The High Tatras mountains Walkers and mountain bikers beware: the gradients often turn out to be steeper than they first seem. Richard Semik/ age fotostock
The High Tatras massif is the most spectacular site in the country. In the northeast of Slovakia, it the highest point is at Gerlach Peak which attains a height of 8,710 ft. Most of this massif has become a national park. Come in by car from Podbanske. The road crosses the massif, some sixty miles, to the Polish border. Do not forget to make the excursion to Lake Skalnaté in cable car from Tatranska Lomnica. The lake is amidst high mountains and is absolutely fabulous. You can continue the visit in cable car to the summit of Mount Lomnicky (8,633 ft). It is best early in the morning when the clouds (and crowds) have not yet invaded the setting. You should also go hiking several times from Smokovec. Different footpaths are marked out, based on their length and difficulty, and mountain bikes can be rented on site.