Bachledka was the first ski resort in Slovakia to set out on a green path. The number of measures that help nature and educate the public in this area is gradually increasing. The goal is to achieve the highest possible ecological standard and to operate in a way that preserves natural wealth and traditions for future generations.
The resort had been internally aware of the need for “green” measures for a long time and had already been choosing more nature-friendly options in various decisions and procurements. In 2020, the number of measures accumulated and additional decisions in favour of the environment were introduced. Steps towards sustainable development continue to increase, as this is not a closed project, but rather a path Bachledka has chosen to follow. Among ski resorts, it was at the time the first initiative of this kind. The effort to build a nature-friendly resort was also joined by the initiative to become a resort friendly to children, families and people with reduced mobility, as well as to support local folklore and preserve traditions.
The first step was the construction of the Treetop Walk, which carried ideas such as „Nature for Everyone“, and „Educating People to Protect the Environment“. The Treetop Walk itself is a structure made from a renewable material – wood. It is also a fully barrier-free attraction, featuring educational boards with information about local nature, ecology and the destructive power of nature. Additional boards have gradually been added along the hiking trails in the resort, informing visitors about the decomposition time of waste in nature. The Pieniny National Park also plays an important role, running a series of educational programmes for both children and adults at the resort. The resort also has an environmental classroom, which makes it possible to run the programme even in bad weather and to expand it with additional activities.
The resort made its main change in waste management, with the goal being not only successful sorting, but above all waste minimisation. Waste bins for separated collection were placed throughout the resort and in part of the village of Ždiar – Bachledova dolina, and a collection yard was established. However, waste minimisation remains the priority. In previous years, the fact was that the greatest amount of waste was generated by food and beverage outlets that used disposable tableware. That is long gone. All catering facilities in the resort (with the exception of one bar that uses eco-friendly cups) have been modernised and now serve drinks and meals only in porcelain and glass. This is not only kinder to nature, but also more pleasant for customers.
The resort’s goal is primarily to get rid of plastic. Employees follow this rule in all operations as well as when purchasing goods and materials. As a result, visitors today will not find anything plastic in the souvenir shop — items that may appear to be plastic at first glance are actually made from bamboo, corn and other ecological alternatives. Visitors will also not find bottled water in PET bottles or other products that some may consider common.
Further measures are focused mainly on reducing and reusing water and energy. In the PANORAMA Bachledka Restaurant, waterless urinals and water-saving toilets have been installed. Paper towels have been replaced by state-of-the-art hand dryers, and plastic bags by paper ones. The heat produced by cooling units is used to heat the premises. There are several examples like this, and such measures are easier to introduce in new facilities than in existing ones.
Reducing the carbon footprint is also important. That is why the resort gives priority to suppliers from the region and surrounding area. It provides minibus transport for employees from nearby towns and villages, and encourages guests staying in Ždiar and Jezersko to give their car a holiday too and use the ski bus to get to the slopes.
Help is also directed towards the forests of Spišská Magura. In recent years, they have been repeatedly affected by windstorms, and the forest also shows significant damage caused by bark beetles. In this area, the resort cooperates with TU Zvolen, PIENAP and local forest land associations. Experts from TU Zvolen have proposed a plan of measures to slow the spread of bark beetles. PIENAP, in turn, recommended suitable tree species, which are planted extensively in the affected areas, especially in spring during the Earth Day event.
The resort also does not forget people in wheelchairs and people with mobility difficulties. Barrier-free access to the Treetop Walk by cable car is a matter of course. The PANORAMA Bachledka building is also fully barrier-free. The resort’s aim is to continue increasing the number of barrier-free facilities and attractions.
Attention is also focused on the youngest visitors. Trips with small children are often more demanding in terms of organisation. That is why Bachledka strives to make the trip as pleasant and easy as possible for parents. In addition to attractions, the resort also adapts its services. High chairs, children’s menus and a children’s corner are available in the catering facilities. Toilets include changing areas, low washbasins and child seats in WC cubicles. Parents can borrow a stroller and a child carrier free of charge at the resort, with a refundable deposit required. A breastfeeding area is also planned.
The number of activities aimed at improving the state of nature, protecting it and preserving the environment increases every year. At the same time, the resort strives to make the stay as pleasant as possible for families and people with disabilities, so that truly everyone can enjoy the beauty of Spišská Magura.
