Tucked away at 1,923 metres above sea level in the upper reaches of Sataná Valley, Malé Hincovo pleso is one of those quiet alpine lakes that rewards every hiker who makes the effort to reach it. Small, serene and beautifully framed by rocky High Tatra slopes, it feels like a secret the mountains are keeping just for you.

The lake covers just 2.22 hectares with a maximum depth of 6.4 metres, but its setting more than makes up for its modest size. The surrounding terrain is classic high-mountain scenery — rugged crags, crystal-clear air and sweeping views down into the Mengusovská Valley. In summer the water mirrors a deep blue sky, in autumn golden hues creep across the hillsides, and in early spring snowfields linger in the shadowed gullies nearby.

• Popradské pleso (mountain hut and car park) — blue trail, approx. 1.5 hours, moderate difficulty
• Return via the same route, or continue over Vyšné Kôprovské sedlo pass and through Hlinská Valley into Kôprová Valley for a longer loop

• The lake lies within Tatra National Park — stay on marked trails at all times
• Access is seasonal; check trail conditions before setting out in early or late season

The name 'Hinco' comes wrapped in legend: local tales speak of a shepherd named Hinco who grazed his sheep here, while other stories describe gold-seeking miners known as 'hincovia', or even a mysterious dwarf called Hinco who helped them dig for treasure in the Tatra valleys.