In the region of northern Spiš and Pieniny there is an exceptional protected nature reserve, which has the character of a gorge or a canyon. It is the Jarabinský breakthrough also called Jarabinské gorges, according to the local inhabitants also as Pece.
The breakthrough is situated north of the village of Jarabina, which is located between the former royal town of Stara Ľubovňa and the famous pilgrimage site of Litmanová. The canyon-like valley covering an area of 5.5 hectares with a length of 0.5 km was created by the Malý Lipník stream. The most beautiful part of the breakthrough is a 150 m long section through which the gorge emerges under the so-called Lysá skála (Lysá skála). In some places it reaches a width of 100 m, but gradually narrows to less than 3 m and consists of 5 cascades. Potok preteká skalnou cestičkou s rôznymi prírodnými útvarmi napr. skalnatými korytami obrovskej hĺbky a obkolesujú ho vysoké skalné steny s výškou 10 – 20 m. V horninách prielomu sa vyskytuje veľké množstvo skamenelých amonitov a lastúrnikov z jurských čias.
Thanks to the implementation of the project through the cross-border Interreg programme, a nature trail was built in the gorge, which allows a safer and more accessible descent into the gorge and also allows visitors to admire the beauty of the Jarabinský gorge from the viewing platform. Jarabinský prielom was declared a protected nature reserve in 1967 and is also part of the NATURA 2000 network of protected areas of European importance.The Jarabinský breakthrough is a nice and easy hike suitable also for families with children.
Cover photo: Vladimír Fedor
