Starý Smokovec and Jakubkova Meadow – The Ideal Spot for Families with Kids
Jakubkova Meadow – A Hidden Gem for Families in the High Tatras
When people think of skiing in the High Tatras, most imagine Tatranská Lomnica with its modern lifts and steep slopes. But for families with young children and complete beginners, there is a far better option – Jakubkova Meadow in Starý Smokovec. This place is a true hidden gem, offering what large resorts simply cannot: peace, safety, and a personal touch.
Starý Smokovec is the heart of the High Tatras. This historic Tatra settlement sits at an elevation of approximately 1,010 meters and serves as an excellent base for all Tatra activities. Jakubkova Meadow lies just a short distance from the center, on a gentle, sunny slope surrounded by forest. It is a place where children can learn to ski in a natural, stress-free environment.
Why Jakubkova Meadow Is Ideal for Children
Large ski resorts can be intimidating for small children. Fast skiers, steep slopes, the noise of lifts – all of this can create stress and fear. At Jakubkova Meadow, things are different:
- Gentle slope – perfect gradient for first skiing steps, not too steep, not too flat
- Safe environment – no fast skiers, no dangerous trail crossings
- Fewer people – unlike large resorts, there are no crowds and queues here
- Natural beauty – slope surrounded by forest with views of Tatra peaks
- Easy accessibility – no complicated lift transfers required
Children feel relaxed and safe at Jakubkova Meadow, which is crucial for successful learning. When a child has no fear, they learn much faster and build a positive relationship with skiing that lasts a lifetime.
Premiere Ski School at Jakubkova Meadow
Our Premiere Ski School has its second location at Jakubkova Meadow, and this is where we specialize in teaching children and beginners. Our instructors are APUL certified and have extensive experience working with the youngest skiers.
Private lessons at Jakubkova Meadow are an excellent choice for:
- Children from age 3 who are standing on skis for the first time
- Families where both parents and children want to learn together
- Adult beginners who want to learn the basics in a calm setting
- Older skiers returning to the slopes after a long break
Private lesson prices start from €44 for 60 minutes. For young children, we recommend starting with 60-minute lessons – longer sessions can be exhausting for them. Gradually, as the child builds fitness and enthusiasm, you can extend the lesson duration.
What Else Starý Smokovec Offers
Starý Smokovec is not just about skiing. It is an excellent base for your entire Tatra stay. In the area you will find:
- Restaurants and cafés – from traditional Slovak cuisine to modern coffee shops
- Wellness and pools – several hotels offer wellness services even to non-guests
- Winter hiking – beautiful winter trails lead from Hrebienok into the Tatra valleys
- Cross-country skiing – groomed cross-country tracks in the surrounding area
- Tatra Ice Cathedral – a unique ice sculpture exhibition at Hrebienok (seasonal availability)
Practical Information
Jakubkova Meadow is easily accessible by car and public transport. Starý Smokovec is the main transfer hub of the Tatra Electric Railway (TEŽ), so you can conveniently reach it by train from Poprad, Tatranská Lomnica, or Štrbské Pleso. Parking is available in the center of Starý Smokovec.
Our school is open here daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. We recommend booking your lesson in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. If your child gets comfortable on Jakubkova Meadow and wants a bigger challenge, we can seamlessly transition to our slopes at Tatranská Lomnica, which is just a few minutes away by car or train.
Learn more about courses for the youngest skiers in our article Ski Courses for Kids. And if you are thinking about equipment, check out our article on what to wear for skiing. We look forward to seeing you at Jakubkova Meadow!