Ždiar Village

A traditional village of an interesting, mixed origin - although more than 98% of the population declares themselves Slovak, it is believed that Ždiar was founded by immigrants from Poland, hence the Polish-like surnames and name places (like Bachledová Dolina). Actually, it is hard to speak about nationalities here, as until 100 years ago there was no independent Poland nor no independent Slovakia, so a clear country identification was not necessary. Ždiar used to be more popular until the 1978 when all the paths in Belianske Tatry were closed and the whole 14 km ridge turned into a strictly protected area. One and only path was re-opened in 1993. In Ždiar, nowadays a sleepy village, you can find many traditional, some of which painted, houses. Unfortunately many were modified to be able to receive (more) tourists, during the 60ies and 70ies local tourism boom. Enjoy your way up :) Speaking of which - there is a new attraction here - a high terrace park in Ždiar that goes over the treetops. It’s in Bachledová Dolina complex.

The Goralendorf extends over 6 km in a charming valley between the White Tatras and Spis Magura.