Blog: Four things that cannot be missed in the High Tatras this winter

Ready for snow and ice? Here are some tips that will make your winter trip to the Slovak mountains the coolest yet.

1. Skiing and snowboarding

Slovakia is a mountainous country with a bevy of opportunities for skiers and snowboarders. In the High Tatras, you can ski in three big centres – Tatranská Lomnica, Starý Smokovec and Štrbské Pleso. In the Low Tatras, the biggest ski resort is Jasná. If you wish to do more than just ski, you may choose from these other activities.

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Slovak mountains offer all types of slopes. Firstly, there are easy blue slopes for beginners where you can learn how to ski by yourself or with the help of experienced instructors. There are also red slopes with nice views and steep, black slopes in places like Lomnické Sedlo (2,189 metres above sea level). The price for a one day ticket starts at €25.

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Ski tows, chairlifts and cable cars will bring you to the peaks. Be prepared for lots of fun and exercise on the beautifully white slopes that have a total length of up to 75 km.

Read also: Tasting Slovak snow (Spectacular Slovakia - travel guide) Read more 

2. Dog sledding with huskies

If you love snow and dogs, you should not miss out on this experience in Slovakia.

Private husky tours in Slovakia are bookable with an instructor who will teach you how to drive the sleigh, how to turn left and right, and how to communicate with the Siberian huskies. Afterwards, you will become a brave musher with the ability to drive a 1 km long circuit.

It is also possible to drive a shorter distance with two dogs. If you´re more daring, you can try canicross- a sport that involves running with a husky tied to you via leash.

3. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing connects fun, sport and tradition. Snowshoes were the first piece of equipment people used in alpine climates to walk safely. Now, they are also used in sport.

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Once you decide to give snowshoeing a try, get ready for a workout. If you chose to go with a guide you will be instructed on how to walk and use your snowshoes and poles efficiently, allowing you to find a nice rhythm while conserving energy.

Moreover, you will see all beauties of the winter national parks in Slovakia. You will even find new trails and the untouched parts of nature that are unreachable with normal trekking boots due to the dangerous terrain.

However, the success of snowshoeing depends on the quality of snow and weather conditions. You can find contact details here or visit the ski and snowshoe rental and go to one of the designated areas in the High or Low Tatras.

4. Horse sleigh ride

This attraction is available in the marvelous little village of Ždiar. Ždiar lies east of High Tatras, hence offering great views on top of the snowy peaks along with many stories of traditional folklore.

When there is snow in the Slovak mountains, there is tons of it! If you want to experience the magic of the mountains on a horse-drawn sleigh and are not afraid of the woods and horses, come and enjoy! Families and couples are welcome. Listening to jingle bells, catching snowflakes and watching trotting horses will provide you with the perfect, Christmas-like atmosphere. The best time for sleigh rides is in the evening when you will get to take a little walk in the woods and enjoy a bonfire, tea, wine and traditional Goral music.

Erik Ševčík is the director and owner of Adventoura, a provider of tours and adventure experiences in Slovakia.

Author: Erik Ševčík

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