I visited the High Tatra in Slovakia (again) this year and spent some time making a reconnaissance for a Club trip. I picked up some up-to-date maps and some Summer rock climbing and Winter mountaineering route guide books on behalf of the Club… as it was all so cheap.

Walking – Routes are very well marked. Many summits above 2400m can be reached easily. Alternative routes that cross high passes also available. Some routes supported by chains and ladders (but not via ferrata). Generally, summits are 3-5 hours, with a return of 2-4 hours. Many huts available to reduce the length of day if required.

Climbing – The view is that there are some of the best rock climbing in Europe here, but lack of information puts off most climbers! Rock buttresses are big – 200m, 300m, 400m and 500m of continuous rock. Trad climbing, sports routes (recently bolted) and big winter climbing – Grades II, III to VIII+, with guide times that can range from  1.5 hours to 29 hours…

Access and Logistics – Access 2-3 hours from Krakow airport by car or longer from Bratislava. Many hotels and hostels to make a base, very reasonably priced and communication networks throughout are good. Services in Slovakia are very cheap.

Weather – Summer has long spells of dry weather and when thunderstorms break, they tend to move through quickly. In winter, very cold, lots of snow and avalanche danger high.

I have added a link to our link page ‘Tatra Mountain Info’ which has an English version and gives lots of detail, including comparison grades, topos, photos of routes, and for Winter climbers, maps of all the best ice falls…

Regards, Jim