Ice Temple Hrebienok
What you will see during the trip
Discover the magical winter Slovakia from a completely new perspective! This unique one-day trip from Zakopane will take you to the heart of the High Tatras – Starý Smokovec. From there, after a comfortable ride on the funicular railway to Hrebienok (1285 m a.s.l.), you will visit Slovakia’s greatest winter attraction: the Tatra Ice Temple. This monumental structure, newly carved every year, is inspired this season by the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome and is a tribute to two popes. In just one day you will experience incredible ice art, admire breathtaking mountain panoramas and relax in a fairy-tale setting of ice and snow.
Starý Smokovec and Funicular Railway Ride
Our winter journey begins in Starý Smokovec (1010 m a.s.l.) – a charming and historic tourist centre at the foot of the High Tatras. This is where the lower station of the funicular is located – our gateway to the ice kingdom above. We will reach Hrebienok on a comfortable and modern ground cable car (Slovak: pozemná lanovka). The ride in the wagon takes just a few minutes and is a quick, effortless way to reach 1285 m a.s.l. while enjoying picturesque views from the very first minute of the trip.
What awaits you on the route?
- Panoramic Views: Admire the winter panoramas of the Poprad Basin already from the wagon.
- Express Transport: Fast and stress-free 7-minute ride straight to the top.
- Comfort and Relaxation: Fully glazed wagons provide warm and safe transport for everyone.
- Easy Access: Direct arrival at Hrebienok (1285 m a.s.l.) – the starting point for winter attractions.
Hrebienok – Kingdom of Ice and Panoramas
Hrebienok (1285 m a.s.l.) – Masterpiece of Art and Adventure After a quick funicular ride we arrive at the heart of winter tourism – Hrebienok (Smokovec Saddle). It is a must-see spot in the Tatras offering a wide panorama of the Poprad Basin. The main attraction is the Tatra Ice Temple – the only installation of its kind in the Tatras! This year (2025/2026 season) the monumental structure, carved from hundreds of tons of ice, is inspired by the architecture of the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome. The temple’s interiors, full of intricate details, come alive thanks to spectacular coloured lighting, creating a magical atmosphere. The entire installation is covered, ensuring comfortable visiting conditions. During free time you can visit mountain huts and restaurants such as Bilíkova Chata or Rainerova Chata – perfect for a warm meal or drink. Hrebienok is also an excellent starting point for short walks. It is worth knowing that an easy 15–20 minute walk leads to the picturesque Studenovodské vodopády (Cold Water Waterfalls), which in winter often turn into beautiful frozen cascades. Note: if you decide to take this short trail, we recommend bringing crampons/microspikes due to possible icing.
Relax and Explore the Area
- Monumental Architecture: Visit the ice replica of the Basilica of St. John Lateran (this year’s theme).
- Magical Lighting: Admire the intricate ice sculptures surrounded by colourful illumination.
- Ice Cascades: Proximity to the Cold Water Waterfalls as an additional attraction and tourist highlight of Hrebienok.
- Warm-up Break: Rest and drinks at Bilíkova Chata or Rainerova Chata.
Discover Slovakia with us
Explore the beauty of the Tatras, castles, and Slovak culture!
Why choose this trip?
The unique Tatra Ice Temple – a different monumental ice structure every year
The most beautiful winter attraction on the Slovak side of the Tatras – available only a few months each year
Suitable for everyone – ideal for families with children, seniors and people with reduced mobility (funicular and temple fully accessible)
Spectacular views already during the ride – panoramic wagon windows and breathtaking views of the Poprad Basin
Pricing
| Ticket type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket | 90 PLN* |
| Reduced ticket (up to 14 years) | 80 PLN* |
| Additionally payable (funicular ticket) | |
| Adult ticket | 16€ |
| Reduced ticket (up to 14 years) | 14€ |
* The price includes: driver/guide assistance during the trip, NNW insurance and transport from Zakopane
Trip Programme
- 8:00 - Departure from Zakopane
- 9:00 - Arrival in Starý Smokovec
- 10:00 - 12:30 - Funicular ride to Hrebienok
- 12:30 - 13:30 - Visit to the Ice Temple
- 15:00/15:30 - Return to Zakopane
Trip Days
The trip runs daily.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you have questions about one-day trips from Zakopane? Here are the answers to the ones we hear most often.
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