Skip to content
EN

Photo: Jozef Pitoňák

Ždiar and the surrounding area

Walk to Monkova dolina or head up into the Spišská Magura hills. Bachledka, Belianska Cave and the Polish border are all a short drive away. Here are our suggestions for walks, cycle rides and day trips within easy reach of the house.

Walking and hiking in Ždiar

Ždiar is a wonderful base for anyone who loves mountains, nature and walking. The striking peaks of the Belianske Tatras rise directly above the village, with the High Tatras beyond. On the other side lie the green meadows and forests of the Spišská Magura hills.

Whether you are looking for a challenging mountain hike, a quiet woodland walk or a family outing, there is plenty to choose from. Many trails start right by our accommodation, so you can leave the car behind.

  • Monkova dolina: a 700 m walk to the trail information board
  • Magura ridge, with views of the Tatras and Pieniny
  • Zelené pleso via Kopské sedlo
  • drying room for boots and jackets in the house
Green slopes and rocky ridge of the Belianske Tatras, with dwarf pines and a snowfield

1. Walks from the doorstep

At U Maťka a Kubka, your walk begins at the doorstep. Follow marked trails onto the Spišská Magura ridge, explore Ždiar’s traditional timber houses or simply enjoy the views of the Belianske Tatras.

  • A field track crossing a meadow towards the forest, with the Belianske Tatras beyond

    Via Magurka to Bachledka

    A marked walking trail leads straight from our house to Magurka. From there, continue through Blaščácka dolina and Antošovský vrch, the oldest parts of Ždiar, where traditional Goral architecture has survived. The trail takes you all the way to the popular Treetop Walk at Bachledka.

  • A wide gravel track through woodland beneath the peaks of the Belianske Tatras

    Circular walk via Magurka, Strednica and Monkova dolina

    Head the other way from Magurka, past Strachan and on to the reservoirs at Strednica. From there, a pleasant, wide track through Monkova dolina brings you back to our house. This circular walk combines mountain meadows, woodland paths and lovely views of the Belianske Tatras.

  • A giant wooden bench in a meadow with mountains behind

    A walk to the Giant Bench

    Take a leisurely walk from our house to Ždiar’s Giant Bench. Enjoy the views of the Belianske Tatras and an unusual spot for a holiday photo together.

Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer outing, you will enjoy fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings along the way.

All the walks listed below start at U Maťka a Kubka, Ždiar 281.

RouteTime
Short loop around ŽdiarA short walk through the village45 min
Ždiar – Hotel MaguraA walk to the mountain meadows and back45 min
Long loop: Magurka – Strachan – Strednica – Monkova dolinaapprox. 3–4 hours
Ždiar – Magurka – Bachledka (Treetop Walk)approx. 2–2½ hours each way
Ždiar – Giant Bench and backapprox. 1–1½ hours

2. Mountain hikes and outings

Explore the Belianske and High Tatras, with their towering peaks, mountain valleys, glacial lakes and far-reaching views. Ždiar is an ideal starting point for everything from gentle walks in nature to demanding full-day hikes.

Walk straight from our house through Monkova dolina towards Široké sedlo and Kopské sedlo, continue to Zelené pleso, or explore the woodland paths and viewpoints of the Spišská Magura hills.

Whether you love high mountain trails or simply want to enjoy the quiet and fresh air, you will find a route to suit you in Ždiar.

Panorama of the Belianske Tatras above meadows and forests near Ždiar
  1. Green ridge and rocky peaks of the Belianske Tatras

    Monkova dolina – Široké sedlo – Kopské sedlo

    A memorable high mountain hike with views of the rocky peaks of the Belianske and High Tatras. The trail starts close to our accommodation.

  2. Zelené pleso and its mountain hut beneath the peaks of the High Tatras

    Zelené pleso lake

    A turquoise mountain lake surrounded by towering peaks. Reach it via Kopské sedlo, or choose an alternative approach from Biela voda.

  3. Plesnivec mountain hut in woodland beneath the limestone cliffs of the Belianske Tatras

    Plesnivec mountain hut

    A charming mountain hut tucked away in Dolina Siedmich prameňov. The uphill walk from Tatranská Kotlina takes around 1 hour 20 minutes.

  4. An autumn meadow in Zadné Meďodoly, with Belianske Tatra peaks beyond the spruce trees

    Zadné Meďodoly

    A beautiful valley on the boundary between the Belianske and High Tatras. A good option for guests keen to explore less familiar trails.

  5. A gravel track across a meadow in Bielovodská dolina, with High Tatra peaks beyond the forest

    Bielovodská dolina

    As well as demanding high mountain routes, this valley offers a pleasant walk with little climbing, suitable for leisure walkers.

  6. Rusinowa Polana: a wooden shepherd’s hut, gravel path and meadow overlooking the Tatras

    Rusinowa Polana

    Rusinowa Polana offers beautiful Tatra views without a demanding climb. From Ždiar, drive via Lysá Poľana to Wierch Poroniec, just across the Polish border, then follow the pleasant walking trail to the clearing. You can try traditional oscypek sheep’s cheese here or visit the picturesque chapel.

RouteTimeWho it suits
Monkova dolina, Široké sedlo, Kopské sedlo, Zelené plesofull dayexperienced hikers; subject to seasonal and exceptional trail closures
Magura ridge, viewing tower and Treetop Walk at Bachledkaabout 2 hourshalf a day; also suitable for families with school-age children
Bachledka, nature trail to Jezerské jazeroabout 1 houran easy woodland walk
Blaščácka dolina and Antošovský vrch, the oldest part of Ždiarhalf a daya walk through the village with mountain views
Reservoir below Strednica45 minutesa short walk and time to relax by the water

Times are approximate, based on a normal walking pace without long breaks. Before setting off, check the latest TANAP notices and park visitor regulations.

Cycling in Ždiar

The marked Cesta okolo Tatier cycle route leads from Ždiar to Tatranská Kotlina, joining the cycle path to Spišská Belá and Kežmarok. Four routes start right by the house, and we can store your bikes in a locked room. Bicycle and e-bike hire is available in the village and at Bachledka.

RouteDistanceWho it suits
Ždiar, Tatranská Kotlina, Spišská Belá, Kežmarok23 kmfamilies; gravel and tarmac from Ždiar to Tatranská Kotlina, then tarmac
Ždiar, Príslop, Magura ridge, Treetop Walk and back14 kmmountain or trekking bike; uphill sections and forest tracks
Ždiar, Tatranská Javorina, Zadné Meďodoly28 kmtrekking bike; forest tracks below the Belianske Tatras
Ždiar, Osturňa, Spišské Hanušovce40 kma full-day ride through Zamagurie; road or trekking bike

Family and leisure cycle rides

  1. Reservoir below Strednica, with the Belianske Tatras at sunset behind it

    Ždiar – Strednica – reservoirs

    • Easy to moderate
    • tarmac
    • families with children

    A shorter ride on tarmac towards Strednica, rewarded by views of the Belianske Tatras and a rest by the reservoirs. Expect a climb on the outward journey, so this route is best for children who are already comfortable riding uphill.

  2. Wooden shelter above the entrance to Belianska Cave

    Ždiar – quarry – Tatranská Kotlina

    • Easy
    • tarmac and around 2 km of gravel
    • families

    A ride towards Tatranská Kotlina along a route we know well from living here. Stop by the quarry and continue towards Belianska Cave. The final approach to the cave entrance is an uphill walk.

  3. A tarmac cycle path with a rest shelter and the Belianske Tatras beyond

    Ždiar – Tatranská Kotlina – Spišská Belá

    • Leisure ride
    • mostly tarmac
    • trekking bike

    Continue the previous ride along the Beliansky cycle path. The 9 km stretch between Tatranská Kotlina and Spišská Belá is surfaced with tarmac and has rest areas. In Spišská Belá, you can stop by Beliansky rybník pond.

  4. White Renaissance manor house in Strážky

    Ždiar – Spišská Belá – Strážky

    • Moderate due to the distance
    • mostly tarmac
    • a full-day family ride

    A longer ride via Tatranská Kotlina and Spišská Belá to Strážky manor house, combining cycling, nature and history. Shorten the route to suit your children’s fitness.

  5. Entrance gate to Kežmarok Castle with a stone bridge

    Ždiar – Tatranská Kotlina – Spišská Belá – Kežmarok

    • Moderate to challenging due to the distance
    • mostly tarmac

    A full-day ride to historic Kežmarok, where you can visit the castle, old town or wooden Protestant church. The return to Ždiar is more demanding because of the distance and climb.

  6. A father and two children cycling across a meadow near the Bachledka cable car

    Bachledka – Magura ridge – Strednica – Ždiar – Monkova dolina

    One of the loveliest mountain bike rides around Ždiar. It follows mainly forest tracks and passes through the village, where you can admire traditional timber houses and Goral architecture. Combine the ride with a visit to Bachledka and the Treetop Walk.

  7. An e-bike on a tarmac road through autumn woodland towards Osturňa

    Ždiar – Strednica – Osturňa

    This scenic ride follows a tarmac cycle path from Ždiar via Strednica to the Goral village of Osturňa. Enjoy views of the Belianske Tatras, the countryside of the Spišská Magura hills and pleasant riding through woodland. In Osturňa, admire the traditional timber houses and distinctive Goral architecture.

Route distances are approximate, based on cycling maps. Within the national park, keep to permitted cycle routes and observe current closures.

A woman running on a path by the reservoir below Strednica, with the Belianske Tatras behind her
Ždiar in a valley beneath the Belianske Tatras, surrounded by meadows and forests Runners wearing race numbers in a mountain meadow, with mountains in the background

Running in Ždiar

Whether you are a keen runner, training for a race or simply enjoy running to clear your head, Ždiar has plenty to offer. Head straight from our house onto meadow and mountain trails with views of the Belianske Tatras, or choose a gentler run on tarmac lanes. Fresh mountain air, quiet surroundings and beautiful scenery make it easy to recharge.

For more training options, there is a gym in a traditional Ždiar timber house right next door, and a well-equipped outdoor workout area just 250 metres away.

After a run or workout, unwind in the sauna and hot tub, or enjoy a quiet moment on the terrace overlooking the Tatras.

Combine running with time to unwind in nature. Our Run & Relax in Ždiar package includes gym access, a sauna session and time in the hot tub.

Playground beside the house with a playhouse, slide and sandpit, and the Belianske Tatras behind

Family fun at the house and further afield

Children have plenty to do here, indoors and out. Beside the house are a playhouse, sandpit, slide and swings, while the meadow just below the terrace has plenty of space to play. Balls, badminton equipment, a flying disc, plastic hoops, ropes and equipment for making an obstacle course are all free to borrow.

On rainy days, children can use the play corner and table football. There is also a playground with an outdoor workout area just 250 metres from the house.

Two Samoyeds running across the meadow in front of the house, with the Belianske Tatras behind

Animals and experiences on our farm

Our sheep and heifers graze in the nearby meadows. We also breed Samoyed dogs beside the house; by prior arrangement, you and your children can take them for a walk. If you would like to cook over an open fire on our farm, just arrange it with us in advance.

Where to go with children around Ždiar

Wooden climbing frames and a rope bridge between trees at Strachankovo family park

Strachankovo

A family park with a small Goral farm, animals, climbing frames and children’s attractions. Drive there or walk: a marked trail leads from our house up to the Magura ridge and on to Strachankovo.

Viewing tower and Treetop Walk at Bachledka, with the Belianske Tatras beyond

Bachledka

A gondola ride, the Treetop Walk and viewing tower, The Forest Kingdom adventure playground and nature trails for the whole family. Drive there or follow the walking trail from our house over the Magura ridge to the Treetop Walk.

A large cave chamber with dripstone formations, a wooden walkway and lighting

Belianska Cave

Explore the underground world of Belianska Cave with your children. Discover beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, winding passages and a memorable family adventure.

Ždiarsky dom folk museum: a timber house with blue joints and red window frames
Goral timber house with blue joints, decorated red window frames and geraniums Goral riders on horseback in traditional dress Children in Goral costumes dancing on stage at the folklore festival A folk group in Goral costumes on stage at the Goral folklore festival An old black-and-white postcard showing snowy Ždiar, its church and the Belianske Tatras

Goral Ždiar: traditions, timber houses and folk architecture

Ždiar is a picturesque Goral village beneath the Belianske Tatras, where local traditions, dialect and folk culture are still very much alive. A protected folk architecture reserve, it is known for its traditional timber houses with decorated window frames and distinctive blue joints between the logs. A walk through the village reveals original Goral homes and the character of this mountain community.

Just 250 metres from U Maťka a Kubka, the Ždiarsky dom folk museum introduces the life of the Gorals, their traditional dress, customs and village history. For an extra charge, adults and children can try on authentic Goral costumes and have their photo taken — a lovely holiday keepsake.

In summer, the village comes alive during the Goral folklore festival, with traditional music, dancing, singing and local customs.

Day trips by car

Distances and driving times are from our house, based on map estimates without traffic (7 October 2026). Check each attraction’s website for opening times and admission prices.

DestinationFrom our houseWhat to see and do
Bachledova dolina4.3 km, 9 mingondola, Treetop Walk and skiing in winter
Belianska Cave, Tatranská Kotlina7.7 km, 11 minthe only cave in the Tatras open to the public; tour approx. 70 minutes, 874 steps, 5–6°C
Tatranská Javorina11 km, 12 minPrince Hohenlohe’s hunting lodge and the wooden Church of St Anne
Biela voda, starting point for Zelené pleso12.7 km, 15 mina gentle valley hike to the mountain hut
Lysá Poľana, Polish border14 km, 15 minMorskie Oko, Zakopane
Osturňa15 km, 29 minprotected reserve of traditional Goral timber houses
Tatranská Lomnica17 km, 20 mincable cars to Skalnaté pleso and Lomnický štít, TANAP Museum
Strážky manor house, Spišská Belá21 km, 24 minRenaissance manor house with an art gallery and park
Kežmarok22 km, 30 mincastle, wooden Protestant church (UNESCO) and town square
Terma Bania and Termy Bukovina (Poland)23 km, 25 minthermal pools, ideal for a rainy day
Starý Smokovec and Hrebienok23 km, 27 minfunicular railway and Studený potok waterfalls
AquaCity Poprad31 km, 35 minpools and water slides; historic Spišská Sobota nearby
Vrbov thermal pools33 km, 40 minoutdoor thermal pools open all year
Zakopane37 km, 46 minKrupówki, Gubałówka and the Polish Tatras
Štrbské Pleso39 km, 44 minthe lake, Popradské pleso and ski jumping hills
Ľubovňa Castle and open-air museum47 km, 54 mina full-day outing
Červený Kláštor, Pieniny48 km, 58 mintraditional rafting on the Dunajec, monastery and Three Crowns peak
Levoča55 km, 50 minhistoric centre (UNESCO) and the altar by Master Paul
Spiš Castle68 km, 60 minone of Central Europe’s largest castles (UNESCO)

Rainy days in Ždiar and the surrounding area

Rain need not spoil your holiday in Ždiar. The Belianske Tatras, the High Tatras area and nearby Poland offer plenty of family outings, interesting museums, attractions and thermal pools. And if you would rather stay in, there is plenty to enjoy here too.

Outings and entertainment

Belianska Cave, the TANAP Museum, trying on Goral costumes at Ždiarsky dom, Tricklandia, Pedal Planet and attractions in nearby Poland.

Thermal pools and spa time

Terma Bania, Bukovina, AquaCity, Vrbov and our own hot tub.

Time to unwind at the house

Table football, board games and a children’s play corner.

A couple on the terrace swing, with the Belianske Tatras behind them View from the terrace of Ždiar’s church and the Belianske Tatras A meadow beneath the Belianske Tatras in summer Terrace with a barbecue under a shelter

Accommodation in Ždiar: your base for exploring

Discover Ždiar, the Belianske Tatras and nearby Poland. Stay in our cosy rooms or apartments and enjoy hiking, family days out and a well-earned rest in the heart of Goral country.

We will be happy to help you choose outings and recommend places worth visiting.

Choose your room or apartment and plan your stay at U Maťka a Kubka.

Book nowCall us