An easy hike to Kyselka and the Pekná Vyhliadka viewpoint
Starý Smokovec – Smokovecká Kyselka – Pekná Vyhliadka – Stations of the Cross – Starý Smokovec
A short loop trail around Starý Smokovec
An Easy Nordic Walking Trail
Estimated time to complete the circuit
A short walk that combines nature, views, and art
This easy Nordic walking trail begins in Starý Smokovec at the famous Smokovecká kyselka spring. From there, it continues along a path that gently ascends to the Pekná vyhliadka viewpoint, which offers a view of Starý Smokovec and its surroundings. The mineral water is freely accessible in a renovated gazebo and is located near the former Smokovec amphitheater.
From the lookout point, the route returns along the Smokovec Calvary trail. The Stations of the Cross consist of works of art by Slovak and Polish artists created between 2010 and 2015. The combination of a short physical activity, a mineral spring, scenic views, and art makes this loop a pleasant choice even for a short walk around the center of Starý Smokovec.
What can you experience and see along the route?
Trasa a výškový profil
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Please read this before your visit
The route leads from Smokovec Mineral Spring along a trail to the lookout point and then returns via the Way of the Cross. The official list of Nordic Walking trails does not specify a particular color for the hiking markers, so follow the local signposts for Kyselka, Pekná Vyhliadka, and Kalvária.
The spring is located in a renovated gazebo less than 100 meters from the former amphitheater. The earliest written mention of the Smokovec springs dates back to 1764, and interest in the local mineral water contributed to the founding of the settlement of Starý Smokovec in 1793.
The Smokovec Calvary is the highest-elevation Stations of the Cross in Central Europe. It consists of a complex of 14 works of art, and its trail leads all the way to the “Pekná vyhliadka” viewpoint, which offers a view of Starý Smokovec and the surrounding area.
The path between the mineral spring and the artistic Calvary
Elevation Profile
Smokovecká Kyselka is located at an elevation of approximately 1,030 meters above sea level. The official regional brochure lists Smokovecká Kalvária at an elevation of 1,088 meters above sea level. The trail therefore has a gently ascending profile toward the lookout point, followed by a descent back to Starý Smokovec.
Route Description
The loop begins at the Smokovec mineral spring, located in a renovated gazebo in a wooded area above the center of Starý Smokovec. From the spring, follow the trail leading up the slope to the Pekná Vyhliadka viewpoint.
The trail gradually ascends through the woods to the lookout point. At the top of the climb, you’ll find a gazebo with seating and a view of Starý Smokovec and its surroundings.
From Pekná Vyhliadka, continue back toward the town center along the Smokovec Calvary trail. Along the route, you’ll pass the artistic stations of the Way of the Cross, which are sensitively integrated into the Tatra landscape. You’ll then return to the starting point in Starý Smokovec.
Trail Markings
The official Nordic Walking guide for this route does not list a separate colored hiking trail marker. On the way up, follow the local trails and the signs for “Pekná vyhliadka.” On the way back, the individual artistic stations of the Stations of the Cross will guide you toward Starý Smokovec.
Stops along the route
Smokovecká kyselka – approximately 1,030 m above sea level
A freely accessible mineral spring in a renovated gazebo
Forest trail to the “
” lookout point; a short, uphill section leading past the spring
: A Beautiful Viewpoint A viewpoint with a gazebo and a view of Starý Smokovec
Smokovec Calvary – approximately 1,088 m above sea level
The Way of the Cross with 14 artistic stations by Slovak and Polish artists
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Poprad
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Lomnický štít
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Tatranská Lomnica
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Starý Smokovec
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Hrebienok
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Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.
