Starý Smokovec: Culture, Trails and Winter Sports

Several themes come together in Starý Smokovec to help you plan your stay: the history of film and photography, the history of the Smokovce settlements, and routes to Hrebienok. In winter, the Jakubkova lúka ski area in the centre is another option. When choosing what to do, it is worth considering whether you are most interested in culture, a particular way of getting around, or winter sports.

Film, photography and mountain history

The Museum of Tatra Cinematography and Photography in Starý Smokovec has a permanent exhibition that is open year-round. It covers life, atmosphere and changes in the High Tatras as captured through photography and film, as well as the work of film and photography personalities in the region since 1870. The exhibition also traces the development of photographic technology from the end of the 19th century. Alongside stories about the region, it therefore focuses on changes in the art of photography.

The Mini Sherpa Museum offers another perspective on cultural history. It presents artefacts and stories about the importance of porters in the High Tatras. The subject is brought to life through objects and stories, complementing the history of film and photography with another aspect of the region.

The history of the Smokovce settlements along the trails

The History of the Smokovce Settlements educational trail passes through Starý and Nový Smokovec. It has seven stops covering the history of the Smokovce settlements and is accessible year-round. The stops provide a clear structure for exploring the historical subject, while the route takes in both settlements.

The Way of the Cross in Starý Smokovec follows a different route: it starts near the centre of the settlement and follows the path to Pekná vyhliadka. While the educational trail covers the history of the settlements at several stops, the Way of the Cross has a named destination as part of its described route. A specific date is also part of the area’s history: the first brick chapel in Starý Smokovec was built in 1836.

To Hrebienok: funicular and cycling route

At Hrebienok, you can compare two ways of getting there based on different details. The funicular from Starý Smokovec reaches Hrebienok in seven minutes, gaining 255 metres in elevation. Travel times and operating details may vary depending on operating conditions; check the current timetable when planning your trip.

Cycling route 2864 also leads from Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok. It is approximately 2.8 km long, has around 270 metres of elevation gain, runs on asphalt, and is suitable for road, trekking and mountain bikes. The funicular is characterised by its travel time, while the route’s length, elevation gain and surface provide specific details for cyclists. The route’s length and elevation figures are approximate.

Rainerova chata can also be reached from Starý Smokovec via Hrebienok. The hut houses an exhibition on the history and present-day life of mountain porters, along with a collection of old climbing equipment, old skis and documentary photographs. The exhibition brings together the subject of porters with historical objects and images.

Winter sports in Starý Smokovec

In winter, the Jakubkova lúka ski area operates in the centre of Starý Smokovec. The ski runs are marked blue and are considered very easy. Slope classifications and information about the ski area may change; check the latest information before visiting. The available activities therefore offer different kinds of experiences: local history and exhibitions, a cycling route, the funicular and the seasonal ski area.

Discover more destinations: Tatranska Lomnica, Tatranska Kotlina, Štrbské Pleso, Tatranská Polianka, Horný Smokovec

Back to the main travel guide: Vysoké Tatry.