Štrbské Pleso, Slovakia
Štrbské Pleso is a truly picturesque mountain lake of glacial origin, serving as a premier tourist destination in the stunning High Tatras of Slovakia. This serene body of water is the second-largest glacial lake on the Slovak side of the High Tatras, reaching a maximum depth of 20 meters. At the southern end of the lake lies a charming village of the same name, renowned as the highest-situated village in the Tatras and a popular winter sports resort.
The area's history as a tourist hub began in 1872 with the construction of a simple forester's lodge. Just a few years later, the first tourist shelter was built, and the area rapidly expanded as glowing recommendations from visitors drew more and more people to this beautiful natural setting. Today, it remains a testament to both its natural beauty and its long-standing tradition of welcoming tourists.
Parking in Štrbské Pleso
There is a large size parking available in the village (1; GPS: 49.119607, 20.064943), however it can be quickly filled during high tourist traffic. This should be taken into account so you may arrive earlier to find free places. Parking is of course paid - the ticket is about 6€, which is comparable to prices of many other parking lots in popular tourist places in Slovakia.
A highly recommended alternative to driving is to arrive via the electric railway line (A; GPS: 49.118459, 20.063452). This reliable and scenic mode of transport connects Štrbské Pleso with other key tourist resorts in the Slovak Tatras, such as Starý Smokovec. The electric railway offers a stress-free journey with stunning views, allowing you to avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot entirely.
The Štrbské Pleso lake
We leave the car and go towards the lake, which is located at a distance of about 150 m. Around the lake a few higher-end hotels were built, including Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras (B; GPS: 49.119354, 20.058720) and Hotel Solisko (C; GPS: 49.119782, 20.056875). There is also a very nice path around the lake - very simple and easy to overcome even for seniors who have not prepared themselves for hiking in the mountains. Everyone, however, should walk that path because it gives the opportunity to admiring the nature and the lake itself. The views are really nice, especially during autumn, when everything becomes colored, but of course this place is worth visiting in any season of the year. A walk around the lake takes about an hour. You can also stroll in the evening, because the path is illuminated with beautiful lanterns. During the day you can also rent a boat and swim in the lake. The advantage of this place is also that the touristic traffic (compared to Zakopane) is really small - let's say directly: there are no crowds of strollers :).
For more experienced tourists, Štrbské Pleso is an ideal starting point for serious hiking. A popular and challenging option is to enter the Rysy summit directly from the parking lot, following the red, then blue, and finally again red trail. This trail is a famous climb that offers rewarding views for determined hikers. There are also many other interesting trails you can see on the map, leading to mountain huts and other peaks, catering to various levels of difficulty.
Gastronomy in Štrbské Pleso
After a day of walking around the lake or hiking in the mountains, you can indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Štrbské Pleso offers several dining options, ranging from upscale hotel restaurants to cozy cafes and traditional Slovak restaurants, where you can enjoy a hearty meal with a beautiful view of the lake or the mountains. The fresh mountain air is sure to build up an appetite, and the food here is perfectly suited to replenish your energy.
Be sure to try some classic Slovak dishes. A must-have is Bryndzové Halušky, a national dish of potato dumplings with sheep cheese and topped with bacon, a true comfort food. You can also find delicious soups like Kapustnica (sauerkraut soup) or garlic soup served in a bread bowl. Most establishments also serve excellent local beers and spirits like Borovička, a juniper berry liquor. Dining in a traditional "koliba" (a rustic wooden hut restaurant) can provide an authentic cultural experience alongside your meal.
Whether you're looking for a quick snack, a warm drink, or a full dinner, the village offers options for every taste and budget. You can enjoy a relaxing coffee with a view, a sweet pastry, or a full three-course meal, making your visit not just about the sights, but about the tastes and smells of the High Tatras as well.
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