Námestovo: Reservoir, Island History and Sport

There are several different ways to shape a trip to Námestovo: around the Oravská priehrada, the history of Slanický ostrov umenia, or facilities for skateboarding and parkour. Water activities, a seasonal cultural venue and sports areas appeal to different interests. The conditions you should take into account before visiting also vary depending on what you have in mind.

Oravská priehrada and Windsurfing

The Oravská priehrada covers 35 km² and is one of Slovakia’s largest reservoirs. It offers very good conditions for windsurfing. Its area gives an idea of the scale of the body of water, while windsurfing is a specific activity on the water. If you plan to take part in the sport, bear in mind that local conditions can vary, and check the situation before setting out.

Island History and Culture on Slanický ostrov umenia

Slanický ostrov umenia remained as an island after Slanica and four other villages disappeared beneath the Oravská priehrada. The Baroque church and Calvary on the island were once the dominant features of Slanica. The combination of the surviving island and the vanished villages gives a visit its own historical focus alongside the reservoir.

The church houses the exhibition “Slovenská tradičná ľudová plastika a maľba.” The outdoor exhibition “Oravská kamenárska tvorba” is devoted to Orava stone carving of the 18th and 19th centuries. The displays have different focuses: traditional folk sculpture and painting inside the church, and regional stone carving outdoors. Slanický ostrov umenia can only be visited during the season.

You can reach the island by excursion boat. Loď Slanica connects Slanická osada with Slanickým ostrov (Ostrovom umenia) on the Oravská priehrada. Before your trip, check the current season dates and sailing information so you can plan your visit to the island accordingly.

Parkour and Skatepark by the Shore

The PARKOUR PARK was built on the shore of the Oravská priehrada in summer 2018. It includes elements for beginners and those with some experience. It also caters to experienced traceurs, freerunners and enthusiasts of street-workout exercises. The information outlines different experience levels and forms of movement to help you choose your sporting focus.

The Skatepark v Námestove is a large concrete skatepark located right on the shore of the Oravská priehrada. Its central area includes a funbox, a spin and a bowl with a platform. Its multi-level street line features rails, boxes and a long curb for skaters and bikers. When choosing between the facilities, their different focuses can help: the PARKOUR PARK emphasizes user groups and forms of movement, while the skatepark features specific obstacles for skaters and bikers.

Discover more destinations: Hruštín, Mútne, Bobrov, Oravské Veselé, Novot, Rabčice, Sihelne, Zákamenné.

Go to the main travel overview: Okres Námestovo.