Podhale is a unique region in Poland, where many farms still breed horses. It’s common to see locals riding horses or using horse-drawn carriages in the area. If you are visiting Zakopane or nearby towns, you should definitely try one of these rides.
Horseback riding, horse-drawn carriage rides, and winter sleigh rides can bring joy to both children and adults vacationing in Zakopane. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to know where to find these delightful attractions.
The Magic Of Winter Sleigh Rides
When the weather permits, highlanders replace carts with sleighs, which are easier for horses to pull on slippery snow. In winter, you can find large sleighs on the road to Morskie Oko and at the entrances to the Tatra valleys, where there is always plenty of snow.
Experience Sleigh Rides and Carriage Rides with Viventure Company
Viventure offers a truly unique experience for visitors seeking winter sleigh rides and summer carriage rides in various locations such as Zakopane, the Chochołowska Valley, Obidowa and many other places in Podhale. If you’re planning a trip to Zakopane with friends, a conference, a company meeting or any other type of gathering, it’s worth considering adding some exciting activities to your itinerary. Viventure is happy to organize these experiences for you, with a special recommendation for traditional highlander sleigh rides in picturesque locations.
↳ Make sure to check out my guide to ALL attractions in Zakopane, so you don't overlook anything interesting: 66 Best Attractions in Zakopane 2023 – What to Do – Interesting Places
What Viventure Offers for Sleigh Rides and Carriage Rides
Viventure offers the following services as part of its sleigh ride arrangements
- Transfer from your hotel in Zakopane to the sleigh ride location
- Sleighs or horse-drawn carriages waiting for your group upon arrival
- Optional baskets of delicacies and highland drinks during the ride
- Sleigh rides lasting 1-3 hours, depending on the route and options chosen
- Return to the starting point or end the ride at an inn for a local feast
- Optional continuation of the event around a campfire or at an inn/restaurant
- Live local music, highland bands, storytellers or DJ entertainment
- Transfer back to your hotel after the event
Viventure also organizes daytime sleigh rides that can be combined with a tour of Zakopane and the surrounding area. During these trips, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Chochołów, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stop at a shepherd’s hut to witness the traditional production of Oscypek cheese. This local specialty is protected by the EU as a regional product.
Contact Viventure for a Customized Experience
To ensure a customized experience, Viventure approaches each request individually. They are happy to create a personalized offer based on your needs.
For more information, please contact Viventure using the information below:
- Phone: +48184781436
- E-mail: [email protected]
- Messenger: m.me/viventure1
Other Activities with Horses in Zakopane
Here are some other types of horseback riding you can do in Zakopane.
Experience the Thrill of Horseback Riding
I have to admit, there’s nothing quite like the fun and adrenaline rush that comes with riding a horse. You can find riding schools in places like Kościelisko, Bukowina Tatrzańska and Czarny Dunajec. If you’re feeling adventurous, try horseback riding at the top of Gubałówka. Don’t worry about your skills, as a highlander will accompany the horse to make sure it stays calm.
You may also read this article: Experience a Unique Adventure with Horse Riding in Zakopane
Relax With Scenic Carriage Rides
For a more leisurely experience, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride. Head to Krupówki, where you’ll find one of the largest horse-drawn carriage stops at the bottom of the promenade. During the ride, listen to the driver’s stories about the history of the region and the Tatra Mountains. You can also find horse-drawn carriages on the road to Kuźnice, Gubałówka, and at the entrances to the Kościeliska and Chochołowska valleys.
Experience The Charm Of Summer Sleigh Rides And Carriage Rides In Zakopane
The ride starts from the famous Krupówki Street and leads to Bachledzki Wierch. Once there, you’ll board the prepared vehicles and slowly descend the road, accompanied by highlander music and a warm cup of tea. With breathtaking views and a cozy atmosphere, it’s an experience like no other.
The whole trip takes about an hour and takes in some of the most stunning views of Zakopane. Upon arrival, participants can enjoy various activities, from barbecues to exploring a traditional hut. At the hut, a highland feast awaits, complete with lively music, regional dishes and incredible views.
Embark on a Fascine Ride Adventure
Fascine rides are large carts with passengers sitting on either side, usually pulled by two horses. They are often found on the road to Morskie Oko. From the parking lot in Włosienica you can use the horse transport. Some accommodation facilities, such as the Tatrza House Pension in Zakopane, also offer fascinating rides in the summer. As the owner, Kinga Batkiewicz Pietrzak, says, these rides bring guests closer to highland folklore through interior design, bonfires and highland band performances.
Prices for Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides in Zakopane
Here’s a summary of the cost of various carriage and sleigh rides in Zakopane, Krakow and Morskie Oko. Please note that these are average costs based on many offers in the Internet.
Carriage ride in Zakopane:.
- Coach ride (about 8 people) – 140 PLN/hour
- Carriage ride (3-4 people) – PLN 120/hour
Carriage ride in Krakow:.
- Prices range from PLN 100 to PLN 300 depending on the length of the ride (20 to 40 minutes).
Sleigh ride in Zakopane:.
- Sleigh ride with torches (about 1 hour) – PLN 30 per person
Carriage ride (Faśie) to Morskie Oko:.
- One way from the parking lot in Palenica in the summer season – PLN 50 (uphill), PLN 30 (downhill)
Animal Safety During Sleigh Rides
It’s natural to be concerned about horses pulling carriages during sleigh rides. Please be assured that the organizers of the sleigh rides prioritize the welfare of these animals, providing them with proper working and resting conditions. All horses are healthy and receive regular veterinary care. It’s important to support attractions that respect animal rights and treat their horses with the utmost care. In the tradition of Zakopane, horses have always been faithful companions of the highlanders and they deserve our gratitude and respect.
You may also like this one: Dog Sledding Adventures in Zakopane: A Must-Do Winter Activity
References
- https://viventure.pl/kuligi-przejazdzki-dorozkami-zakopane-i-okolice/
- https://autocode.pl/ile-kosztuje-przejazd-dorozka-w-zakopanem/
