The Sisi Nature Trail and its stops is one of the most enjoyable walking routes in Bardejovské Kúpele. It combines the history, nature and atmosphere of this famous spa resort and recalls a visit by one of Europe’s most famous monarchs – Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria, known as Sisi.
Empress Elisabeth visited Bardejov Spa 1 July 1895 and spent around three weeks here. She stayed at the Hotel Deák, which is now known as the Alžbeta Sanatorium. It was her stay at the spa that inspired the creation of an educational trail, which introduces visitors not only to the history of Sisi but also to interesting places in the vicinity of the spa.
An easy route for the whole family
Route the Sisi nature trail in Bardejovské Kúpele It is approximately 2.8 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of only around 43 metres. You can complete the entire route in around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and the time you spend at each stop.
The footpath is also suitable for visitors who are not looking for a strenuous hike. This pleasant walk takes you through the spa grounds, the forest park and the quieter natural areas of Bardejovské Kúpele. Thanks to its gentle gradient, it is suitable for families with children, senior citizens and anyone wishing to treat themselves to a gentle outing in the countryside whilst on a spa break.
Seven stops linked to Sisi
The nature trail consists of seven stops, which gradually showcase the highlights of the spa complex. The tour begins at the Hotel Alžbeta, where the Empress once stayed. It is here that one of the most striking monuments associated with her visit stands – a bronze statue of a seated Sisi in Alžbetín Park.
The statue was officially unveiled back in 1903 and was created by the sculptor Július Donáth. An interesting fact is that the Empress is depicted on it as a young woman. The reason for this was a remark she made upon leaving the spa, when – according to tradition – she felt that, thanks to her stay, she felt as though she were eighteen again.
The next stop is the Friendship Footbridge, which is one of the spa park’s most popular features. The route then continues towards the swimming pool, past the oxygen trail and on to the Čierna mláka area. During a single walk, visitors can thus gradually discover the architecture, relaxation areas and natural nooks and crannies of Bardejovské Kúpele.
A trip in the footsteps of Empress Sisi
The Sisi Nature Trail It is the ideal choice for anyone wishing to combine a leisurely stroll with a journey through history whilst visiting Bardejovské Kúpele. It is not just a trail dedicated to the Empress – it offers views of the spa park, the countryside, historic sites and tranquil spots that are all part of the character of Bardejovské Kúpele.
The entire site is freely accessible, and the footpath has no set opening hours or admission charges. To Bardejov Spa It can be reached by car or by bus from Bardejova, with a park-and-ride car park located at the entrance to the site.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Gallery
Information
The Sisi Nature Trail is situated in the peaceful surroundings of Bardejovské Kúpele, where it links the spa park with the surrounding woodland. The trail starts at the Alžbeta sanatorium, close to other spa attractions and places to relax.
The footpath is freely accessible and can be walked without a booking or an entrance fee. Thanks to the easy terrain, it’s also ideal for a short stroll during a spa break or a family day out. Along the route, it’s worth setting aside some time to stop by the spa springs or in the local parks.
An interesting bonus is the chance to combine a walk with other activities in Bardejovské Kúpele. In the immediate vicinity, you’ll find spa houses, the colonnade, a museum of folk architecture and places to grab a bite to eat, so the walk can form part of a longer itinerary.
The route offers the most pleasant atmosphere in spring and autumn, when the greenery of the spa park and the surrounding forest really comes into its own. In summer, it is a particularly pleasant option in the morning or early evening, when you can avoid the worst of the heat.
