Mountains Hybe

Although Kriváň is not the highest Slovak mountain, it is probably the most famous one, and thanks to its unique silhouette, it has become a symbol of our country that you can even find on Slovak euro coins. It towers above Nefcerská dolina, Kôprová dolina, and Važecká dolina. The hike to Kriváň starts at Štrbské pleso or Tri studničky, with a moderately demanding trail leading to the summit.

With an altitude of 2,495 meters above sea level, Kriváň is the tenth highest Slovak peak and at the same time the second highest accessible point in Slovak mountains. The southern and southwestern slopes still bear traces of mining activity that took place here between the 15th and 18th centuries. The miners who worked here were undoubtedly the first conquerors of the peak; however, the first written record of an ascent was made in 1772 by a Lutheran preacher and naturalist from Spišská Nová Ves, Andreas Jonas Czirbesz, together with his friends. Theodor Wundt, along with guide Jakub Horvay, etched his name into the history of Kriváň by completing the first winter ascent in 1884.

A tradition of national ascents is tied to Kriváň, making them the oldest cultural and hiking event in Slovakia. The first ascent took place on August 16, 1841, and was attended by Ľudovít Štúr and Michal M. Hodža. The largest Kriváň pilgrimage was organized by Štefan M. Daxner in 1861. National ascents continue to take place, mostly in the second half of August, and traditionally commemorate the memory of the Slovak National Uprising (SNP).

If you are planning a trip to Kriváň, you likely won't feel like traveling back home after the descent. Therefore, book an apartment or a room in a hotel or guesthouse at Štrbské Pleso through our portal, or look for a cozy cottage, for example in nearby Tatranský Lieskovec, or an affordable private rental in Štrba.

On the Polish-Slovak state border, the mountain Volovec rises majestically. On the Slovak side, it reaches into the districts of Tvrdošín and Liptovský Mikuláš. It is part of the Západné Tatry mountain range and ranks among the most popular peaks of Roháče. With its height of 2,063 m a.s.l., it is classed among the higher peaks, yet among all the two-thousand-meter mountains, it is probably the most easily accessible. The hike is beautiful, moderately demanding, and underscored by magnificent surrounding views that will leave no one indifferent. You will see both the Slovak and Polish sides of Západné Tatry.

From its summit, a charming panoramic view will open up before you. Of course, what you will see depends on the weather. Will it be the peaks of Deravá, Baranec, Plačlivé, Kasprowy Wierch (Kasprovský vrch), Ostrý Roháč, Spálená, Brestová, or directly High Tatras? On the way to Ťatliakova chata, which is one of the starting points to the summit of Volovec, you will also pass along the educational trail Náučný chodník Roháčske plesá. The view of the tarns is also among the enchanting ones. You will also see Roháčske plesá themselves from the summit of Volovec when you look toward Smutná dolina valley.

In addition to the aforementioned Ťatliakova chata, you can also reach Volovec from Chata Zverovka, then continuing into Roháčska dolina valley. Another option is following the red hiking trail. You will walk along the ridge, coming from Plačlivé or from Hrubý vrch. The red route is considered the easiest ascent. You can also try it from Oravice. There, you will need to follow the blue hiking trail.

For the hike, you will need good-quality boots, sportswear, a bottle of water, a good mood, plenty of energy, and a clear mind. The latter comes along with rest, which is best gained through a rich sleep. So book accommodation near the mountain Volovec, as it will be easier to hike uphill right from the morning. Try clicking on the page accommodation Zuberec or accommodation Oravice, and you will surely find suitable lodging for yourself.