Tatra Mountains Short Break

Tatra Mountains Short Break

2 Views
6 Days From

$791

Tatra Mountains Short Break

6 Days Starting and ending in Kraków, Poland

Visiting: Kraków, Zakopane, Tatra National Park, Valley of the Five Lakes

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

993

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 8

Physical rating:

Moderate

Tour operated in:

English
From: $791

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Poland with the Tatra Mountains Short Break. Begin your adventure in the historic city of Kraków, exploring its UNESCO-listed Old Town and Jewish Quarter. Travel to Zakopane, a charming resort town nestled in the Tatra Mountains, and hike to the summit of Mount Nosal for breathtaking views. Continue your exploration with a full day hike to Mount Kopa Kondracka, savoring traditional Highlander delicacies along the way. Discover the stunning Valley of the Five Lakes, with its crystal-clear waters and scenic trails. Conclude your trip back in Kraków, with time to immerse yourself in the city's rich culture before departure.

Highlights

  • Explore the UNESCO Old Town of Kraków, home to the biggest medieval Market Square and the streets of the Jewish Quarter.

  • Visit Zakopane, a popular resort town in the foothills of the Tatra Mountains.

  • Climb Mount Nosal (1,206m) for expansive views of the Tatra Mountains.

  • Hike to Mount Kopa Kondracka (2,005m) in Tatra National Park and try traditional Highlander’s oscypek (smoked cheese) or szarlotka (apple pie).

  • Walk to the Valley of the Five Lakes (Gasienicowe Lakes Valley) and enjoy the crystal clear lakes of different shapes and colours.

  • Take in the view of Zadni Lake by hiking towards Mount Swinica, one of the highest peaks in Poland at 2,300m.

  • Enjoy free time in Kraków to explore the city or visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum or Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival In Kraków

Location: Kraków

Accommodation Name: Hotel Kazimierz or similar in Kraków

Arrival and accommodation in a hotel in Kraków. Depending on arrival time, explore the UNESCO Old Town, home to the biggest medieval Market Square and the streets of the Jewish Quarter.

Day 2 : Zakopane And Mount Nosal (1,206M) 11Km

Location: Zakopane

Accommodation Name: Czarny Potok Spa Hotel or similar

Two hour transfer to Zakopane, a popular resort town in the foothills of the Tatra Mountains. After leaving your luggage in the hotel, begin the first walk to the top of Mount Nosal (1,206m). Despite its rocky ledge with steep cliffs, Nosal is one of the most accessible peaks to climb in the Tatra Mountains, offering expansive views of the range and also a cable car to Kasprowy Wierch and Zakopane.

Walking for the day: 3-4h, 11km, ?363m

Day 3 : Mount Kopa Kondracka (2,005M) 19.5Km

Location: Tatra National Park

Accommodation Name: Czarny Potok Spa Hotel or similar

A full day of hiking in Tatra National Park to Kopa Kondracka (2,005m), straight from your hotel. You can stop in one of the mountain huts on the way to try traditional Highlander’s oscypek (smoked cheese) or szarlotka (apple pie).

Walking for the day: 6-7h, 19.5km, 6-7h, ?1,131m

Day 4 : Valley Of The Five Lakes 25Km

Location: Valley of the Five Lakes

Accommodation Name: Czarny Potok Spa Hotel or similar

Walk to the Valley of the Five Lakes (Gasienicowe Lakes Valley), straight from your hotel. The first four lakes Wielki, Maly, Przedni and Czarny are visible by walking around the mountain hut. The last one, Zadni Lake, requires a longer hike on the trail towards Mount Swinica, one of the highest peaks in Poland at 2,300m. Take in the view of the crystal clear lakes of different shapes and colours. A shorter walking option is available.

Walking for the day: 7-8h, 25km ?1,548m ?1,549m

Day 5 : Kraków

Location: Kraków

Accommodation Name: Hotel Kazimierz or similar in Kraków

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you are transferred back to Kraków, with plenty of time to enjoy the city in the afternoon.

Day 6 : Departure

Location: Kraków

Return home or extend your stay to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum or Wieliczka Salt Mine.

What's Included

  • Accommodation in Kraków

    Accommodation in a hotel in Kraków, such as Hotel Kazimierz or similar.

  • Accommodation in Zakopane

    Accommodation in Czarny Potok Spa Hotel or similar in Zakopane.

  • Transfers

    Transfer from Kraków to Zakopane and back to Kraków.

  • Guided Hikes

    Guided hikes to Mount Nosal, Mount Kopa Kondracka, and the Valley of the Five Lakes.

What's Not Included

  • Meals

    Meals are not included in the tour package.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum or Wieliczka Salt Mine are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy convenient transfers between Kraków and Zakopane, with additional local transfers to hiking starting points, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Accommodation

Stay in the charming Hotel Kazimierz in Kraków and the comfortable Czarny Potok Spa Hotel in Zakopane, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Polish hospitality.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities can I expect on the Tatra Mountains Short Break tour?

    The tour includes a variety of activities such as exploring the UNESCO Old Town in Kraków, hiking to the top of Mount Nosal, a full day of hiking in Tatra National Park to Kopa Kondracka, and walking to the Valley of the Five Lakes. You will also have the opportunity to try traditional Highlander’s oscypek (smoked cheese) or szarlotka (apple pie) in one of the mountain huts.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided in hotels such as Hotel Kazimierz or similar in Kraków and Czarny Potok Spa Hotel or similar in Zakopane.

  • Is there any free time to explore Kraków during the tour?

    Yes, you will have time to explore Kraków on the first day depending on your arrival time, and also on the fifth day after being transferred back from Zakopane.

  • What are the hiking distances and durations for each day?

    On Day 2, you will hike 11km, which takes about 3-4 hours. On Day 3, the hike to Kopa Kondracka is 19.5km and takes about 6-7 hours. On Day 4, the walk to the Valley of the Five Lakes is 25km and takes about 7-8 hours.

  • Are there any optional activities or extensions available after the tour?

    Yes, you can extend your stay to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum or Wieliczka Salt Mine after the tour ends.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Friday

Sep 22, 2024 - Sep 27, 2024
$791

Monday - Saturday

Sep 23, 2024 - Sep 28, 2024
$791

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 24, 2024 - Sep 29, 2024
$791

Wednesday - Monday

Sep 25, 2024 - Sep 30, 2024
$791

Thursday - Tuesday

Sep 26, 2024 - Oct 01, 2024
$791

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 27, 2024 - Oct 02, 2024
$791

Saturday - Thursday

Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 03, 2024
$791

Sunday - Friday

Sep 29, 2024 - Oct 04, 2024
$791

Monday - Saturday

Sep 30, 2024 - Oct 05, 2024
$791

Tuesday - Sunday

Oct 01, 2024 - Oct 06, 2024
$791

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.