Skalnaté pleso Observatory

Astronomical and Meteorological Observatory High in the Tatra Mountains

Skalnaté pleso
www.astro.sk
Skalnaté pleso Observatory
Skalnaté pleso
The Year 1943

The Beginning of the First Astronomical Observations

1,783 meters above sea level

Location of the observatory near Skalnaté Pleso

2 domes

Facilities designed for observing the sky

An observatory that studies the sky above the Tatra Mountains

The observatory at Skalnaté Pleso was founded in 1943, when the first astronomical observations were conducted there. It is located at an elevation of 1,783 meters above sea level and combines space research with meteorological observations in a high-altitude environment.

The two-story prismatic building is connected to a cylindrical tower, which houses a dome with a retractable roof. Another smaller dome is located on the flat roof, and the facility also includes a weather station.

Astronomical Observations
Meteorological Station
Tower with an opening dome
What We Offer
Astronomical Observatory
Observation Domes
Weather Station
Tatra Architecture
The Tatra Mountains in the Background: A View from Above

Must-See Places. Discover them one by one

Every corner of the High Tatras and the surrounding area has its own story. Discover the places that shape the character of the region.

Bystré Lakes

Bystré Lakes

8 1040 6 hours 30 minutes Stredne náročná
Litvorové Lake

To the Litvor Ball in the Bielovodská Valley

12.3 900 5 hours Náročná
Quiet Valley_Maličký

To Kasprov Hill Through the Quiet Valley

16.05 1051 6 hours 15 minutes Náročná
Through the Veľká Studená Valley to the Zbojnícka Chalet

Through the Veľká Studená Valley to the Zbojnícka Chalet

11.8 680 4 hours 45 minutes Stredne náročná
A hike through the Velická Valley to the Sliezsky House

A hike through the Velická Valley to the Sliezsky House

6.7 698 1 hour 4 minutes Ľahká
Téry's Cabin_Winter_Maličký

Across the Priečne Pass through two Tatra valleys

17.3 1039 7 a.m. Veľmi náročná
Štrbské Pleso_Winter

Along the forest trail from Štrbské Pleso to Jamské Pleso

4.8 126 1 hour 30 minutes Ľahká
Through the Tatra Forest to Popradské Pleso

Through the Tatra Forest to Popradské Pleso

4.13 210 2 hours 30 minutes Stredne náročná
About the Great Hinc Ball

About the Great Hinc Ball

8.1 672 3 hours 30 minutes Stredne náročná

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

Hrebienok

The Perfect Weekend Getaway

Editor's Pick

Štrbské Pleso

The Best Time to Visit

Editor's Pick

Taste the dishes

At mountain huts throughout the region

Editor's Pick

Nature Trail

A short route suitable for children

Editor's Pick

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.