Zakopane, a small Polish town, is at the foot of the famous Tatras Mountains. It is around two hours of driving from Krakow. Zakopane is called the winter capital city of Poland.
Zakopane ski areas
Pistes at Pardałówka, Antałówka, Koziniec, Gubałówka, Lipki or at Wielka Krokiew are ideal for beginners. Skilled skiers will appreciate the resorts of Polana Szymoszkowa, Harenda and Nosal, or the best of them: Kasprowy Wierch.
Nosal Ski Station - a northern slope with long lasting snow cover. Fabulous for beginners as well as for skilled skiers.
Szymoszkowa Ski Station - slope for beginners as well as intermediate skiers with a beautiful view of the Tatra mountains.
Harenda Family Recrestion Centre - slopes for beginners as well as for advanced skiers situated at a beautiful location.
Kasprowy Wierch is the highest ski resort in Poland. There are two spacious, wide and beautiful ski runs (not always and unfortunately only partly groomed by snowcats) on Kasprowy Wierch - Gasienicowa and Goryczkowa. Both routes begin with a fairly steep slope (the beginning of the Gasienicowa is steeper), but their further course is slightly milder. The most difficult sections of the route are rated as very difficult (black marked) in bad snow conditions (ice, muds) or difficult (red marked) in good snow conditions. A modern four-person chair lift operates in the Gasienicowa, and an old and primitive one with wooden, double chairs in the Goryczkowa.
Zakopane village
When you feel tierd from sports emotions, skiing, snow and cold, Zakopane offers you another kind of atraction: walk along Krupówki, the most representative street of Zakopane. Taking a stroll through Krupówki Street is a popular tourist activity. This street is lined with stores, restaurants, carnival rides, and performers. While you were there, you must try grzaniec (mulled wine, hot wine with spices and honey), or góralska herbata z prądem (literally: highland tes with electicity, which is a tea with alcohol).
Aqua Park Zakopane is a popular place for family. Situated in the very centre of the city, it offers a beautiful view of the panorama of the mountains. The complex of pools with thermal waters and lots of water attractions also offers spacious spa, fitness, and bowling.