The region of Turiec spreads in the north-western part of Slovakia in the Turčianska kotlina basin surrounded by the mountain ranges of Malá and Veľká Fatra, Kremnické vrchy, and Žiar. The axis of the valley is the Turiec river.

For its beauty and natural assets, this region is one of the most picturesque in the territory of Slovakia and it is sometimes referred to as the "garden of Turiec". The Malá and Veľká Fatra Mts. are ideal for hiking, cycling paragliding and mountaineering. Fans of hiking love the walks in the Gaderská and Blatnická dolina valleys with attractive setting and the exciting ascent to the main ridge of the Veľká Fatra Mts. The Malá Fatra Mts. also offers interesting spots with panoramic views, deep valleys and the Šútovský vodopád waterfall and there are numerous ski centres in both ranges.

The cultural heritage of this region comprises typical villages displaying specimens of popular architecture, stately rural manor houses from different historical periods. The linkage between the national and cultural history in the centre of Turiec, which is the town Martin, is more obvious here than whenever else in Slovakia. Martin concentrates several cultural institutions of national importance. The spa of Turčianske Teplice offers the complete spa cures. Turiec in general is known for abundance of mineral springs (for instance Fatra and Budiš).

Districts: Martin, Turčianske Teplice.

Source: Vydavateľstvo DAJAMA