5 Polish holidays for the active family

From world-class skiing in the winter to rafting down the Dunajec River in summer, Poland is the place to go for an adventure, whatever the time of year. So, for a family holiday that’ll keep every generation active and entertained, we’ve found the top-rated destinations in Poland.

Zakopane

Located at the base of the Tatras Mountains in southern Poland, Zakopane is a popular destination for in-the-know travellers, especially Polish families during the winter months. Do as the locals do and take to the slopes on skis or a snowboard – the runs here cater to a wide variety of experience levels. Active families can also ride a horse-and-sleigh through the Tatra National Park, catch a lift with a convoy of husky dogs or visit the resort’s ice skating rink and indoor aqua park. After a big day out, ski home to VILLA NOSAL, just 200 metres from the ski lift. Be sure to book your winter holiday to Zakopane well in advance as this village gets very busy during peak season.

Gdańsk

Gdańsk is a port city on the Baltic coast of Poland. At the centre of its historic main town, (reconstructed after WWII), you’ll find narrow houses with colourful facades lining cobbled streets like Long Market. Or explore the age-old harbour with a guided kayaking tour along the Motława River, paddling past The Crane, a 15th-century brick and timber structure that was once used as a cargo loader for vessels passing in from the Baltic. Come home to PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto.

Kraków

Located in the south of Poland, Kraków is one of the country’s oldest cities. With plenty of miraculously well-preserved medieval buildings, there’s much to explore here. For families that have kids with endless amounts of energy, it’s worth visiting the five constructed hill-like mounds that are peppered throughout the city – Krakus (King Krak), Wanda, Kościuszko, Piłsudski Mound and the John Paul II Mound. If you only have time to visit just one, Kościuszko is a must; the mound is protected by the Bronisława Chapel, with a serpentine path that leads you up towards the peak (roughly 326 metres above sea level). At the top, the family’s efforts will be rewarded by a panorama of Kraków, with the Vistula River flowing through it. After a day of climbing, rest at Hotel Unicus Palace.

Szczawnica

Despite traditionally being seen as a spa resort, Szczawnica has been growing in popularity for both skiing and summer hiking over the past two decades. During the winter months, visitors can expect an average depth of 16cm of powdery snow and abundant family-friendly slopes. In summertime, you can trek one of the many routes in the Pieniny Mountains National Park or raft along the Dunajec River. Whatever the season this is an ideal location for the active family. Stay at Hotel Batory, just 500 metres from the ski lifts.

Poznań

Mix urban scenery with an outdoors adventure by visiting one of the oldest zoological gardens in Poland, located within the city of Poznań. The Poznań natural zoo feels more like a park or a forest and is as family-friendly as they come. Spot all kinds of animals, ranging from miniature ponies and llamas to elephants and tigers. As a bonus, entrance is free, except to enter the domed reptile enclosure that houses species of bugs, snakes and lizards (for which there is a small charge). To keep your energy up and avoid tantrums on this thrilling expedition, we’d recommend bringing along several rogale marcińskies (St. Martin’s croissants), local pastries that are filled with white poppy seeds, walnuts or almonds. Get a good night’s sleep at the City Park Hotel & Residence, which is highly rated for families.