3 Lakes Trail To Batizovské Pleso, High Tatras

The time we wrote one of our first posts about the High Tatras and named the Štrbské pleso – Popradské pleso – Veľké Hincovo pleso route “3 Lakes Trail”, we had no idea that this name would fit several other routes, as well. Actually, another version of it is the Štrbské pleso – Popradské pleso – Batizovské pleso trail, the one we want to show you this time. (Pleso means those beautiful deep blue alpine lakes in Slovak as you might have guessed by now.)

The other “3 Lakes Trail”

Based on the route it might sound like these two trails are almost the same – but they aren’t. Both trailheads are at Štrbské pleso where a bunch of other trails start, too, and the first, shortest section of their routes are the same. But that’s it. When you have a short rest at Popradské pleso (it’s hard to resist especially on a clear day when the lake reflects all the surrounding peaks), it’s still a long way to go.

Sedlo pod Ostrvou: our favorite views

To reach Batizovské pleso, first we had to climb up on the steep, zigzagging trail towards Sedlo pod Ostrvou (Saddle below Ostrva in English). This was the most stunning part of the whole route and it was well worth all the effort. As we were getting above Popradské pleso, we marvelled at all of its amazing shades of blue in the sunshine. We stopped quite frequently not just to catch our breath but also to enjoy the views that were some of the most amazing we’ve seen in the High Tatras.

Arriving to Batizovské pleso

Sedlo pod Ostrvou at 1966 meters was a perfect scenic spot for a longer rest. Then we continued our way on the rocky path towards Batizovské pleso. On the right we could look up to the peaks of the High Tatras and on the left we saw the rest of Slovakia below.

Finally, Batizovské pleso appeared: a deep, turquoise lake surrounded by majestic cliffs. Oh, we were halfway! 😀

We got back to Štrbské pleso on the same route and this long trail really pushed the limits of a day hike. But then… we like pushing our limits sometimes. And those views at Sedlo pod Ostrvou and Batizovské pleso were worth it without any doubts.

Hiking essentials
Trailhead: Štrbské pleso Route: Štrbské pleso – Popradské pleso – Batizovské pleso – Popradské pleso – Štrbské pleso (red route all the way there and back) Length: 8-9 hours (round-trip) Difficulty: strenuous

Do you have a favorite strenuous day hike?

PIN IT!