TWO-DAY HIKE TO THE CHALLENGING PRIECNE SEDLO, VIA TERYHO CHATA
By Julia Van Peer
"Téryho Chata, at 2 015 metres (one of the highest lodges in the Tatras), is the perfect place to share memorable stories with fellow hikers during a long awaited meal."
Defined as one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatra are rewarding in every sense. From gazing into “the Eyes of the Mountain” at the impressive Račkovo Valley, to summiting the highest peak of Poland without setting foot on Polish ground, before staying overnight in the rustic Téryho Chata. All leave you with nothing but wonderful memories.
View from the Téryho Chata.
At the most western part of Vysoké Tatry, an alpine village called Starý Smokovec can be found, entailing the trailhead of an epic two-day hike. What starts as a blue-marked rugged path through sturdy green woodland, widens into an accessible paved-pathway, before swiftly narrowing into a more demanding trail (with green-white markings painted on either side).
Following a beautiful lucent river through a thick forest into one end of a canyon, you reach an area where the landscape opens up into a stunning gorge. Passing and being passed by sherpa’s, volunteers carrying supplies to the Téryho Chata which is unreachable by vehicle, is an unforgettable experience.
Sometimes take the time to look back over your shoulder at the path you have already traversed.
Arriving at the foot of the last slope of the day, Téryho Chata looms from behind the overhanging rocks. Sensing its appeal, and already tasting the revitalizing beer, helps you conquer the last arduous segment of the day.
A beautiful glacial lake near the Téryho Chata, where you can relax a little bit after you're exhausting day.
And what a reward it is! A shimmering cobalt-blue mountain lake reflects an embracing range of snow-capped peaks, making it worth every step of the way. Téryho Chata, at 2 015 metres (one of the highest lodges in the Tatras), is the perfect place to share memorable stories with fellow hikers during a long awaited meal.
Satisfied from the exceptional day and excited about the next section, choose yourself a comfortable mattress in one of the three stories high beds.
Ladders and chains will ease your ascent op the mountain slope.
With a recovered body and fresh spirit the journey can be resumed, and a few mountain goats further the goal of the day emerges: Priečne sedlo. Avoid ending up in a faulty valley by branching off to the green path, instead of following the yellow one. With a hint of excitement, take on the brilliant Via Ferrata-like escalate. Ladders and chains, kept in place by metal crochets, secure a safe but daunting passage to the sharp ridge. Once at the top, the sweeping view from Priečne sedlo (2 352 metres) is one that will be engraved on your heart.
Just after the Priečne sedlo you will have some opportunities to take a break and snap some pictures.
With your head still in the clouds, unstable rocks and stones burden the way down towards Zbojnicka Chata. At the hut, take the time to reward yourself with a mug of hot chocolate, since the gradually declining path back is not too challenging.
Voluntary sherpa's bringing supplies up the mountain.
FACTS OF THE HIKE:
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Length of the trail: 22 km
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Duration: 2 days (intermediate); 1 day (advanced)
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Elevation gain: 1 342 m
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Highest point: 2 352 m
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Starting point: Starý Smokovec
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Difficulty: Moderate – advanced
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Optimal period: June – September
STAYING OVERNIGHT:
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Téryho Chata: Situated amidst snow-capped peaks and next to a gorgeous glacial lake, Téryho Chata is one of the most beautiful places I have ever stayed overnight.
Contact information: +421 949 650 315
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Hi there!
I'm Julia, a Belgian native who loves to travel and explore off the beaten places all over the world. Discover more on how to fill your travels with adventure, warmth, and colour. Learn more about me here.