Nearby

The Tatra Way of the Cross — calvary

The Way of the Cross stands on a wooded hill above Starý Smokovec and offers a unique blend of art, nature and a spiritual dimension. It begins near the centre of Starý Smokovec and the individual stations lead along the path up to the Pekná vyhliadka viewpoint.

• Art 14 wooden artworks form the 14 stations of the Way of the Cross; they were created by professional Polish and Slovak sculptors between 2010 and 2015 as a tribute to the Tatra giants.
• Location At an altitude of 1,080 m a.s.l. — the highest calvary in Central Europe.
• View The route leads to the Pekná vyhliadka viewpoint with a gazebo and a beautiful view of Starý Smokovec and the surroundings — a place for reflection and spiritual renewal in the heart of the Tatra wilderness.

The Smokovec mineral spring

The Smokovec mineral spring is one of the most popular drinking sources in the High Tatras, with beneficial effects on health. It rises in the village of Starý Smokovec, near the Grand hotel Starý Smokovec and the TrickLandia gallery of illusions — just a 10-minute walk from Villa Severka.

In the second half of the 19th century the two Smokovec springs were named Castor and Pollux, after the twins of Greek mythology. The water from them was very popular and was exported across the then Kingdom of Hungary.

It is a natural, bicarbonate, calcium-magnesium, carbonated, cold, hypotonic water with a ferrous colouring, a pH of 3.4 and a temperature of 6 °C. It is intended for regular drinking.

Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary

Discover the neo-Gothic Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary in Starý Smokovec, one of the most beautiful cultural monuments of the High Tatras. Built in 1888 in alpine style with timber-framed walls and richly decorated gables, it blends perfectly with the mountain setting.

Inside, you'll be charmed by historic stained-glass windows — including the coat of arms of the Spiš bishop Juraj Császka — a painting of the Holy Family and St George in the transept, and a new pipe organ from 1981. A point of interest is the wooden gazebo by the church, where Pope John Paul II sat during his visit to Slovakia.

Hrebienok

Hrebienok is easily reached by the funicular from Starý Smokovec and is a popular starting point for hiking trails with wonderful views of the High Tatras. In winter it draws visitors with a sledging run and the unique ice sculptures of the Tatra Ice Dome. Throughout the year you'll find Rainerova chata — the oldest hut in the Tatras — as well as the Studený potok waterfalls just a short way from it. The funicular station is only a 7-minute walk from our apartments.

TrickLandia — a gateway to the world of optical illusions

Enjoy a unique adventure in this gallery of trick art and optical illusions, just a short way from your apartment. TrickLandia draws you into a fascinating world where Slovak tales, fairy stories and the realities of our castles and villages intertwine. Across 1,000 m² you'll discover 24 attractions, including 30 trick-art pictures, anti-gravity rooms and the most beautiful mirror maze in Central Europe.

• Discover Slovakia as you've never seen it — a journey across the country through optical illusions and trick art.
• Legends Themes from Slovak tales and fairy stories in a modern rendering.
• Experience A mirror maze, anti-gravity rooms and other surprises — fun for the whole family.

Poliankovo — a digital gallery

A unique digital gallery where art meets the latest technology. Get ready for an interactive experience that draws you into a world of virtual reality, 3D projections, augmented reality and other fascinating technologies. Across 600 m² you'll find 140 m² of projection surfaces and 120 m² of mirrors that transport you into a completely different world.

• Art Interactive installations that draw you into the action.
• Technology Virtual reality, 3D projections, holograms and shadow play.
• Augmented reality Pictures that come to life before your eyes — fun for children and adults alike.

tram Getting there without a car: comfortably by the TEŽ tram, or take a pleasant walk (45 minutes) or a bike ride from Villa Severka via Tatranské Zruby to Tatranská Polianka. Along the way you'll enjoy lovely views of the Tatra peaks, with majestic Gerlach right in front of you.