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<\/a><\/p>\nIf you are a dedicated hiker, then the Tatras are for you \u2013 with a few points to bear in mind. This is an alpine range, and therefore should be approached with respect and preparation. It is absolutely necessary to buy a map (the excellent ‘Tatra National Park’ map is in English and is widely available). It has all the paths marked and colour coded and it gives all possible relevant information in terms of estimated hiking time, altitude and places to stop and rest.<\/p>\n
If hurling yourself down the side of a mountain or trudging through the snow are really not your thing, then rest assured that Zakopane offers something for you too. Classical music lovers will appreciate that one of the greatest Polish composers \u2013 Karol Szymanowski – made his home in Zakopane, and his house is now a museum (called Willa Atma, it is located at the end of ul. Kasprusie). Another famous son of the town is Stanis\u0142aw Ignacy Witkiewicz, a Polish dramatist, poet, novelist, painter, photographer, art theorist and philosopher. Witkiewicz is also famous for his architecture and it was he who developed Zakopane’s distinctive architectural style of traditional wooden buildings, built low to the ground and with steep, dominant roofs. Check out the Church of St. Clement (on ul. Ko\u015bcieliska) for a classic example of his work and for its stained-glass beauty and rustic interior.<\/p>\n
There are those who prefer to enjoy a mountain view from a reclined position – firmly at the foot of the mountains and post-massage. Luckily, both snow bunnies and spa bunnies can find something to relax and refresh them in Podkarpackie. With numerous mineral water springs, the region has luxurious health reports and spas as well as first-rate medical centers. Especially recommended are the towns of Horyniec-Zdr\u00f3j, Iwonicz-Zdr\u00f3j, Pola\u0144czyk\u2013Zdr\u00f3j and Ryman\u00f3w\u2013Zdr\u00f3j (go to www.wrota.podkarpackie.pl and click on ‘tourism’ and then ‘spas’ for more information about each town). Depending on one’s needs, kids and one parent can be sent off to plunge down the hills, while the other parent heads off for a massage. Note that many of the resorts really do deal with very serious illness and chronic conditions, and not all offer ‘lighter’ beauty treatments, so do some homework before booking into a health spa.<\/p>\n
So whether you prefer an active winter holiday, outside in the snow, or a quiet time spent by the fire or getting a foot rub, the Podkarpackie region has something to satisfy everyone \u2013 regardless of age, skiing ability or need for pampered luxury.<\/p>\n
Do nast<\/strong>\u0119pnego razu… <\/strong>(Till next time…)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" When people in Europe are asked about Poland, traditional images of Communist-style factories and pollution often spring to mind. But Poland is a country which surprises many with its amazing natural beauty \u2013 and as the winter months approach, the country’s gorgeous mountain landscapes become a major attraction for skiiers and hikers, both foreigners and…<\/p>\n