Short resume of The Guardian and Financial Times on Zakopane and Krakow by John Gimlette

Trip report to Poland and Tatra mountains in Zakopane and Krakow by John Gimlette, the Guardian October 2013 and the Financial Times December 2013

 

If you wish to read the complete articles from the Guardian and the Financial Times, written by John Gimlette, please follow the links below:

http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/oct/04/poland-family-friendly-skiing-krakow-holidays

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/5b917bd4-5dad-11e3-95bd-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2nR3sXg8Y

Journalist John Gimlette travelled to Poland in April 2013, sponsored by Baltic Travel Company to explore Krakow, the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane and actually managed to live among the bears . This area of Poland is known for surprising its visitors. It is very picturesque with sleighrides, monasteries, large wooden houses, cupolas and lots of snow, and the Tatra Mountains as the backdrop, where you can hear the wolves howling. Luckily the bears hibernate till spring-time so you should be safe.

 

Mr Gimlette expresses he is very happy to return to Krakow and Zakopane, with his family. The trip is affordable compared to many other skitrips in the Alps and it is different from other traditional ski locations. The food is also relatively speaking cheap and you have a lot of choice for adults and children. Skiing was a challenge as the family are at 3 different levels of ski ability but Zakopane managed to cope with all 3 levels and all had an enjoyable time on the slopes. Prices are also very good, a daily ski-pass is £12; skis and boots £5 a day to rent ; lessons £15 per hour.

 

Zakopane is a very charming area and has a romantic feel to it with it’s log cabins and houses. Zakopane also has smart bars and ski shops while at the same time it is being a bit old fashioned and lovely. You sense the proximity to Austria with Tyrolean hats being worn by especially the older gentlemen.

Following Zakopane the Gimlette family went to Krakow which also had a lovely atmosphere, many places with open fires and hearty meals to satisfy the appetite. They also visited the castle, the Wawel which brings you right into the mode of Narnia and the fairytale atmosphere.

 

On a more serious note Mr Gimlette and family also visited Auschwitz, which in itself is tough, especially for the 8 year old daughter. It was interesting but an experience no one hope shall ever get repeated. The family also visited a salt mine, which is very common in Poland, that has a huge production from these mines.

 

 

Poland is certainly a place the Gimlette’s will return to, why don’t you see for yourself? Check some options on https://www.baltictravelcompany.com/poland-holidays or simply contact us for a tailor-made itinerary.