12 Stunning Places to Visit in The High Tatras in 2025

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The High Tatras stopped me in my tracks. Standing at Štrbské Pleso lake at sunrise, watching the jagged peaks reflect perfectly in water, so still it looked like glass, I had to pinch myself. The way these mountains burst straight up from the forests below feels almost impossible, like someone painted them into the sky.

Hiking up to Zelené Pleso mountain hut, with its emerald lake surrounded by towering granite walls and the scent of pine needles in the crisp mountain air, I knew this place was special. These are the most beautiful places in the High Tatras, where raw Alpine beauty meets Slavic charm. Let me show you my 12 favorite spots in these incredible mountains that made me fall head over heels for Slovakia!

Stunning Places to Visit in the High Tatras

Looking to explore The High Tatras’ most beautiful places? From the majestic peaks of Gerlachovský štít to the serene waters of Štrbské Pleso, the High Tatras are packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the charming village of Tatranská Lomnica, marvel at the natural beauty of Popradské Pleso, or explore the vibrant trails of Starý Smokovec. Discover the tranquil allure of Hrebienok, the picturesque views from Rysy, or the serene paths of Velická Valley. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or mountain vistas, here are 12 of the High Tatras’ most breathtaking spots!

1. Belianske Tatras

• 📍 Location: Eastern High Tatras, Slovakia, forming a 14 km limestone ridge near the Polish border
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, wildlife enthusiasts 🐐, geology buffs 🪨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking through Monková Valley, spotting Tatra chamois, visiting Belianska Cave
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October when most trails are open and accessible 🍃
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Penzión Kollár – Cozy mountain-style lodging with traditional Slovak charm and easy access to Belianske trails

Step into a hidden limestone wonderland unlike anything else in the Tatras. These distinctive mountains offer completely different terrain from the granite peaks that dominate elsewhere. Most of the ridge remains closed to protect endangered Tatra chamois, creating a true wilderness experience on the few open trails. The magical twin peaks of Havran and Ždiarska Vidla create dramatic backdrops even if you can’t climb them.

The accessible trail through Monková Valley to Kopské Sedlo rewards hikers with breathtaking views across multiple mountain ranges. I’ve never seen the rare Edelweiss flower growing wild until visiting here. Belianska Cave on the slopes of Kobylí vrch offers the only public cave tour in the area, featuring stunning limestone formations and a pleasant escape from summer heat.

2. Capie Pleso

• 📍 Location: Mlynická Valley, High Tatras, accessible from Štrbské Pleso resort
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, hikers looking for alpine lakes 🏔️, wildlife spotters 🦌
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the crystal-clear glacial lake, spotting Tatra chamois, hiking through varied alpine terrain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September for best weather and minimal snow ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Chata pri Popradskom plese – Cozy mountain hut with lake views, direct trail access, and a rustic alpine atmosphere

Discover the aptly-named “Billy Goat Lake“ floating like a sapphire mirror at 2,000m elevation. This pristine alpine jewel earned its name from the chamois that roam the surrounding slopes. The 3-hectare glacial lake reflects towering peaks in its crystal-clear waters, creating a photographer’s paradise on clear mornings. Mountain goats frequently appear near sunrise or sunset when fewer hikers disturb their peaceful domain.

The journey begins at the popular Štrbské Pleso resort and winds through diverse mountain terrain. Powerful Skok Waterfall marks the halfway point before the trail climbs more steeply toward the lake basin. Adventure seekers can continue beyond to Bystrá Lávka Pass, where chains secure the most challenging sections. Return via neighboring Furkotská Valley for a stunning loop through completely different scenery.

3. Hrebienok

• 📍 Location: Above Starý Smokovec, at the southeastern foot of Slavkovský štít in the High Tatras
• 🏆 Best For: Families with children 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, casual hikers 🥾, winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the funicular, viewing Cold Creek waterfalls, starting point for numerous trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round with different attractions each season 🍂❄️🌷☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Bellevue – Mountain-style resort with panoramic views, wellness center, and direct access to Tatra trails

Welcome to the perfect gateway to the High Tatras for visitors of all abilities. The charming Hrebienok Funicular whisks you 247 meters upward in just 7 minutes, though the pleasant forest trail offers a lovely alternative walk. This popular mountain hub at 1,272m elevation serves as the launching point for numerous adventures without requiring technical hiking skills.

Summer transforms Hrebienok into a hiker’s paradise with trails radiating in all directions. The stunning Cold Creek Waterfalls cascade nearby while paths lead onward to Zamkovského Chalet and ambitious routes to Téryho Chalet. Winter brings equal magic with a natural toboggan run and the famous Tatra Ice Dome. The area welcomes visitors year-round with excellent facilities and mountain views that even Queen Elizabeth II once traveled here to admire.

4. Kôprovský štít

• 📍 Location: Western High Tatras, Slovakia, near the border with Poland
• 🏆 Best For: Experienced hikers 🧗‍♀️, photographers 📸, mountain enthusiasts seeking panoramic views 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Summit views of surrounding peaks, seeing Veľké Hincovo Pleso (largest lake in Slovak Tatras)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September when the trail is typically free of snow ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Chata pri Popradskom plese – Cozy mountain hut-style lodging near glacial lakes, ideal base for early morning hikes to the summit

Conquer one of the most accessible major peaks in the High Tatras, standing proudly at 2,367m. This mountain offers spectacular 360-degree views that few other summits can match thanks to its position at the junction of three valleys. While not the highest in the range, Kôprovský štít offers an exceptional panorama across virtually the entire Tatra mountain chain.

The trail begins at Štrbské Pleso resort and follows a beautiful path past Popradské Pleso lake. Soon you’ll reach Veľké Hincovo Pleso, the largest and deepest lake in the Slovak Tatras, with its stunning turquoise waters. From there, the path climbs steadily to Vyšné Kôprovské Sedlo before the final ascent to the summit. Your reward includes breathtaking views of virtually every major Tatra peak, including Rysy and towering Gerlachovský štít.

5. Kriváň

• 📍 Location: Western High Tatras, Slovakia, dominating the upper Liptov region
• 🏆 Best For: Hiking enthusiasts 🥾, history buffs 🏛️, photographers seeking iconic views 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Slovakia’s symbolic mountain, 360-degree panoramic views, annual national pilgrimage
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September for best weather, or third weekend in August for the national climb ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Solisko – Cozy alpine hotel on the shores of Štrbské Pleso with mountain views and easy trail access to Kriváň

Stand atop the very symbol of Slovak national identity at 2,494m. This beloved mountain with its distinctive curved summit (giving it the name Kriváň, meaning “bent”) appears on the Slovak euro coins after a nationwide vote confirmed its special place in the national heart. The instantly recognizable silhouette dominates the western Tatras skyline and calls to hikers from across the region.

The mountain holds tremendous cultural significance since the historic 1841 climb by national revivalists Ľudovít Štúr and Michal Miloslav Hodža. Annual patriotic hikes called “národné výlety” take place each August, drawing Slovaks from across the country. The climb from Tri Studničky or Štrbské Pleso challenges hikers with some scrambling near the top. The famous summit cross marks your arrival at what many consider the spiritual heart of Slovakia.

6. Lomnický štít

• 📍 Location: Central High Tatras, Slovakia, towering above Tatranská Lomnica resort
• 🏆 Best For: Sightseers of all abilities 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, photographers 📸, luxury experience seekers 🌟
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cable car ride to 2,634m summit, panoramic views, visiting the astronomical observatory
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round when cable car is operating (closed annually in May for maintenance) 🌞❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Praha – Historic mountain retreat in nearby Tatranská Lomnica with spa facilities and direct access to the cable car station

Experience Lomnický štít, Slovakia’s second-highest peak, without climbing a single step. This majestic 2,634m mountain welcomes thousands of visitors annually via an engineering marvel of a cable car system built in 1941. The three-stage journey from Tatranská Lomnica culminates in a breathtaking 8.5-minute final ascent that rises 855 meters to the summit station.

The summit experience offers unparalleled luxury in the high mountains. Visitors typically receive 50 minutes to enjoy the panoramic views extending to Poland on clear days. The Summit Observatory houses Slovakia’s highest workplace, where meteorologists monitor mountain weather year-round. Few mountain experiences anywhere in Europe combine such accessibility with authentic high-alpine grandeur.

7. Popradske Pleso

• 📍 Location: Western High Tatras, Slovakia, in Mengusovská Valley at 1,494m elevation
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature photographers 📸, mountain lovers 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking around the pristine glacial lake, hiking to the Symbolic Cemetery, using as base for challenging hikes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June 15 to October 31 for full trail access, summer for best weather ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Horský Hotel Popradské Pleso – Historic mountain hotel right on the lakeshore

Imagine a mirror-like alpine lake cradled by majestic peaks that feels worlds away yet is surprisingly accessible. Popradské Pleso offers just that kind of mountain magic in the heart of Slovakia’s High Tatras. The easy 5km trail from Štrbské Pleso makes this breathtaking glacial gem perfect for families. Surrounding mountains create a natural amphitheater of beauty that changes with every hour of daylight.

The lake serves as a gateway to more adventurous routes, including the climb to Rysy peak on the Polish border. Nearby, the Symbolic Cemetery honors those who lost their lives to these mountains with colorful painted memorials. I’ve never seen a more moving tribute set against such stunning natural beauty. After exploring, the mountain hotel welcomes hikers with hot meals and Slovak specialties to refuel for tomorrow’s adventures.

8. Skok Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Mlynická Valley, High Tatras, 5km from Štrbské Pleso
• 🏆 Best For: Family hikers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, waterfall enthusiasts 💦, day-trippers 🌄
• 📸 Top Experiences: Photographing the 25m cascade, climbing alongside falls on chains, continuing to Pleso nad Skokom
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through October for safe hiking, early summer for maximum flow 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel FIS – Cozy mountain lodge with direct access to hiking trails and stunning views of the Tatras

Water thunders down a 25-meter rock face into the pristine valley below at Skok Waterfall, the third-highest falls in the High Tatras. This natural wonder sits tucked in scenic Mlynická Valley, just an hour’s hike from Štrbské Pleso. Yellow trail markers lead you through fragrant pine forests before the path opens to reveal mountain panoramas that stop hikers in their tracks.

The waterfall roars most impressively in early summer when swollen with snowmelt. Adventurous visitors can climb steel chains mounted alongside the falls to reach Pleso nad Skokom, a small alpine lake above. Start your journey early to beat the crowds and catch morning light dancing through the spray. The moderately challenging trail rewards with constant mountain views that make every step worthwhile.

9. Štrbské Pleso

• 📍 Location: Western High Tatras, 1,346m above sea level, accessible by train or car
• 🏆 Best For: Casual visitors 👫, photographers 📸, winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the 3.5km lakeside trail, boating in summer, skiing in winter, starting point for hikes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round with different seasonal attractions 🍂❄️🌷☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Kempinski – Luxury lakeside accommodations with stunning view

Slovakia’s most famous mountain lake doubles as the perfect introduction to the High Tatras’ splendor. Štrbské Pleso captivates visitors with mirror-like waters that perfectly reflect surrounding peaks. This second-largest glacial lake in the Slovak Tatras sits in a natural bowl at 1,346 meters above sea level. Fed entirely by underground springs with no visible outflow, the lake maintains a mysterious allure throughout changing seasons.

The resort village surrounding the lake offers something for everyone. Winter transforms the area into a bustling ski center, while summer brings rowboats dotting the lake’s surface. Beyond relaxation, Štrbské Pleso serves as the gateway to numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents. The perfect mountain experience awaits, whether you seek adventure or tranquility.

10. Tatra Ice Dome

• 📍 Location: Hrebienok, accessible by funicular from Starý Smokovec, 1,285m elevation
• 🏆 Best For: Winter visitors ❄️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, art enthusiasts 🎨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Admiring ice sculptures with new theme yearly, attending winter concerts, evening illuminations
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-November through April (winter season only) ☃️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Stary Smokovec – Elegant alpine hotel with spa facilities and direct access to mountain trails and cable cars

A cathedral built entirely of ice awaits winter visitors at Hrebienok in the High Tatras. The Tatra Ice Dome transforms 225 tons of crystal-clear ice into architectural marvels each winter season. Skilled sculptors from across Europe craft intricate frozen masterpieces that stand 11.5 meters tall inside a protective dome. The theme changes annually, with past editions featuring Westminster Abbey, Santiago Cathedral, and other famous structures.

Colorful lights illuminate the ice creations after dark, creating a truly magical winter wonderland. The dome hosts concerts, weddings, and cultural events throughout the season until the April thaw. Best of all, admission costs nothing. Reach this winter marvel via funicular from Starý Smokovec or by hiking the snow-covered trail. This ephemeral attraction makes winter in the Tatras uniquely special.

11. Velké Hincovo Pleso

• 📍 Location: Mengusovská Valley, High Tatras, 1,946m above sea level
• 🏆 Best For: Dedicated hikers 🥾, lake enthusiasts 💦, photographers seeking pristine nature 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing Slovakia’s largest mountain lake, photographing crystal-clear waters, hiking nearby peaks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to October (trail closed in winter) 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Horský Hotel Popradské Pleso – Closest accommodation to trailhead

Azure waters of impossible clarity stretch before you at Velké Hincovo Pleso, the crown jewel of Slovak alpine lakes. This natural wonder holds the title of largest and deepest mountain lake in Slovakia. Its impressive stats include a 20-hectare surface area and depths reaching 54 meters. The pristine blue waters remain frozen roughly 270 days yearly, making summer visits especially precious.

The moderately challenging blue trail from Popradské Pleso leads hikers through the stunning Mengusovská Valley. The reward after 1.5 hours of steady climbing is well worth the effort. Dramatic peaks, including Kôprovský štít, create a perfect backdrop for photographers. Early morning arrivals enjoy both solitude and the magical light that transforms the lake into liquid sapphire. No other Slovakian lake matches its pristine beauty or impressive scale.

12. Zbojnícka Chata Mountain Chalet

• 📍 Location: Upper Veľká Studená Valley, High Tatras, 1,960m elevation
• 🏆 Best For: Dedicated hikers 🥾, mountain enthusiasts 🏔️, overnight adventurers 🌙
• 📸 Top Experiences: Challenging hike with rewarding views, authentic mountain stay, base for multi-day treks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round operation, best hiking June to October 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Zbojnícka Chata – Authentic mountain hut experience with hearty Slovak meals, bunk-style rooms, and direct access to scenic hiking routes

Perched high in a valley dotted with 26 alpine lakes sits Zbojnícka Chata, a rustic mountain refuge that feels straight from a storybook. This historic chalet has welcomed tired hikers since 1907 at its spectacular 1,960-meter elevation. The challenging journey to reach it becomes part of the adventure. Most hikers begin from Hrebienok and follow the blue-marked trail through one of the Tatras’ most scenic valleys.

The chalet offers simple pleasures that feel luxurious after a day on the trail. Warm meals, cold drinks, and dormitory bunks await those who make the journey. From the wooden terrace, panoramic mountain views unfold in every direction. For those seeking deeper mountain immersion, the chalet serves as a perfect base camp for exploring remote peaks or continuing to Téryho Chata through the dramatic Priečne Saddle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the High Tatras

Want to learn more about High Tatras’s most breathtaking places? Here are some typical questions about its must-visit spots.

What is the best base for the High Tatras?

The best base for exploring the High Tatras largely depends on what you’re looking to do. For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, Štrbské Pleso and Poprad are popular choices. These areas offer easy access to some of the most beautiful places of High Tatras and are well-equipped with amenities like hotels, restaurants, and shops.

What is the High Tatras known for?

Stunning locations in the High Tatras are quite popular, including towering peaks, glacial lakes, and diverse flora and fauna. They are a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The region in Poland and Slovakia is also famous for its unique wildlife, making it a must-see in the High Tatras for nature lovers.

How do I get around in the High Tatras?

Public transportation is quite efficient, with regular bus and train services connecting the main towns and attractions. However, to explore some of the High Tatras’ beautiful places, you might prefer to rent a car for more flexibility.

What are the must-try local foods in the High Tatras?

When in the High Tatras, don’t miss trying traditional Slovak dishes like Bryndzové Halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese). It’s a culinary experience that adds to the High Tatras’ beauty.

Are there any safety concerns while visiting High Tatras?

While the High Tatras are generally safe, it’s important to take precautions when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities. Always check weather conditions and make sure you’re prepared with the right gear. This ensures you can fully enjoy the pretty places in the High Tatras without any worries.

What’s the best time to visit High Tatras?

The best time to visit depends on what you want to do. Summer is ideal for hiking and enjoying the High Tatras scenery, while winter is perfect for skiing and other snow activities.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the High Tatras

The High Tatras are a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From towering peaks like Lomnický štít to serene lakes like Popradske Pleso, this mountain range offers some of the prettiest places in the High Tatras. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a winter sports enthusiast, or someone simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, the High Tatras have something for everyone.

Each destination we’ve explored offers its own unique charm and set of activities. Kôprovský štít challenges the adventurous with its steep ascent, while Štrbské Pleso provides a more laid-back experience with its resorts and amenities. And let’s not forget the unique Tatra Ice Dome, a winter wonderland that’s perfect for families.

In essence, the High Tatras are more than just a travel destination; they’re an experience that captivates the heart and soul. So if you’re planning your next adventure, make sure the High Tatras are at the top of your list of beautiful places in the High Tatras. You won’t be disappointed.