Katarínka is one of the most enchanting hidden gems in the Small Carpathians — a hauntingly beautiful set of Franciscan monastery and church ruins from the 17th century, nestled in the forest at 324 m above sea level. Whether you are a history lover, a casual hiker, or simply someone who appreciates a magical atmosphere, this place will not disappoint.

The ruins emerge from the trees with a quiet grandeur: a 30-metre church tower still stands tall, walls reach up to 22 metres in places, and the whole site is wrapped in the peaceful silence of the Katarína nature reserve. Each season brings its own mood — fresh green in spring, cool shade in summer, and a golden glow in autumn. Near the ruins, a small outdoor exhibition celebrates the narrow-gauge forest railway that once ran through this valley, adding an extra layer of interest to your visit.

• From Naháč — blue marked trail, approx. 40 minutes, easy
• From Dechtice — approx. 1 hour 20 minutes, you can drive to the edge of the forest, then on foot only, easy
• From Dobrá Voda — blue marked trail, approx. 1 hour 20 minutes, easy; the trail continues onward to the ruins of Dobrá Voda Castle

• Beyond the boundary of the Small Carpathians Protected Landscape Area (CHKO), access is on foot only
• An active youth volunteer project has been conserving and restoring the ruins since 1995 — summer camps are regularly held here
• A narrow-gauge railway exhibition with original period vehicles is located right next to the ruins

Legend has it that St. Catherine of Alexandria appeared here to a young hermit nobleman, Jan Apponyi — and it was this apparition that inspired the founding of the monastery in 1618, giving the site its enduring mystique.