Cornish Ramblings x Tatra Escapes, Slovakia Trip
6 – 10 October 2024
Hike One: The Green Lake.
11.5-miles with a 2053ft elevation gain taking us 4hr 30min.
There’s something about being surrounded by soaring mountains that moves the soul. I’ve always loved the rugged beauty of Cornwall, but my recent hike to Green Lake in Slovakia left me speechless in a way I had never experienced before. In this blog, come with me on a journey to The Green Lake, our first hiking adventure in the Tatra Mountains, Slovakia.
Zelene Pleso, or "The Green Lake," nestled in Slovakia’s High Tatras, is often hailed as the most beautiful hike in the country – and for good reason. This long day hike takes you through a diverse landscape, leading you along rocky paths that wind through towering, bare mountains. As you ascend, the views become even more striking, with vast carpets of pine trees stretching out beneath you, creating a lush green tapestry that contrasts beautifully with the jagged peaks rising above. The combination of raw, rugged terrain and the serene, emerald waters of Green Lake makes this hike a true gem in the High Tatras.
Our journey began at the Biela Voda car park, where we pulled our backpacks on and set off into the forest. From the very start, the sound of the white waters stream was our constant companion, its gentle roar guiding us as we followed the path deeper into the wilderness. For a while, it felt like the stream was our soundtrack, offering a sense of calm as we moved further into nature. Peter, our guide for this walk, would allow us enough breaks to catch our breath, whilst giving us in depth knowledge and history of the surrounding area.
After some time we turned left, leaving the stream behind, and continued through the forest. It was peaceful, yet as we progressed, the landscape began to shift, hinting at the grandeur that lay ahead. Soon, glimpses of the Tatra mountain range began peeking through the trees, each new corner revealing more of their stunning beauty. Trees towered overhead and I felt so tiny, so insignificant in that moment. If you ever need a way to forget all your worries for a while, hiking throughout the tallest of trees and gargantuan peaks will do it.
After walking uphill for approximately 2.5-hours, we arrived at our destination. Green Lake stretched out before us, its shimmering emerald waters nestled in the heart of the mountains with the towering trees that once loomed overhead, now small in the distance. It was a scene so surreal that I found myself overwhelmed and overcome with emotion. I’ve seen incredible views before, especially back home in Cornwall and whilst exploring The Lake District, but being enveloped by the towering peaks of the Tatra Mountains as the lake glistened with mountainous reflections, was something entirely different. It felt magical, as though I was standing in a painting brought to life.
I stared until the mountains felt awkward. But even then, I couldn't stop looking. Blinking through tears, I caressed the crevices and jutting rocks with my eyes, drinking it all in like the greedy guzzler I am. I felt alive for the first time in what felt like forever. Don't get me wrong, hiking in Cornwall leaves me continuously speechless and I will always harbour a love for Cornwall like no other. But what I'd been craving was something more. And in this moment, I'd found it.
After giving myself a mental slap, I joined the others as we took our final ascent to the Mountain Hut, where we paused for a well-deserved lunch. The warmth of the hut, the delicious food, the postcard views, and the company of my fellow ramblers made the experience even more special. There’s something so wonderful about sharing moments like these with others – the conversations, the laughter, and the collective awe as we marvelled at the scenery around us.
Exploring this part of the Tatra Mountains with Tatra Escapes was an adventure like no other. Our guide was fantastic, leading us through every step of the hike and offering insights into the region’s natural beauty. It was a privilege to share this journey with them and the friends who had joined me on the trip.
As I stood by the lake, reflecting on the hike, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for the beauty of the world, for the chance to experience places as magical as this, and for the memories we created together in the heart of Slovakia’s mountains.
Our return journey followed the same path we had taken up, but seeing the views from a different angle gave them an entirely new perspective. The changing light, the shifting clouds, and the sense of accomplishment added a fresh beauty to the familiar trail. It was only on the descent that I truly realized just how far uphill we had climbed—each step downhill reminded me of the effort it took to reach Green Lake.
As we made our way down together, the conversation among my fellow ramblers filled the air, blending harmoniously with the cool mountain breeze. For a moment, I paused, taking it all in: the chatter, the laughter, the rustling leaves. I wanted to soak in every second, knowing this was a memory I’d carry with me long after we had left the mountains behind. It was one of those fleeting moments you wish could last forever, where the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of shared company came together in perfect harmony.
If you ever find yourself yearning for a hike that stirs both body and soul, the Tatra Mountains and The Green Lake is the perfect place to start.
Thank you to Alena of Tatra Escapes who made this trip possible. It has been the most magical collaboration and we are already in talks of a possible 2025 trip so if you'd like to join us next time, be sure to sign up to the Cornish Ramblings mailing list. I will also be sharing more blogs on this trip to give you a better insight into what we experienced in Slovakia.
Sound amazing
Wow.... Fabulous
Looks incredible Jody