The hiking infrastructure was expanded in the second half of 2017 with the addition of the new “Rajec Castle and vicinity” thematic hiking trail. A series of information boards starts at the Town Museum building in Rajec, at the entrance to the Veronika thermal swimming pool, and continues throughout the mountain massif of Dubová. The information boards explain to visitors the local flora and fauna and the history of the town of Rajec and the Rajecká Valley. There are resting areas with benches, tables, and waste bins available at lookout points with striking views, and at stop no. 7 you can enjoy a view of the Rajecká Valley from the new observation tower. The hiking trail continues along the Dubová ridge all the way to the site of the archaeological workshop, where a palisade is also located – a replica of the Rajec castle’s defensive structure. Continue your journey to Jasenové village and from there to Rajec along the existing hiking trail alongside the Čierňanka stream.
Did you know?
Although the first written mention of Rajec castle dates to 1299, it was built around the last quarter of the 13th century, as there are reports indicating that the castle was seized from the original owners by Matthew III Csák in 1297. After his death the castle was claimed by the king. Between 1392 and 1397, the castle served as a reserve property for the Kaplani family. King Sigismund of Luxembourg later had it demolished and the abandoned castle was passed to the control of Lietava’s nobles. Archaeological exploration has confirmed the existence of a rock structure measuring 120 x 80 m protected by a bailey and a palisade. The thematic hiking trail starts in front of the Town Museum and is marked with a red marker. It is 5.2 km long, with an ascent of 307 metres that takes around 4 hours.
