Kraków: Zakopane Horse ride & Thermal Baths Day Trip

Exploring Poland’s breathtaking mountain landscapes doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. This full-day tour from Kraków offers a well-rounded taste of the Tatra region—think horse riding, traditional cheese tasting, and relaxing thermal baths—all packed into about 11 hours. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to see authentic village life and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances adventure, culture, and relaxation. Plus, the small-group setting means you’re likely to get more personalized insights and a cozy atmosphere. That said, it’s not ideal if you’re pregnant or have back problems, given the physical activities involved. Still, if you’re after a genuine taste of the Polish highlands with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic horseback riding with views of the Tatra Mountains—no experience required
• Visit to Chochołów, a village famous for its traditional wooden houses
• Taste authentic oscypek cheese directly from a shepherd’s hut
• Relax at Chochołowskie Thermal Baths with mountain vistas and spa facilities
• Small group size (max 8 people) for a more intimate experience
• Includes hotel pickup, making logistics simple and stress-free

Discovering Chochołów Village and Highlander Artisans

The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your Kraków accommodation. We found this to be a big plus—no need to worry about transportation logistics—we’re off to explore the UNESCO-listed wooden village of Chochołów. Picture centuries-old wooden houses with intricate carvings, all still inhabited and lovingly maintained. Walking through this living museum makes you feel like stepping back in time.

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to a local highlander sculptor’s home. We loved the chance to see firsthand how traditional wooden sculptures are carved and to learn about the craftsmanship. A reviewer mentioned that meeting the artist provided a “genuine insight into mountain life,” which adds a meaningful touch to the experience. It’s clear that these artisans actively preserve their cultural heritage, and their stories bring extra warmth to the visit.

Scenic Horseback Ride in the Tatra Mountains

After soaking in Chochołów’s charm, it’s time for some adventure—a horseback ride along mountain trails. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden before; the tour includes a short lesson, making it accessible for all skill levels. The horses are calm and well cared for, and guides are attentive, ensuring your safety and enjoyment.

What makes this stage special are the stunning views of the Tatra Mountains that unfold as you ride. We found ourselves stopping often just to take in the scenery—the rolling hills, rugged peaks, and lush valleys. One reviewer praised the “breathtaking vistas,” emphasizing how the natural landscape makes the ride memorable even for casual riders.

If winter conditions apply, snowy days transform the ride into a magical sleigh experience, with the sounds of crunching snow and glistening mountain views adding a fairy-tale touch. This flexibility makes the tour suitable year-round.

Tasting Oscypek Cheese and Local Delights

Next, you’ll visit a shepherd’s hut (bacówka), where fresh oscypek cheese is made right before your eyes. The process involves smoking salted sheep’s milk cheese over open flames—a tradition dating back centuries. Many reviewers mention how authentic and tasty this cheese is, often describing the flavor as smoky and slightly salty.

The tasting experience is informal but informative, with the shepherd sharing stories about mountain life. One traveler wrote, “It’s a true taste of the region—simple yet delicious,” highlighting how this adds a genuine flavor to the trip. You’ll also have the chance to sample other local products, making it a feast for both the eyes and palate.

Free Time in Zakopane and Krupówki Street

After the tastings, free time in Zakopane allows you to explore at your own pace. The town’s Krupówki Street is lively, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Whether you want to hunt for souvenirs, grab a slice of traditional oscypek pie, or just soak in the mountain-town vibe, there’s plenty to do.

A tip from recent reviews: it’s worth taking a stroll up and down the street, and if you’re into photography, the mountain backdrop makes for fantastic photos. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, perfect for a leisurely lunch or some souvenir shopping.

Relaxing at Chochołowskie Thermal Baths

The grand finale is a visit to the largest thermal spa in the region, offering indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and mountain views. This is where you can unwind after a full day of activities. The thermal waters are said to have therapeutic properties, and many visitors appreciated the chance to soak in warm pools surrounded by stunning scenery—ideal for relaxing tired muscles.

A reviewer praised the variety of pools and saunas, noting that the outdoor pools in particular provide a breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped peaks in winter or lush greenery in summer. It’s a perfect way to cap off the day, especially if you’re feeling a bit sore after the horseback ride.

What to Know Before Booking

Transportation & Timing: The entire trip lasts about 11 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures you’re not lost in a sea of travelers, and guides are fluent in English, providing interesting commentary throughout.

Cost & Value: At $161 per person, the price includes multiple experiences—village visit, sculpture demonstration, cheese tasting, thermal baths, and transportation. The only extra costs are for horse rental (250 PLN), which many find worth the investment for the added thrill of riding the Tatra trails.

What to Bring: Comfort is key—wear sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring swimwear for the baths. A camera is a must for capturing those mountain vistas, and a bottle of water keeps you hydrated during the day.

Seasonal Variations: In winter, the horse ride switches to a sleigh ride, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. This change is handled smoothly, and reviews confirm the experience remains magical.

Possible Drawbacks & Considerations

While the tour is thoughtfully curated, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the physical activity involved. Some travelers mentioned that the horse rental fee is separate, so budget accordingly. The pace can be a bit tight, especially if you want to linger at certain spots, but overall, most found the schedule well-balanced.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are keen to explore authentic mountain culture. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and relaxation, all within a manageable day trip. If you’re not a fan of riding horses or have mobility concerns, you might prefer other types of excursions.

People looking for photo-worthy landscapes will love the views, and those curious about traditional Polish crafts and foods will appreciate the cheese tasting and artisan visits. It’s a balanced adventure—neither overly strenuous nor too tame—perfect for active, curious travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Zakopane day trip from Kraków offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Tatra Mountains’ natural beauty and cultural richness. You’ll enjoy scenic horseback riding, authentic cheese tasting, and relaxing thermal baths, all in a small-group setting that fosters a more personal experience. The highlights—stunning mountain vistas and the chance to see local artisans—make it stand out.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, the range of included experiences and the convenience of door-to-door pickup make it quite good value. It’s best suited for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone eager to enjoy Poland’s mountain charm in a full-day adventure.

If you’re after a mix of activity, authenticity, and relaxation, this trip hits the mark. Just pack your camera, sturdy shoes, and an appetite for mountain scenery—and you’re set for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off within Kraków, making it easy to join without worrying about transportation.

How long does the trip last? The entire experience takes about 11 hours, offering a full day of sightseeing and activities.

Do I need horseback riding experience? Not at all. The ride starts with a short lesson, suitable for beginners and those with no prior experience.

What is the cost of horse rental? The horse rental costs 250 Polish Zloty per person, paid separately at the stud farm.

Can I visit the thermal baths if I don’t want to ride? Yes, the thermal baths are open to all guests with access included in the tour; you don’t have to participate in horseback riding if you prefer.

Is there a dress code for the thermal baths? Bring swimwear and wear weather-appropriate clothing for the day. The baths have indoor and outdoor pools, so dress accordingly.

What if the weather is snowy? In winter, snow transforms the landscape, and the horseback ride is replaced by a sleigh ride—a beautifully enchanted experience.

How many people are in the group? The tour is limited to a small group of up to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but there’s ample opportunity to buy snacks or lunch in Zakopane.

Is this tour suitable for children? It can be, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with horse riding. Always check with the provider if traveling with young children.

This detailed review hopes to help you decide whether this Zakopane day trip matches your travel style—combining scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and a touch of adventure.