The High Tatras is a city encompassing the areas lying along the southern slopes of the Tatra Mountains. They consist of three parts, Strbske Pleso, Stary Smokovec and Tatranska Lomnica, which are divided into smaller settlements. It is an area associated with mountain and skiing tourism, known for its great hiking trails and views.
The city was established in 1947 on the basis of centuries-old settlements. Its administrative center is Stary Smokovec, and the interesting fact is that Strbske Pleso, which is part of it, belongs to another commune, Szczyrba.
The settlements included in the High Tatras have a different character and buildings. The most beautiful wooden pensions and Swiss-style houses from the 19th and early 20th centuries can be seen in Stary Smokovec.
The most important attractions of the High Tatras are related to the city's location on the slopes of the Bialskie and High Tatras. There are entrances to many marked hiking trails leading through the Tatra valleys, such as the Wielicka Valley, the Mięguszowiecka Valley, the Staroleśna Valley, the Łomnicka Valley, the Cicha Liptowska Valley and the Furkotska Valley.
A popular excursion destination is Hrebienok, which can be accessed by funicular from Smokovec. A picturesque trail to the Cold Water Valley begins here with numerous waterfalls and water cascades.
The highest accessible peak that can be reached from the High Tatras is Lomnica, the second highest peak in the Tatras. The summit, where the astronomical observatory is located, can be reached by a cable car, and on the slopes in the lower part of the mountain, there is a Ski Center in Tatranska Lomnica in winter.
The attraction of the Bialskie Tatras, apart from scenic hiking trails, is the Belianska Cave, which is characterized by a rich dripstone form and underground lakes.
