Villa La Roca Garden & Spa
Zakopane, often referred to as the winter capital of Poland, is a unique destination nestled at the foot of the majestic Tatra Mountains. Strolling along the lively Krupówki Street, visitors can feel the distinct atmosphere of the town, explore numerous restaurants serving regional delicacies, and shop for local handicrafts. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a blend of urban vibe with mountain charm.
For enthusiasts of active leisure, Zakopane offers a wide range of opportunities. The town is an excellent base for popular hiking trails such as Morskie Oko, Dolina Kościeliska, and Gubałówka. In winter, the city transforms into a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, while in the summer, it attracts lovers of hiking and mountain biking. Zakopane is also a center for the culture of the Podhale region – the Tatra Museum and regional inns allow visitors to discover the traditions that give this place its unique character.
The Tatras are the highest mountain range in Poland, captivating visitors with their majestic peaks, picturesque valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. This unique region, part of the Tatra National Park, attracts both mountain hiking enthusiasts and those seeking peace and connection with wild nature. The most popular trails lead to places like Morskie Oko, the Five Lakes Valley, and Rysy – the highest peak in Poland, offering unforgettable views.
The Tatras are not only about spectacular landscapes but also a rich flora and fauna. During hikes, you can encounter chamois, marmots, or golden eagles, and admire unique plant species that are found nowhere else. Whether in summer or winter, the Tatras offer a wide range of activities – from trekking and climbing to skiing and snowboarding, making them a perfect destination for every adventure and nature lover.
Kościeliska Valley is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the Western Tatras. Stretching over about 9 kilometers, it captivates with its diversity of landscapes – from rocky ravines and dense forests to wide meadows with views of the Tatra peaks. A comfortable trail runs through the valley, attracting both families with children and more experienced hikers. Along the way, visitors can admire charming chapels and visit one of the many caves, such as the Frozen Cave or the Dragon's Den.
Kościeliska Valley is also a place steeped in legends. According to local folklore, treasures were once hidden here, and among the rocks, one could encounter bandits. A walk through this valley is not only a contact with beautiful nature but also a journey through time, full of mysteries and stories. At the end of the valley, there is the Ornak shelter, which is an ideal place to rest and try regional delicacies after a successful hike.
Morskie Oko, the largest and most famous lake in the Tatras, captivates with its picturesque location in the Rybi Potok Valley, at an altitude of 1395 meters above sea level. Surrounded by majestic peaks such as Rysy and Mnich, it attracts tourists with its crystal-clear water and breathtaking views. The trail to Morskie Oko, starting at Palenica Białczańska, is a scenic hike through the heart of the Tatra National Park, ideal for both beginners and experienced mountain lovers.
In addition to its natural beauty, Morskie Oko also offers a unique atmosphere, full of legends and stories. According to one of the tales, the lake is connected by an underground tunnel to the Adriatic Sea. It is worth visiting the nearby historic shelter, which is a perfect place to rest and admire the unparalleled view of the lake’s surface and the surrounding peaks. A visit to Morskie Oko is an unforgettable adventure that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the Tatras.
Gubałówka is one of the most famous and accessible viewpoints in the Zakopane area. Located at an altitude of 1126 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramas of the Tatras, Podhale, and, on clear days, also the Pieniny and Babia Góra. You can reach the summit on foot via one of the many hiking trails, but the most popular option is the funicular railway, which takes tourists to the top in just a few minutes, offering picturesque views along the way.
On Gubałówka, visitors can enjoy many attractions, including numerous viewing points, restaurants serving regional specialties, and, in winter, ski slopes. It’s an ideal place for a walk, relaxation, and admiring the beauty of the Tatra nature. It’s also an excellent starting point for longer hikes along the Gubałówka ridge towards Butorowy Wierch or the nearby villages such as Kościelisko and Witów. A visit to Gubałówka is a must-see during any trip to Zakopane.
Chochołowska Valley is the largest and longest valley in the Polish Tatras, stretching over 10 kilometers. It is famous for its stunning views, which captivate tourists throughout the year. In spring, the valley attracts crowds with blooming carpets of crocuses, creating one of the most picturesque scenes in the Tatras. In summer and autumn, it invites hikers to explore gentle trails through forests and meadows, all the way to the Chochołowska Glade Shelter, from which beautiful views of the surrounding peaks can be enjoyed.
Chochołowska Valley is also popular among cyclists – you can reach it by an asphalt road up to the glade. In winter, it becomes an ideal place for cross-country skiers and tourists trekking on snowshoes. Due to the relatively easy difficulty level, Chochołowska Valley is a perfect destination for families with children, those seeking peaceful contact with nature, and lovers of Tatra views.
