Does anyone even expect Zakopane to be slow? Turns out, there’s life beyond Krupówki and those over-trodden tourist trails. We’ve tracked down some truly unique places to stay – run by hosts who know the other, quieter side of Zakopane. One filled with local flavours and real emotions. If you’re into places that respect history and heritage, and you’re not one to follow the crowds – these spots in Zakopane are definitely worth a stop.
We know this house and its hosts like the back of our hand. So we can tell you what really matters here. From the outside, it looks like a typical house in the centre of Zakopane – and that’s exactly where it is. But step inside and boom, it’s like entering Narnia. Suddenly, you feel like you’ve escaped somewhere far away. There’s a lovely veranda, a big garden with views of Kasprowy and Giewont. And as Staszek, the host, told us: “What I love most? Ski touring in the morning and ending the ride right in my own garden.” Just 20 minutes on foot from Kuźnice (the lower station of the Kasprowy cable car) and the best local restaurant around.
'A beautiful and thoughtfully designed space where every detail is spot-on. The house is super spacious and functional, filled with high-quality and stylish furniture, all in a consistent vibe. Everything’s clean and well taken care of – fresh towels, top-quality bedding, even firewood stacked and ready to go. We felt completely at home. The hosts? Super friendly and easy to talk to. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED – best spot in Zakopane!'.
The host, Szymon, is a Zakopane local, born and raised. A mountain and nature lover through and through. When he came across an old Zakopane villa from the late 19th century (around 1886), he knew it was the perfect place for guests to “slow down, find balance and a bit of inspiration.” Today, it houses 8 cosy apartments, tucked away on a quiet side street – just 5 minutes from Krupówki. So if balance and inspiration get boring (not that we think they will), you can join the crowds. But… we wouldn’t recommend it.You’re also just a 5-minute walk from the Gubałówka funicular and within walking distance of the Szymoszkowa ski station. The local bus stop (line 21) is only 100 metres away and takes you straight to places like Mała Łąka Valley and Kuźnice.
The best thing about Slowhop places with breakfast? You actually look forward to the morning. And this one’s no different. Breakfast is served buffet-style in a dining room with big panoramic windows, and it’s all based on local ingredients. The location is top: a quiet part of Zakopane, at 868 m above sea level, halfway between the Strążyska Valley and Kościeliska Street. The amount of love in reviews for managers Kasia and Basia says it all – people feel good here. Oh, and there’s a sauna!
'Such a lovely stay – everyone at Willa Malinowa was smiling, kind and super helpful, which made us feel totally at home :) The interiors are beautiful, the place is peaceful, and the trailhead is just around the corner... Perfect combo! And the breakfasts? Honestly some of the best we’ve ever had – a real lifesaver before long hikes in the mountains.We’ll definitely be back next time we’re planning a trip to the Tatras!'.
A bit off the beaten path—almost 4 km from the town centre, but really close to the Tatra National Park (just under a 15-minute walk from the border) and only 800 metres from the nearest hiking trails in Olczyska Valley. From the windows, you’ll catch a view of a stream, and if you look closely, you can spot Żółta Turnia and the area around Hala Gąsienicowa.One bedroom here, but with two big beds. Mateusz, the owner, runs ski touring and avalanche safety courses—perfect if you want to learn a thing or two.
'We’re absolutely smitten with this place! We haven’t come across a cabin like this before—close enough to not feel totally remote, yet you can truly relax here ❤️The interior is top quality, but our hearts belong to the little terrace where the gentle sound of the stream makes every moment of rest even sweeter :)Bonus: there’s a great trail to the Tatras nearby, and you can even stroll into Zakopane’s centre if you feel like a longer walk.We recommend it 100%!'.
The real hit here, especially for kids, is the bouldering wall in the basement. There’s also a play corner inside and a playground in the garden. Parents will love that they don’t have to pack extra gear like a baby bath, high chair, or travel crib. Close to the main hiking trails starting at Kuźnice (about a 30-minute walk) and also near the Oscypek Museum. Just a heads up, this isn’t a mountain cabin but an apartment, so if you prefer fewer buildings around, you might want to pick somewhere else.
'Great apartments for hikers and climbers who don’t need Zakopane’s city buzz. We lacked nothing — the apartment’s equipment is thoughtfully planned, and the interiors are beautifully done, especially the woodwork. As parents of little kids, we really appreciated the common area — kids play while parents climb, or the other way around.'.
They say Willa Tatiana Esencja is the dream come true for luxury mountain-style apartments — with a twist of the owners’ wild imagination. No fluff: if you’re after a unique, luxurious spot in Zakopane with an artistic soul, close to nature and the town center, and you’re fine without pets, smoking, or all-night parties, then this place is made for you.
'We had the great pleasure of spending a few days at Tatiana Esencja in Zakopane, choosing the Fairytale Apartment that completely whisked us away to a magical world! From the moment we stepped in, we were charmed by the unique decor — every detail crafted with great taste and care for the atmosphere. The interior was cozy, warm, and full of magic, while offering top comfort. The apartment was spacious, stylishly furnished, and fully equipped with everything needed for a perfect stay. Comfy beds, mood lighting, and beautiful wooden accents made us feel like we were in an enchanted place. Plus, the location was perfect for exploring Zakopane’s charms, while still offering peace and relaxation.'.
An absolute one-of-a-kind place with living museum vibes. You don’t just walk through an exhibit—you actually live in one. You can call on a 1920s phone, admire stoves with tiles designed by Witkiewicz himself. For modern perks, there’s a sauna to warm up after the mountains, a fire pit, regional breakfasts you can order (so you don’t have to cook in the morning), WiFi, and parking. They even have cribs and high chairs for little ones. Plus, pets are welcome—dogs and cats too. Not for those scared of creaky floors or shared bathrooms down the hall. Each room has its own bathroom, but only on the ground floor.
'This place is a true gem of architecture and history. Our group of eight, plus three dogs, had an unforgettable stay. Each couple had their own cozy room styled like a home, with a private, stylish bathroom downstairs, giving us comfort and privacy. The interiors really bring the authentic vibe of times gone by, with so much care put into the details that you can really feel the spirit of Zakopane’s tradition. The location is perfect — close to the center but still in a peaceful neighborhood.'.
This place will totally blow your mind! Inside, there’s a home cinema, gym, a spa room (massages extra), sauna, and a hot tub. Outside, a treehouse, zipline, climbing net, trapeze, and plenty of wild play space. And it gets even better — the attic’s packed with toys, a console, Lego, mattresses for building forts (that turn into beds), plus a slide that takes you downstairs. If you’re still breathing, here’s more: you can order breakfasts, which is a rare treat for an entire house rental. The ultimate holiday hub—you might not want to leave. Dog-friendly too!
'THIS IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! Krzeptówki 133 – THIS IS A HOME!!! In every way!!! Modern design but with that authentic “highlander” style. Fantastic breakfasts! Incredible views! What could be better than warm water in the hot tub on the terrace after a long day on the trails? Or moments in the sauna with a view of Giewont? Simply magical! Truly! The hosts are super helpful and friendly. Huge thanks! I really hope this place gets the recognition it deserves! The hosts have perfected every single detail of this house! Krzeptówki 133 totally deserves to be booked 100% of the year! Highly recommended!!!! And again, huge thanks for an unforgettable stay!!!'.
Grandpa Bolesław carved, designed, sang, danced, and played instruments — in short, he lived life to the fullest. His woodworking workshop has now been transformed into a magical guest cabin right in the heart of Zakopane. Two very important things: behind the garden is a hill, and beyond it a direct path to the Strążyska Valley and the Trails under the Tatras’ foothills. So the hiking trail is right at your doorstep. The second thing: Hanka and Kuba are kind and very helpful locals. They know the Tatras like the back of their hand and can recommend the best trails (both popular and "secret"), as well as guides and instructors.
'A very cozy, well-equipped cabin with a warm, truly Highlander atmosphere. Perfect for families with children — the ski school is right behind the garden. And if not skiing, then sledding from morning till evening. It’s a 10-minute easy walk to the center, with grocery stores very close by. The location is ideal, quiet and peaceful all around. The owners are very kind and helpful, we felt really comfortable. We will definitely come back, and sooner than for the next winter holidays.'.
In 1919, when the cross on Giewont was celebrating its 18th birthday, the Tatra Volunteer Rescue Service began its mission, and the construction of Villa Olsza started – back then, a true highlander cottage that over the next hundred years would soak up the atmosphere of the Tatra capital. It was a unique atmosphere, described by Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz as an opium-like intoxication. Almost every apartment has a balcony with a stunning view of the Tatras. It’s worth having your morning coffee there. The location is under the Giewont massif, close to mountain trails, making it a great base for exploring, especially the eastern Tatras, such as the Olczyska Valley. There’s a sauna and a jacuzzi tub.
'Beautiful place with a view of the Tatras :) quiet and peaceful, in the morning you can hear birds singing. Beautiful, comfortable apartment in the Zakopane style, well equipped, very clean. Very nice owners, the dog is very calm and friendly :) ideal place to relax for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and everyday bustle. We recommend it warmly :)'.
