Vysoká (996 m a.s.l.) is an extinct volcano rising above the village of Ľubietová in central Slovakia's Veporské vrchy range. It's a fascinating blend of volcanic geology, ancient copper mining heritage, and rugged rocky scenery — all packed into an accessible and rewarding hike.
The slopes of Vysoká are dotted with rocky overhangs and small cave formations that give the terrain a wild, adventurous feel. The surrounding landscape, part of the broader Slovak Ore Mountains, is lush in summer and brilliantly colourful in autumn. From the summit, you're rewarded with open views across the Veporské vrchy hills.
The hamlet of Podlipa at the foot of the mountain serves as the gateway to both the peak and a fascinating educational mining trail, which winds past the remains of copper and iron ore workings that were active here for several centuries.
How to reach the summitDuring the era of Ottoman raids, this peak — then known as 'Hohenstein' — served as a watchtower with a signal fire to warn nearby villages. Archaeological finds show the area was already settled in the Eneolithic and Bronze Ages, making Vysoká a place where geology and human history truly run deep.