Štrbské Pleso is Slovakia’s highest ski resort, perched in the High Tatras and renowned for its serene alpine lake, crisp mountain air, and scenic slopes. At around 1,380 m (4,527 ft) in altitude, it caters primarily to beginners and intermediates, with pleasantly wide pistes and panoramic views of nearby peaks like Mt Predné Solisko. Off-slope activities include extensive cross-country trails, a snow park for adrenaline seekers, and the soothing charm of Tatra mountain culture, making Štrbské Pleso an ideal destination for families and those after a relaxed winter getaway.
Here’s a practical guide we’ve put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Štrbské Pleso ski holiday. You’re going to learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and even the best spots to grab a bite or chill out after skiing.
Let's get started!
Štrbské Pleso is in northern Slovakia’s High Tatras region, approximately 28 km (17 miles) west of Poprad.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for beginners, intermediates | Limited challenging runs for advanced/expert skiers |
| Good cross-country infrastructure | Après-ski and nightlife are relatively quiet |
| Picturesque high-mountain landscape | Fewer shops/restaurants for longer stays |
| Family-friendly | Small ski area |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Štrbské Pleso has to offer.
Štrbské Pleso caters to beginners with its gentle base-area runs and beginner-friendly lifts. English-speaking instructors are often available, and the wide, uncrowded nursery slopes allow novices to practise turns in a low-pressure setting. Progressing onto the intermediate blues is straightforward, thanks to the terrain’s consistent gradient.
With around 5.6 km of red/intermediate runs, Štrbské Pleso primarily suits intermediates enjoying leisurely descents through forest glades and sunny open areas. The Solisko Express grants access to higher ground for sweeping views and lengthier red slopes that are not overly steep, making them perfect for refining carving skills. Lift queues remain manageable midweek, offering stress-free laps.
Snowboarders find the resort’s compact scale convenient for quick ride laps. The beginners appreciate easy access from lodging to gentler terrain, while freestyle enthusiasts can check out the snow park’s array of jumps and rails. The interlinked red runs up Mt Solisko offer moderate slopes for carving sessions, though advanced boarders craving extensive routes may prefer a day trip to bigger Slovak or Polish areas.
The 2024/25 ski season for Štrbské Pleso started on December 6th, and it's expected to run until April 4th. If you're planning a ski holiday to Štrbské Pleso this winter, be sure to explore our Štrbské Pleso deals for the best ski offers available.
Štrbské Pleso offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 20 cm (7.87 in) and 21 cm (8.26 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly increases with 22 cm (8.66 in) and it occurs across 4.2 days each week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Štrbské Pleso, with 28 cm (11.02 in) of snow over 4.4 days. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 14 cm (5.51 in) of snow over 2.5 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 20 cm/7.87 in | 3.6 days |
| January | 21 cm/8.26 in | 4.1 days |
| February | 22 cm/8.66 in | 4.2 days |
| March | 17 cm/6.69 in | 3.7 days |
| April | 14 cm/5.51 in | 2.5 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Štrbské Pleso offers a charming dining scene, mixing traditional Slovak fare with international flavours. From cosy mountain lodges dishing out hearty comfort food to more upscale restaurants serving gourmet plates, there’s something for every palate. Many venues also boast spectacular mountain vistas, ensuring mealtimes come with a scenic bonus. Local dishes often centre on bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings in sheep cheese) and warming soups—perfect for refuelling after a day on the slopes. Some popular spots include:
Après-ski in Štrbské Pleso remains low-key, matching the resort’s quieter character. Most socialising happens in hotel bars, modest pub-like venues, or around on-mountain huts that close by early evening.
Download Strbske Pleso piste map here
