Venue
How to Get There
The host town Banská Štiavnica is located in central Slovakia. It is accessible by car. If you are coming from Bratislava, we recommend using the D1 and R1 highways. If you are coming from the east, the R1 is also your best choice. The last 20 km will be on smaller national roads.
You can also travel by plane - airports in Bratislava (BTS) or Vienna (VIE) are approximately 2 hours away by car.
Race venues are located in Banská Štiavnica and Banský Studenec (swim location).
Where to Stay
Banská Štiavnica and the surrounding region offer a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and pensions to private apartments.
We recommend booking your accommodation well in advance, as the race weekend is very popular. You can find a list of recommended partners on the event website.
For specific information regarding parking and potential campsites for athletes, please check the official event website for the latest updates as the race date approaches.
What to do in Banská Štiavnica
Banská Štiavnica is not just a race venue; it is a beautifully preserved medieval town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you are looking for a light pre-race shakeout walk, a spot for your support crew to hang out, or a place to celebrate post-race, here is a practical guide on how to spend your time here.
1. Explore the Historic Center & Sights
The town is built in the center of an ancient collapsed volcano, creating steep, atmospheric streets lined with centuries-old architecture.
Holy Trinity Square (Námestie sv. Trojice): The heart of the town, featuring the iconic plague column. It’s surrounded by historic palaces, great cafes, and restaurants—perfect for your support crew during race day.
The Calvary (Kalvária): A complex of baroque chapels situated on a sharp volcanic hill overlooking the town. It is a steep walk up, but it offers the absolute best panoramic view of the entire region. Highly recommended for a sunset view or a pre-race walk.
The Old and New Castles (Starý a Nový zámok): Two distinct fortresses built to protect the town during the Ottoman wars. The New Castle offers a great view from its top floor, while the Old Castle hosts regular cultural exhibitions.
2. Experience the Mining Heritage
Štiavnica’s wealth came from silver and gold mining, and much of that history is still visible today.
Open-Air Mining Museum (Banské múzeum v prírode): Located about 2 km from the center. You can put on a helmet, take a mantle and a lamp, and go 45 meters underground into the historic Bartolomej mine shaft.
Glanzenberg Underground Gallery: Located directly under the town center, this mine tunnel was historically visited by emperors and nobles.
3. Relax at the "Tajchy" (Mining Reservoirs)
You will already experience the water during the swim leg, but these unique artificial reservoirs built in the 18th century are scattered all around the hills.
Klinger: Tucked away in the woods just a short walk from the center, ideal for a quiet swim.
Počúvadlo: The largest and most popular lake, surrounded by small guest houses and restaurants. It is also the starting point for a hike up to Sitno, the highest peak of the Štiavnica hills.
4. Food, Coffee & Local Beer
The town has a surprisingly vibrant food and coffee culture, heavily influenced by its artistic community.
Cafe Culture: Walk down the main street (Trotuár) and you will find numerous independent coffee shops, bakeries, and small bars built directly into the historic rock walls.
ERB Brewery: A highly regarded local craft brewery and restaurant located right in the center. A great spot for a post-race recovery meal and a premium local lager.
Ruin Caffee: A unique cafe built inside the ruins of an old townhouse, known for its specific raw atmosphere.
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