Hiking Holiday in the High Tatras 2010

Nature holidays are becoming an increasingly popular trend in summer 2010. But hiking did not become fashionable only after the Way of St. James was rediscovered for modern-day pilgrimages. An active holiday that does not put an unnecessary strain on the travel budget yet offers plenty of variety, recreation and relaxation is also very much within reach in Slovakia. The country’s proximity to nature is one of the things that makes it such a special holiday destination in the heart of Europe. Accordingly, many hiking routes also pass through national holiday regions. The High Tatras, in particular, are ideal for an eventful hiking trip.

The Slovak natural landscape of the High Tatras is relatively quick to reach from Germany, Austria and even Switzerland. For many holidaymakers, this is one of Europe’s last hiking paradises. In fact, the small high mountain range is far less crowded than its counterparts in neighbouring countries. Nevertheless, hiking routes and trails are well developed and clearly signposted. Hotels and inns have also adapted to active holidaymakers, offering rooms at good prices as well as holiday homes and apartments. But the High Tatras appeal as a hiking destination for more than just their prices. The landscape leaves nothing to be desired, either. Untouched Slovak mountain scenery stretches out on either side of the trails. High peaks alternate with gentle paths. The hiking terrain of the High Tatras is not only varied, but also offers a suitable route for hikers of all abilities and preferences. There is something for everyone, from almost flat routes to scenic and interesting climbing trails. Yet all hiking routes in the High Tatras have one thing in common: they lie amid some of Europe’s most beautiful natural scenery.

The High Tatras offer a network of marked hiking trails. Different colours indicate the varying levels of difficulty. Suggested routes and circular trails also take holidaymakers across varied terrain, past mountain lakes, forests and barren rocky landscapes. Encounters with wildlife are not uncommon. Usually, visitors catch a glimpse in the distance of the national park’s otherwise shy forest dwellers. The traces left by a hurricane in the mountain world of the High Tatras in 2004 are also striking.