Lipany between Šarišská vrchovina and Čergov

Lipany lies between the Šarišská vrchovina uplands and the Čergov Mountains, on the upper reaches of the Torysa. In addition to its scenic setting, historic religious buildings, the Balažka observation tower and several leisure activities provide practical points of reference for planning your stay.

Church history in Lipany

The Church of St. Martin of Tours was built around the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries in the late Romanesque style. Its tower served as an observation post for Kamenický Castle. On the north wall is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built in the Baroque-Rococo style and used as the crypt of the Dežöfiovci family, also known as the Dessewffyovci. The building thus brings together different historical and architectural features: the late Romanesque church, the tower’s function and the later-added crypt chapel.

Another historic site is the Chapel of the Transfiguration of the Lord, located in the old cemetery in the centre of Lipany. Local resident Andrej Leško arranged for it to be built in 1837. The site is also associated with a tradition that continues to this day: on 6 August, the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord is celebrated in the old town cemetery. The chapel’s construction history and the continuing celebration thus represent two distinct time perspectives.

Balažka and the route to the observation tower

Balažka is part of the Hromovec Mountains and features a geological microfold. The observation tower stands at an elevation of 598 metres, is 13.69 metres high and is made of spruce wood. It was opened to visitors in 2019. From the top, views extend to the Čergov Mountains and the Levočské vrchy; in good visibility, the Slanské vrchy can also be seen. The views therefore depend explicitly on visibility conditions.

A green-marked hiking trail leads from the old cemetery in Lipany to the observation tower. The route is listed as 3.4 kilometres and about an hour long. Check the route before setting out, as trail details may change due to signage or maintenance. The distance and time estimates can help you fit the hike into your plans, without inferring the trail’s difficulty from its duration.

Hradisko Archaeological Park and Zverinec Lipany

Hradisko Archaeological Park is about five minutes from the town centre, close to three large ponds and directly on the EuroVelo cycling route. The site brings together a Slavic hillfort area, a historic archery range, an animal enclosure and a small amphitheatre. It therefore combines archaeological, sporting and animal-related features. The cycling route provides a practical point of reference for planning a visit; the distance from the town centre is given as about five minutes.

At Zverinec Lipany, visitors can feed the animals and take part in guided tours of the animal enclosure. The facility is accessible by car, bicycle or on foot. From the car park at Hradisko, an asphalt path leads there in about a two-minute walk.

Thermal park and public amenities

The thermal water at Thermal Park Lipany comes from a depth of more than 3,400 metres. The facilities include 13 slides and a 1.4-hectare green area. The thermal park offers a different leisure option from the historic town centre or the route to Balažka. As attractions may change, check the current offering before your visit.

For visitors interested in public facilities, Lipany Town Library is also part of the town’s offerings. It serves Lipany and the surrounding area, providing access to information and the internet, as well as library and educational events. Lipianska hudobná jar is a traditional public concert event in Lipany. If concert dates matter for your trip, check the relevant dates before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Sabinov, Drienica.

For the broader travel overview: Sabinov District.