A PERFECT WINTER HOLIDAY

The lifts are finally quiet, the busy slopes empty but the fun doesn’t stop in Zakopane. For here, in Poland’s winter capital, there are countless activities to enjoy.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides through the valley of a nearby national park are a firm family favourite. Flaming torches light the way, your horse is a gentle Polish giant; her driver, a gentleman clothed in traditional Highland attire. Afterwards, everyone gathers around the bonfire. Listening to live folk music whilst toasting sausages and bread.

Thrill-seekers will not want to miss out on the chance of racing through the snowy countryside on a sled pulled by a team of dogs. Who knows, you may even get to take control and drive the huskies yourself. If that’s still not fast enough,  there are ski doo safaris available. And, for the bravest of all, paragliding from the peaks of Bialka Tatrzanska.

Of course, nothing compares to ski jumping for all-round craziness. To experience a sport like no other, head to Wielka Krokiew and watch world class competitors in action. The stadium’s capacity is an astonishing 40,000 spectators. Whenever local hero Kamil Stoch is in town, these fans make quite a noise.

There are plenty of more sedate activities, too. Beauty treatments and massage therapies are available in the day spas hosted by many of Zakopane’s hotels. Polish prices being so affordable when compared to back home, there is no need to feel guilty about pampering oneself.

For a truly luxurious experience, yet at a price so cheap you won’t believe your eyes, try the warm thermal pools of nearby Gorocy Potok. After a great day on the slopes, nothing beats the feeling of relaxing in the naturally heated water.

A little further afield, day trips to regal Krakow, or the salt mines at Wielicza, ensure a unique winter holiday. Unrivalled in her beauty, a walk to Moskie Oko, the lake known as the ‘Eye of the Sea’, rewards those willing to stretch their legs.