Borinka: Pajštún Castle and Karst Area

The ruins of Pajštún Castle stand on a 486-metre-high limestone crag and date back to the 13th century. From Borinka, you can reach the castle on foot via a red-marked trail with a steep climb in approximately 45 minutes. The route combines clearly marked directions with a short but noticeably steep ascent to the historic ruin. The trail markings, gradient and approximate walking time make the ascent a clearly understandable route to the castle.

Landscape

Borinka lies at an elevation of 203 metres in the valley of the Stupava stream, on the southwestern edge of the Little Carpathians. The Borinský Kras karst area is located above the village. Near the present-day municipality are the remains of the walls of Dračí hrádok, the ruin of a medieval watchtower built in the 13th century. The structure probably served as a watch post to protect the route through the Little Carpathians. Thus, the area around Borinka brings together a valley, a karst area and historic wall remains.

Culture and History

Copperware was historically produced in the former settlement of Medené Hámre. The Calvary at Pajštún was completed and consecrated in 1940. In the lower section there is a statue of Saint Michael and an altar, while the upper section contains Stations of the Cross. Thus, the historic sites bring together different periods and forms of remembrance, from the medieval castle and watchtower to the religious complex from the 20th century. The Calvary therefore complements the medieval traces with a religious complex from the 20th century.

Medené Hámre

Medené Hámre is a former settlement in the cadastral area of the municipality of Borinka in Malacky District. The picturesque area, located almost centrally in the Devín Carpathians, is now considered a tourist and excursion destination for walks. From Borinka, Medené Hámre can be reached via an asphalt road or hiking trails. Near Medené Hámre there is a small reservoir, on whose shore stands a statue of Saint John of Nepomuk from 1731 on a prismatic pedestal. Thus, the former settlement encompasses both its historic use and its present-day landscape and built character. The road and hiking trails lead to an area where the history of the former settlement comes together with a monument erected at a later date.

When preparing your stay in Borinka, travel dates, room category and cancellation conditions may play a role when choosing a hotel. This practical guidance complements the town's historic and scenic attractions without combining them into a single visit programme.

Climbing and the Yearly Calendar

The climbing area at Pajštún has around 70 routes, each 25 to 30 metres long. In addition to easier routes, there are also more challenging ones. The climbing area adds a sporting focus to the historic sites without overshadowing the routes and ruins described above. The Stavanie máje event is held annually in Borinka. Alongside the permanent landscape and cultural attractions, this festival provides a recurring seasonal highlight.

For the broader travel overview: Malacky.

More destinations

More places within the same destination:

Marianka.