Iron Curtain Trail (EuroVelo 13) in Slovakia

I toured this section of EuroVelo 13 from Moravsky Sv.Jan, through Gajary, Zahorska Ves and Vysoka pri Morave as a one day trip in september 2013. I kept hearing from the re-election campaign of Bratislava Region chairman Pavol Frešo how under his leadership the EV13 along the Morava river has been restored. I wanted to see what has been done there. I was very disappointed to see that only a couple of new signs had been placed, which were already destroyed...

old border guard chip seal road in desolate state

in some sections only dirt and mud

or rough gravel

new navigation signs have been destroyed
by stupid youngsters from nearby villages

gate that should allow only cyclists and horse riders
is difficult to cross even with a lightly loaded bicycle

it is often easier to pass by

more destroyed signs

the cycle way on the embankment is often so rough
that it's easier to take the road on the right

later the cycle way on embankment disappeared completely

information panel from 20 years ago rotting near the road

PS: I hope I haven't deterred you from visiting Slovakia or riding the Iron Curtain Trail. Just be prepared for worse roads and a bit more adventure. I hope the pictures will help you choose the right equipment (i.e. wide tires) and enjoy your trip. The nature is beautiful with lush meadows, willows near the river and plenty options for wild camping.