The Berkeley Guides:
Berkeley Guide to Europe:
Slovakia:
Vysoké Tatry (High Tatry)
Ask the average Slovak where you should go in her country, and she will invariably say Vysoké Tatry (High Tatry). These mountains cut a jagged path along the Slovak-Polish border and offer excellent hiking and skiing (lift tickets are only 250 Sk). All trails are well marked and color-coded, but be sure to pick up the Vysoké Tatry map (50 SK), published by Harmanec. Although the Tatry range is relatively compact (only 32 km from end to end), it comprises 20 peaks (Mt. Gerlach, at 8,758 feet, is the tallest) and 35 glacial lakes that, according to legend, can impart the ability to see through doors and walls to anyone who bathes in them.
You can't camp in Tatran National Park (TANAP), so base yourself at one of the three resorts--Strbské Pleso to the west, Stary; Smokovec in the middle, and Tatranská Lomnica to the east--or commute from Poprad. It's possible to stay in mountain chaty (huts) within the park, but you must reserve in advance. Contact Satur in Stary; Smokovec or AICES in Poprad (see below).
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