Lakes and dams Severné Slovensko

Šútovské jazero, also known as Kraľovianske jazero, is actually a flooded quarry located in the village of Kraľovany, near Šútovo. It lies beneath the peaks of the Malá Fatra mountains, practically on the main route between Martin and Ružomberok. There is a large designated parking area by the lake, which is free of charge.

Since the lake was formed by flooding a quarry, it has no inflow or outflow. The beautiful turquoise water reaches depths of up to 15 meters. Šútovské jazero is often referred to as the "Slovak Plitvice" because the surrounding terraced slopes resemble this Croatian park, which you may know from western movies such as The Treasure of Silver Lake. Although the quarry is a popular recreation spot for both local and international tourists, swimming is at your own risk. At the lake, you will find two larger beaches and a few smaller ones, one of which is fenced off and designated for nudism enthusiasts. Refreshment stands are available on some of the beaches.

After or before swimming, we also recommend a hike to Šútovské vodopád waterfall. The hiking trail leads directly from the lake, and the entire hike takes about 3 hours. You can also plan additional hikes to Veľký Kriváň and Veľký Rozsutec, or to any other corner of the Národný park Malá Fatra national park. If you prefer healing waters to swimming in the quarry, you can head to the Zlá voda travertine pool near Rojkov.

Whether you want to spend just a weekend relaxing by Šútovské jazero and exploring Malá Fatra, or stay longer, comfortable accommodation will come in handy. Look, for instance, for guesthouses in Kraľovany or cottages in Turany, Krpeľany, or Nolčovo. It is not far to Terchová either, where you can stay in cozy wooden cabins.

In the vicinity of the town of Ružomberok, you will find the well-known Hrabovská dolina valley. In a gorgeous forest environment, we can find the small Vodná nádrž Hrabovo reservoir. Beautiful surroundings and tourist attractions make it a popular trip destination.

Vodná nádrž Hrabovo was originally built for cotton mills as a water supply. Today, the artificial lake Hrabovo is a place of relaxation. On the shores of the lake, there are maintained grassy beaches; however, the water is relatively cold. Swimming is permitted only at your own risk. Nevertheless, the location also attracts water sports enthusiasts. You can go boating here to your heart's content throughout the summer, and there is also a rental service for paddle boats as well as adrenaline attractions. Have you tried aquazorbing yet? Inside a large inflatable sphere, you try to maintain your balance on the water surface. Your children will simply love this fun activity. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you can also try out the “water bird” an aquaskipper that needs no motor. Once you learn to control it, you hop across the water on it like a bird. And rest assured, you will get a workout doing it.

When the cable car to the Malinô Brdo hill was built, the Hrabovo valley became a starting point for skiing. At the same time, it serves as an entry gateway to the Veľká Fatra National Park. Water from the lake is currently also used for snowmaking at the Ski Park Ružomberok Malinô Brdo ski resort. In the warm season, the ski park transforms into Bike Park Malinô Brdo. Cyclists from all over the world come here for downhill mountain biking. Biker camps and the MTB Championships (mountain downhill biking) take place here as well.

Last but not least, the greatest attraction is certainly the Lanový park Tarzania Hrabovo rope park or Zipline Hrabovo Ružomberok. Located here is the longest zip-line wire ride in Slovakia. Slide across Vodná nádrž Hrabovo and your adrenaline rush is guaranteed. For families with children, the smaller Tarzania rope course between the trees is ideal. You can rent equipment here, and your little ones can safely try climbing.

Lake Hrabovo is a popular spot for fishermen. Fishing is allowed here with a valid fishing permit purchased from the Slovenský rybársky zväz (Slovak Fishing Association). You can catch fish in a quieter part, in the shade of the forest, and fully enjoy this peaceful sport.

From Hrabovská dolina, you are just a stone's throw away from Čutkovská dolina valley. Do not miss hiking in this beautiful location. Moreover, you will find attractions here that are worth visiting as well. Obrov park Čutkovo is a great attraction for children, as is the mini farm at Salaš Pastierska. Enjoy cheeses and homemade specialties right in the restaurant here.

Accommodation near Vodná nádrž Hrabovo is available on our portal. And there is plenty to choose from. You will find romantic cottages here as well as modern apartments or hotels. Do not hesitate to visit this recreational spot surrounded by mountains, and you will truly enjoy your holiday.

The Liptovská Mara reservoir is located in the magical region of Liptov. Embraced by the Nízke Tatry and Západné Tatry, between the towns of Liptovský Mikuláš and Ružomberok, it is among the bodies of water with the best location for spending a holiday.

It is also known as the Liptovské Sea. It is the second-largest dam in Slovakia and offers holidaymakers countless ways to enjoy their free time. Truly everyone will find something to enjoy, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level.

The Liptovská Mara dam was artificially built between 1969 and 1975. Prior to construction, 13 villages had to be relocated, totaling more than 4,000 residents. Important monuments were also moved, which you can now find, for example, in the Múzeum liptovskej dediny in Pribylina. The reservoir currently floods an area of 27 km², and its main purpose is flood protection. Thanks to its excellent location, however, it is a popular recreational area, especially during the summer season.

In the village of Liptovský Trnovec, you will find a campsite and a beach accessible to the public for a small fee. In addition to swimming and catching a tan on the grassy areas right by the lake shore, you can take advantage of a varied range of water sports throughout the summer. Water tricycles, jet skis, or paddleboards, which you can rent at MaraFUN, are very popular. You can see almost the entire coastline during a sightseeing boat tour.

The surroundings of Liptovská Mara also entice visitors to explore other places and attractions. Not far from Mara, at the foot of the Úložisko hill, lies the unique Archeoskanzen Havránok. The trip here can easily be managed by families with children or active seniors. You will learn about the history of the Celts and see what their original dwelling and sanctuary looked like.

If you are drawn more toward adrenaline, you can enjoy it to your heart's content at the Tatralandia aquapark or at Hurricane Factory Tatralandia. For culture and good food, head to the town of Liptovský Mikuláš. And for nature, you can set off in any direction.

Discover numerous hiking trails, enjoy breathtaking views from Sivý vrch, and reward yourself with fresh air and a perfect feeling of freedom on the peak of Veľký Choč. To get the most out of your holiday in Liptov, we recommend finding suitable accommodation near Liptovská Mara and fully enjoying at least a few days of your stay here.

The water reservoir Oravská priehrada extends at the confluence of the Biela and Čierna Orava rivers near the town of Námestovo. During its construction, a part of this town was flooded, which is why we will not find its historical center here. However, Oravská priehrada is a popular tourist destination where it is worthwhile to spend your holiday.

The decision to build Oravská priehrada was made due to numerous floods in this area. Especially during the period of snow melting, people in the territory of these rivers lost their dwellings. Among the flooded villages was also Slanica. Today, only the peak of Slanický ostrov, divided into 2 parts: Ostrov umeňa and Vtáčí ostrov, protrudes from the water. The islands are connected, and in the case of low water levels, it is possible to walk from one to the other. You will find a Roman Catholic church here with an exhibition of Orava folk art. Festive concerts are organized in it from time to time.

By building the dam wall in 1953, a power plant located beneath it was put into operation. Behind the wall, the river confluences merge and continue to flow as one, the well-known Orava river. Part of the water work is also the balancing reservoir in the town of Tvrdošín. Oravská priehrada is not only a functional result but also an interesting place for a holiday. A large number of accommodation facilities have been built around the lake: cottages, guesthouses, apartments, or camping sites. Truly everyone can choose.

Tourists like to come here for entertainment or water sports. Sightseeing boats operate here, you can go boating, windsurfing, rent a water bike or the increasingly popular paddleboard. In addition, you will find restaurants, buffets, as well as attractions for children. In summer, it is especially worth visiting the southern and western parts, where shallow shores are ideal for swimming. In winter, the dam freezes in some parts. The daring take advantage of walks across the frozen surface and admire the nature of the Orava district.

Oravská priehrada is an ideal place for a proper fishing trip. With its area of 35 sq km, it provides privacy in quiet corners under the trees. Do not hesitate to visit this charming place and choose accommodation near Oravská priehrada directly with us. Your holiday in Orava can begin.

Asfaltové jazero is located near the small village of Nezbudská Lúčka. The site is known for its rich deposits of natural asphalt. At the same time, the only quarry in Europe for its extraction operated here in the past. Mining began here even before the First World War; according to chronicles, 5,000 cubic meters of asphalt were extracted annually from this quarry up until 1928. This mixture was also used for the construction of the road between Strečno and Vrútky. Mining ended here in 1962, as the deposit was close to depletion and groundwater began to seep into the tunnels, gradually flooding them.

The depth of the flooded quarry is currently 12 meters. In the past, it was up to 18 meters, but the bottom is now covered with a thick layer of mud. Swimming in the lake is forbidden; however, many people violate this rule, and several have already paid the price. The water near the surface warms up pleasantly, but the lower currents are cold, forming whirlpools that can pull a swimmer under. The lake is often used by divers, who have found, for example, a World War II grenade at the bottom. They could also tell you about the secrets of the flooded tunnels, where various reminders of former mining remain and where trout allegedly swim, which are white and blind due to life in the dark.

Asfaltové jazero is a popular spot for fishermen. The surrounding area offers interesting walks during which, on warm days, you can observe natural asphalt on the quarry walls melting with the heat and slowly trickling down. As part of the former quarry, the chapel of the patron saint of miners, St. Barbara, still stands here. Several mining tunnels have also been preserved, but entering them is not recommended as they could collapse at any time. You can reach the lake from the village of Nezbudská Lúčka on foot or by car.

If you spend your holiday in this area, you should definitely stay for a few days, because Asfaltové jazero is not the only attraction in the vicinity, quite the contrary. If your goal is to discover history, the ideal choice for you will be hrad Strečno, Starhrad, or Zemľanky and the memorial to the partisans of the Dibrov group in the village of Poriadie. The youngest family members will certainly be enchanted by Rozprávkový les Nezbudská Lúčka. We do not forget about active visitors either, to whom we recommend a hike to the second highest peak of Malá Fatra, Malý Kriváň, or to the lookout tower on the hill Špicák. Although you cannot swim in Asfaltové jazero, you certainly will not be left without water, as the thermal swimming pool Aqua Eden Stráňavy or the swimming pool in Vrútky will take care of that.

Finding accommodation near Asfaltové jazero is relatively easy, as the village of Varín is located nearby, offering mostly cottages. The nearby village of Dolná Tižina focuses on traditional cottages and guest houses. A diverse range of accommodation options is also available in Vrútky. You will have all services within reach if you choose accommodation in Žilina.

The Hričov water reservoir is part of the Vážska kaskáda,  dams built on the Váh river. It is located above the confluence of the Váh river with the Rajčianka and Kysuca rivers near the village of Divinka in the Žilinský kraj. It is 8 kilometers away from the town of Žilina and 11 kilometers from the town of Bytča. The water reservoir also features the hydroelectric power plant of the same name, Hričov. The surroundings of the Hričovská nádrž and the Váh are mainly used by cyclists. If you love cycling or long walks, be sure to take a trip to this water reservoir.

Construction of the Hričov water reservoir began in 1958. This was mainly due to numerous floods that caused considerable difficulties for the people from local villages. During construction, a part of the Žilina city district of Strážov had to be flooded. Fortunately, other surrounding villages such as Horný Hričov or Dolný Hričov remained untouched. A hydroelectric power plant was also put into operation near the water dam in 1962. Due to the influx of impurities, the water in the reservoir is not suitable for swimming or water sports.

However, if you like fishing, the Hričov water body is made for it. Fishermen come here from far and wide to enjoy proper fishing. Carp fish thrive here, and you can catch carp, catfish, zander, grass carp, or pike on a rod. Moreover, the peaceful environment as well as easy access to the water ensures perfect fishing.

Along the Hričov water reservoir, you will find several cycling routes. From the reservoir heading south, a cycling route up to 28 kilometers long runs along the Hričovský kanál. You can head towards Bytča and admire the nearby Súľovské skaly in the background. From the Hričovská nádrž, it is not far by bike or even on foot to the Budatínsky hrad.

If you go on holiday to this locality, we offer you accommodation near the Hričov water reservoir or accommodation in the Žilina district on our portal. You will also find other tips for trips around the surroundings with us. Book accommodation according to your taste on our websites, go on holiday, and discover the beauties of Hričov.

Vrbické pleso, which adorns the Demänovská dolina, is the largest natural lake in the Nízke Tatry. This body of water at an altitude of 1,113 meters above sea level is of glacial moraine origin and thus resembles tarns in the Vysoké Tatry. At its deepest point, a depth of 8 meters was measured. The lake has been a nature monument since 1975 and is currently protected by the fifth, i.e., highest, level of protection.

The walk starts in the village of Demänovská Dolina at the Jasná - Biela Púť signpost, and it is easy to park nearby. A yellow-marked trail leads from the signpost to the tarn, taking only about 5 minutes to reach it. Around the lake, which measures 115 meters in length and 62 meters in width, runs an undemanding hiking trail. Walking it takes 20 to 60 minutes, depending on your walking pace or how long you sit on the benches and admire the photogenic mountain surroundings. It is an ideal walk for families with children. Information boards inform tourists about the origin of the tarn as well as its fauna. Benches by the lake are a matter of course, and several gazebos stand here as well. A playground has been built here for the youngest tourists.

Vrbické pleso does not have to be your final destination. Interesting hiking trails start right from it. It is possible to climb to the Rozhľadňa na Ostredku or to Krakova hoľu. The yellow trail leads from the tarn to Tri Vody or all the way to Sedlo Poľany, while the blue trail leads tourists to the Demänovská jaskyňa slobody.

Vrbické pleso will certainly not be the only place in this region that you plan to visit. If you are planning a longer holiday in Liptov, our accommodation offer will certainly come in handy. Right in the Demänovská dolina, just a few steps from Vrbické pleso, you will find hotels, budget guesthouses, comfortable apartments, and cozy cottages.

Roháčske plesá belong to the most touristically attractive places in Západné Tatry. They rank among the most beautiful locations in these mountains. The four Roháčske plesá tarns (Veľké, Druhé, Tretie, and Horné Roháčske pleso) are surrounded by massive Tatra peaks such as Rákoň, Volovec, Ostrý Roháč, Plačlivé, and Baníkov.

The lakes are located at an altitude of 1,562 to 1,719 meters above sea level and are connected by the Roháčsky potok stream. The tarns can be reached from Chata Zverovka or from the central parking lot Zverovka - Spálená dolina.

The best way to see this area is to set out along the Náučný chodník Roháčske plesá educational trail. The trail starts in Roháčska dolina, continues through the junctions Šindľovec and Adamcuľa to Ťatliakova chata and Ťatliakovo jazero, and further through Smutná dolina all the way to Tretie Roháčske pleso. It is a medium-difficulty route, 7 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 620 meters. Eight information boards are placed along the trail; in addition to the tarns, they are also dedicated to flora and fauna, avalanches, and water. The trail is accessible only seasonally from June 15 to October 31. Up to Ťatliakova chata, the path is designated as suitable for wheelchair users.

Interesting flora occurs in the surroundings of the tarns. For example, the very rare plant narrow-leaved bur-reed (ježohlav úzkolistý) grows there, which, apart from certain Tatra tarns, cannot be found anywhere else. Among animals, chamois or marmots can be spotted.

Benches and wooden tables are placed around Roháčske plesá, serving for rest and the consumption of your own snacks. Those who arrived without their own provisions will appreciate the services of Ťatliakova chata. A short detour leads from the educational trail route to the 23-meter-high Roháčsky vodopád waterfall.

If Roháčske plesá are the goal of your trip, you will certainly appreciate accommodation in Zuberec, which is an ideal starting point for this excursion. The most common type of accommodation facilities are cottages and wooden chalets, but cozy private accommodations, guest houses, or hotels are also available. Any group of visitors is guaranteed to find what suits them best, regardless of whether you are a family with children or an outdoor school group.

The Vodná nádrž Čierny Váh reservoir was built in the second half of the 20th century on the middle course of the Čierny Váh river. It was constructed for the purpose of pumping water for a power plant. The Čierny Váh power plant itself is not only our highest-located, but also our largest and most powerful hydroelectric power plant. The waterworks consists of an upper reservoir (circular) and a lower reservoir (elongated).

Let us imagine the first of them, the upper water reservoir, which is located in the territory of the Národný park Nízke Tatry. It is built on the Vysoké Sokoly karst plateau, near the village of Kráľova Lehota. Its construction took place in the years 1976–1979. The reservoir is situated at the top of a hill and has a water volume of 3.7 million cubic meters. Water is pumped into it from the lower reservoir, overcoming an elevation gain of more than 400 meters in the process.

The upper reservoir of Čierny Váh is considered one of the most beautiful places in the area, offering you a virtually fairytale view of the entire Horný Liptov region and the panorama of the Tatry mountains. You can reach it via one of the marked cycling routes or hiking trails. The most commonly used routes lead from Východná, through Svarín and Kráľova Lehota. Although an asphalt road leads to it, it is private with a strict prohibition of entry for motor vehicles.

For the public, entry to the upper reservoir site is prohibited. However, (for now) it is mostly tolerated by the power plant. When you set off toward it, a sign immediately catches your eye: "Water level fluctuations. Swimming in the reservoir is prohibited." Those who nevertheless make the trip all the way to the top will walk 1,660 meters during a circuit around the reservoir. The view of the water surface is truly calming. To some, the water on the black asphalt coating resembles pitch. The difference between the minimum and maximum water levels of the reservoir is 26 meters.

An interesting fact is that in order for water to be pumped from the lower to the upper reservoir, more energy is consumed than generated. Bizarre? Perhaps. But no one has come up with a better idea so far.

Approximately 1 kilometer from the water reservoir is the Lesnícky cintorín Čierny Váh forest cemetery. It includes the Kaplnka sv. Trojice chapel and a wooden bell tower. It is a publicly accessible attraction that was established in the territory of Kráľova Lehota in the first half of the 18th century.

If you want to take a trip and see live one of the most beautiful views that Slovakia has to offer, you should definitely visit Čierny Váh. You can book accommodation in the immediate vicinity of the Vodná nádrž Čierny Váh reservoir on the accommodation Kráľova Lehota pages. And once you are in Liptov, it would be a shame not to check out other attractions that this extremely popular region offers as well. Will it be a visit to one of the water parks, ski resorts, open-air museums, or one of the caves? It is entirely up to you, but whichever option you choose, you will certainly not regret it.

The Vodná nádrž Nosice water reservoir extends over an area of nearly 6 kilometers in the Trenčiansky kraj between the towns of Púchov and Považská Bystrica. It is also part of the Vážska kaskáda, a set of dams built on the Váh river, such as Liptovská Mara, the Bešeňová water reservoir, or Sĺňava. The Nosice reservoir is also known by many under the name Priehrada mládeže. This water body abounds with a beautiful natural surroundings and scenery that is enjoyed not only by local residents.

The Vodná nádrž Nosice water reservoir is the oldest dam on the Váh. Its construction began as early as 1949. The hydroelectric power plant, which is part of the dam wall, was built somewhat later, in 1957. Like other reservoirs on the Váh, it serves primarily to balance the water flow in the longest Slovak river and also to prevent floods in surrounding towns and villages.

The Nosice water body does not have a recreational center and is not all that well known. Nevertheless, people like to use it, for example, for boating, windsurfing, and in some places even for swimming. Cyclists, in turn, like to ride their bikes along the reservoir and admire the views of the surrounding hills of the Javorníky mountain range. The interesting S-shape makes the Nosice reservoir a popular trip not only for cyclists but also for lovers of long walks.

During the excavation of the Vodná nádrž Nosice near the village of Nimnica, water that was salty and fizzy was accidentally discovered. Upon examination, it was found to be a rare mineral spring with healing effects, and thus the youngest Slovak spa of the same name, Nimnica, was also established. You can find the spa on the southern side of the reservoir near the dam wall and the Nosice power plant.

Cyprinid fish thrive very well in the Vodná nádrž Nosice water reservoir. Fishermen can catch pike-perch, bream, eels, carp, and pike here. The fishing ground is designated as the Pod Dubovcom ground and extends from the Orlové city part of Považská Bystrica all the way to the Upohlav part of the village of Udiča. The quiet environment and magnificent surrounding nature make this reservoir an ideal place for a good fishing trip.

Have you decided to take a trip or holiday to this location? We offer you accommodation near the Vodná nádrž Nosice water reservoir, accommodation in Púchov, or accommodation in Považská Bystrica on our portal. You will also find other interesting tips for trips in the surroundings of Púchov with us. Do not hesitate and book your cottage, chalet, or apartment today and enjoy your holiday by the water.

The Štrbské pleso lake, hidden in the Vysoké Tatry mountains, is among the most famous Slovak tarns. It was named after the village of Štrba, as it lies within its cadastral territory. Thanks to its good accessibility and well-developed infrastructure, it is attractive to families with children, hikers, cyclists, and active seniors.

The second largest tarn in Slovakia lies at an altitude of 1,346.6 m above sea level, covering an area of almost 20 hectares and reaching an impressive depth of up to 26 meters. Due to its unique nature and fresh mountain air, the tarn has become a popular place for relaxation. Recreational boating on the tarn began as early as the 19th century, and you can try this attraction for yourself to this day.

Riding the cog railway from Štrbské Pleso to the village of Tatranská Štrba is undoubtedly an experience as well. The lake itself is the starting point for many hiking trails, while a short walk will lead you to Symbolický cintorín or Popradské pleso. Families with children and seniors alike will enjoy a walk along Náučný chodník Štrbské Pleso, which offers interesting information about the history of the village as well as the surrounding flora and fauna. Visitors of all ages will have a great time in the nearby Fun Park Štrbské pleso. Try snowtubing, snowrafting, snowball, or authentic Tatras curling. In the summer, Veveričí lanový park will test your skills.

More seasoned hikers will enjoy a hike to Veľké Hincovo pleso or Batizovské pleso. Those who wish to conquer surrounding peaks can set off on a full-day hike to the symbol of Slovakia – Kriváň, or an 8-hour hike to the popular Rysy. Cyclists will also find plenty to love. A 19 km long cycle route is established from the village of Štrbské Pleso, leading alongside the Štrbské pleso lake all the way to the Popradské pleso tram stop.

An interesting fact is that local residents wanted to drain the tarn in 1860 to gain valuable pastures; fortunately, these plans were never realized. It was right on Štrbské pleso, which is covered in ice for 155 days of the year, that the European Hockey Championship took place in 1925.

Štrbské pleso offers a truly diverse range of experiences and attractions, whether through hiking, relaxing in nature, nearby skiing opportunities, or exploring surrounding villages and their history. Therefore, it is best to spend at least a few days in this mountain location. On our portal, we offer a wide selection of accommodation near the Štrbské pleso lake, as well as in the Vysoké Tatry area itself.

There is probably no tourist in Slovakia who does not know the beautiful lake Štrbské pleso. However, not everyone knows that approximately half a kilometer southeast of it, below the mouth of the Mlynická dolina valley, lies the lake Nové Štrbské pleso. Cadastrally, it falls under the village of Štrba, in the Poprad district. It covers an area of 2 hectares at an altitude of 1,315 m above sea level, with its maximum depth reaching 9.6 m.

However, it is not a natural tarn. It was artificially created in 1905 from the former Štrbské mozgroviska, a silty tarn. The architect Karol Móry is considered its creator. The lake is densely overgrown with peat, which forms small islands on it. These need to be cleaned regularly. However, it is also home to many species of fish that thrive here. When you add all the surrounding trees and amazing views of the majestic Tatra peaks, a perfect spot is born.

The hike to Nové Štrbské pleso can be considered a gentle walk. If you arrive at the Štrbské Pleso railway station, after crossing the tracks of the rack railway, a path will lead you to the tarn. Before you know it, after approximately 5 minutes of walking, you are at the water. If you arrive by car, from the park-and-ride lot at Štrbské pleso, walk under the railway bridge directly to the tarn. From this side, it will take you 10 minutes on foot. It is so close, yet so few people know about it. Bench seating has been built around it for a pleasant rest; looking at the water surface can calm even the most troubled thoughts.

The surroundings probably do not need a special introduction, but there is always someone who has not yet discovered the beauty of the Vysoké Tatry. Book accommodation near Nové Štrbské pleso, for example on the page accommodation Štrbské Pleso, and come explore! Take a hiking trail to Popradské pleso, to the Skok waterfall, or to Kriváň. Take the cable car to Predné Solisko or the tram to Starý Smokovec, and from there to Hrebienok, to Tricklandia, or to Tatranský ľadový dóm Hrebienok. And that is just a small sample. Bring your family, children, and friends along, and experience for yourself what this beautiful piece of Slovakia has to offer.

In Mengusovská dolina, you will find the fourth largest lake in Slovakia – Popradské pleso. Popradské pleso covers an area of almost 7 hectares, is situated at an altitude of 1,494 m above sea level, and reaches a depth of 17 meters. It is just as sought after as the other tarns in Vysoké Tatry.

The tarn was formed in the last ice age after the retreat of glaciers by water flowing in from surrounding peaks and valleys. The path to it is suitable for any determined person, as this route can be managed even by wheelchair users – access is also provided via a paved asphalt road. Find nearby accommodation for families with children, large groups of friends, cyclists, vital seniors, or couples in love, and enjoy Popradské pleso.

In the 18th century, Popradské pleso was also referred to as Rybie pleso. Why? As the only one located on the southern side of the Tatry, it provided a home to the brown trout. In 1879, the first tourist mountain hut was built here, Chata pri Popradskom plese, also known as Chata kpt. Morávku. An interesting feature of Popradské pleso is also Symbolický cintorín (the Symbolic Cemetery for the Victims of the High Tatras), located in a Swiss pine grove under Ostrva. Here, they also honored 13 victims of a 1974 avalanche.

In addition to the blue hiking trail, you can also choose other difficulty levels for your hike to Popradské pleso. It depends entirely on you whether you select the station Popradské Pleso, Štrbské Pleso, or Sliezsky dom as your starting point.

If you plan to stay in the Tatry longer, we definitely recommend choosing from our selection of accommodations, which includes hotels near Popradské pleso, or private cottages near Popradské pleso. Or would you rather opt for charming guesthouses in Popradské pleso? The decision is yours. Our offer is truly diverse; all you need to do is book.

Velické pleso is a sparkling gem and at the same time the largest tarn in Velická dolina valley in the Vysoké Tatry mountains. The lake, covering an area of 2.241 ha with a depth of 4.5 m, is situated at an altitude of 1,663 m a.s.l., near the mountain hotel Sliezsky dom. Velické pleso was formed after the retreat of a glacier, leaving a smaller moraine above it. The lake was also visited by Pope John Paul II, who prayed on July 3, 1995, in a gazebo built specially on its shore.

It is possible to set off on a hike to Velické pleso from several starting points: Tatranská Polianka, Starý Smokovec, Popradské pleso, or Tatranské Zruby. Although the route to the lake is classified as moderately demanding, the reward is gorgeous nature. For those who do not like walking but prefer pedaling a bicycle, it is good news that Velické pleso is the highest point accessible by bike in the Tatras.

From Sliezsky dom, a green hiking trail leads past the tarn to Poľský hrebeň. From June to October, a popular tourist destination is also the 15 m high Velický vodopád waterfall. Situated in the valley above the tarn are also Kvetnicové pliesko, Vyšné Velické plieska, and Dlhé pleso. At the same time, Velická dolina is the usual starting point for the ascent of Gerlachovský štít, which is permitted only with a mountain guide.

If you are planning to explore Velická dolina, look for accommodation around one of the starting points. A pleasant stay will be provided by cottages in Tatranská Polianka or apartments in Tatranské Zruby. Vysoké Tatry also offer a diverse selection of hotels and guesthouses. Just choose according to whether you are a family with young children or seniors, or whether you prefer comfort or lower accommodation prices.

You will find Päť Spišských plies in the Vysoké Tatry mountains near the well-known Téryho chata mountain hut. The starting point is usually Starý Smokovec, but a hiking trail also leads to them from Tatranská Javorina. These five charming mountain lakes have earned the admiration of many a hiker. The high-altitude hike is suitable mainly for experienced hikers with good physical fitness. Many combine it with a crossing from Malá Studená dolina to Veľká Studená dolina. Whichever path you choose, you will not regret it.

Päť Spišských plies is actually a group of five lakes of glacial origin. Are you wondering why they are named "Spišské" when they are actually in the Tatras? They received their name in the past, derived from the Spiš County (župa) to which the lakes belonged. You can see them in this order: Malé Spišské pleso, Prostredné Spišské pleso, Veľké Spišské pleso, Vyšné Spišské pleso, and Nižné Spišské pleso. They are located at an altitude of approximately 2,000 m above sea level.

Start your hike to Spišské plesá in Starý Smokovec. If you want to save yourself some kilometers and leg strength, take the funicular up to Hrebienok. From there, follow the hiking trail to Zamkovského chata and then head up a very steep hill to Téryho chata. It is the highest-altitude mountain hut open year-round in Slovakia. Here, you can rest and refresh yourself. After all, enjoying steamed buns, homemade goulash, and a beer at an altitude of 2,015 m above sea level is not something you get to do every day. The route from Starý Smokovec is approximately 6 kilometers long, but the elevation gain is over 700 vertical meters. From Téryho chata, it is just a short walk to Spišské plesá.

If you are lucky, along the way you will see herds of chamois or hear marmots whistling. At Päť Spišských plies, you can decide whether to return back via Malá Studená dolina or continue through Priečne sedlo into Veľká Studená dolina and past Zbojnícka chata back to Starý Smokovec. If you long to see the Belianske Tatry mountains, plan your trip to Päť Spišských plies through Javorová dolina from Tatranská Javorina. This route is more demanding and longer, so you really need to set aside an entire day for it, as this valley is 11 kilometers long. However, you can also look forward to other mountain lakes here: Žabie Javorové pleso and Modré pleso.

If you love hiking, you should definitely set out for Spišské plesá. It is a popular trip after which you will fall asleep tired, yet filled with energy from the beautiful nature. Stay in the Vysoké Tatry mountains for a vacation and enjoy other Tatra hikes as well. We offer you accommodation in Vysoké Tatry, accommodation in Starý Smokovec, or accommodation in Tatranská Javorina on our portal. Among other things, you will find additional tips for trips in the Tatras here. Do not hesitate and book your cottage, guesthouse, or apartment in the Vysoké Tatry mountains today.

Zelené pleso is one of the most romantic tarns in the Vysoké Tatry mountains. This glacial lake, lying at an altitude of 1551 m a.s.l., was named thanks to the springs that well up at its bottom and cause green spots. However, a more interesting variation is the ancient legend according to which a dazzling green gemstone fell into it from Jastrabej veže tower.

If you were looking on a map, point your finger to the eastern part of the Vysoké Tatry, to the Doliny Bielej vody kežmarskej valley, or the Doliny Zeleného plesa valley. Thanks to a maximum depth of 4.5 m, you can see all the way to the bottom of this moraine tarn from near the shore. With an area of 1.78 ha, it does not belong among the largest tarns, but it is definitely one of the most beautiful.

This turquoise-colored tarn is a popular destination not only for experienced hikers, skiers, and cyclists but also for families with older children or active seniors. Even so, good physical fitness is recommended, as the hike with an elevation gain of 855 meters along the yellow tourist trail is only moderately difficult, yet relatively lengthy. However, if that is not enough for you, the natural continuation of the route is the ascent to Jahňací štít peak or continuing to Skalnaté pleso.

The dominant feature of the view is the well-known "Brnčalka", as the Chata pri Zelenom plese mountain hut is called, which, thanks to its ochre facade, cannot be confused with any other. The history of the first shelter on the site of the current hut dates back to the end of the 1890s. It is open year-round, and if you are planning a challenging hike to the surrounding peaks, it is a suitable place for an overnight stay. Otherwise, do you know about its unusual phenomenon, which is more known from Nordic countries? In the period from October to March, not a single ray of sun touches it. Despite this, it is very popular even during this period.

The starting points for the hike to Zelenému plesu are Tatranské Matliare, the Biela Voda bus stop, or Tatranská Lomnica. For a perfect hiking experience, good planning is necessary, especially if you are traveling with children. So that you are not under time pressure to return home before dark, we recommend booking accommodation nearby in advance. You can find the best offers for accommodation near Zeleného plesa, as well as accommodation Tatranské Matliare or accommodation Tatranská Lomnica, directly on our website.

Belasé pleso is located in the northeastern part of the Vysoké Tatry, more precisely in Dolina Zeleného Plesa, which is part of Červená dolina. The waters of the tarn fill a glacial cirque and its lower part is dammed by a moraine 6 m high. The tarn has no surface inlet or outlet. It belongs among the smaller Tatra tarns, with an area of only 0.07 ha, a length of 40 m. Therefore, in the summer months, it often dries up completely, reaching its maximum depth of 3.8 m only during cold and humid months.

The name of Belasé pleso originated from the apparent color of the water, created by reflections on the water surface. It lies at an altitude of 1,862 m a. s. l., and towering above it to the north are Kozí štít and Jahňací štít, to the west Kolové sedlo, and to the south Jastrabia veža. To the southeast, there are no peaks but open landscape, of which Červené pleso is a part.

No tourist trail leads directly to Belasé pleso, but south of it runs a yellow trail that starts at Chata pri Zelenom plese and ends at Jahňací štít. This hike sets out from Tatranské Matliare, towards Šalviový prameň, through the Kovaľčíková poľana crossroads, then to Zelené pleso, and subsequently to the peak. For the return trip, it is necessary to go back the same way. This route is classified as more demanding and takes a full day.

To explore this area, you will need accommodation near Belasé pleso, so you have a place to rest after the hike. The easiest option will be to stay in Tatranské Matliare, where you will find comfortable apartments. A more varied offer is in Tatranská Lomnica, where various types of accommodation are available, and you can choose exactly the one that suits you. Tatranská Lomnica will, of course, also provide all necessary services, and besides that, there are several tourist attractions right there, including the Múzeum Tatranského národného parku museum, a bobsleigh track, or the Aqua Relax Titris water world.

Skalnaté pleso is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Vysoké Tatry mountains. You can get here from Tatranská Lomnica on foot along a marked hiking trail or by cable car. It makes a beautiful trip for families with children as well.

Skalnaté pleso is located at an altitude of 1,755 m above sea level, and an educational trail leads around it, keeping even the youngest visitors entertained. At the top of the cable car station, there is a restaurant with a sun terrace, and right next to it is a children's playground - Svištia krajinka, where kids can play to their heart's content. You will find wooden marmot sculptures, climbing frames, a marmot cabin, and many other attractions here.

The tarn is of morainic origin, formed naturally after the Ice Age. No fish live in it, and its water level fluctuates. Interestingly, during dry periods, the lake dries up, which has been influenced not only by climate change but also by the construction of the cable car station.

From Skalnaté pleso, you can take a cable car to Lomnický štít, which towers to an altitude of 2,634 m above sea level directly above the tarn, creating breathtaking views. Near the tarn, at an altitude of 1,781 m above sea level, you will also discover the Astronomické observatórium, which includes an observatory.

Skalnaté pleso is magnificent in both winter and summer. During a winter skiing trip, you can relax here before hitting the slopes, on what is, by the way, the steepest ski slope in Slovakia. However, don't forget to check the weather forecast; the Vysoké Tatry can be unpredictable. Set out on a trip here and you certainly won't regret it. Book your accommodation near Skalnaté pleso directly with us.

Jezerské jazero lake was named after the small village of Jezersko nearby. The village is located only 15 kilometers from Slovenská Ves, and on the way here, you can enjoy views of the Vysoké Tatry or Belianske Tatry mountains. Lake Jezersko is located below the ridge of Spišská Magura, and this area is also called forgotten by God because it is little known among tourists. So if you long for a peaceful mountain environment and want to enjoy quietness, head to the shores of Jezerské jazero.

The small lake lies at an altitude of 919 m a.s.l. In 1967, it was declared a nature reserve. Water flows here from the surrounding slopes, and its depth is around 2 meters. Jezerský potok stream flows out of the lake. You can reach the lake along a hiking trail either from the village of Jezersko, via a route about 3 kilometers long, or from the popular Bachledova dolina valley.

Some tourists combine a trip to the lake with a walk to Bachledova rozhľadňa lookout tower, which is located on the ridge of Spišská Magura. From here, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the entire lake and its surroundings. Several legends are also connected to Jezerské jazero lake, about spirits living in it or about a powerful force that, according to legend, causes heavy rain when someone cuts down a tree near the lake. Maybe it is true and maybe not, but one thing is certain. The magical turquoise color of the water will surely leave you with a magical feeling.

You can also reach Jezerské jazero lake via a hiking trail from the village of Ždiar, Malá Franková, or Veľká Franková. The Belianske Tatry mountains will thus show themselves to you in all their glory. Benches and an information board about the local fauna and flora have been built near the small lake, where you will learn, for example, that newts live here. Unfortunately, severe windstorms in recent years have taken a toll on the surrounding forest, and it will take several years for new trees to grow here.

The surroundings of Jezersko are tailor-made for an active holiday. In addition to a trip to the lake, you can also enjoy the Chodník korunami stromov treetop walk in Bachledova dolina, or the beautiful Pieninský národný park (Pieniny National Park). For skiers, excellent skiing is also on offer near Jezersko at Bachledka Ski & Sun. Take advantage of the services of our accommodation portal and book accommodation near Jezerské jazero lake, for example on the Bachledova dolina accommodation pages. Discover other interesting tips for attractions in Belianske Tatry as well. Do not wait and set out on an adventure as soon as possible.

In the village of Vyšné Ružbachy, you can find Kráter, the largest travertine lake in our country. It is part of the Ružbašské krátery, where you will find four large and several smaller craters. These were formed by the collapse of travertine mounds around a healing mineral spring. They are located at an altitude of 620 m above sea level on the grounds of Kúpele Vyšné Ružbachy, near Spišská Magura, in the Stará Ľubovňa district.

The aforementioned Kráter lake has a diameter of approximately 20 m, an almost circular shape, a maximum depth of 3 m, all spanning a water surface area of 300 m². As the only one among the Ružbašské krátery, it is filled with 24 °C warm water, specifically, thermal mineral water rich in calcium. Since 1967, it has been listed among the protected natural formations of Slovakia, and swimming in it is strictly prohibited for this reason.

Another one of the local craters is Kaplnkový kráter, located near the Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes. Thanks to its dimensions of 51 × 32 × 4.5 m, it ranks among the largest formations of its kind in our country. Also worth mentioning is the crater named Jama smrti. Like the others (excluding Kráter), this one is a waterless crater and is also known under the name Smerdžonka. And why such a goosebumps-inducing name? Carbon dioxide escapes from it, causing suffocation and loss of consciousness. Falling into the pit has already claimed the lives of several domestic animals belonging to local residents, as well as rodents and birds.

Many tourists bypass the craters because they do not find them interesting without water. However, that is a shame, as they certainly belong among unique natural phenomena. During your travels around Horný Spiš, make time to come and admire them. Allow yourself plenty of time for this; we recommend booking accommodation near Ružbašské krátery. You can find great tips for finding lodging on the page accommodation in Stará Ľubovňa. Enjoy your stay and do not forget to bring friends or family along. After all, wandering through nature brings the best experiences precisely when you do not embark on them alone.