Starý háj, also known as Starohájsky Island, is located south of the center of Bratislava, on the Petržalka side of the embankment. This island consists of a piece of land bordered by the Danube River, the Starohájske Branch, and Zuzana Bay. Its natural wealth, in the form of floodplain forests, is protected as a nature reserve. It is a very rewarding destination for cycling, walking, or running. You can take either a half-day or a full-day trip there.
Starohájsky Island can be reached on foot or, even better, by bicycle along the cycling path that follows the embankment on the Petržalka side. By car, it is possible to get relatively close to the embankment, from where the peninsula is just a short walk away. A particularly scenic access is via the Ovsište Riviera, which offers beautiful views of the main flow of the Danube.
The island hides stunning natural treasures, particularly lush floodplain forests combined with the Danube’s riverbed. The forests appear almost untouched, which adds to the location’s uniqueness. A major attraction is the possibility to observe the Danube from the shore.
There are many picturesque spots, and during the growing season, the area feels like an impassable jungle. The entire peninsula can be circled along a lovely forest trail, though parts of the path may be blocked by fallen tree trunks – often the work of the industrious beavers.
In addition to this agile animal, the island is home to other unique flora and fauna, reportedly including up to 50 different bird species. The nature reserve covers an area of 766 520 m².
Aside from its natural beauty, Starohájsky Island features unusual remnants of war, including a large concrete bunker marked B-S 15 “Ostrov” from the World War II era. Another highlight is the stunning viewpoint at the tip of the island, where Zuzana Bay meets the main flow of the Danube.
The combination of river landscapes and dense forest makes Starohájsky Island a rewarding experience for families with children, seniors, and athletes alike. The tour can be planned to last as long or as short as you like, so whether you spend a few hours or the entire day, you are sure to leave with a memorable experience.