Zlatníky – Nature and Local History

If you are planning a stay that combines nature, exercise and local history, Zlatníky offers several specific themes to help you plan. The village lies at the northeastern foothills of the Považský Inovec and along the upper reaches of the Livina stream. The municipality’s elevation ranges from 260 to 975 m above sea level; the village centre lies at 270 m. These elevations therefore refer to different points of reference: the municipality as a whole and the village itself.

Landscape and the Kulháň Protected Area

The Kulháň Protected Area includes the site of European importance SKUEV0134 Kulháň. The protected area lies in Topoľčany District, in the cadastral area of Prašice, and in Bánovce nad Bebravou District, in the cadastral area of Zlatníky. It covers 128.9765 ha; its designation as a protected area has been in effect since 1 June 2021. The following species are listed for the SKUEV0134 Kulháň site: Bombina bombina, Cerambyx cerdo, Cordulegaster heros, Cucujus cinnaberinus, Lucanus cervus and Rosalia alpina.

Educational Trail and Cycling Routes

The Duchonka-Kulháň educational trail is a self-guided walking route that can be followed in either direction. It is classified as easy and can be used in both summer and winter. The route includes an arboretum and 14 marked tree species. The oaks in the Kulháň area are estimated to be 300 to 550 years old. One section of the trail follows the embankment of the former forest railway—a historical feature incorporated directly into the route.

Rybník Kulháň is a suitable stop or destination for cycling trips. The pond has farm animals and play facilities for children, including slides, carousels and swings. Alongside the educational trail, these offer further specific points of interest to help you plan your visit. The two attractions offer different experiences: the educational trail is a walking route focused on trees, while Rybník Kulháň is a destination or stop on cycling trips.

Church, Crafts and Local History

The bell tower was rebuilt in 1984, modelled on the earlier structure. Inside the church are an altarpiece of the Virgin Mary, Queen, the Stations of the Cross and a large wooden cross by woodcarver Ján Chovan from Dekýš. These details complement the landscape themes with sacred art and craftsmanship.

The local history of work spans several periods. Until the mid-20th century, some residents of Zlatníky still made wheel spokes for wheelwrights. Another glassworks operated in the settlement of Kulháň from 1865; production ceased in 1890. A deed of gift from 1389 already mentions a gold mine. These dates represent different stages in local history and should be distinguished chronologically.

An annual tradition is part of church life: around 22 August, residents mark the church feast day with traditional church festivities. For planning purposes, the highlights can be distinguished as follows: the educational trail combines walking and tree themes, while the bell tower, church interior, crafts and glassworks history broaden the cultural perspective on Zlatníky.

Getting to Zlatníky

Two Class III state roads lead to Zlatníky and connect the village with all neighbouring municipalities in the district. If you are looking for hotels for a stay in Zlatníky, you can choose the destination based on your interests: hiking and nature themes are available, as are local history and the attractions at Rybník Kulháň.

Discover more destinations: Pravotice, Veľké Držkovce, Malé Hoste, Haláčovce, Veľké Chlievany, Trebichava, Omastiná, Šišov.

Return to the regional travel overview: Bánovce Nad Bebravou.