Between 20 and 22 June, the inaugural Rotary Tatry Cykloutour 2025 took place, and it was well worth it!

Ondrej Kollár, a member of RC Poprad and the event organiser, continued last year’s series of cycle rides, which took place in Hradec Králové, Znojmo and, traditionally, in Valtice (around the LVA).

“This edition is the first one, and thus something of a trial for cycling in the Tatras, my native region. I was aware that mountain biking might be more challenging for some, so I prepared two cycling routes (one noticeably less demanding) and a hiking tour. In the end, however, we all agreed to cycle through the Čierny Váh valley to the Čierny Váh pumped-storage hydropower plant (PSP). We faced 97,8 km and an ascent of 1 078 metres https://mapy.com/s/hosuvagumo.” Ondrej Kollár, event organiser.

"As for the programme, a supporting schedule was prepared for our guests in addition to the tours. On Friday we all gathered for dinner and enjoyed a very pleasant evening. On Saturday, after returning from the hike, a minibus took us to the Zbojnícka Koliba in Stará Lesná, where an excellent three-course dinner and a cimbalom band were waiting for us. Afterwards, we returned by minibus to Spišská Sobota for a guided tour, then sat together again. On Sunday, after breakfast, we said our farewells and everyone set off home." says Ondrej Kollár, event.

I was really looking forward to the Tatras and had an amazing time! I recommend this stage to anyone who’s got a bit of fitness or an e-bike. I’d only cycled about 200 km before heading to Poprad this year, but I kept up with my colleagues, so it’s quite manageable.

“Definitely! I’d be delighted if other Rotarians could join us next year for another sporty weekend in the Tatras. I look forward to seeing you!” says Ondrej Kollár on behalf of the organising RC Poprad.

Marie Smrčková