European Winter Honeymoon In The Tatras Mountains

High up in the Tatras Mountains, nestled between Slovakia and Poland right in the centre of Europe, lies an idyllic village called Zakopane. The sound of trickling mountain water can be heard throughout the town, as a mountain backdrop pokes its head above the heritage architectural rooftops. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Zakopane, Poland.

Stroll down Krupówki Street

Try the different food selections available, which include traditional Polish and regional dishes like sausage and pierogi, as well as local takes on the classics like burgers and pizza. Exploring around the back streets can give you a different experience, with lots of evergreen and deciduous trees, crystal clean creeks and a quieter pace.

Go skiing or just enjoy the snow

During the winter there is plenty of snow and it's easy to organise skiing and other winter activities whether you're beginners, intermediate or advanced. Warm up together afterwards over a traditional white borsch or a spiced hot wine. 

Hike the breathtaking landscape 

Hiking is best done after the snow melts from spring to autumn. There are plenty of hikes in the Tatras, but if you're basing yourself out of Zakopane, Morskie Oko tops most travellers to the region's lists.
Morskie Oko lake holds natural populations of fish and according to legend it connects to the ocean, lending to its nickname "the eye of the sea". The colour of the lake is said to change from season to season.

The start of the hike is roughly a 45 minute minibus ride from Zakopane, and 18km to hike to the top and back down again along a fully pathed trail. Even though it is relatively long, it's a good option for all fitness levels due to the flat path. This hike can be very popular, especially in summer when it can be downright crowded unless you leave early. You can continue to hike another 30 minutes past Morskie Oko lake up to Czarny Staw pod Rysami lake.

There are many other trails around that are more challenging and less touristy. You might consider staying in another town like Ždiar or Wisla for a more minimalist leg of the honeymoon to get away from the crowds and be together in nature.

Go up the cable car

For a less physical trip into the mountains, walk to the PKL cable car and go up to Gubalowka where you can enjoy a meal and a warm drink overlooking the Tatras and Zakopane.