Bystrický or Považský? 🤔
Both names are correct and refer to the castle that stands on a steep hill above the village of Považské Podhradie. It proudly holds the title of one of the Seven Wonders of the Trenčín Region, awarded in 2009. The castle ruins remain a striking landmark of the region and a favorite destination for tourists and photographers alike. In addition to its impressive silhouette, it offers stunning views of the Váh Valley and the surrounding area of Považská Bystrica.The hike to the castle is not difficult and is accessible to everyone. Families with children, history buffs, and nature lovers will all enjoy it.

On your drive or train ride to Žilina, you’ve likely noticed the castle ruins on the left, just past Považská Bystrica. What you were looking at is Bystrica Castle – the shortest and one of the oldest names for this former residence of several historical figures. It stands on a hill at 497 meters above sea level and can be reached by a relatively easy walk. Only the final stretch puts your calves to the test – but once you reach the upper part of the castle, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Bytča Basin. 🌄
History of the castle
Like many other castles in Považie, this one was built by Hungarian King Béla IV. It was meant to protect the kingdom’s borders after the Mongol invasions. According to a written record from 1316, the first official owner of the castle was the powerful nobleman Máté Csák of Trencsén. At its peak, the castle housed around 400 people. Water was supplied through underground wooden pipes from a spring called Sklepitá.
One of the most notable owners of the castle was the Podmanický family. Infamously remembered are the brothers Ján and Rafael Podmanický, fierce and greedy knights known for their raids and wild celebrations. According to legend, they both fell in love with a Polish noblewoman and kidnapped her. During their absence, however, the locals, led by the girl’s father, stormed the castle and set it ablaze. Shocked by this, the brothers are said to have changed their ways and became loyal servants of both king and people.
In the centuries that followed, the castle frequently changed owners and gradually fell into ruin. In 2011–2012, archaeological research and later restoration efforts were carried out. Since July 2017, the castle has been reopened to the public. As part of the reconstruction, a new viewing platform with a telescope was added for panoramic views of the Bytča Basin. The view includes Považská Bystrica, Bytča, Veľký and Malý Manín, Manínska Gorge, Súľov Rocks, and the Hričov Canal. ⛰️

Burg Manor House
Below the castle hill, you’ll find a smaller Renaissance manor house known locally as Burg. It is named either after Saint Burg or the German word burg meaning “castle.” It was built in 1631 by the Balaš family, who chose the comfort of a luxurious manor over the rough conditions of a medieval castle. In 2012, Burg underwent a full renovation and is now privately owned.
Distance from Trenčín: 🛣️ 55 km
Access: 🚗 By car to Považské Podhradie, where you can park near the church or a bit further uphill at the small Renaissance manor house. By train or bus to Považská Bystrica, then take public transport (stop: Považské Podhradie – Kaštieľ), located right next to the church. From the church, it takes about 20 minutes on foot to reach the castle. Mostly through forest, with a steeper climb at the end. Follow the educational trail signs or yellow hiking trail markers.
GPS: 49°08’43” N, 18°27’29” E
Opening hours: 🕒 The castle is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Admission:💰 Free
Contact: ☎️
Združenie hradu Bystrica
Považské Podhradie 117
Tel.: +421 908 946 793, +421 949 240 188
E-mail: stefan.palus@gmail.com, tichy.miroslav@azet.sk
WEB: www.hradbystrica.sk