Tatra Fairies – Waterfalls of Studený Potok

A FOLKTALE ABOUT A FAIRY

The old legend states that at the Waterfall of Studený potok, near Hrebienok, the remains of the basin filled by a tarn are visible, perhaps three times larger than Veľké Hincovo tarn. It allegedly disappeared when its moraine dam was flooded by the Cold Creek. In this tarn lived fairies who destroyed every passing man to death by lovemaking. Heaven could no longer look at it, so it opened the sluices and turned the Cold Creek into a wild river – which cleared the Tatras of filth. However, some fairies still live by the Cold Creek, others prefer to guard the surrounding waterfalls, such as Veverkov waterfall, which turns into a beautiful icefall in winter. But woe to those who cannot resist them…

HIKING TIP

In winter, you can take a beautiful and undemanding hike from Hrebienok to the Waterfalls of Studený potok. Along the way, we recommend a stop at a chalet Rainerova chata and to return to Hrebienok along the popular trail Tatranská Magistrála (red hiking trail). Also do not miss a visit to the Tatra Ice Temple at Hrebienok.

Expect at least an hour’s hike taking this circuit.