You Really Must Go To Zakopane – Poland’s Banff Springs
Every time I visit Poland, a friendly pole will ask me “Will you go to Zakopane” and when I answer no they suddenly become animated and end with “Well… You Really Must Go To Zakopane”. After multiple visits to the country I can finally say that their love for their mountain paradise is not misplaced and I can now tell others that they really must go to Zakopane!
Table of Contents
- Geography
- A Brief History
- What to do in Zakopane
- Visit the Sanktuarium Najświętszej Rodziny Church
- Conclusion
Geography
Located in southern Poland, where the rolling plains give way to the forested High Tatras mountains on the southern border with Slovakia, Zakopane occupies a blessed position.
Due to its proximity to these titans it has been dubbed the winter capital of Poland! When you first see the short rolling hills give way to the valley at the foot of these massive mountains you will surely be awed.
A Brief History
Humble Pastoral Origins
Records of the town’s early existence are scarce and date back rather late, that would be the 17th century where the mention of a small village and a glade called Zakopisko appear. This was by all account a small pastoral settlement, but one that would change as the town developed as a mining centre during the 19th century, with the derivative being that the town would become the centre of the metallurgy industry in Galicia.
Railways and the Tourism Industry
Along with the population expansion brought on by its new industries, the arrival of the railways to Zakopane in 1899 signalled the start of a new era. New and unforeseen opportunities would be just around the corner. New tourist infrastructure sprung up including cable cars and the ski jump, the latter being constructed in 1925. The ski season would help tourism balloon to 60,000 people a year by 1930.
Despite the proliferation of suburbs in recent times, I still think that the city has retained much of its character. This is the city in 1916, before the mass tourism boom, from a postcard.
This is the city today, busier, but still retaining much of its 18th and 19th century character.
Second World War and the Modern World
The town was taken by Germany in 1939 and was host to a number of unfortunate events.
After the war it was subjugated to a Soviet regime, against its will and its tourism industry stagnated somewhat. The reopening of Poland in the 1990’s, and the subsequent economic boom, has helped this city come back into its own in the 21st century as the leading center for domestic tourists.
What to do in Zakopane
Poland’s Banff Springs, Zakopane has something for everyone whether young or old, outdoorsy or a party animal.
Drive Around to See Historic Wood Churches and Cottages
Surrounding the city are a series of small towns with stunning wood churches.
There are also a lot of pretty wood cottages, playing reverence to the alpine setting with tis peaked roofs and natural materials. This are usually intricate structures but come in all shapes and sizes.
Take the Funicular Up to Gubałówka
Overlooking Zakopane and its fertile valley is Gubałówka mountain. Accessible by funicular railway, it is a popular hangout spot where the peak is now a popular beer garden lookout. The railways is easily accessible by foot from Krupówki street.
Stroll Stunning Krupówki Street
The city’s main strip for all shopping, dining and nightlife Krupówki is a riot. The street starts at the traditional but delicious Gazdowo Kuźnia restaurant with its distinct wood structure and heads south.
It follows a mountain stream that is canalized parallel to it. Many restaurants are built on this stream.
The street comes alive at night as bars and restaurants pack with tourists. My favourites are the wood buildings but there is a nice variety of architecture on display.
Try Local Delicacies
This mountain town is a good place to buy local cow and sheep cheese and other local delicacies served on both the Slovak and Polish sides of the border. Popular items include Zázrivské vojky (Braided String Cheese) and the beautifully pattered cylindrical cylinders referred to as Oštiepok.
Alternatively, you could indulge a craving for beer and pierogi!
Visit the Sanktuarium Najświętszej Rodziny Church
Zakopane originally belonged to the Parish of Nowy Targ, but due to that city’s distance a church was built here 1327. Several wood iterations have existed over the years but the stone structure dates from the end of the 19th century.
Its just off the main street and easy to hit. Its beautifully painted interior is worth a look.
See Wood Churches and Cottages In Town
Just like the outskirts of town, Zakopane is filled with georgous wood buildings. The most prominent among them is the Church of Our Lady of Częstochowa and Saint Clemens, just off the north end of the main street. Behind it is a historic cemetery.
As for the cottages, they are either historic or modern facsimiles and have sprung up like weeds.
I don’t mind however the woodwork is detailed and is much preferable to other modern constructions.
Conclusion
Looking out at the Tatras one cannot help but be filled with a sense of wonder. The distant high peaks offer an alternative to the rolling agricultural plains of central Poland and it is no wonder to me, why poles love this place so much. I hope you enjoy your trip to the region as much as I do.
