Štrbavý (2,144 m a.s.l.) is a rewarding summit in the Western Tatras of Slovakia, sitting in the Baranec ridge between Baranec itself and Malý Baranec. It may not be the most famous peak in the range, but its open, grassy-rocky summit delivers a panorama that rivals far more celebrated mountains.
The summit's open character means you get an almost unobstructed 360-degree view. On a clear day you can pick out peaks across the Western Tatras, glimpse the High Tatras and the Sub-Tatra Basin, and — with exceptional visibility — spot the Chočské vrchy, the Malá and Veľká Fatra, the Low Tatras, and ranges stretching deep into Slovakia. In summer the ridge is lush and pleasant; autumn brings vivid colours to the slopes; in winter the mountain demands proper experience and equipment.
How to reach the summitAn interesting geographical detail: the southwestern slopes drain into the Trnovská valley and eventually the Váh river, while the northeastern slopes feed the Jamnická valley and flow toward the Račková and Belá rivers — two entirely different watersheds meeting at this single ridgeline.