Fačkovské sedlo is a climb of 6.6 kilometers (category 2). The climb finishes at 799 m above sea level. It is located in Kľačno, n/a, Slovensko. The average gradient is 5.7% with a maximum of 12.1%. The climb has 373 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This climb is 6.6 km long with an average gradient of 5.7% for 373 m of elevation gain, which earns it a Category 2 rating. The first four kilometers, between 3% and 5%, are relatively rolling and give you a chance to find your rhythm. The real difficulty kicks in between KM 4.0 and KM 6.0, with gradients of 7 to 11% peaking at KM 5.0-5.5, and they'll put your legs to the test.
Tips for managing the effort:
1. Don't go out too hard In the opening kilometers at 3-5%, hold a steady cadence so you reach the base of the key section with something left in the tank.
2. Prepare for the 11% section Between KM 4.0 and KM 5.5, shift into an easier gear, stay seated and keep a smooth cadence so you don't blow your legs out.
3. Finish strong After KM 5.5-6.0 at 8%, the gradient still sits at 6% between KM 6.0 and 6.5: don't ease off, and keep pushing all the way to the summit.
The Fačkovské sedlo is mostly a jumping-off point. Most people who write about it park the car there and hike up the Kľak on a trail that starts right from the car park. Several say the walk is easy and suitable for kids and anyone who isn't very fit.
The views come up in nearly every report, the forests and the landscape around. In spring, wild garlic grows in the woods. One visitor, in late April, describes a muddy forest track and patches of ice where the sun doesn't reach, since the snow lingers there longer. In autumn, the colours are spectacular.
The most common complaint is the parking. According to most reports it costs €5 for the day, a price many consider too high, especially for a visit of a few hours. Some say it's card only, others that you can pay by cash or card. One visitor mentions 30 minutes of free parking.
The road towards Rajec is described as having been in poor condition for a long time. Several riders mention heavy traffic, cars and motorbikes alike, especially at weekends. On weekdays it's quieter, according to those who go there often. One report also regrets that there's no signage pointing to the pass from the road.
On the services side, the salaš (mountain herders' hut) on the Kľak is appreciated for its food, but it only stays open until 6 p.m. at weekends. One visitor was disappointed by the service at the hut at the foot of the slopes and by the accommodation prices. The small ski area nearby only runs some of its lifts, and one visitor misses a chairlift.
6.6 km • 373 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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