Walking in Poland, including the infamous Tatra Mountains, as well as two of the country’s most spectacular sites, Krakow and Zakopane, are brought together in this holiday of contrasts. Firstly, the medieval UNESCO – listed city of Krakow, for centuries Poland’s capital, dating back to the 7th century, followed by Zakopane, Poland’s highest city, amidst the stunning Tatra Mountains and situated 800m above sea level. The central market square in Krakow is the largest in Europe and where several of the city’s architectural and cultural landmarks can be found, such as the Cloth Hall, which houses a gallery of Polish paintings and St Mary’s Church, world famous for its alter carved by Veit Stoss. Having escaped destruction during World War II, the city has uniquely retained its charming medieval form. Krakow is the home of the Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364, the oldest in Poland and the 13th oldest University in continuous operation in the world!
Zakopane situated at the foothills of the majestic Tatra Mountains is renowned for its unique wooden architecture, featuring pretty, wood-fronted 19th century villas with high sloped roofs. The rugged peaks of the Tatra Mountains form the natural border between Poland and Slovakia, becoming a National Park in 1955 and was also established as an official UNESCO biosphere reserve. The park is rich in flora and fauna, pinewood trees, bears, wolves, wild cats and marmots, offering some of the best walking trails in Poland. The journey between Krakow and Zakopane may take longer than expected – you will spend 2-3 hours gently meandering through the Dunajec River Gorge on rafts! This will allow you to fully appreciate the rocky landscapes of the Pieniny Mountains (the coach continues with your luggage – if weather conditions dictate, or if anyone prefers, the land route by coach may be used).
Flight to Krakow, transfer to your hotel for two nights bed and breakfast accommodation. Transfer time approximately forty minutes.
Availability: 10 Twin/Double | 15 Single Room
Wyspianski Hotel – 3 Star
Krakow – 3 Nights
TV, Free Wi-Fi, Hairdryer, Room Safe, Air Conditioning, Restaurant, Gift Shop, Bank Branch
The Wyspianski Hotel is situated on the edge of the Old Town with its seemingly unpronounceable name, it derives from that of Poland’s best-loved artist, Stanislaw Wyspianski. The great man once lived in a house on this spot, and later in life, he often drew the Planty Gardens, the ring of parkland that encircles the Old Town. The hotel has modern amenities and an outstanding location right in the centre of Krakow, a proverbial stone throws away from the main square.
Czarny Potok Hotel – 3 Star
Zakopane – 4 Nights
TV, Free Wi-Fi,Hairdryer, Room Safe, Spa, Sauna, Indoor Swimming Pool, Garden, Restaurant, Bar
Located in the centre of Zakopane, with most bedrooms offering a balcony and stunning mountain views, the Czarny Potok Hotel is an ideal base for the second half of your week amidst the spectacular Tatra Mountains! It boasts a beautiful garden with the murmuring Czarny Potok (black stream). You can also enjoy rest and relaxation in the hotel’s spa and aqua thermal centre (swimming pool, jacuzzi and saunas).