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When you think of family-friendly vacation destinations, it’s hard to beat the natural beauty and child-centric adventures found at Bachledka Treetop Walk. This awe-inspiring, elevated path, situated in the heart of the Pieniny National Park, is a paradise where nature and learning fuse together. It’s a world-class attraction that makes the majesty of the Belianske Tatras accessible for all ages, transforming an ordinary day out into a vibrant educational journey above the trees.
We went there with our 3-year-old and 1-year-old and were really happy about the experience. In this blog post, we’ll share more information about the treetop walk and about our personal experience there.
An unforgettable day of family fun awaits you in Bachledka. Imagine strolling more than 600 meters above the forest floor, coming face-to-face with various animal and plant species that are unique to this part of the world. The walk is a magical blend of scenic beauty, fun surprises, and enriching lessons. You can discover and appreciate the importance of our natural world in a way that’s as entertaining as it is informative.
At the summit of your treetop trek, the 32-meter-high observation tower offers panoramic vistas that will take your breath away. Amidst the majesty of towering trees – some older than you – you can gaze out upon the landscape below and feel at one with nature. If you prefer a self-guided experience, you’ll find a bounty of informative boards along the trail, offering you the chance to expand your knowledge at your own pace.
Table of contents:
The Bachledka Treetop Walk Experience
The Bachledka Treetop Walk, nestled in the heart of the Pieniny and Tatras mountains, is a remarkable structure that combines innovative architecture with the natural beauty of the region. The walkway, made from sustainably sourced wood and steel, ascends gradually through the forest canopy, offering visitors a unique perspective on the surrounding environment.
The entire structure is quite large, including a 600-meter-long trail at a height of 24 meters above the forest floor. The crowning jewel of this walk is a 32-meter-high observation tower that spirals upwards, providing a 360-degree panoramic view of the Tatra Mountains and the picturesque valleys below.
Unique Features of the Treetop Walk Bachledka
The Treetop Walk Bachledka stands out with a variety of unique features designed to educate and entertain. Along the walkway, you’ll find information boards describing the local flora, fauna, and ecology, as well as interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of the experience is the slide within the observation tower. This isn’t your ordinary slide; it’s a thrilling 67-meter-long descent from the top of the tower, adding an element of adventure to the already exciting experience. But if sliding isn’t your preference, you can always take the spiral walkway down, soaking in the breathtaking views at a more leisurely pace.
Kid-Friendly Aspects of the Walk
The Bachledka Treetop Walk is a paradise for children. Interactive elements are scattered throughout the walk, encouraging them to engage with nature in a hands-on way. Educational signs are written in an approachable language, and the various animal footprints and bird calls to identify along the way add an element of a treasure hunt to the adventure.
The slide in the observation tower is an undeniable hit with the bigger kids. The whole walkway and tower are stroller-accessible so that you can easily transport the smallest babies. And there is a free playground at the beginning of the tree-top walk, as well as Forest Kingdom Bachledka adventure park for older kids (for an additional fee).
Safety Measures for Kids
The Bachledka Treetop Walk ensures a high level of safety for its youngest visitors. The entire path, including the observation tower, is equipped with high railings and secure netting to prevent falls.
Parents are advised to keep an eye on their children at all times, especially in busier areas. The slide in the observation tower is safe for children, but those under a certain height will need to be accompanied by an adult.
In terms of health and safety, first aid kits are available at the entrance and at various points along the walk, and the staff is trained to handle minor injuries. Restrooms are also conveniently located at the entrance of the site.
Personal Experiences
Our family’s adventure to the Bachledka Treetop Walk was nothing short of fantastic. It was a sunny day, which meant the Tatra Mountains presented themselves in all their majestic glory. Their snowy caps, even in summer, glinted in the sunshine, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our expedition.
The journey started with a gondola ride up the mountain. We had our reservations about how our 3-year-old and 1-year-old would react to the lift, but to our pleasant surprise, they seemed to enjoy the ride up the mountain. The alternative, a hiking trail, was not something we considered, given we were with a stroller.
Once we reached the top, we were greeted by a lively atmosphere at the restaurant there. The place was buzzing with a live music band playing catchy tunes that filled the air. The restaurant also provided panorama views of the surrounding mountains that seemed almost unreal. The prices, although not cheap, were reasonable considering the location.
Our kids were especially thrilled with a small playground near the restaurant and the entrance of the Treetop Walk. It was free to use and safe.
The walk itself was a remarkable experience. Despite initial concerns, the path turned out to be very stroller-friendly. The safety railings and the width of the walkway provided a secure environment for our little ones. We pushed our stroller all the way to the top of the tower without any issues. The view from the top was indeed a sight to behold. As expected, kids were more interested in the playground than the beautiful view.
Our entire visit lasted around three hours, which felt like the right amount of time to experience everything without feeling rushed. The Walkway Canopy Bachledka, although a bit pricy, was overall a worthy experience for us as a family.
However, we believe that the experience might not be as pleasant during peak times or in poor weather due to potential crowds/queues or bad views of the mountains.
For those seeking impressive views of the mountains without the cost, we recommend the nearby looking point on the way from Poland to Zdiar. It’s a beautiful spot a few kilometers from the town. It captures the majesty of the Tatras, much like the view from the Treetop Walk, but without the associated cost.
Planning the trip
Here are some of the most important things that you should know about when planning a trip to Bachledka with little kids.
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit the Treetop Walk with kids is in the summer. However, the Treetop Walk is a year-round attraction, each season offering its unique charm.
Spring, from March to May, is a wonderful time to enjoy the blooming flowers and fresh greenery. The temperatures are also pleasantly mild. Summer, from June to August, provides long daylight hours and warm weather. However, keep in mind that it can get rather hot, and the trail may be crowded. We recommend going there on weekdays, not weekends.
Fall, from September to November, is arguably the most scenic. The forest adopts a colorful palette of red, orange, and gold, providing an unparalleled aesthetic experience. Finally, winter, from December to February, is the least crowded. It provides a serene, white-washed landscape for those brave enough to face the cold.
Therefore, choose the time that aligns with your weather preferences and crowd tolerance.
How to Get There
There are several options for reaching the Treetop Walk. For drivers, the attraction is well-signposted with ample parking available (there is a 3 Eur fee for using the parking). A reliable GPS should lead you straight to the site.
If you prefer public transportation, you can go from Poprad or Zakopane to Ždiar and then hike 3,4 kilometers to Bachledova Dolina where the Gondola starting point is.
Accommodations Nearby
For those planning to extend their visit, a variety of accommodation options are available.
Apartmány Bachledka
Apartmány Bachledka, located in Ždiar, offers stunning mountain views and is just 2.2 km from the Treetop Walk. These comfortable apartments provide a wardrobe, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and some have kitchenettes. Amenities include free WiFi, parking, an electric vehicle charging station, and a children’s playground. Enjoy on-site dining options, ski facilities, and proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling. Complimentary breakfast is served, completing a satisfying stay.
Penzión Budzák
The Penzión Budzák is a sustainable guest house located in Ždiar, Slovakia with an excellent location rating. The property offers free WiFi and private parking. It is approximately 5.6 km from Treetop Walk, 23 km from Bania Thermal Baths, and 33 km from Kasprowy Wierch Mountain. It provides various facilities including a restaurant, family rooms, and ski storage.
The guesthouse offers continental and full English/Irish breakfast options and also houses a family-friendly restaurant that serves dinner, lunch, brunch, and cocktails. The property also offers bike rental and has a garden where guests can relax.
Winter & Summer Resort
Nestled in the Belianske Tatras, Winter&Summer Resort blends traditional and modern charm in its elegant suites and rooms. Featuring a children’s corner, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and parking, it’s a haven for both relaxation and adventure. With close proximity to skiing, hiking, rafting, historical sites, thermal pools, and a bikepark, this resort provides a unique and versatile getaway.
Considerations for Families
The Treetop Walk is family-friendly, but there are a few considerations to bear in mind.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. A hat, sunglasses, and sunblock are a must in the warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are advised for all walking members of your party. Insect repellent may also be useful. For those visiting in cooler months, appropriate clothing for cold and potentially wet weather is essential.
If you have older children or teenagers, they may enjoy the additional challenge of the various adventure activities available around the park, including the Forest Kingdom Bachledka adventure playground. For the younger ones, consider bringing binoculars or a camera to make the walk more interactive and fun.
Other Activities near Bachledka
Bachledka and its surroundings are rich with activities that perfectly complement a day trip to the Treetop Walk. Since the walk itself only takes about 2-3 hours, you’ll have ample time to explore other points of interest nearby. Here are a few recommendations:
- Belianska Cave: Located just a 30-minute drive away from Bachledka, Belianska Cave is a stunning natural wonder and the only cave open to the public in the High Tatras. The cave is well-lit and accessible, making it a perfect addition to your day trip. Be prepared to be amazed by the stalactite and stalagmite formations that have been millions of years in the making.
- Rafting in Pieniny National Park: If you’re eager for more natural beauty, consider a visit to Pieniny National Park, roughly a one-hour drive from Bachledka. Here, you can take a peaceful raft ride down the Dunajec River, bordered by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. It’s a truly unique and relaxing way to appreciate the area’s scenic beauty.
- Zakopane: For a taste of local culture, head over to Zakopane, Poland’s most popular mountain resort town. It’s just under an hour’s drive from Bachledka, and the town offers plenty of attractions, including the bustling Krupówki Street, lined with shops selling local handicrafts and restaurants serving traditional Polish mountain cuisine. There’s also the option to take a cable car up to Kasprowy Wierch for stunning panoramic views.
- Thermal Baths in Bukowina Tatrzańska: After a long day of walking and sightseeing, unwind at one of the thermal baths in Bukowina Tatrzańska, about a 45-minute drive from Bachledka. The naturally heated pools are the perfect way to relax your muscles while soaking up the mountain views.
Remember, these activities will extend your day trip, so plan accordingly. You might even want to consider booking an overnight stay in the area to thoroughly enjoy all that the region has to offer.
Travel tips and tricks:
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