Chmeľová (925 m a.s.l.) is the second highest peak in the White Carpathians — a rewarding summit that combines rocky limestone formations, rich mixed forests and surprisingly far-reaching views. Perched above the village of Vršatské Podhradie and close to the ruins of Vršatec Castle, it offers a hike that feels both wild and historically layered.

The peak forms part of a unique rocky ridge massif where warm-loving lowland species and mountain flora coexist side by side. The terrain is mostly forested, but clearings near the summit open up broad panoramas. On a clear day you can spot the Považský Inovec, Vtáčnik, Strážovské vrchy and Javorníky ranges, and sometimes even the Moravian-Silesian Beskids, Malá Fatra and the distant Hrubý Jeseník. Every season brings something different — spring wildflowers, summer shade, and vivid autumn colours in the canopy.

• From the south — from the Vršatec junction near Vršatské Podhradie, green trail via the Chmeľová junction, moderate difficulty.
• From the northeast — from Červený Kameň, green trail via the Chmeľová junction, moderate difficulty.
• From Červený Kameň via Vršatské Podhradie — blue trail, with an option to join the ridge trail from the Brezová, kaplnka junction.

• The summit sits immediately next to the Vršatské bradlá Nature Reserve, part of the White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area — please stay on marked trails.

The neighbouring Vršatec Castle ruins make a natural addition to any hike up Chmeľová, turning a summit walk into a half-day adventure through both natural and medieval history.