Each October, the Slovak town of Modra shifts from quiet vineyard village to a lively celebration hub, drawing locals and travelers eager to savor the Chestnut Festival. This annual event blends rich harvest traditions with outdoor exploration, set against the rolling Little Carpathians that challenge hikers and charm food lovers alike. The festival centers around the chestnut — a tree that stands fierce and steady, its nuts hiding beneath prickly husks daring you to discover them.

Modra lies roughly 30 kilometers northeast of Bratislava, making it an accessible escape into a world where nature and heritage meet. The festival spotlights roasted chestnuts, local wine, and folk crafts, all unfolding amid the scent of wood smoke and autumn leaves crunching underfoot. But the event isn’t just about tasting — it’s a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the surrounding hills.

Hikers can take several trails starting from Modra to explore the rugged landscape. Popular is the green-marked route toward the Velky vrch peak, which climbs 6 km with about 400 meters of elevation gain. The path weaves through chestnut groves and dense mixed forests where the trees seem almost to lean in, a silent testimony to time. The terrain challenges with uneven roots and rocky steps, so sturdy footwear is a must.

During the festival, watch how the community breathes life into old customs: traditional music plays from town squares, chestnut-themed dishes appear on tables, and artisans display handmade pottery and textiles. Timing your visit around midday allows immersion in the vibrant market, with afternoon hikes offering peaceful contrast amid the chirp of distant birds and rustle of leaves.

Preparation tips: bring a refillable water bottle — the crisp autumn air can trick you into underhydration. Layered clothing helps tackle changing temperatures, especially as forests guard cold shadows and sudden breezes. With the trail’s moderate climb, pace yourself to enjoy the expansive views over Modra’s vineyards where golden leaves catch the late sunlight.

The Chestnut Festival isn’t about conquering nature but engaging with it — trees and hills that remain fiercely themselves, inviting respect as much as enjoyment. Here, the journey is as savory as the roasted chestnuts, every bite and every step equally vital to the experience.