Go Skiing in Zakopane!
First off, how's the sound of the town?
There's hardly a better ski town than Zakopane. When it comes to the sights, sounds, smells, sips and slopes, this baby is right up there with the best of them! Nestled in the heart of the Tatra Mountains - the peak of the Carpathians, a northeastern offshoot of the Alps - Zakopane keeps its visitors happy; and they keep coming back. Perhaps the fact that the Tatra Mountains are the youngest alpine mountain chain in the world has something to do with the energy around here? I don't know. But between the vast vistas, hot hotels, and bruising bars, you'll find something for everyone in Zakopane.
I like the cut of your jib. What's the scope of the slope?
Yeah, that's cheesy, sorry; but seriously, the skiing around here is good. The surrounding environs are in pristine shape - the natural result of environmental protection efforts. At present, you'll find about 50 ski lifts around here; and this number is constantly growing due to the exploding popularity of the region. Here are some hot spots:
At the top of the list is Kasprowy Wierch. You can reach this summit by the cable car from Kuznice. However, be advised: this peak is very popular. Add to that an archaic cable car (built in the 1930's!!) and bureaucratic restrictions on its development and you've got a line (queue, for you English blokes) that can take hours to negotiate. The best advice is to reserve your cable car ticket in advance at a travel agency. If you can't do it remotely, you certainly can purchase one ahead of time, in Zakopane. Either way, it's worth the wait: Once you get to the top you'll enjoy a loooong ride down. The slope is fairly challenging, so novice skiers should go at their own risk. Good skiing conditions can hold until May
Nosal is another top choice around here. With a chair-lift and over 10 T lifts, you won't be bored. On a clear day the views are fantastic.
Next up is Gubalowka, which provides the closest slopes to the town. You can reach the top via the newly built railcar or one of many T-bar style lifts. In addition to a fantastic view of Zakopane and its surrounding environs, you'll find slopes for all levels of skiers. Artificial snow and lighting keep the place humming for a long while.
As with many places in Poland, the best stuff is reserved for the adventurous and those willing to do some exploring. So if you're willing to give up McDonald's and souvenirs, try visiting some of the local villages. The prices will be a lot lower and the feel much more authentic. Besides you can feel cool for getting off the beaten path. Some good slopes can be found in Bialka, Poronin or Bukowina Tatrzanska. Bust out a map and away you go!
For those of you who prefer the horizontal to the vertical, Zakopane is a cross-country skiers dream. Try the Krokiew area by the massive ski jumps (Malysz in the house!). Once again, if at all possible, try to find some less travelled routes; the peace and quiet will make those breathtaking views all the more enjoyable.
Dude, I forgot my gear!
No worries. There are plenty of places to rent equipment around here (just follow the link and choose 'Ski Hire'). Furthermore, unlike the neighbours to the west, Poland can still boast affordability. You can get some really good gear for a fraction of what you'd pay in the U.S. or Switzerland. With all the money you save, you can enjoy Zakopane's nightlife even more!
How affordable is "affordable?" Well here are some general prices to get you rolling. (And, by the way, $1 = app. 3 PLN, 1 = app. 4 PLN, 1 = app. 5.8 PLN)
Ski Rental - All Day for 30 - 40 PLN
Ski Passes at:
Nosal - 15 rides for 50 PLN
Gubalowka - 10 rides for 50 PLN
Szymoszkowa - 10 rides for 60 PLN
Kasprowy - 1 ride for approx. 10 PLN
If there is anything else you'd like to see on this page, tell us. Meanwhile if you can't ski to save your life then book some skiing lessons through us, and you'll be slaloming in no time!
Alright! Kick some slope-bootie!
Comments
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, latest snowfall from he last 2 days are about 40 cm in city so even more in Kasprowy.Today, it is foggy and chairlifts are closed.www.pkl.pl. It is hard to say if slopes and weather will be fine in Kasprowy for the weekend.Check the website www.pkl.pl and www.pogodynka.pl Other slopes mentionned in previous review should be opened without any problem. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(27 very comfy and cozy apartments in 3 locations in Zakopane);-)
Serena from Poland Reply
Hi, Can you tell me please what the conditions are like at present for skiing, worried in case snow is hard and packed, Thanks for your help
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
The most accurated weather forecasts for the next few days in Zakopane are made by the meteo/weather station located in Zakopane. http://www.pogodynka.pl/polska/prognoza_synoptyczna/zakopane_zakopane Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(27 very comfy and cozy apartments in 3 locations in Zakopane);-)
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear , it is still possible to ski and snowboard on most ski slopes until end of March. Snow conditions are very good thanks to latest snowfalls and it is getting more sunny. However, it is getting warmer(+7 C) and it is hard to say with certitude which slopes will be opened and what will be snow conditions like on those slopes in few days.For medium ski level, I recommend Szymoszkowa, Harenda, Kasprowy Wierch , Białka and Bukowina Tatrzanska ski complexes. Hope the answer helps. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(27 very comfy and cozy apartments in 3 locations in Zakopane);-)
Serena from Ireland Reply
Hi, I will be in Zakopane this weekend, can you advise me on the ski conditions and possible slopes to go to,I am not a beginner, thanks
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear,, It is very unlikely that the lower slopes will still be opened late opf March but it is not sure at 100 %.Just God knows what the weather and ski conditions will be like. However, Higher slopes in Zakopane and surroundings would probably be opened until beginning of April or even May.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(28 very comfy and cozy apartments in 3 different locations in Zakopane)
Serena from Ireland Reply
Hello, I am hoping to take my niece age 10 skiing for a day end of march- start of april. She is a beginner, whats the possibility of Nosal still being open? Thanks
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, I do not really think that it is necessary for You to book in advance ski passes as it will be for sure not crowded, as the weather forecast can be really unknown and ski conditions on each ski resort also, as You may decide on site which ski resorts is suitable for You depending on your ski level ability.Each ski resort has ist own ski pass/Card/ticket : pay as You go(with/out possibility to get refund for credit not used) ,ski pass for limited time(from one hour to few days).Hope the info. helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(28 very comfy and cozy apartments in 3 locations in Zakopane)
Juozas from Lithuania Reply
Hello, Im going to try skiing inzakopane next weekend, i did book hotel, but i can not find where to book skipass. Can u help mewith that?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear James, It is very unlikely that the lower slopes will still be opened late of March but it is not sure at 100 %.JUst God knows what the weather will be like.Also, Higher slopes in Zakopane and surroundings will be likely opened until beginning of April or even May.fore rStaff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(28 very comfy and cozy apartments in 3 different location in and around Zakopane)
james from United Kingdom Reply
Hi looking at booking a break in late march, do you think the lower slopes will still be open?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello everyone, Zakopane is a very good resort for children and adults who wish to learn how to ski.Most slopes are not to deep and long, and there are so many slopes that they can improve their skills on each of them and experience the different difficulty of them.The other activities like sleighing, horse and husky sleighing, having spa and swimming in thermal water, snowdooing,sightseeing in that untypical city in top hill and visit of local folkloric market and shopping street, having a very nice meal in one of the 120 restaurants has...make of that city a really nice place to learn how to ski and also to improve its skill. Some slopes are also recommended for medium and advanced level but there is no similar slopes that you may find in Alps.However some slopes in nearby Slovakia are really great for advanced level.The price of ski rental, ski lessons , and ski lifts, food and meal are a lot less than in Alps...So, it is a really good value money destination for skiing in winteror even trekking in summer time. Hope the info. helps.IUf you may have anymore queries before your coming, please do feel free to contact us.Regards.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(26 very comfy and cozy apartments in Zakopane)
Luke from Australia Reply
You can't compare Zakopane to any good resorts in Alps, States or Canada. There's just simply not enough runs. However, if you get over lack of free shuttle buses, it's still cheap. Good resort if you think in terms of not spending a lot of money.
Andy from United Kingdom Reply
Kasprovy Vierch (Kasprowy Wierch) Cable Line has been rebuild 2yrs ago. There're new cars like everywhere in western Europe. Line (queue) is moving very fast for this conditions.
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, as it is still peak season , most slopes and ski resort should be opened on Goon Friday and Easter Sunday.Hope the info. helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(26 very comfy and cozy apartments in Zakopane)
Des Elliott from Ireland Reply
do the slopes open on Good Friday and Easter Sunday? Thanks Des Elliott
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear, all slopes will open as long as the snow conditions are good for skiing for all ski levels. Everybody in Zakopane hopes winter and very good ski conditions will last until May but nobody can predict what will be the weather forecast in 1 or even 2 months.Hope the info. helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(26 very comfy and cozy apartments in Zakopane)
Des Elliott from Ireland Reply
I have been to Zakopane in February before and loved it. I would like to go during the week after Easter this year. Will the slopes at Nosal and the slopes beside the ski jump still be open? Des. Ireland
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, I heard that Kasprowy Wierch slopes and chair lifts will open tomorrow (the 12/01), later than the past years cause of lack of snow.Hope the info. helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence in Zakopane(26 very comfy and cozy apartments in Zakopane
Paulina from United Kingdom Reply
Hey, does anyone know when Kasprowy Wierch is going to be open for skiing? I get to Zakopane on sunday (13th) and will be there for only 4 days. Thanks
Paul from United Kingdom Reply
Please can you update me with the opening of kasprowy I've been coming to zakopane for 10 years and this is the first time I've herd that kasprowy is closed. Would I still be able to go off peist with a guide and use the cable car to get to the top traveling out tomorrow
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello again, most ski resorts have lockers to put your bags/belongings in while skiings(mostly in ski rental shop or ski school)Nosal, Kasprowy.For ski lockers, I do not think it exists too much(in Kasprowy Wierch resort, I know there is ski, bags/belongings storage area). Hope the answer helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, most of the ski slopes off piste/side country(not nordic skiing)can be found in Kasprowy Wierch resort(from the top mostly).If you get there , you do at your own risk and rescue team may not be rescuing anyone in case of risk too high for their own safety.Hope the answer helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Jack from United Kingdom Reply
Hi, what are the best slopes for off piste/side country skiing in Zakopane? Just looking for something a little more challenging and fun. Any recommendations? Thanks
Paulina from United Kingdom Reply
Hi All, Do you know if there are any lockers at the ski resorts to put your bags in when skiing? And a safe place to keep skis while not skiing? Thanks
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello everyone, according to www.pkl.pl (website of the company running Kasprowy Wierch cable car and ski slopes)http://www.pkl.pl/index.php?id=26&L=1 , the ski sresort is not opened yet for skiing, just for sight seeing.It has been snowing a lot for the last few days but maybe not enough to have a snow layer sufficient to have safe and good ski conditions. Otherwise, all other resorts are well opened like Nosal, Szymoszkowa, Harenda, Witow ; Bialka and Bukowina Tatrzanska out of Zakopane also opened fully.Hope the answer helps. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Andras Szabados from Hungary Reply
Hi, I can't seem to find any up to date info - is Kasprowy open or not at the moment?
Krafty from United States Reply
Were here now. Dont worry there is plenty of snow on the slopes. The town has just been covered and 15cm due this week.... Will be even better when your here!
Jess from United Kingdom Reply
Hi, My partner and I are coming to Zakopane on 13th Jan to 17th Jan. We have booked ski lessons through Zakopane life for three days during our stay. However, it concerns me that there may not be any snow. Please could you tell me what the conditions are currently like and if our lessons are likely to be cancelled. It is our third trip to Poland and we love to visit Zakopane, particularly for the skiing.
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear, if you are looking for someone to do some babysitting (english speaking or polish spekaing??)while you are going out skiing in Zakopane and who can call you in case of problems or emergency, we may be able to help you to organise that childcare and also with accomodation if you are looking for a nice one in Zakopane. Hope to hear from you. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Gosia from United Kingdom Reply
My husband and I are thinking of going skiing in Zakopane. We have a six month old and would like to bring her too and find childcare for her. Does any accommodation offer this? Or are there any crèches which we can prebook?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, all slopes are not opened yet but with the recent snowfall, all slopes should be opened for your future coming. Slopes recommended for beginners: Nosal with ski instructor English speaking; also Bialka but out of Zakopane For medium/ advanced level, there is Szymoszkowa, Harenda ski complex, Kasprowy WIerch ski resort and Bialka tatrzanska (out of Zakop ane).You may also check the link Hope my answer helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Sander from Norway Reply
I'll visit Zakopane for my first time...Will arrive 31.january. Are all of the slopes open? We are a group with "nearly beginners" and intermediate/ advanced skiers. Are there any particular place/slopes that we all can enjoy?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear, slopes and ski resorts located in Zakopane are within 7 km distance, so they are easily reachable by car, bus, taxi or walk even. Slopes outside Zakopane are also reachable by bus which can be mostly and easily taken from the Zakopane bus station.You just have to ask at the bus stop where is the bus stops for the slopes you wish to go skiing on OR if you are not taking the bus from the bus station but at an other bus stop, you have to wave to make them stop and then check the bus route written on a board on the windscreen.Bus rides worths 2,5 PLN/one way /person and taxi up to 4 persons:10 PLN/km.Hope my answer helps. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Hamish from Australia Reply
Hi, thankyou for your information. Can you please confirm that all of the slopes are within close proximity so it does not matter where you stay in Zakopane, a bus is available to try all of the different areas? Thanks!
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear Michelle, about ski passes, they are individula for each ski resort(system pay as you go or unlimited rides day pass).About ski equipment hire, it is about 29 PLN/day.It is possible I think to rent equipment for half day and even per hour.About ski lessons, please check on that webpage , on the middle right hand side, there is submenu "ski lesson" one to one or in a group.Have a nice time in Zakopane. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie residence ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Michelle from United Kingdom Reply
I am travelling to zakopane on dec28th for a week,our group icludes 3 children age 8 - 11 yrs.Can you tell me the prices for kids skiing lessons,passes & equiptment hire for kids also if its possible to hire for half day.Finally could you reccomend a good family friendly place to go for new years eve ? Cheers.
OGRODYGORSKIE from Poland Reply
No, I am afraid but the snow season will start soon and just Nosal will opened from the 10/12.Hope the answer helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie residence of apartments
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, Zakopane-life has its own booklets/leaflets :city map and ski map, available almost everywhere.You may also check the Also , About the Vip pass, i do not know it as almost each resort is own privately, and there is no common ski pass between almost all ski resorts in Zakopane and surroundings.Tickets or pass can be bought at the bottom ticket office of each ski resort or ski cabine station. Hope the answer helps. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie ( 3 residences of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
mynci from United Kingdom Reply
Hello. Me and my partner will be in Zakopane Dec 22-27. Except for this website, is there information in the form of a booklet/leaflet - info on slopes and lifts etc. Also, do we need to plan anything in advance (how much is the VIP liftpass, where to buy them?), or is everything very simple and can be organised on the day of arrival? Many thanks in advance.
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, ski rental shops are located in the bottom of each ski resort(so you can change ski equipment when you decide changing ski resorts, or you may keep it during all your stay in Zakopane or you may even get it dropped to your apartment/hotel room and get it pickep up on last day by Go-Ski team);ski passes(pay as you go, day by day or few days pass) and ski lessons can be bought to each ski resort office located at the bottom of the ski resort also(in fact , there is not 1 ski pass for all different private owned ski resorts located in Zakopane).Also ski lessons can be booked in advance with the Go-ski team and they will teach you on the slopes you wish to be skiing on and they may pick you up from your hotel.If you have anymore queries, please feel free to ask.Have a nice time in Zakopane and on its slopes. Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie Residence
chris from United Kingdom Reply
Hi sudip. The bambi residence is tops we stayed there last feb and were spoilt so much were going back this coming feb. last year was a very very cold feb -30c the skiing is excelent for ages / skills and no prbs getting ski kit hire and slopes, bars are also excelent and realy cheap all family freindly looking forward to getting back there feb 17th from ema chris & gayna + lads
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Will, there is little chance that you may be skiing in and around Zakopane as the temperatures are still above zero celsius and the slopes open mostly first weekend before Christmas.We would suggest you for that short stay to walk in city center, visit the touristic points(museums, markets, untypical highlander cemetarieswalk in valley and national park....), do some sightseeing to have a first contact and appreciate the atmosphere being in that city.Then, you may enjoy the atmosphere in bars and restaurants with nice local food, drinks and music. Hope the answer helps.We wish you to have a nice time in Zakopane. Staff of Ogrodygorskie (residence of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Will from United Kingdom Reply
Hi, we'd be ther between 27 and 29. plz tell me how weather is going on. is there have good enough 2 enjoy skiing or not. thx.
Sudip Ghosh from United Kingdom Reply
Need some info.. Please. We are three Families coming to Zakopaane in feb for a skiing holiday. We are staying at Bambi residence and I was wondering how to originate ski passes, lifts and equipmental rental. Pls help!
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear Nick, about the Kasprowy Wierch ski resort, you have to queue once for the main cable car lift (it can take up to 4hours to get in to that lift) then you will have the choice between 2 T-bar/ski chair lifts which will bring you back up to the top of the resort. It is however possible to buy in advance ticket and VIP access to that cable car lift from some companies for a more expensive tickets.About the other ski resorts, queues at the ski lifts are but not so huge as they have a very good ratio speed/persons carried per hour.hope the answer helps. Staff of Ogrodygorskie (residence of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dear Nick, about the Kasprowy Wierch ski resort, you have to queue once for the main cable car lift (it can take up to 4hours to get in to that lift) then you will have the choice between 2 T-bar/ski chair lifts which will bring you back up to the top of the resort. It is however possible to buy in advance ticket and VIP access to that cable car lift from some companies for a more expensive tickets.About the other ski resorts, queues at the ski lifts are but not so huge as they have a very good ratio speed/persons carried per hour.hope the answer helps. Staff of Ogrodygorskie (residence of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Nick from Australia Reply
Hey Zakopane-Life, Like you mentioned, I hear the queue for the cable car from Kuznice to Kasprowy Wierch can be crazy. Does that mean that if we are planning on skiing Kasprowy Wierch all day then we will be lining up all day? Or do we queue once for the major cable car and then take ski lifts from there? Cheers! Nick
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Oskar, it exists some ski passes working for many ski resorts (using the same pass system)only out of Zakopane , and most ski resorts in Zakopane have their own individual ski pass(from 1 to 7 days OR by pay as you go card whose credits not used can be refunded when you want to leave.)Hope the answer helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie (residence of 26 comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
Oskar from Sweden Reply
Hi! Do you have any skipasses that are valid for several days? For exampel, lika a "5-days" skiingpass`.
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Aoife, it will be likely that it will be some snow and snowfall end of December.(but it is not sure at 100%).If not enough snowfall, most slopes will make manmade snow on slopes if the temperatures are enough low.For your information, winter ski season , and ski slopes and resorts will be opened from around 22th December(when winter holidays start).Hope the answer helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie, residence of comfy apartments in Zakopane
Aoife from Ireland Reply
Hi, a group of us were thinking of skiing in Zacopane for a week around the 28th of December. What are the chances of snow at this time?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Greg, it will be very unlikely that it will be some snowfall mid November.For your information, winer ski season , and ski slopes and resorts will opened Mid December.Hope answer helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie, residence of comfy apartments in Zakopane
greg from Australia Reply
Hi Iam heading Zakapone mid nov, how likely is it to snow enough during this time? Thanks Greg
Karol from Australia Reply
Planning trip to zakopane for skiing for next year what's a better time to come start of feb or end of feb prob going to stay 3 weeks Thanks
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello,it should still be a lot of snow enough for you to enjoy skiing in Zakopane end of March. About transport from Warsaw to zakopane on the 23/03, according to www.pkp.pl, there are trains fast whose timetable are on that link: http://rozklad-pkp.pl/query.php/pn?q=pl/node/146&ld=pkp&seqnr=1&ident=af.01492729.1331673902&OK#focus For nigt buses on the 24/03, there are 2 possibilities : http://rozklad-pkp.pl/query.php/pn?q=pl/node/146&ld=pkp&seqnr=1&ident=af.01492729.1331673902&OK#focuswww.zdazakopane.pl/rozklad-jazdy/ OR http://rozklad-pkp.pl/query.php/pn?q=pl/node/146&ld=pkp&seqnr=1&ident=af.01492729.1331673902&OK#focuswww.zdazakopane.pl/rozklad-jazdy/ Hopeit helps.Staff of Apart-center and Ogrodygorskie apartments in Zakopane
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, I am almost sure that if you cannot manage to meet some other snowboarders thanks to that website, you will meet some on Szymoszkowa slopes or even in the Cabine car lift in Kuznice/Kasprowy.Your friend can also join you but going slower as he is beginner? Have a nice time and very good ski rides.
Dave from United Kingdom Reply
Hi. Thanks for replies. I arrive 21March, my friend and I want a ski lesson at Szymoszkowa. I am a Snowboarder already and I want to ride Kasprowy Wierch from top to bottom 22March. My friend cannot do it, he is only a beginner. Does anyone want to ride Kasprowy with me?
Suzan from Singapore Reply
Hi thanks for ur reply! I will arrive Warsaw on 23 mar ard 1230pm. How do I get to zakopane the fastest way from Warsaw? Taxi is not my option as it is expensive!!! Will there still be any snow left for skiing around 23-24 Mar? From krakow glowny station there are buses to zakopane right? May I know what is the frequency of the bus? I would like to board a night bus from Warsaw to zakopane. From zakopane back to Warsaw (24 Mar Sat) I would like to take a night bus back and arrive in Warsaw at 25 Mar by morning as I need to catch a flight :) is there any bus that's suitable for me? Thanks and hope to hear from u soon!!
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, the ski season is usually ending when the ski conditions are very bad and it is not possible to ski in safe conditions.Usually the last day of ski season is the 3 rd of May(like 2 years ago) but it can be before(Mid-March last year).In june and July, no ski possible but trekking, bike riding...Hope it helps. Staff of Apart-center apartments in Zakopane.
Suzan from Singapore Reply
Hi, is there any skiing from end of june - early July? i will be going to Warsaw from 28 June - 1 July this year!! When does zakopane ski closes?? or is there any more ski left in mid May, after May 15?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
At this period of March, there is no queue to get in the cabine lift of Kuznice going to Kasprowy Wierch. Taxi are not to expensive compare to other countries(but more than Cracow for example), but all depends on where you take it from; bus is from far the cheapest way to get there.(and of course by foot also).Taxi are available at taxi stop or if you call in advance. Nightlife is good, not too busy at this period, mostly restaurants, bars get busy until midnight, nightclub and others bars after are mostly busy on weekend time(Friday evening and Saturday evening.Check out restaurants and pubs section on this website.Watra is really nice place to dance and eat.Hope it helps.
Dave from United Kingdom Reply
Thanks for info. Also, does anyone know if it is cheap and easy to get a taxi to Kasprowy Wierch. Are there long queues and is there snowboard hire there. Oh, and what is the nightlife like in Zakopane? Any good restaurants?
Mark from United Kingdom Reply
Just come back from Symoszkowa and we did see a couple of people using hte lifts to go up and down the mountain. However the Tram Gubalowka is also worth a visit and is near to Symoszkowa.
ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello Dave,, Yes it is possible for non skiers/snowboarders to get on the chairlift of Szymoszkowa up and down.You May also get up that hill by the Gubalowka funicular nearby and go down by Szymoszkowa to enjoy the beautiful view on Zakopane and Tatras mountains.In my opinion, it is also possible in all others chair lift and cabine lift(Kasprowy Wierch)of Zakopane, except T-bar lift where it is needed ski.Hope it helps.
Dave from United Kingdom Reply
We are travelling to Zakopane soon. Does anyone know if at Symoszkowa non boarders/skiers can use the chairlift to the top and then back to bottom?
Michael Love from United Kingdom Reply
I had never skied before and my friend taught me on Szymoszkowa, two different sloped that merge into one. Great for both the the newest and pros of skiing. Excellent bars and food. I would reccomend to have a break at the restaurent at the top of Szymoszkowa, try the polish dumplings Prieoga?!? (sorry about spelling, they were stunning. I will definately be returning here
Lily from Estonia Reply
And how is the cheapest way to get from the parking lot to the cabel car? by bus or by taxi. And which is the cheapest parking lot? When is the best time to arrive?at what time are the queues shortest?
Lily from Estonia Reply
if the parking is not free, then is it possible to pay for the parking with a credit card or with Euros?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Ski conditions are very good at the moment(with all slopes opened and very good snow to ski on, more snowfall from today).Ski passes for each resort can be bought by card or cash and credit not used given back at the end of run on card or cash.Parking are available around each ski resorts, in most of resorts parking are not free, few are free and some are not.Staff of Ogrodygorskie apartments(3 residences of 26 very comfy and clean apartments in and around Zakopane)
Nolan from Ireland Reply
Hi, Can you please tell me what the skiing conditions are at the moment, I'm heading to Zakopane for a week this weekend? Thank you
from United States Reply
Thank you for the answer. We are staying Zakopane for a day, so we don't need apartment. But what about Ski Pass?- can we buy it by using a card? Can we park our car near the ski lifts and does parking cost anything or is it free?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
As always, it is better to have cash to pay for small expenses like parking, so no euro or cards in most parking places.Some parking lots nearby Kasprowy Cabine lift station give you free ride both ways if you park your car on their parking, otherwise, it is quiet cheap to get from your apartment to the Kasprowy Wierch cabine lift station by bus or taxi, to avoid paying parking, specially if you stayed in Kasprowy Wierch resort big part of the day.To avoid queues, th best is to buy your ticket in advance Or to arrive very early like at opening time of the cabine station.Hope the answer helps.
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Cash is always better appreciated than cards, but most of the time, it is possible to pay by card for ski rental and ski lessons(depending on the ski slopes/resort chosen).
ClareBear from United Kingdom Reply
Hi, thank you so much for your quick and detailed reply. I appreciate your help. I would definately love to come to Zakopane whilst we are in Poland :-) Thanks again!
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, about ski lessons you may start the first day by 3 hours and ask the instructor if she/he recommends the same for next days or not. We may recommend you the following instructors/ski school(english speaking) operating in Bukowina whose internet links are: http://www.instruktornarciarstwa.com.pl/pricelist.html http://www.rusin-ski.pl/szkola-narciarska.html .Their email address is on "KONTAKT".You may also get in touch with ski@zakopane-life.com to ask if they can give lessons there. About booking ski lessosn, you should ask them by email if it is needed or not and if there is also deposit to prepay.About equipment rental, it should not be any problem to find on site good equipment for everybody.Ski rental shops are mainly located at the base of the slopes/pistes.We wish you nice time in Bukowina ski resorts and Spa complex.And if you have some time and willing, why not coming to Zakopane for visiting, skiing...it is a more vibrant, folkl;oric city than Bukowina on my opinion.There are often bus routes between both cities.Hope my answer helps.
ClareBear from United Kingdom Reply
Hi, we are coming to Bukowina in a few weeks (1 adult and 3 kids are complete beginners, the other 3 adults are intermediate level) and we would like to have ski lessons whilst there. I was thinking maybe 3 hrs each day for first 3 days for the beginners, and 3 hours on first day for the intermediate. Or do you advise something else? Do we need to book in advance? If so, can you recommend any ski schools there? And what about ski hire in Bukowina? Will skis/boots/poles be available if we turn up on our first day or should we book in advance? Thanks a lot for your help. I am SO excited about coming skiing there.
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, as ski resorts in Zakopane are not near each other even if not too far(max.5 km), the best to get from one resort to an other one is by bus(by checking the direction board available in front windscreen), or by taxi(more expensive but easier to get right to the slopes not nearby),or you may rent a car (from 80 PLN/day for a car for 5 pers. max.).Also, you may by walk, but a lot longer or by horse sleighs(lot more expensive);-) For resorts out of Zakopane(in Poland or Slovakia nearby)(from 10 to 50 km away), there are buses running often. Hope the answer helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie apartments(3 residences of 26 very comfy and clean apartments in and around Zakopane)
mike from United Kingdom Reply
We're coming end of February and hope to do some skiing. What is transport between slopes like if we don't have a car?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, usually in beginning of April only few resorts in Zakopane are still opened for skiing(usually Kasprowy,vSzymoszkowa and Nosal).Unless snowfall are very high and temperatures below 0 Celsius most of the time.Also, some other resorts out of Zakopane can be opened at that period(Bukowina/Bialka Tatrzanska or in nearby Slovakia.Hope the answer helps..Staff of Ogrodygorskie apartments(3 residences of 26 very comfy and clean apartments in and around Zakopane)
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, you may check the ski lessons price on the right side of the webpage where you posted your comments.Those are private lessons which are given by private instructor on any slopes you want and they can come to pick you up at your hotel/apartment if you wish for free.Also you may get some ski lessons in almost all individual resort in and out of Zakopane by booking lessons in office located at the bottom of slopes next to ski rental offices.Prices for 2 hours of lessons for 2 people with private instructor has a quote from 170 PLN to 250 PLN.Hope my answer helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie apartments(3 residences of very comfy and clean apartments in and around Zakopane)
RG/SW from United Kingdom Reply
Hi, looking to coming in a few weeks time but a couple of us are looking to have an instructor, how much would this cost roughly for a few hours a day over 4days?
Ogrodygorskie from Poland Reply
Hello, there are currently no ski pass between ski areas in Zakopane(One is outside of Zakopane in Bukowina-Bialka Tatrzanska and in nearby Slovakia).In the different ski areas,you may choose between day ski pass or pay as you go cards.Hope the answer helps. Staff of Ogrodygorskie(3 residences of comfy apartments in Zakopane)On left side of the main page:Hotels Baner/ Type:apartments / location:anywhere
Shirley richards from United Kingdom Reply
Question. Lift passes. How much for a weekly pass or do you always have to buy for each lift/area?
Ogrodygorskie from United States Reply
There are few slopes with snowpark for snowboarders (szymoszkowa, bialka tatrzanska)otherwise snowboarders have to share the slopes with others skiers.Hope that answer helps. Staff of Ogrodygorskie(3 residences of comfy apartments in Zakopane)
Marek from Sweden Reply
It seems that it hasn't changed much since I last skied ther in 1968.... I imagine that this place is perfect for people not longer skiing a lot, satisfied with 2-3 runs a day. If you realy want to do some serious skiing then go somwhere else. Zakopane is mainly for those looking for a place with nice atmosphere, good food and relaxation.
OGRODYGORSKIE from Poland Reply
To rent telemark, it has to be possible in very few ski rental shops. About ski season, Zakopane resorts should opened little by little.Bialka and Bukowina slopes are already opened.Staff of Ogrodygorskie (very comfy apartments in Zakopane)
Hugo from Portugal Reply
Anyone can tell me if it is possible to ski on 1 December 2011. WHEN IS THE OPEN SEASON? TKS
PWalsh3 from United Kingdom Reply
We just reserved our second season skiing lessons with Lech - can't wait to see you at the start of the New Year!
Ski, Zakopane-life from Poland Reply
Hi Yvonne - kids can start skiing at an early age, some even from 3/3.5-4 yrs. Ski schools will have different requirements as to minimum ages - but have you considered a private lesson? This will particularly be beneficial to your younger skier as they will have one-on-one instruction from the watchful eye of the instructor. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information at ski@zakopane-life.com
Ogrodygorskie from United States Reply
In most ski resorts, it is possible to rent ski goggles but they may be in just good condition with some scratches.However, for a long stay I would recommmned you to buy your own one for better comfort or to have your own sunglasses.Hope it helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie residence(very comfy apartments in and around Zakopane)
OGRODYGORSKIE from Poland Reply
Hello Jenny, there is no ski pass that you can use for all ski resorts of different sizes in and around Zakopane.They have all individual and pay as you go ski card pass system for each resort.It is planned to have a common ski pass between resorts but like all it will take time to be done.Prices of pay as you go are given above and Ticket for the main cable car Kasprowy Wierch resort are at 32 PLN one way up, 47 PlN RETURN.and then 8-10 PLN about for the cair lift on the top of that resort.Hope it helps.Staff of Ogrodygorskie(residence of comfy and affordable prices apartments in and around Zakopane)
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