Low Tatras

Larger in area, lower in elevation, less known to foreigners than the High Tatras, the Low Tatras lie at the heart of Slovakia. Its main points of attraction are its beautiful green valleys, its challenging but very manageable ridges - and none of the crowds of Slovakia's better-known destinations.

Appearing more like "big hills" than "small mountains", the Low Tatras are in every way a low-key alternative to the alpine-class High Tatras. For example:

A large number of small ski areas, some with snowmaking equipment, mean the slopes are rarely crowded. Runs are generally shorter than in the High Tatras, but so are lines for lifts, food and other facilities.

For hikers, the highest altitudes are not as high as in the High Tatras, although many mountaintops and paths still run above the tree line. There are several points above 2000 meters above sea level, while the High Tatras boast over twenty peaks above 2500 meters.

While you are hiking in the summer, you will see far fewer people than in the High Tatras, where it seems there is always someone else around. The Low Tatras more often leave you alone with nature.

If you hike in the off-season, you may hike for hours or even all day and never see another human being.

The "touristy" facilities in the High Tatras are fewer and further between in the Low Tatras. The down side to this is that it may be harder to find facilities you want (like equipment rentals, a wide choice of restaurants, shops, etc.) The positive side, of course, is that there is little clutter from too many touristy activities. At the same time, anything you are likely to need or want is probably available, though it may take more time to get it.

Another interesting fact about the Low Tatras is that almost 200 thousand hectares are state-protected, making it the largest protected area throughout the international stretch of the Carpathians. This area is almost 100 km long east-to-west, and generally about 35 km wide north-to-south.

Nizke Tatry (Low Tatras)
Visitors' rules for National Park, hiking routes, pictures and hotels.
www.nizketatry.info