Tatra Mountains and Zakopane

The Tatras are the highest mountains in Poland, a compact range of jagged alpine peaks, glacial lakes and dramatic valleys straddling the Slovak border, protected as a national park. At their foot lies Zakopane, Poland's winter capital and mountain resort, a lively town of distinctive wooden architecture, folk culture and hearty highland food.

What you actually see

• Morskie Oko - the beautiful glacial lake beneath the peaks, the classic walk.
• Zakopane - the wooden resort town, its Krupowki street and folk culture.
• Kasprowy Wierch - the peak reached by cable car for the high panorama.
• The mountain trails - the hikes and, in winter, the ski slopes.

When to go

Summer for hiking and the lakes, winter for skiing and snow; the peak seasons are busy. Autumn brings colour and quiet. The high trails need care and can hold snow late.

Honest expectations

It is hugely popular with Poles, so Zakopane and the Morskie Oko trail are very busy in peak seasons. The mountains are real alpine terrain, so higher hikes need experience and weather care. Zakopane itself is lively but touristy.

Nearby

Krakow is two hours north; the Slovak High Tatras rise across the border.