ZAKOPANE - POLAND
Head to the base of the Tatras Mountains for the perfect snowy getaway to spend during the Christmas holidays.
How to get there
We flew into Krakow and rented a car from the airport and drove directly to Zakopane. Overall the trip took around 2 and a half hours with some breaks along the way. Depending on the snow levels when you go, I’d recommend hiring a bigger car more suitable for the snowy conditions as it becomes more rural as you head into Zakopane.
If dirving isn't an option for you, then there are coaches and trains available from the airport. Try FlixBus for cheap bus tickets.
Things to do
SNOWY MOUNTAINS
Kasprowy Wierch
One of my favourite activities on this holiday was going up the Kasporwy Wierch. We took the cable car up the mountain and then hiked a small amount to reach the top of the peak. There were trails open if you’d rather hike up and down the mountain, however you will need to check the snow conditions at the time with the information desk.
We visited in November so we just missed the ski slopes opening, however they tend to open mid December depending on the snow conditions. So if you’d like to ski on the holiday then I’d recommend going in December onwards and checking the with the Ski Resort.
If your planning on going in the summer time, then this is a great option for a summers hike up the mountain with spectacular views!
Gubałówka
Gubałówka is another beautiful peak in Zakopane where you can take the cable car up to the top and experience the most panoramic views of the Tatar Mountains. If you go in the winter time, then you will experience a magical village like setting, with lots of stalls varying from mulled wine, great food and trinkets shops. We also got to pet some Alpacas!
AROUND THE TOWN
The town of Zakopane was filled with lovely market stalls giving us the prefect Christmas market experience even in late November! We spent the day trying the different mulled wine/beer whilst we shopped around and then we headed into a cosy restaurant that served amazing food. There were plenty of amazing food options however if you are going then I’d highly recommend going to Bakowo Zohylina Niznio. They offered us an amazing experiance, with lovely customer service and great food.
BEER SPA
If you’re looking for a fun, unique way to relax after a day in the snow, then you should check out the Beer Spa! We started off in the sauna and then was taken into a room which had two barrels filled with a ‘beer bath’ to which we had 6 different beer tastings to try. These were full bottle sized beers and a fun way to try new beers! However they do offer different types of packages.
The place had a lovely atmosphere and was the ideal way to spend a relaxing evening after a day in the mountains!
Where To Stay
We satyed in a beautiful cozy cabin, close enough to the town centre to be able toe asily get around but also away so that we were able to enjoy the peace and quiet. We will definitely be staying here agin when we go back!
Top Tip: If you are not fussed about skiing whilst you're there and you'd like to save some pennies, then I'd recommend going late November time as the prices start to increase during the Ski season.
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