An easy hike to Kyselka and the Pekná Vyhliadka viewpoint

Starý Smokovec – Smokovecká Kyselka – Pekná Vyhliadka – Stations of the Cross – Starý Smokovec

Starý Smokovec, Kyselka
Starý Smokovec
1.7 km

A short loop trail around Starý Smokovec

Lightweight

An Easy Nordic Walking Trail

35 minutes

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.

Route difficulty: Easy
Duration: 635 minutes
Surface: Hiking and forest trail
Route Type: Loop
What can you experience and see along the route?
Smokovec Mineral Water
A Beautiful View
The Smokovec Calvary
View of Starý Smokovec

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What do you need to know before you arrive?
The route is short and suitable even for less experienced Nordic walkers
Allow about 60 minutes to complete the circuit
Expect a gentle climb toward Pekná vyhliadka
Comfortable athletic or hiking shoes are suitable for the trail
After it rains, adjust your pace to the current conditions of the forest trail
The route returns to Starý Smokovec along the Stations of the Cross trail

Please read this before your visit

Orientation on the Circuit

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.

Smokovec Mineral Water

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 Stations of the Cross and the Lookout Point

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

Set out to discover the beauty of the Tatra Mountains

Nordic walking combines active exercise in the fresh air with exploring the beauty of the Tatra region. Set out on easy trails or longer loops and enjoy nature, the mountain atmosphere, and views of the Tatra peaks.

The Tatra Mountains wake up differently every day

Current conditions, upcoming events, and editorial recommendations. Everything you need to know before heading to the Tatras.

Webcams

Most sidewalks are open
The chairlifts are in operation
The bike trails are open

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.

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    The High Tatras have something to offer all year round. The best time for high-altitude hiking is from June to October, when the hiking trails at higher elevations are open. Fall brings more stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful views. Winter is ideal for skiing, winter walks, and visiting locations that are accessible year-round. Before setting out on a trip, always check the current weather conditions and any trail closures.

    You do not need a special permit for regular hiking on marked trails. However, you must comply with TANAP’s visitor regulations and seasonal closures, and you may only hike on open trails. Special rules apply, for example, to rock climbing, ski mountaineering, hiking off marked trails, or bringing a dog into the park.

    You can easily reach the main Tatra resorts by train. The Tatra Electric Railways connect Poprad, Starý Smokovec, Štrbské Pleso, and Tatranská Lomnica. A cog railway runs from Štrba to Štrbské Pleso. You can also take advantage of regular bus routes and seasonal shuttle services in the region.

    You can park in designated parking lots in the various Tatra villages. During peak periods, we recommend using the P+R park-and-ride lot at Eurocamp in Tatranská Lomnica and continuing by shuttle bus. From this parking lot, you can take public transportation to destinations such as Tatranská Lomnica, Tatranské Matliare, Biela Voda, or the Belianska Cave.

    For hiking, choose sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles that stabilize your feet and protect them on rocky or wet terrain. Your gear should also include weather-appropriate clothing and a rain jacket. Sandals and regular city shoes are not suitable for more demanding hikes.

    When a storm is approaching, leave peaks, ridges, saddles, mountain passes, and open areas as soon as possible. Descend to lower elevations, avoid standing near isolated trees or metal objects, and keep your distance from other members of your group. If possible, take shelter in a mountain hut or a safe building. The best prevention is to check the weather forecast, set out early in the morning, and shorten or cancel your hike in a timely manner if conditions take a turn for the worse. Safety must take precedence over reaching your destination.