60.07 & 08: Velicke Lake next to Dom (hotel) Sliezsky, reaching the top of the waterfalls, on a second hike.

Ground (cloud) cover. A 5:30am wake-up call...nature provides another glimpse of its potential, inviting us to dig deeper or go higher.
Early part of the hike, we wonder about the source of water.
Less than 2 hours after commencement, Jen closes in on Velicke Lake and Dom Sliezsky.

We undertook this hike twice which is strange but there's always some logic in a little insanity. On the first occasion, our target was Velicke Lake which we reached and only then realized there was a further trail beyond the lake leading to the top of the waterfall and once again, beyond that, too. Jen's illness was creeping in at that stage and so we did not go further. A few days later, the weather was so poor and following heavy rains, it made sense to undertake a trail that had access via a road if the trail proved to be complete mud. With the hotel situate alongside the lake and the tempting hike above the waterfall, it became irresistible. Turns out there was little mud but as usual, very stony. With the streams overflowing, the trails helped to absorb the overflow which fortunately, washed the boots. Some wise guy said we should always look on the bright side even when the sun is behind thick, grey clouds. We are therefore grateful for soaked boots. 

  The hike beyond the lake was terrific, the views outstanding, further enhanced by the appearance of blue sky. That's something rarely seen in this part of the world of late. To enjoy lake views of blue water, the clouds have to scatter, not disappear though, and nature provides yet another delightful scene. All-in-all, it was close to a 3,000 feet elevation gain, typical of a regular Tatras hike. To reach the various major summits, add on a further 1,500 feet or so. On our last trip, we reached Kaprovsky Stit (alongside Poland), on a 9-hour day—we are still recovering.

It took us awhile to recognize the sight above but agreed finally it had to be the sky. Lately, we've tried to be more rational than emotional, so we deliberate deeply. 

First view of the falls and lake.

Reflecting.
Let's sneak a peek at the lake from above the waterfall without having to walk up the mountain. Smart, hey?
Have to circumscribe most of the lake to ascend.

From the side, as ascending, one attains a good view of the flow.
We ate brunch at lake level on the first outing while viewing the dom on a dull day to which the color of the water attests.
We waited a while for this view and coloring; we have to like it.
Some flower power.
Some are able to separate the wheat from the chaff while unable to distinguish between illusions and reality. Fortunately, we don't even know what that all means...makes life easier.
By twisting and bending the camera out of shape a little, we capture the water flow and lake.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

The early bee catches the color...better than a worm.
The (in)famous 'last one' concept.

The Europeans have a tradition of building hotels in the mountains. It is a wonderful concept but it sure creates complications. There is a private road for guests and staff to reach the premises or a mere two hour walk without luggage. Dom Sliezsky viewed from the end of the first trail. 

Earlier, we mentioned the need for blue sky to enhance the color of water. True. However, on the hike following, Batizoveske Lake, (see next week), this is what turquoise coloring provides the viewer in dull weather. Go figure!
Finally, thank you to those who replied to the text written in the last blog. We did thank you personally, but we would like to make special mention of Jeff Peiper who wrote a very moving and meaningful email. Thank you, Jeff. We met in 1988 in Dallas, the year prior to our emigration—lucky me. Susan and Jeff 'emigrated' from Texas to Florida a few years back, after growing up in Ohio.