Near Bardejov in northeastern Slovakia is the ruin of Zborov Castle, also called Makovica. The Gothic castle was built at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries. Several trails lead to the large castle, which offers magnificent views. Families with children can also manage the hike.
Zborov Castle was built to protect the Hungarian-Polish road. During the rebellion of the Estates it was attacked by the imperial army and demolished in 1684. From the extensive Renaissance rebuilt castle only the walls have been preserved. The ruins of the castle were considerably damaged during World War I.
Already in 1926 the castle hill was declared a protected area. Later in 1950 its protection was extended by declaring it a state nature reserve, which makes Zborov Castle one of the oldest protected areas in Slovakia. The protection is mainly focused on the massive, several centuries-old specimens of the summer oak planted along the access road to the castle.
The first serious attempt to save this national cultural monument came in 2009, when Vladimír Kaminský, a native of Zborov, together with other enthusiasts founded the Civic Association for the Rescue of Zborov Castle in 2010. During the summer, several events are held on the harbour.
Route Details:
For pedestrians: the fastest pedestrian access is from the village of Zborov (Podhradie) along the yellow trail for about 30 minutes with a steep ascent. The second route follows the red trail and the avenue of old oaks for about 45 minutes. The ascent to Zborov Castle from the village of Dlhá Lúka along the yellow trail takes about 45 minutes, the ascent is moderate. From Bardejovské Kúpele there is a nature trail leading to the castle, which is 8 km long and has 6 stops.
