SR, Vysoké Tatry: Past And Present Of Smokovce

They form four separate settlements and Old Smokovec - one of the gateways to the Tatra Mountains, Nový Smokovec - known spa, and Dolní and Horní Smokovec - settlements guesthouses and resorts.

Starý Smokovec

Under the southern slope of the massive Slavkov shield is peculiar architectural oldest Tatry settlement Starý Smokovec. It was founded in 1793 at the mineral spring, which until today is releasing its wealth on behalf of the water from the depths of the earth and refreshes passing tourists and visitors to our mountains. Over time, the settlement was built on the important tourist and treatment centre and currently is the administrative centre of the Vysoké Tatry. Here seat the municipality and the council as well as the Tatra mountain rescue. But let's get back to what makes this village special. It's architecture! The dominant feature is the Grandhotel from the early 20th century, which is built in the Art Nouveau style or wooden chapel from 19th and 20th century by the famous architect Gideon Majunkeho Tatra. In addition to these there are plenty of gems, fortunately mostly renovated villa with beautiful ornamentation or carving. There is also beautiful Swiss House or Villa Flora, which serves the city for exhibitions and various other social events.

  

Starý Smokovec is the gateway to the Vysoké Tatry mountains and also the starting point for shorter and day hikes. For the less savvy tourist recommend a trip to Hrebienok, whether on foot or by funicular railway. From there it is just a jump to Studenovodský waterfalls and Rainer, Zamkovský Bílik cottages. For those savvy are open valleys Small Cold Valley with Tery hut and the Great Cold Valley is Brigand hut. If you want to have a panoramic view of the whole area under mountain, it is necessary to ascend the highest peak of the former Tatry - the Slavkovsky Peak (2452 m). In the Old Smokovec is full of restaurants, guest houses, cafes and sports shops. In summer there are rental bikes and scooters in the winter ski and sledges.

Nový Smokovec

How we learn from archaeological excavations, approximately two kilometres to the southeast along the left bank of the Slavkovský creek were found the remains of mills of La Tène period (450/400 years BC.), Suggesting that this area was inhabited long before today's settlement. It owes its existence primarily pure alpine environment. And just because the settlement has the attribute therapeutic. It is home to the most famous climatic health resort in the Slovak Republic, which formed the foundations of nursing doctor Nicholas Szontagh the treatment of tuberculosis. Hospital and later added a modern bath house Palace. In Nový Smokovec there is also a ski resort with a less demanding terrain, which seems primarily descents for advanced beginners or families with children. Here is a commonplace of accommodation and catering facilities. In Nový Smokovec you can find even a gas station.

Horný Smokovec

Relatively young settlement began to develop in the 30th 20th century. It was originated from a group of smaller hostels, guest houses, rest homes and shops. Horný Smokovec soon became popular starting point for hiking, which is true even today. It is interesting that the locals still refer to this location, respectively its western part, the original name nice prospect.

Dolný Smokovec

Treatment settlement with a specialization in child tuberculosis and diseases of the upper respiratory tract, which dates back to 1881, when Jozef Bohuš Kežmarský teacher tried to build near the old Smokovec inexpensive tourist hostel. Due to lack of finances, the fate of this hostel changed. The building is assumed Kežmarské banking company that created the building under construction resort Hungarian aristocracy. Later he participated in the development of this settlement. It built a hotel, a wooden chapel, whose designer was none other than Gideon Majunke. During the 1st World War, grew up a military hospital, which was rebuilt after the war the hospital for children with tuberous. Today has the name Šrobárův Slovak Institute of the outstanding physician, professor and politician.

Both of Smokovec villages are one of the busiest settlements of Vysoké Tatry city. They are pleased with the great interest of visitors, whether in summer or winter. During the year, it hosts many events and activities that fit into the contrast coexistence of man with mountains. In the romantic alpine environment there are attractive jogging, biking and ski trails. And also thanks to them, people like to come back here.

Text/photo: Oskar Mažgút