Discover the High Tatras from a runner’s perspective. Whether you’re looking for a short morning jog, a 10- or 15-kilometer training run, a half-marathon, or a full marathon challenge, some of the most beautiful running trails in Slovakia start in Starý Smokovec. Most routes combine paved roads, forest trails, and park paths with stunning views of the Tatra peaks. The start and finish of all routes are right next to Chamois Apartments, so you can literally start running right from your apartment door.
An ideal route for a morning warm-up, an evening cool-down, or for beginners. It winds through the quiet streets of Starý Smokovec and along pleasant park paths with minimal elevation gain all the way to Nový Smokovec. Throughout the entire route, you can enjoy beautiful views of Slavkov Peak and the historic buildings of the Tatra village.
Suitable for: Beginners, Recreational runners, Families, Warm-up before hiking
Difficulty: Easy
Surface type: Asphalt, Paved paths, Park trails
A pleasant loop around Starý (Old), Nový (New), and Horný (Upper) Smokovec, which follows a combination of asphalt roads, park paths, and forest trails. Thanks to its gentle elevation gain, it’s suitable for both regular training sessions and leisurely weekend runs with panoramic views of the High Tatras.
Suitable for: Recreational runners, Regular training, Trail and road running shoes
Difficulty: Moderately easy
Surface type: Asphalt, paved paths, forest trails
This popular training loop passes through Starý Smokovec (Old), Nový Smokovec (New), Dolný Smokovec (Lower), and Horný Smokovec (Upper). The route offers a varied terrain, plenty of views of the Tatra peaks, and an ideal combination of fast asphalt sections and nature trails.
Suitable for: Regular training, Preparing for a 10 km race, More experienced recreational runners
Difficulty: Moderate
Surface type: Asphalt, Paved trails, Forest roads, Short trail sections
This longer running loop takes runners outside the center of Smokovec through quieter parts of the foothills. The route alternates between forest sections, wide roads, and beautiful views of Slavkovský štít, the city of Poprad, and other landmarks of the High Tatras. This is an excellent endurance training run.
Suitable for: More experienced runners, Endurance training, Half-marathon preparation
Difficulty: Moderate
Surface type: Asphalt, forest roads, paved trails, trail sections
The perfect route for anyone preparing for a half marathon or looking to enjoy a long run in the High Tatras. It runs from Starý Smokovec toward Tatranské Zruby and back, offering beautiful forest sections, views of the Tatra peaks, and a pleasant elevation profile suitable for long tempo runs. On the other side, it offers a panoramic view of Tatranská Lomnica, spread out like the palm of your hand.
Suitable for: Advanced runners, Half-marathon training, Endurance runs
Difficulty: Hard
Surface type: Asphalt, forest trails, park paths, gravel sections
The most challenging route in the entire collection is designed for experienced endurance runners. The marathon loop runs through Starý Smokovec and Tatranská Polianka, all the way to Vyšné Hágy and back, against the backdrop of the High Tatras. Alternatively, the route offers a section all the way to Tatranské Matliare, featuring the Pramenište nature trail. The route offers a unique combination of mountain scenery, historical landmarks, and villages at the foot of the Tatras.
Suitable for: Experienced marathon runners, Endurance training, Long-distance runs
Difficulty: Very difficult
Surface type: Asphalt, park trails, forest roads, gravel sections
Whether you prefer a short morning jog or are training for a marathon, Starý Smokovec offers ideal running conditions year-round. Thanks to the fresh mountain air, beautiful panoramic views, and varied routes, both beginners and experienced runners will find something to enjoy here. After your workout, you can return to the comfort of Chamois Apartments, treat yourself to a well-deserved rest, and recharge your energy for more sporting adventures in the High Tatras.