One of the most exciting parts of our visit to Zakopane was when we took the cable car up to Gubałówka Mountain. Once we reached the top, we didn’t just stop at the central lookout point, but rather set off on a strenuous 10-kilometer hike along the ridge before returning to the city. Along the way, we had a stunning panorama of the Tatra Mountains, and the walk in the fresh mountain air really recharged us.
Gubałówka is the most popular hiking destination in the immediate vicinity of Zakopane, with its ridge running parallel to the Tatra Mountains. At 1,126 meters, the peak is not one of the highest, but due to its location, it offers the most beautiful view of the city and the surrounding rocky peaks. A modern funicular, built in 1938 and completely renovated since then, takes passengers to the top, which overcomes the difference in level in just a few minutes.
The promenade built on the mountaintop offers visitors plenty of opportunities both in winter and summer. Along the path along the ridge, there are many traditional wooden houses, bazaars and taverns where you can taste local cheeses and drinks. Those who leave the central, more crowded part can continue hiking through quiet pine forests and sloping fields towards the neighboring villages. The area is excellent for family walks, as most of the paths are well-paved and relatively flat along the ridge.
Gubałówka is an important center not only for hikers, but also for sports enthusiasts. In winter, ski slopes and toboggan runs operate on its slopes, while in summer an adventure park and a bobsleigh track await those seeking active recreation. In the evenings, the mountainside offers a special sight, when the city lights light up in the valley and the outlines of Giewont are visible in the distance. The popularity of the place is increased by the fact that the lower station of the funicular is located right at the end of the famous market, so it is easily accessible to anyone.
Luckily, we went up to the ridge early, so we hardly had to wait, and therefore we started back relatively early. When we got down, we saw how lucky we were, because below there were thousands of people waiting in a queue of several hundred meters to get to Gubalówka.
