Further Trips

Morskie Oko – definitely a Tatra classic! From the car park at Palenica Białczańska, about 8 km of walking awaits us, mostly along the famous asphalt road. We will pass horse-drawn carriages waiting for tourists, however, we recommend walking, as it is not a difficult trip. Due to the great popularity of Morskie Oko, it is best to set off early in the morning to avoid walking in crowds. After about an hour of walking, we will be able to choose a shorter but steeper route leading through the forest or continue along the asphalt road. The lake is worth visiting at any time of year – it looks completely different in summer and in winter scenery, when at low temperatures the surface of the lake freezes. Already along the way, wonderful views will unfold before us, but it is at the lake where we can see many Tatra peaks as if on the palm of our hand, including the highest one – Rysy, as this is where the route to the summit begins. For those willing, it is possible to continue the walk to Czarny Staw and to walk around the lake. Sometimes we may have the opportunity to see mountain animals. When we feel tired and hungry, we can eat at the PTTK Mountain Hut, where after a short rest the return journey awaits us. It is worth dedicating a whole day to this trip, and after returning, relaxing with a massage or enjoying a good dinner in our restaurant, for example trout with steamed vegetables.

Kuźnice – a beautifully located part of Zakopane, from where walking routes begin to Kalatówki, Kopa Kondracka, Giewont, Hala Gąsienicowa and Kasprowy Wierch. There is also the lower station of the cable car to the latter peak, as well as the Manor and Park Complex worth visiting, among other things, for architectural reasons.

Kasprowy Wierch – very popular among visitors due to the magnificent views spreading from the summit and thanks to the easy cable car access, which takes tourists to the top all year round. Undoubtedly, it is a great opportunity, and on Kasprowy we usually have about 2 hours at our disposal, which we can successfully spend walking around nearby peaks and admiring the views. For more experienced tourists, especially in summer, we recommend hiking to Kasprowy on your own (the route takes about 3 hours and does not require specialist equipment), and in winter – skiing down! You don’t have to go to the Alps!

Hala Gąsienicowa – one of the most picturesque Tatra mountain meadows. From Kuźnice, we can head there via the Jaworzynka Valley or Boczań (a gentler ascent), and after two hours of walking we can enjoy the views and the charm of Gąsienicowa. One of the routes to Kasprowy also leads this way (about 1 more hour to the summit). It is worth stopping here, having some tea at the Murowaniec Mountain Hut and extending the walk to Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, from where a wonderful view of the surrounding peaks opens up. A pleasant trip for everyone!

Kondratowa Glade via Kalatówki – another walking trip starting in Kuźnice; the initial stony path gradually leads us uphill until we reach Kalatówki Glade, known for its beautiful views, ski centre in winter and sheep grazing in summer. From here, it is worth continuing the walk along a pleasant forest path to the charming Kondratowa Glade. From the glade, we can go on a longer walk to conquer nearby peaks (including Kopa Kondracka, Czerwone Wierchy or Giewont), however, even the glade itself is well worth a visit.

Giewont – undoubtedly one of the most popular Tatra peaks. A relatively easy ascent with safety chains on the final section makes it a frequent hiking destination. When preparing for a trip to Giewont, we must remember to set off early in the morning; otherwise, we may get stuck in a queue to the summit. The easiest route is considered to be the one from Kuźnice, which we can reach via the previously described Kalatówki and Kondratowa Glade. The ascent here is the least steep, although the variant leading to the summit via the Mała Łąka Valley can be considered more scenic; we can also choose the route through the Strążyska Valley. Therefore, it is worth familiarising yourself with detailed route descriptions in advance and choosing the one that suits you best. Is it worth planning such a trip despite the crowds? Of course – the views from the top will certainly reward the effort!

Rusinowa Polana and Gęsia Szyja – undoubtedly a glade popular due to the magnificent views that spread from it! We can start our trip in Wierch Poroniec or in Zazadnia (then the ascent leads through the wooden Sanctuary at Wiktorówki); access is via the same road as to Palenica Białczańska, but we must get off earlier. A walk to Rusinowa Polana is a good idea both on warm and winter days, also with children. With a bit of luck and good weather, we will be able to admire many wonderful mountain peaks. The walk itself is not long, therefore those craving stronger impressions are encouraged to climb Gęsia Szyja – despite the steep steps leading to the top, it is worth it, because seeing the panorama from the summit, we will quickly forget about the fatigue.

Kościeliska Valley – one of the more popular Tatra valleys. An easy, pleasant walk for everyone (including families with children and older people) in every month of the year. A forest path leads along the river, and along the way there is the possibility to visit numerous caves accessible to tourists. After about 1.5 hours of walking, we reach Ornak Glade, where the PTTK Mountain Hut is located. It is a good place for a short rest and admiring the views. It is worth going for an additional 30-minute walk to Smreczyński Staw. The views will reward the extra effort!

Chochołowska Valley – known primarily for crocuses, which bloom here abundantly in spring. It is also one of the few places in the Tatras that can be visited by bicycle (there is a rental before the entrance). It is the longest Tatra valley and can be a good base for trips to the peaks of the Western Tatras. Like the Kościeliska Valley, it is an easy walk for everyone, at the end of which, on Chochołowska Glade, there is a PTTK Mountain Hut and pleasant views of the surrounding peaks.