Šimonka, National nature reserve and scenic viewpoint in Prešov District, Slovakia.
Šimonka is a protected nature reserve in the Vranov nad Topľou area with multiple peaks across the Slanské vrchy Mountains. The landscape encompasses forested terrain spanning several adjacent municipalities and creates an important natural zone in this mountainous region.
The area was placed under protection in 1986 and ranks as the oldest nature reserve in the region. This designation has preserved the landscape for scientific study and conservation purposes over the following decades.
The mountain serves as a pilgrimage destination with wayside crosses positioned along walking paths that spiritually connect the surrounding communities through this protected landscape.
The area is accessible from Zlatá Baňa village via marked hiking trails with green and yellow route markers showing the way. Visitors should prepare for varying elevations and longer walks to explore the different sections of this protected landscape.
On clear days, the view from this location extends all the way to the High and Low Tatras, making it an exceptional observation point. The beech forests and Alpine clematis plants create a botanical rarity for this geographic location.
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