Świstowe Stawki is one of those rare High Tatra gems that rewards the truly adventurous. Tucked away in the upper reaches of the Bielovodská Valley, in the side valley known as Świstowa Valley east of Hrubá Veža, these four small alpine tarns offer a sense of discovery that marked trails simply cannot provide.

The largest tarn sits at 1,929 m above sea level, covering just 1,370 m² with a maximum depth of under two metres. The surrounding landscape is raw and untouched — rocky ridges, open alpine terrain, and complete solitude. In summer the water glitters under the high mountain sun, while autumn strips the scenery down to its bare, dramatic bones. There are no crowds here, no tourist facilities — just you, the mountains, and possibly a marmot or two whistling from the slopes.

• There is no marked tourist trail leading directly to Świstowe Stawki. Reaching them requires off-trail navigation through the upper Świstowa Valley, accessed from the Bielovodská Valley. Demanding — recommended only for experienced hikers with good mountain orientation skills.

• The tarns are not mentioned in standard tourist guidebooks and no waymarked path leads to them — solid navigation experience is essential.
• The area falls within the Tatra National Park protection zone — visitors must respect all applicable regulations.

The name 'Świstowe' derives from the Świstowa Valley, where old travel guides once recorded thriving marmot colonies — keep your ears open and you may still hear their characteristic whistle echoing across the rocks.