Skalka (1,068.8 m) is a quiet, unspoiled peak in the Belianske Tatry (Belianske Tatras), tucked above the charming village of Ždiar. If you are looking for a real off-the-beaten-path experience in the Tatras, this is the kind of summit that rewards the curious and the independent.

The peak forms an arc-shaped ridge curving northward, covered with sparse, open woodland that allows partial views of the surrounding landscape. From the right spots you can take in the main ridge of the Belianske Tatras, the Spišská Magura range, and glimpses of the Levoča Hills and Volovské Hills in the distance. The slopes are drained by the Biela river to the west and Slobodov stream to the east, both feeding into the Poprad river basin. The western slopes are protected as the Skalka nature reserve, and the whole massif falls within the buffer zone of the Tatra National Park.

• From Ždiar or the surrounding area — no marked hiking trail leads to the summit; access is only possible via unmarked paths through the terrain. Difficulty: moderate.

• Skalka lies outside the core Belianske Tatry National Nature Reserve but within the TANAP buffer zone — respect the applicable regulations.
• The western part of the massif is the Skalka nature reserve.
• There is no marked trail to the summit — navigation skills and preparation are recommended.

Skalka is one of those hidden gems that rewards those willing to venture off the trail map — a genuinely wild corner of the Slovak Tatras.