Kriváň
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.










