Nová hoľa (1,370 m a.s.l.) is one of the most popular summits in the Veľká Fatra range — an open, grassy peak rising above the resort of Donovaly, offering sweeping panoramic views and unusually easy access. Whether you ride the cable car or hike up on foot, the reward at the top is well worth every step.

The summit belongs to the so-called 'hôľa' type — treeless, meadow-covered high terrain — which means unobstructed views in almost every direction. On a clear day you can spot the ridge of the Low Tatras with the Veľká Chochuľa massif, and further afield the peaks of Sitno, Poľana, Veľký Choč and even Kriváň. In winter the eastern slopes transform into a busy ski resort with runs of varying difficulty, while mountain bikers take over in summer. The nearby saddle carries the famous Cesta hrdinov SNP long-distance trail, making Nová hoľa a natural stop for hikers passing through the heart of the Veľká Fatra.

• From Donovaly — by cable car, time: a few minutes, difficulty: easy (family-friendly option)
• From Donovaly — marked trail (Cesta hrdinov SNP), difficulty: easy to moderate
• From Veľký Šturec pass — via the neighbouring peak Zvolen, marked trail, difficulty: moderate

• A cable car runs from Donovaly directly to the summit area — perfect for families and less experienced hikers.
• The summit sits on the boundary of the Žilina and Banská Bystrica regions and within the buffer zone of the Low Tatras National Park.
• At the base station you will find a bobsleigh run, an ice rink, accommodation, restaurants and the Habakuky fairy-tale park.
• The Cesta hrdinov SNP long-distance trail passes through the nearby saddle, connecting Nová hoľa with a wider hiking network.

The very top of Nová hoľa marks a continental watershed — rainwater falling on the northern slopes eventually finds its way to the Váh river, while water from the southern slopes drains into the Hron. A quiet geographic curiosity hiding beneath your boots at the summit.