Zakopane

Zakopane, a town in southern Poland, sits at the foot of the impressive Tatra Mountains. It's known as Poland's winter capital and has been a popular resort for over 100 years. The town combines beautiful mountain landscapes with unique local architecture and traditions.

The wooden houses and buildings here follow the 'Zakopane Style,' created by Stanisław Witkiewicz in the late 19th century. This distinctive architectural approach blends local Góral (highlander) traditions with Art Nouveau elements, giving the town its special character.

In winter, Zakopane becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding with several slopes suitable for different skill levels. During summer, it transforms into a base for hiking in the Tatra National Park, with trails leading to stunning mountain lakes and peaks.

The main street, Krupówki, is always buzzing with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Here you can try oscypek (smoked sheep cheese) – a local delicacy that's been made the same way for centuries. The Góral culture is also evident in the town's folk music, colorful traditional costumes, and lively festivals.

The area around Zakopane has been inhabited since the 17th century, initially by shepherds and woodcutters. Today, it balances preserving these mountain traditions with catering to the millions of tourists who visit each year. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or a taste of Polish highland culture, Zakopane offers a distinctive mountain experience.