Vyšný Medzev: Gorge, Mining History and Hiking Trails

Vyšný Medzev lies on the southeastern slopes of the Slovak Ore Mountains. In the southern section of the valley, the landscape takes on the character of a deep gorge. The forested area of Vyšný Medzev is defined by a rugged, wooded mountain landscape; streams with abundant water flow through the individual valleys. The town therefore combines a striking valley landscape with a heritage shaped by mining and various opportunities to explore the surrounding area on foot.

Townscape and History

The Vyšný Medzev heritage zone preserves a largely intact natural and settlement structure. In the centre, rows of burgher houses define the built-up area, while the rows in the more rural surroundings are laid out more loosely. The townscape can therefore be appreciated not only through individual buildings but also through the differing patterns of development.

The first written mention of the two settlement areas of Vyšný Medzev and Nižný Medzev dates from 1427. Mining and metalworking were among the town's traditional occupations. Under Emperor Leopold I, Vyšný Medzev was granted the status of a free royal privileged mining town. These historical connections give exploring the town centre a particular focus.

Hiking Trails and Waypoints

A yellow-marked hiking trail passes through Vyšný Medzev and continues along Gelnická cesta and Staré Košiare to Trohanka–Tri studne. The red-marked ridge route in the Volovské vrchy is a separate trail. It runs along the northern ridge of the Vyšný Medzev forest area: eastward, it leads to Kojšovská hoľa; westward, it passes Zbojnícka skala to the viewpoint summit of Kloptaň and continues to Jedľovec. The route information is based on the official description as of August 2026; trail conditions and signage may change. The markings and destinations provide practical guidance when choosing between the routes described.

According to the official route description (as of August 2026), the nature trail through the Humelská Valley is 8 kilometres long and starts in the village square, at an information board with local history and a trail map. At Múr, the trail includes a viewpoint, access to which may vary depending on conditions. Between two water reservoirs, it leads to a reconstruction of a medieval smelting furnace, the condition of which may change, and continues to a medieval mine. There, you can view the hand-hewn stone adit through a barred entrance; access conditions may change. The nature trail is considered easy and is suitable for less fit or older hikers. As trail conditions, signage and access to the viewpoint may change, check conditions before setting out.

Buildings and Mining Heritage

Vyšný Medzev Town Hall was built in the early Baroque style in the 17th century and expanded and remodelled in the 18th century. The Roman Catholic Baroque Church of St Mary Magdalene dates from 1773; its altar originally stood in Jasov Monastery. Antlov hámor is also part of the town's technical heritage: the monument consists of a single-room rectangular building from the second half of the 19th century.

The former mining settlement of Lucia Baňa is part of the municipality of Vyšný Medzev. It is home to an Art Nouveau wooden bowling alley dating from the early 20th century. Along with the town hall, church and heritage zone, it adds another historic building to the town's story.

Tour Planning Information

Another point of reference for hikers is Turistická útulňa Jána Kruteka. It is located at an elevation of 842 metres in the Kloptáň area and can be reached from Vyšný Medzev. According to regional tourism information (as of August 2026), the hiking shelter is available year-round and free of charge; operating conditions may change. Check the current terms of use before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Nižná Myšľa, Bukovec, Medzev, Turňa Nad Bodvou, Malá Ida, Kechnec, Budimír, Zlatá Idka

For the broader travel overview: Košice-Okolie District.