Prešov–Sigord Cycle and Railway Trail It is a popular recreational cycle route linking the Prešov-Solivar district with the recreational area Sigord near the village of Kokošovce. It winds through peaceful countryside, passing through the villages of Dulova Ves and Kokošovce, and offers a convenient way to get out of the city and closer to nature and the foothills Slanské hills. Thanks to its high-quality tarmac surface, gentle gradient and separation from the main road traffic, it is suitable not only for experienced cyclists, but also for families with children, leisure cyclists and skaters.
The completed section measures approximately 6.5 kilometres and overcomes a gradient of around 125 metres. The ride from Solivar to Sigord takes approximately, at a normal leisurely pace, 30 minutes, although if you’re travelling with children or making more frequent stops, it’s a good idea to allow for a longer journey time. The route towards Sigord is mostly a gentle climb, so the return journey to Prešov is therefore easier and quicker.
In the footsteps of the old railway line
Name Bicycle Railroad It is no coincidence. The route follows the corridor of a former forest railway, which was used to transport timber from Slanské hills. Part of the track was later converted into what is known as The Pioneer Railway, where young people learnt the basics of railway operations. The Pioneer Railway operated between 1961 and 1969, after which its tracks were removed. Today’s cycle route thus builds on the area’s transport history and gives the original railway corridor a new purpose.
The project is based on the principle that „From rails to trails“, that is, the conversion of disused railway lines into cycle and walking paths. Similar projects are common in several European countries, as they allow the original railway line to be preserved whilst creating a safe space for active recreation. The first phase of the Cycle Railway was built between 2018 and 2020 and was officially opened to the public in 2022.
The route and its facilities
The cycle path begins in the Solivar district, at the turn-off towards Dulová Ves, opposite the AGROPLUS site. From there, it continues mainly south-eastwards through open countryside, past fields and small patches of greenery. It then passes through the villages of Dulova Ves and Kokošovce on its way to the Sigord leisure area.
The cycle path is three metres wide and is divided into two lanes, each 1.5 metres wide. It is two-way, so you must keep to the right, adjust your speed to other users and take extra care when overtaking. The smooth tarmac surface is suitable for road, trekking, city and children’s bikes, and in good conditions it is also used by roller skaters.
Benches, litter bins, information boards and cycle racks are situated along the route. Rest areas allow you to take a break, have a snack or admire the surrounding countryside. As most of the route runs through open countryside, on hot summer days it is advisable to bring plenty of water, a hat and sun protection.
Difficulty and suitability of the route
The cycle railway is one of easy to moderately challenging cycle routes. The climb is gentle and has no particularly steep sections, so even less experienced cyclists and older children can manage it. Younger children should be supervised by adults, as the route is two-way and, at weekends, there may be a large number of cyclists, skaters and pedestrians using it. When it opened, the route was also presented as suitable for people with lower fitness levels or wheelchair users, although practical manageability always depends on individual ability and the current condition of the surface.
The route is freely accessible and free of charge all year round. The best conditions are from spring to autumn, although the tarmac can be slippery after rain, during frost or when there is snow.
The cycle-railway offers a delightful blend of history, active leisure and nature, whilst also providing a safer alternative to cycling along the busy roads between Prešov and Sigord.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Information
The Prešov–Sigord cycle and railway trail begins in the Solivar district, at the exit towards Dulova Ves, opposite the AGROPLUS site, and continues through Dulova Ves and Kokošovce to the Sigord leisure area.
The tarmac, two-way route is approximately 6.5 km long, climbs gently and takes around 30 minutes to cycle in one direction, making it suitable for leisure cyclists, families with children and skaters alike.
The route is open all year round and free of charge; you can park in suitable public car parks at the start of the route in Solivar, or walk the route in the opposite direction from Sigord.
