Experience an unforgettable journey on a historic forest railway with a unique switchback
system, which allows it to overcome a steep climb over a short distance.
In the past, the forest railway in Bystrická Valley was primarily used for transporting timber
from the surrounding forests. Today, a preserved section of the former Kysuce-Orava Forest
Railway is one of the most interesting attractions at the Kysuce Village Museum. The track
between the Open-Air Museum station and Beskid Saddle offers visitors an authentic
experience of riding a historic train or draisine.
The historic forest railway is the ideal destination for a weekend trip to Kysuce. Thanks to its
beautiful scenery, historical significance and technical uniqueness, this area has something
to offer everyone, from nature lovers and railway enthusiasts to families with children. The
narrow-gauge railway is considered one of the most beautifully preserved forest railways in
Central Europe.
An interesting fact
Beskid Hill, which the railway crosses, is too narrow for classic curves or hairpin bends. That
is why a switchback system is used here – a technology that enables the train to change
direction repeatedly by using points. First, the locomotive pulls the train forward. Then, the
points are switched and the train reverses. This process is repeated several times until the
train reaches the summit.
How to get there?
The museum is located at the end of the village of Nová Bystrica, Vychylovka area, on the
way to Oravská Lesná.
Parking
There is a parking lot in front of the Kysuce Village Museum in Vychylovka.