Lovce – Natural Landscape and Village Culture

Lovce lies in the valley of the Bolkov stream, in the northern part of the Žitavská pahorkatina hills and on the southern slopes of the Tribečské vrchy mountains. As a result, the valley and hilly landscapes meet in the area around the village. The protected Zubria Obora area extends into the cadastral territory of Lovce. Above the village stands the 440-metre-high quartzite hill Plieška, topped by a two-storey metal lookout tower.

Landscape and Bison Reserve

The Zubria zvernica bison reserve was established in 1958 as Slovakia’s only bison breeding site. The breeding area covers 27 hectares, while the protected zone covers 113 hectares. In addition to bison, wildlife and several protected animal and plant species can often be observed in the protected zone. The cadastral territory of Lovce is also home to a carp fishing pond managed by MO SRZ Zlaté Moravce. At 113 hectares, the protected zone is considerably larger than the 27-hectare breeding area.

The Zubria zvernica is about 3 km beyond Lovce. There is a small car park in front of the entrance gate; from there, an easy walk of about 300 metres leads directly to the breeding facility. Check the current access conditions before your visit. This will help you plan the route to the facility and your time in the protected area without confusing the approximate distance with the length of the walk.

The Lazárova spring in Vlčí kút can also be reached via a turn-off from the road to the Zubria zvernica. It serves as a rest stop for locals and visitors.

Finding Your Way by Bike

Cycle route 5118 continues from the Zubria zvernica to Lovce and then on to Zlaté Moravce, where it ends in the city centre. This route sequence can help you find your way when exploring Lovce in connection with the cycle route.

Church, Roadside Chapels and Folklore

The Church of Christ the King dates back to a Neoclassical building erected in 1780; the church was extended in the 20th century. Lovce also has three roadside chapels, built by a local stonemason in the second half of the 19th century. The village’s history therefore includes both a specific construction date and a later period of expansion.

The Cerianka folk group was founded on 18 January 2011. At performances at home and abroad, it presents Slovak folklore through customs, traditional costumes and songs. The folk performances offer a different focus from the historical architecture of the church and roadside chapels.

Village Day and Local Cuisine

Lovce’s annual Village Day includes the Lovecká vareška goulash cooking competition. If you would like to plan your visit around the competition, check the event dates in advance: the date may vary.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Volkovce, Tesárske Mlyňany, Obyce, Veľké Vozokany, Červený Hrádok, Hostie, Beladice, Mankovce.

Go to the main travel overview: Zlaté Moravce.