High Tatras
High Tatras with an area of 341 square kilometers are the highest mountains in Slovakia and Poland. Approximately three quarters of the mountains with a typical alpine character spread on the Slovak side of the Carpathians. The highest peak is Gerlachovský Peak (2,654 m above sea level).
The best-known symbol of the High Tatras, the Tatra chamois, together with other protected animals have been living here since the Ice Age. In February 1993, TANAP was declared a Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO programme.
The Tatra nature boasts over 35 valleys, 31 peaks over 2,500 meters and 120 mountain lakes. More than 600 km of marked nature trails allow tourists to hike to mountain huts, climb challenging peaks or enjoy pleasant walks.
High Tatras are suitable for every tourist - from easy walks for families with children through active relaxation to the most demanding and physically challenging hikes for those who want to reach the highest places.
All hiking trails in the Tatra National Park intended for visitors are marked with signs (red, blue, green, yellow).
Hikers in the High Tatras can enjoy many views of the Tatras peaks, breathtaking scenery and unique nature. Let’s explore the most interesting of them.
More info: www.regiontatry.sk
Hrebienok (1,285 m) is located on the southeastern foot of the Slavkovský Peak above Starý Smokovec. Since the middle of the 19th century, visitors of Starý Smokovec have been eager to visit this favorite place.
Along the ancient hiking trail a paved road was built in 1894 (later it became a road for cars) and in 1908 a funicular. Since 1930, ski training meadows and slopes has been gradually being built by the hotel. In 1956, a 750 m long ski lift starting at the Slavkovská lookout tower was built on a slalom meadow. In 1968, judge’s towers were added. Bobsleigh track got electrically illuminated in 1959.
The Skok waterfall (1,730 meters above sea level) on the Mlynický brook is with its 25 meters the third largest waterfall of the Slovak side of the High Tatras. The hike to the waterfall Skok is very pleasant and undemanding with an elevation of less than 400 meters.
The reason for the High Tatras’s popularity is the picturesque peaks, cold caves, waterfalls and beautiful valleys - simply a paradise. Meadows, slopes, forests, mountains, mountain lakes and waterfalls are a must-see places. All this is offered by the national nature reserve Kôprová Valley.
Titulná foto: Marek Píš, fotosúťaž Choď a foť 2016
