#winter

Dolina Chochołowska (The Chochołowska Valley)

The Chochołowska Valley is the largest and longest valley in the Polish Tatra Mountains, situated on the western edge of the Tatra National Park. It is a unique place in many respects, offering gentle trails that are ideal for long walks.

Difficulty: easy

Dolina Kościeliska (The Kościeliska Valley)

The Kościeliska Valley is the second largest valley in the Polish Tatra Mountains after the Chochołowska Valley, and, according to many, the most beautiful. It is a veritable natural museum – here you will find sheer rock faces, a rushing stream, mysterious caves and vast glades.

Difficulty: easy

Dolina Strążyska i Wodospad Siklawica (The Strążyska Valley and Siklawica Waterfall)

The Strążyska Valley is a classic walking route in Zakopane. Located close to the town centre, it is short and very picturesque, making it the perfect choice for a first taste of the Tatra Mountains, a trip with young children, or a relaxing stroll on a day off.

Difficulty: very easy

Grześ

Grześ is a gentle, dome-shaped summit on the Polish-Slovak border, rising directly above the Chochołów Valley. It is one of the most popular viewpoints in the Western Tatras, famous for its easy access and phenomenal panorama.

Difficulty: easy

Hala Gąsienicowa and Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy

Hala Gąsienicowa and Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy are a High Tatras classic. This is one of the most beautiful places in the Polish Tatras.

Difficulty: medium

Kasprowy Wierch

Kasprowy Wierch is probably the most recognisable mountain in Poland and a symbol of Tatra skiing. Located on the border between the Western and High Tatras, it offers one of the broadest and most beautiful panoramas in the entire range.

Difficulty: medium

Morskie Oko

Morskie Oko is the most famous, largest and, according to many, the most beautiful lake in the Tatras. Situated in the Rybi Potok Valley, it is surrounded by the highest peaks in Poland, including Rysy and the distinctive silhouette of Mnich.

Difficulty: easy

Starorobociański Wierch

Starorobociański Wierch (2176 m a.s.l.) is the highest peak of the Western Tatras lying on the Polish side (the higher Bystra is a border peak, but its summit lies in Slovakia). Its massive pyramidal silhouette is a symbol of this part of the mountains.

Difficulty: difficult (fitness-wise)

The Tatra Mountains in winter: Why is your ‘easy summer trail’ now a deadly trap?

You’ve been to Giewont in the summer, so it’ll be a piece of cake in the winter? Think again. See how snow changes the game in the Tatras and when ‘ordinary’ crampons just aren’t enough.