Nízké Tatry (Low Tatra Mountains) - Slovakia

Extent: 1258 km²

This mountain complex is most extended mountain range of Slovak Republic and take its central part in districts of Liptovský Mikuláš, Brezno, Ružomberok, Banská Bystrica and Poprad. The nucleus of this West Carpathian Mountain Range is formed with granite and crystalic slates.

Highest peak: Ďumbier (2043 m)

Surface: in its northern part, it is formed mostly with pine-wood forests, in its southern path, there are to be found leafy-woods and beech-tree forests, whereas in higher locations plough-tail is prevailing.

In the area, there are open for public ice-caves, such as: Demanovská Cave of Freedom, Demanovska Ice Cave, Važec Cave, Bystrianska Cave and Cave of Dead Bats.

Low Tatra Mountains are declared as National Park, thanks to local rare and variegated fauna and flora.

Dumbier - the hill in the Low Tatra Mountains, visited by every mountain tourist. This mighty mountain is undoubtedly one of the most famous and most visited hills of the Low Tatras. It is the highest peak of the mountain range, reaching an altitude of 2 046 meters. Dumbier offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings - the main ridge of the Low Tatras with its adjacent valleys and ruins, but above all the beautiful panoramas of the Western and High Tatras. For tourists it is accessible all year round. During the winter time, this mountain is a frequent destination for hiking but mainly for cross-country skiing. A great advantage is also the presence of the nearby M. R. Stefanik's cabin which can provide visitors with refreshments, relaxing in warm cozy alpine huts and overnight stays. We can do climbs up Dumbier from the Bystre valley from Srdiečko, the main ridge from Certovice or from the upper station of the Chopok cable car station and then the crossing over the main ridge.

Text and photos: Radoslav Biskupič