Nature and countryside conservation - Slovenský raj (Slovak Paradise) National Park

500 Sk commemorative silver coin

Slovakia is a country rich in natural beauty. In spite of its relatively small size, all types of surface relief are found on its territory, from flat plains to high mountains. Many natural formations and areas have been declared as protected areas because of their especial value. There are five national parks and several protected landscape areas.

Slovenský Raj (the Slovak Paradise) was declared as protected landscape area in 1964, and a national park in 1988, because of its unique natural beauty. The landscape is characterized by imposing canyons, deep gorges and ravines, a multitude of waterfalls and a  wealth of caves and chasms. There are 180 caves in the park, of which only the Dobšiná Ice Cave is accessible to the public. The gorge of the River Hornád is of outstanding natural beauty. The national park, including protected areas, covers an area of 32,764 ha, of which 90% is covered by woodland. It is notable for its variety of flora and fauna.