Štrbské Pleso

Štrbské Pleso

Štrbské Pleso_Winter
1872

Year the settlement was founded

1,346 m

Elevation of the settlement

1970

World Ski Championships

The highest-altitude village in the Tatra Mountains, where the tranquil surface of the lake blends with mountain hikes and a rich sporting history

The origins of Štrbské Pleso date back to 1872, when landowner Jozef Szentiványi had Jozef’s Cottage built on the shore of the lake. Three years later, a tourist lodge was established here, marking the birth of a new settlement. Its development was spurred by the construction of the Košice–Bohumín Railway and, later, the steam cog railway, which connected Štrbské Pleso with Štrba in 1896.

By the end of the 19th century, there were already about 15 recreational facilities around the lake, and in 1906, the Grandhotel Štrbské Pleso was completed. Thanks to its high-mountain climate, the settlement gradually became a recognized health resort. It experienced significant growth ahead of the 1970 World Championships in classical skiing disciplines, when a new sports complex and additional lodging facilities were built here.

The village is dominated by a moraine lake of glacial origin—Štrbské Pleso. It reaches a depth of approximately 20 meters and is covered with ice an average of 155 days a year. Today, Štrbské Pleso is one of the most popular tourist and sports destinations in the High Tatras. You can take a walk around the lake, go boating in the summer, take the cable car up to Solisko, or continue on hikes to the Mlynická and Mengusovská valleys.

The site is open year-round
What We Offer
A Walk Around Štrbské Pleso
Boating on the lake
A Cable Car Ride to the Foot of Solisko
Hiking and the FIS Sports Complex
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Štrbské Pleso is accessible by tram, cog railway, bus, and car
Parking lots can fill up quickly on weekends and during peak season
Boat rides are available only during the summer season and when the weather permits
The operation of the cable car to Solisko may be affected by weather conditions or technical maintenance
Some high-altitude hiking trails are closed seasonally
Štrbské Pleso is located within the TANAP national park, so please follow the visitor guidelines
When hiking in the mountains, check the current weather and trail conditions

Please read this before your visit

Transportation and Parking Options

You can easily reach Štrbské Pleso by taking the Tatra Electric Railway or the cog railway from Tatranská Štrba. Parking is subject to a fee and may be full during peak season, so we recommend checking the current parking options.

Cable Car and Boat Tour Operations

The operating hours of the Solisko cable car vary depending on the season, weather, and technical maintenance. Boating on the lake is a seasonal activity and may be temporarily suspended due to unfavorable weather conditions. Please check the current cable car operating status before your visit.

Weather and Accessibility of Hiking Trails

If you're planning a high-altitude hike, check the weather, trail conditions, and seasonal restrictions before you set out. Selected high-altitude trails are generally closed from November 1 through May 31. You can find the current rules on the TANAP Administration website.

Where to Stay in the Area

Plan a comfortable stay—choose accommodations near this location and enjoy the region to the fullest without unnecessary travel.

Discover other cities and towns in the region

Every town and village in the Tatra Mountains has its own history, character, and atmosphere—explore other destinations worth visiting.

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.