Stara Lesna: TANAP, Astronomy and Local History

Stará Lesná lies in the Poprad Basin, below the lower boundary of Tatranský národný park (TANAP), and serves as a starting point for the central part of the park. Its location and connection to the park offer two distinct points of reference for planning your trip: the basin as a geographical setting and the national park as a possible focus of your stay. TANAP also manages 2,428 hectares of the former cadastral area of Stará Lesná.

Location and Getting There

Stará Lesná can be reached by bus from Poprad and Kežmarok. From the High Tatras, the village can be reached via the TEŽ (Tatranská elektrická železnica) and by bus. Check the timetables for your travel date before setting out, so you can plan your connection to suit your arrival.

Routes and the Astronomy Educational Trail

Marked routes for skiers and cyclists start from Stará Lesná; the village also serves as a starting point for the central part of TANAP. When choosing a destination, the connection to the park and the marked ski and cycling routes are two separate considerations. The Astronomy Educational Trail adds a scientific theme to these activities.

The trail begins at the institute’s main building in Stará Lesná and ends at the last dome, which houses telescopes. Its 13 panels provide information about important aspects of the astronomical institute’s technical equipment and about celestial bodies. Along the trail, technical topics are paired with information about space. The panels may be updated over time.

The Astronomy Educational Trail is accessible year-round. Local conditions and maintenance can change, so check the trail’s condition before your visit. Unlike seasonal activities, the trail is accessible year-round.

Local History and Churches

Stará Lesná was founded by the Berzeviczy family in the second half of the 13th century; the village was first mentioned in a document in 1294. The founding period and the first documented mention are distinct historical reference points: 1294 is the date of the first written record, not the founding date.

Stará Lesná’s most valuable architectural monument is the Roman Catholic church. Its Renaissance bell tower was added around 1600. The Evangelical church was built in 1822, after Emperor Leopold II approved expanded rights for the Evangelical Church. The two churches thus represent different historical periods: the Renaissance tower of the Catholic church and the construction of the Evangelical church in the 19th century.

Hotels in Stará Lesná

The cadastral area of Stará Lesná has several large hotels, holiday facilities and guesthouses. Individual businesses and capacities may change. Before booking, check the details and availability of the specific hotel for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Spišské Hanušovce, Malý Slavkov, Reľov, Busovce, Veľká Franková, Kežmarok, Spišská Stará Ves, Vrbov

See the overview of destinations in the wider area: Okres Kežmarok.