Highlight • Summit
Hiking
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Čertov Kopec Summit, also known as Devil's Hill, is a distinctive peak rising to 752 meters in the Malé Karpaty (Little Carpathians) mountain range in Slovakia. Situated above the village of Kuchyňa and northwest of Modra, this summit is a natural monument within the Pezinské Karpaty sub-region. Unlike many other peaks, Čertov Kopec is densely forested, offering a unique experience focused on its intriguing geology and rich history rather than expansive panoramic views from the very top.
Hikers exploring Čertov…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Chránená krajinná oblasť Malé Karpaty
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August 31, 2022
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Elevation 810 m
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Čertov Kopec Summit reaches an elevation of 751.8 meters (or 752 meters according to some sources). While the highlight data lists 814.34 meters, the most commonly cited and accurate elevation for the summit itself is 751.8m.
While the summit of Čertov Kopec is densely forested and does not offer panoramic views, hikers will find that beautiful distant views open up here and there along the trails leading to and from the peak. These occasional clearings provide opportunities to appreciate the surrounding landscape.
Čertov Kopec is characterized by its unusual, dark-colored rocks of strange shapes. Unlike the typical light grey limestone found in the Little Carpathians, these are black shales from the Mesozoic era, enriched with pyrite. This geological anomaly, along with remnants of pyrite ore deposits, is believed to be the origin of the mountain's 'Devil's Hill' moniker.
The summit is accessible from several nearby locations. Common access points include the villages of Pernek, Zochova Chata, or Pezinská Baba. The trails connect to the long-distance Štefánikova magistrála, offering various options for starting your hike.
The intro suggests spring, summer, or autumn as the best times to visit due to mild weather. While not explicitly stated, winter hiking would likely require appropriate gear for snow and ice, and hikers should be aware that conditions can be more challenging. The trails are generally well-trodden, but winter conditions could increase difficulty.
Yes, the area has a rich history. You can find remnants of old mines where gold, antimony, and pyrite were extracted. The region was also significant for logging, and the historical presence of the 'Huncokári' loggers adds to its unique past. Hikers might also spot small stone pillars built by visitors from the local rock.
The duration of a hike to Čertov Kopec Summit can vary significantly depending on your starting point and chosen route. While specific times are not provided, the hike is generally considered to require a moderate level of fitness, suggesting a few hours for a round trip from common access points.
The trails to Čertov Kopec Summit are described as suitable for moderately active tourists and families with older children. While generally accessible, families with very young children might find some sections challenging due to the moderate ascent. It's best to assess the specific route's difficulty before embarking with small children.
The provided information does not explicitly state restrictions on dogs. Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Malé Karpaty, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved, especially in natural areas.
There are no cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly at the summit of Čertov Kopec, as it is a natural, forested peak. However, nearby villages like Pernek, Zochova Chata, or Modra would offer amenities such as cafes, pubs, and various accommodation choices for visitors.
The trails leading to Čertov Kopec Summit are generally considered to be of intermediate difficulty. They require a moderate level of fitness and are suitable for moderately active hikers. While not overly strenuous, the ascent involves some effort.
Based on the available information, there is no mention of specific permits being required for hiking in the Čertov Kopec Summit area or the broader Malé Karpaty region. Hikers can generally access the trails freely.