castle or the Orava Reservoir.