Wielki Staw Spiski (Veľké Spišské pleso) is the largest of the Five Spiš Lakes in the Slovak High Tatras, sitting at an elevation of 2,014 m above sea level. Stretching nearly 3.5 hectares across and reaching depths of around 10 metres, this glacial lake offers one of the most rewarding alpine views in the entire range. If you visit on a clear day, the surrounding rocky ridges reflect perfectly in its still, dark waters.

The lake nestles in the upper part of the Malá Studená dolina (Little Cold Water Valley), framed by raw high-alpine terrain. Marked trails run along its southeastern shore, giving hikers stunning close-up views of the water and the peaks beyond. In summer the surroundings burst with alpine wildflowers, while autumn brings warm golden tones to the rocky landscape. Winter turns this area into a serious mountaineering terrain, best left to experienced alpinists. The nearby Téry Mountain Hut makes an ideal base for exploring the area further.

How to get there

• Zamkovský Mountain Hut — green trail along the valley floor to Téry Hut (passing alongside the lake), approx. 1 h 45 min up / 1 h 20 min down, moderate difficulty.
• From Téry Hut you can continue on the green trail to Ľadové sedlo pass (1 h 30 min), or take the yellow trail over Červená lavka pass toward Veľká Studená dolina (1 h 30 min to the pass).

Practical information

• The lake lies within the Tatra National Park (TANAP) — nature protection rules apply; leaving marked trails is prohibited.
• Téry Mountain Hut nearby offers accommodation and meals — advance booking is strongly recommended in summer.

The lake drains naturally into the neighbouring Pośredni Staw Spiski, forming part of a beautiful chain of interconnected alpine lakes that makes this valley truly special.