Hostels in Zdiar, Slovakia

Zdiar is a tiny town located against the stunning peaks of the High Tatras in Slovakia. Most people come to hike or ski, and there's not a whole lot else to do, but it's a beautiful base for outdoor pursuits.

In town, stroll along the few streets and observe the traditional wooden architecture, often painted bright colors. There's a tiny folk museum and a few restaurants. Otherwise, you'll have to look to nature for entertainment, but what nature it is! You can access various hiking trails right from town. Whether in summer or winter, the trails -- and views of the Tatras, high above the tree line -- are worth it. You can saunter along easy, flat paths following pretty streams, or you can strain your legs and lungs on more serious elevation gains right into the Tatras.

Skiing is popular in winter. At one end of town in the small, local ski run. Further out is Bachledova Dolina, with various downhill and cross-country runs, complete with a chair lift and trails through the evergreens. Vans come through town periodically to pick up skiers and take them to Bachledova. Your hostel in Zdiar can help arrange this. Ski rental is available and affordable in Zdiar itself, or out at Bachledova.

Zdiar is only forty minutes by bus to Starý Smokovec, the center of the main resorts of the High Tatras. Tatranská Lomnica is even closer. These towns, all connected by a convenient electric train, are set up for many pleasures -- great hiking and skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, night sledding, spa treatments, and fancy bakeries. During summer in the High Tatras, you can also try mountain biking or other sports like rafting and horseback riding.

Options for hostels in Zdiar are limited, but they'll help you make the most of your stay in the Slovakian High Tatras.