Hajtovka – Landscape along the Poprad and local history

Hajtovka lies above the left bank of the Poprad and combines a distinctive river and hill landscape with a history that dates back to the Middle Ages. This gives your stay two distinct themes: the natural formations around the Poprad and the village’s historic traces. The church also adds a striking architectural feature.

Landscape along the Poprad

Hajtovka’s terrain is mostly hilly, rising northward from the Poprad riverbed from 490 to 744 metres above sea level. Its position above the left bank and the rise to the north describe two aspects of the surroundings: proximity to the river and higher-lying terrain. The Koteličné skaly, limestone formations, lie east of Hajtovka. Nearby Opálená skala is part of the Pieniny Klippen Belt. The area thus brings together named limestone formations and a rock formation belonging to a larger geological belt.

Skalná ihla and the natural monument

A particularly direct connection to the Poprad can be seen at Skalná ihla. This protected natural monument lies in the river’s floodplain, about 1.5 kilometres southwest of Hajtovka. The isolated Jurassic klippe relief is more than ten metres high, and erosion by the Poprad is visible on it. From Hajtovka, the Skalná ihla natural monument, also known as Čertova skala, can be reached via field tracks. Both the geological formation and the visible effects of the river are part of this landscape. The access route is a practical point to bear in mind when planning: it follows field tracks.

Church and architecture

The Church of the Nativity of the Most Holy Mother of God in Hajtovka was built in 1872. It is in the traditional East Slovak Baroque-Classicist style of church architecture. The interior furnishings also date from the time of construction, so the building and its furnishings belong to the same period. The church is in good condition and is used for its religious purpose. If you would like to see the interior, it is advisable to ask in advance about visiting arrangements and its current condition.

History of the village

Hajtovka was founded in the second half of the 14th century under the right of pre-emption. The oldest written mention of the village dates from 1427, when it was called Ayathuagasa. The founding period and the first written mention are therefore two different milestones in the village’s history. Historically, Hajtovka belonged to the Plaveč estate. In 1456, residents took part in an uprising against feudal burdens. Its history thus includes both the village’s early development and a social conflict from the 15th century.

In the past, a trading waterway ran near Hajtovka, connecting Slovak communities and towns with Poland. Historically, residents made their living from agriculture and fishing, and were known in the surrounding area as fishermen. The waterway represents connections beyond the region, while agriculture and fishing shaped the village’s historical livelihood. These different aspects add regional connections and the everyday lives of its residents to Hajtovka’s history.

Weather and your stay

The weather in Hajtovka is influenced by its geographical location, elevation and proximity to the High Tatras; sudden changes can occur. If you plan to spend time outdoors, keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Discover more destinations: Nová Ľubovňa, Maly Lipnik, Mníšek Nad Popradom, Kamienka, Vysne Ruzbachy, Šambron, Altlublau, Lesnica.

For the broader travel overview: Stará Ľubovňa.