Top 10 Scenic Spots in Zakopane With The Best View

When visiting Zakopane, not everyone wants to challenge themselves with competitive mountain hikes. The capital of the Tatra Mountains has a lot to offer. It has a vibrant nightlife, delicious local cuisine, and fascinating historical landmarks such as the Zakopane Villas. For those who crave breathtaking views without committing to lengthy mountain hikes, I’ve compiled a list of the top scenic spots in Zakopane.

You may also want to read about most popular sites near Krupówki in Zakopane. Steel Figures Museum is definitely worth seeing. Read more here: Discovering the Best Sites of Krupówki: Zakopane’s Old Town

1. Gubałówka

One of the most popular „terraces” in Zakopane, Gubałówka is a major tourist attraction. It can be reached by cable car or on foot, and the ascent takes only a few minutes. Once at the top, you’ll find a large viewing platform offering a breathtaking panorama of the Tatra Mountains, including Giewont (please read the legend about this mountains), and a bird’s-eye view of Zakopane.

Around Gubałówka you’ll find souvenir stalls, local delicacies, bars, restaurants, a shooting range and a toboggan run. During the summer, the area hosts numerous concerts and festivals, and you can relax on the deck chairs provided. For a quieter experience, I recommend following the blue trail to explore the lesser known side of Gubałówka.

↳ 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

2. Antałówka

Click Play And Take a look at the stunning view from Antałówka

Tucked away from the typical tourist spots and bustling crowds, Antałówka is best accessed by heading to the AquaPark at the base of the hill. Then head north and walk around it. This small, spruce-covered hill offers a limited view of Zakopane.

However, it’s worth a visit to admire the beautiful view of the Tatras, including the Bielskie, High and Western Tatras. On a clear day, you can also see Gubałówka and the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch. Antałówka is open to the public, so bring a blanket and a picnic lunch.

3. Sarnia Skała (Deer Rock)

A slightly longer drive from Krupówki, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach Sarnia Skała. From Zakopane, follow the forest trail and consider taking the yellow trail that connects to the Pod Reglami trail.

This route crosses the Western Tatras from Kalatówki to the Chochołowska Valley and is ideal for leisurely hikers rather than mountaineers. The trail leads to the Red Pass and from there it’s a 10-minute climb to the summit of Sarnia Skała. Here you can see Giewont, Kozi Wierch, Kominiarski Wierch in the Western Tatras and Koscielec in the High Tatras.

Absorb More of Tatras and Zakopane

You can explore more with local people who are willing to present you all the hidden gems.
Check available options here.

If you want to absorb the local culture and history while treading these paths, I’ve got you covered. As you explore, the knowledgeable guide may provide entertaining and interesting facts about the area. It’s learning and adventure all wrapped into one. You can choose from walking tours, traditional food tours, even from high mountain expeditions.

↳ Check prices of the best local Zakopane attractions by clicking here!

4. Pass over Łapszanka

The Łapszanka Pass is probably one of the most beautiful lookout points in the Tatra Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the High Tatras and the Belianske Tatras. But the pass itself is more than just a lookout point. A walk through this area guarantees an intimate encounter with the beauty of nature. The pass is easily accessible by car.

5. Czarna Góra (Black Mountain)

On the way to Bukowina Tatrzańska a stop at Czarna Góra is a must. No list of Tatra lookout points would be complete without mentioning Czarna Góra, which is marked by a distinctive metal cross visible from afar. From the viewpoint you can admire the panorama of the Tatra Mountains and numerous peaks of the Pieniny and Gorce.

6. Czorsztyn

For those who want more than just a view of Zakopane, head to Pieniny. Czorsztyn offers a unique viewpoint with diverse and fascinating landscapes. In addition to the Tatra Mountains, this town also boasts two historic buildings: the castle in Niedzica and the castle in Czorsztyn.

7. The Road to Gubałówka

You don’t have to venture far from the city to find incredible views of the Tatra Mountains. The road to Gubałówka, located in the heart of the capital of the Tatra Mountains, offers breathtaking views of Zakopane and the High Tatras.

Located near the Furmanowa train station, there’s also a nearby parking lot for your convenience. In addition to the Tatra Mountains panorama, you can also enjoy the view of Zakopane from this place.

8. Polana Głodówka

This clearing is located on the route from Bukowina Tatrzańska to Morskie Oko, which makes it easy to include in your Tatra Mountains itinerary. Polana Głodówka is considered by many to be one of the best lookout points and offers the opportunity to admire numerous Tatra peaks.

9. Szymkówka Inn in Brzegi

While the views from the parking area may not be overly impressive, it’s worth leaving your car at the top and descending the wooden stairs to the Karczma Widokowa. From its terraces, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas spanning from Kasprowy Wierch to the Slovak High Tatras. In the summertime, you can witness grazing herds of sheep on the expansive clearing.

10. Butorowy Wierch

Reaching the summit is possible via a lift, which offers some of the most stunning views (unfortunately, it’s closed during the off-season). Alternatively, you can take a walk from the bustling Gubałówka or drive to the top from the vicinity of Kościelisko. The latter option is particularly appealing after the peak season. I encourage you to step out of your vehicle and stroll towards the lift, as the Tatra Mountains reveal their true beauty from this perspective.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Tatra Viewpoints?

The views in Zakopane and other Tatra towns change throughout the year. When are the best views of Zakopane and the Tatras available? Undoubtedly, the view is usually better in summer when it doesn’t snow. However, even in winter, clear days without precipitation can reveal impressive views of the Tatras. There is a complete article on when it is best to visit tatra mountains.

In addition, during the frosty season, the lower peaks and glades are covered with snow, creating an enchanting sight for many. In the end, it’s difficult to determine the best time to visit a viewpoint. The views are spectacular year-round, and personal preference ultimately determines the most appealing sights.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of picturesque spots around Zakopane. Sometimes all it takes is a drive down to the bay or exploring side roads and paths to discover the breathtaking panorama of the Tatra Mountains. I always appreciate the view from the upstairs bedroom in Willa Pitoniówka in Kościelisko (check pictures and prices here), where I stay during our visits to the Tatra Mountains.

Nevertheless, I’ve put together a list of places worth visiting while exploring the Tatra Mountains. Of course, a car trip to the most beautiful viewpoints can’t replace the satisfaction of conquering mountain trails, but it offers a pleasant change for family trips to the Tatra Mountains. This option is especially attractive when adult hikers are hungry for more after a strenuous trip, while the legs of the youngest members of the team need a well-deserved rest.

References

  • https://zbierajsie.pl/punkty-widokowe-na-tatry-do-ktorych-dojedziesz-samochodem/
  • https://www.nocowanie.pl/punkty_widokowe/zakopane/

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