Breathtaking Tatra landscapes, unique nature, and ever-improving ski infrastructure make the Tatra Mountains a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts. Let me explain to you that the ski arenas in the Tatras are developing rapidly, and many of them now rival Alpine resorts. The long-lasting snow cover and strong sunlight create the perfect climate for skiers.
If you want to experience skiing in the Tatra Mountains, you can do so on both the Slovak and Polish sides. I think it’s worth mentioning that one-fifth of the Tatra massif belongs to Poland, with the rest being in Slovakia. The Slovak side has more varied terrain, including massifs with significant heights, steep slopes, and deep valleys, which means the skiing potential there is greater.
You may also want to read: Skiing in Zakopane: Best Slopes for Stunning Scenery and Views
Polish vs. Slovak Ski Resorts
On the Polish side, there’s one realy high-mountain ski area – Kasprowy Wierch. In contrast, Slovakia boasts four: Tatranská Lomnica, Štrbské Pleso, Roháče, and Jasna in the Low Tatras. In my opinion the last one is the best. I will also tell you that these Slovak ski resorts offer infrastructure and conditions comparable to those in the Alps.
↳ Before you head to Tatra Park, I highly recommend reading my complete guide to Tatra Mountains. I showcase the most scenic places you won't want to miss. Make sure to check it out, so you don't overlook anything interesting: Tatra Mountains – An Insider’s Guide to All Attractions and Info
When it comes to accommodations, the options are diverse. The Polish side is dominated by holiday resorts, boarding houses, and private accommodation, while the Slovak side has more three-star hotels. I am convinced that skiers who prefer staying close to the lifts will appreciate the hotels near the slopes in Slovakia.
Top Tatra Ski Resorts to Check Out
Wondering which Tatra ski resorts are the most popular among tourists? Let’s find out the best places to ski in Slovakia and Poland.
Polish Tatra Mountains – Kasprowy Wierch – The Highest Peak
For experienced skiers seeking intense experiences, Kasprowy Wierch is the place to be. With two wide routes, including the longest downhill slope in Poland at 5.4 km, it offers plenty of thrills. The route starts at an altitude of 2000 m above sea level and is designed for advanced skiers only. At Kasprowy Wierch, you can enjoy a modern, four-seater chairlift in the Gąsienicowy bowl. Hotels, inns, and apartments are conveniently located near the lower cable car station.
If you chose to go to Kasprowy, you definitely need to read this article: Where to Stay When Skiing in Zakopane? Here are 10 Places
Kasprowy Ski Routes – Gąsienicowa and Goryczkowa
The popular name „Kasprowy Wierch” refers to two main ski routes: Gąsienicowa and Goryczkowa. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.
Gąsienicowa Route
Gąsienicowa leads from the top of Kasprowy Wierch in a northeastern direction to Kotło Gąsienicowy. Here, you’ll find a lower station of a 4-person lift with a capacity of 2,400 people per hour, which means no queues.
Marked as a black route, Gąsienicowa is slightly easier than Goryczkowa. It’s a little over 1,400 m long with a difference in levels of 352 m. Further on, the ski run leads through Hala Gąsienicowa, Karczmisko, over the Olczyska Valley, and ends at Kuźnice. The ski slope was closed for skiing (so check availability), and the trail can be used in both directions by ski tourers. In total, the route from Kasprowy Wierch is almost 10 km long with a 930 m difference in levels.
Goryczkowa Route
Located on the northwestern slopes of Kasprowy Wierch, Goryczkowa runs to Kotło Goryczkowy. At the bottom of the Goryczkowa Valley above Zakosy, the route splits into two variants: eastern and western.
The main route is almost 2,000 m long with a 602 m difference in levels. The entire route, including the ski slope running to Kuźnice, covers over 5 km of descent and a 930 m difference in height. If you’re lucky with snow conditions, you can even reach the center of Zakopane.
Now that you’re familiar with the two ski routes at Kasprowy Wierch, you can decide which one suits your skiing preferences and skill level.
Skiing in Slovakia – Jasna Resort (Chopok) in the Low Tatras
Standing 37 meters higher than Kasprowy Wierch (2024 m above sea level), Chopok boasts an extensive skiing infrastructure. JASNÁ LOW TATRY, its formal name, is the largest winter sports center in Slovakia.
Located in the picturesque Demänovská Valley, it offers over 45 km of slopes, with the winter season lasting approximately from early December to late April. With 27 km of artificially snowed slopes, Chopok is less susceptible to weather changes than Kasprowy Wierch. There are a total of 30 lifts on the northern and southern slopes, capable of transporting nearly 33,000 people per hour.
Ski lift Directly from the Parking Lot
Since the 2013/14 season, a 6-seater chairlift in the Lucky area has been available to transport skiers directly from the free parking lot for 350 cars to the Turisticka downhill run No. 5 (Tourist). The blue Turisticka downhill run has been extended to the bottom station of the new chairlift in Lucky, and a new blue downhill run has been created. If you manage to park here, you won’t have to change buses. To reach Zahradki, simply take the cable car and go down to Zahradki, from where you can get another 6-seater chairlift to the upper parts of the resort.
Polish Tatra Mountains – Kotelnica Białczańska in Białka Tatrzańska
Kotelnica Białczańska in Białka Tatrzańska is an ideal destination for families with children and those new to skiing or snowboarding. Of the 14 km of trails, almost 3 km are beginner-friendly (green and blue). Experienced skiers won’t be bored either, with two exciting routes available at Kotlenica Białczańska and Jankulakowski Wierch. Accommodations in Białka Tatrzańska consist mainly of private apartments, lodgings, and guesthouses.
The resort features five ski lifts, catering to skiers and snowboarders with different skill levels:
- 6-person cable car: This new cable car is 1,350 m long with a 200 m elevation difference, a lift capacity of approximately 3,000 people per hour, and a travel time of 4.5 minutes.
- 3-person cable car: This cable car is 1,380 m long with a 210 m elevation difference, a lift capacity of approximately 1,200 people per hour, and a travel speed of around 2 m/s.
- 4-person cableway: This cableway is 800 m long with a 170 m elevation difference, a lift capacity of approximately 2,000 people per hour, and a travel speed of around 2.5 m/s.
- 2 T-bar ski lifts: Each of these lifts is 690 m long with a 155 m elevation difference, a combined capacity of 2,000 people per hour, and a travel speed of around 3.2 m/s.
There are four ski routes available at the resort:
- Route 1: This route runs along and under the cableway, covering a length of 1,400 m.
- Routes 2, 3, and 4: These three routes lead to the T-bar lifts. The first route next to the lifts is difficult and FIS approved, while the other two are gentle and suitable for beginners.
- Ski slope: This slope leads to the „Bania” ski resort, providing an additional skiing option for visitors.
At this resort, the slopes have been designed to accommodate skiers and snowboarders with varying skill levels. There are eight routes to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult, with FIS homologation for those seeking a challenge.
Cross-country skiers will also find a warm welcome at Kotelnica Białczańska. Four loops, ranging in length from 1,250 to 4,380 meters, have been specially prepared for them. And the best part? These routes are illuminated and snow-covered.
In addition to fantastic lifts and slopes, Kotelnica Białczańska offers a variety of amenities for a hassle-free skiing experience. You’ll find free parking lots with spaces for up to two thousand cars, inns, ski equipment rentals, and servicing. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, there’s even a driving school in Kotelnica, and TOPR rescuers are on standby to ensure your safety on the slopes.
Relaxing in Thermal Pools After Skiing
Another great advantage of the Tatras is the opportunity to unwind in thermal pools after a day on the slopes. On the Slovak side, you’ll find four large thermal complexes: Aquacity in Poprad, Tatralandia near Liptovsky Mikulas, Thermal Park in Bešeňová, and Meander Park in Oravice. If you need some relaxation in Poland, I recommend visiting the thermal baths in Bukowina Tatrzańska or reading this article about Thermal Pools near Zakopane: Discover the Healing Powers of Hot Springs in Zakopane, Poland
References:
- https://www.narty.pl/malopolskie/bialka-tatrzanska/kotelnica-bialczanska
- https://www.polisanarciarska.pl/poradniki/kasprowy-wierch-narty-sprawdzamy-czy-warto
