Wooden chalets, mountain lakes and cable cars in Poland's Tatra Mountains, a two-hour trip from Kraków. Here's what Zakopane is like, when to go and how long to stay.
Poland doesn't use the euro, so carry some złoty or a card without foreign fees. The EU is bringing in new entry checks, so check the rules on GOV.UK before you book.
Temperatures are the average daytime high in °C.
June to September is the best time for hiking, with long days and the high trails clear of snow. July and August are busiest, so start early. September is quieter, with clear views, and October brings autumn colour. December to February is ski and snow season, with Christmas lights in town. Spring can be muddy, with snow still on high paths.
The Tatras' most famous lake, reached by a walk of about 8 km each way along a paved road, or by horse cart for part of the way. Go early.
A cable car to the ridge on the Polish–Slovak border, with high walks in summer and skiing in winter. Book ahead in season.
A funicular from town to a hill with wide views of the Tatras, a market and easy walks.
The lively main street, with wooden buildings, smoked oscypek cheese and highland restaurants.
A gentle valley walk with caves and streams, good for all ages.
Several thermal spas near town have outdoor pools with mountain views, lovely after a day's walking.
Wooden villas and churches in the local highland style, including the Villa Koliba museum.
Fly to Kraków, which has plenty of UK flights, then take a bus or train to Zakopane, about two hours or more depending on traffic.
Yes. Summer is the main hiking season, with trails for every level and cable cars for big views without the climb.
Yes, from about December to March, on Kasprowy Wierch and smaller slopes around town. It suits beginners and intermediates and is good value.
Three or four days covers Morskie Oko, a cable car and a valley walk. A week lets you add longer hikes and a day in Kraków.
Put Zakopane on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.