Starý Smokovec–Hrebienok funicular, Mountain funicular in Starý Smokovec, Slovakia.
The Starý Smokovec–Hrebienok funicular is a metre-gauge ground cable railway in the High Tatras of Slovakia, the only one of its kind in the country. It links Starý Smokovec (1,025 m) with Hrebienok (1,280 m) over a 1,937 m single track with an Abt passing loop at mid-length. The upper station houses the drive; the lower station was rebuilt in 2007 to a design by architect Peter Marcinko.
The funicular opened in 1908, making it one of the oldest railways of its kind in Slovakia. It was modernized in the second half of the 20th century to carry more passengers.
The funicular's Hungarian name, Ótátrafüredi Siklóvasút, recalls the era when the line was built under the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, and its cars were ordered from the Ganz works in Budapest. Today it is the only ground funicular in Slovakia, and the upper station at Hrebienok serves as the starting point for marked trails into the High Tatras.
The funicular runs year-round, though operating hours can vary by season and service may be paused during severe weather. It is worth checking current conditions before heading to the lower station, especially in winter.
The line uses a single track with a short passing loop near the middle, where the two cars cross each other during each trip. This straightforward setup has been in use since the early days of the railway and still works the same way today.
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