An unexpected rarity in a typically agricultural area is the so-called Levice Spring Line – a geologically active zone linked to thermal water springs and the formation of travertine mounds. This imaginary line runs from the Slovenská brána gorge near Tlmače, through Levice and Santovka, all the way to the spa town of Dudince.
Points of Interest
- Vápnik Hill and the Kalinčiakovo district
- Santovka
- Dudince
Vápnik Hill and Kalinčiakovo
The tectonics of the area have left the Tekov region with unique natural formations, such as travertine and travertine mounds. The best known of these is Vápnik Hill (274 m above sea level) near Levice (in the Kalinčiakovo district). This massive travertine mound was disturbed in the past by mining, not only of travertine but also of the famous “Levice golden onyx,” a decorative stone that adorns the interiors of many notable buildings.
in the Levice district
You can reach Vápnik Hill by car from Kalinčiakovo, but also on foot or along the green cycling route 5124 with a detour onto the yellow connector 8140. Your reward will be a pleasant rest area and a panoramic view from the lookout tower on Vápnik, which also serves as a memorial to the World War II liberation battles in the Tekov Region.
And while you’re here, stop by for a seat on the giant bench beneath Vápnik …
In Kalinčiakovo, admire the original Romanesque church, one of the oldest in the Levice district, standing on another travertine mound. For families with children, the SURDOK Nature Trail, starting in the center of Kalinčiakovo, is a great choice.
Santovka
The next stop on the Levice Spring Line is the village of Santovka. During your visit, be sure not to miss the extinct Biely kameň travertine mound, where you can draw mineral water yourself. A bottled version is also offered by the local bottling plant. Nearby you’ll find a unique oriental structure – the Filagoria, which served as the exhibition pavilion for Santovka mineral water at the 1885 Budapest exhibition. End your visit at the local outdoor pool complex with thermal water, drawn straight from a geothermal spring. This lets you watch travertine formation happening in real time.
Dudince
This small spa town will surprise you with its calm and beauty. A pleasant walk through the town park will reveal several extinct travertine mounds, which only relatively recently ceased their activity. The only active one is the travertine mound on the spa promenade. You can also stumble upon recent travertine formation by chance near the outlet of thermal water from the local pool complex. You can also spend the hot summer days right in the pool.
Hop on your bike and discover the unique Levice Spring Line …