Are you thinking of a relaxing afternoon? A cold beer in one hand and a beautiful mountain panorama before you. I have an idea – the most beautiful panorama in the Polish and Slovak Tatra Mountains, an unforgettable view of Giewont and the Zakopane valley, traditional inns, restaurants, ‘highland electric tea’ and mulled wine…
Giewont – Probably the best known mountain peak in Poland (6263 ft). Its shape resembles that of a sleeping knight, who awaits a sign to rise in order to defend his homeland (according to the legend). Giewont is located between Dolina Strążyska valley, Dolina Białego valley, Dolina Kondratowa valley and Dolina Małej Łąki valley. Contrary to its seemingly timid appearance, Giewont is regarded as one of the most dangerous peaks in the Tatra Mountains. It is topped by a 39-metre high iron cross which attracts lightning. It is also known for the wonderful view from the top, which includes the Western Tatra and High Tatra Mountains, Zakopane, Bukowina Tatrzańska, Biały Dunajec, Chochołów and other neighbouring towns and villages.
Are you in Zakopane? Are you ready?
Walk down Krupówki Street to the cable train station to Gubałówka hill (1120 m). The train leaves every 5 to 30 min. depending on demand. It is really fast – it only takes few minutes to go up.
Besides those inns and restaurants which have been mentioned already, (the further you go from the upper station the more interesting the offer and the more original the highland welcome) some time must be spent just enjoying the Tatra mountains panoram . So you are going to see Giewont. Then, to your right there are the peaks of Czerwone Wierchy and to your left Kasprowy Wierch (1987 m). A precise map of the mountain peaks, and viewing binoculars, can be found on the summit of Gubałówka.
After dinner or a pleasant afternoon stroll you can return by cable train or walk down through the woods which should take no more than 1 hour. An interesting alternative way down is to follow the trail crossing Gubałówka peak (go left along the road). After half-hour of easy walking you will reach Butorowy Wierch (1160 m) with its chair lift which will take you down over the trees in splendid silence. The views over the mountains are impressive.
Do następnego razu… (Till next time…)
