10 Best Spots for a Getaway with Friends in Poland

At the mention of a “barrel sauna in the mountains,” even the harshest winter feels warmer on the inside. Here’s the cherry on top: you get the whole lodge for up to 10 people. The day starts early, watching mists gather in the valley against the Tatras on the horizon. A terrace plus coffee is the perfect combo. Once the crew’s assembled, head out to the Czarna Młaka Nature Reserve—a rare landslide lake that’s home to centuries-old wetlands and many species of frogs and newts. You’ll be perfectly equipped with headlamps, binoculars, maps, and other handy gear. It’s a 40-minute walk from the lodge, or you can follow the blue trail up to Garby and Przehyby (about an hour). From there, take the yellow trail down to Muszyna’s center for lunch—Restaurant Rome comes recommended. In the evening, the hosts set up a bonfire at sunset with grilled sausages and homemade apples. Then it’s time for the heated barrel sauna or the wood-fired hot tub. Dreamy, right?

Slowhop’s take:

You’ll also find bikes in the garage for exploring nearby trails—part of the Aquavelo route that winds through the pretty borderlands.

'(...) A large terrace with cocoon swing chairs, armchairs, and a grill. The barrel sauna and playground invited us to blissful laziness after hiking or cycling. Two bathrooms with tubs and showers ensured no one queued, even with two families. (...)'

This spot is perfect for a girls’ weekend to relive late-night chats in worn-in sweatpants—because let’s be honest, we all need that sometimes. Łan Sztuk welcomes you like old friends, opening the orangery doors for coffee on the veranda that segues into breakfast around the big kitchen table. Host Eliza knows exactly what you need—she’s an expert in making you feel at home. On the agenda is a visit to a nearby CampSpa for a sauna, hot tub, and forest bathing sessions infused with local botanicals from Masuria. Try herbal powder massages, Ayurvedic head massages, or lavender treatments. There’s even a special package for girls’ groups, though it’s best to book in advance. On the way back, don’t miss the legendary ice cream in Łukta—parsley or salted caramel at “U Smolejów” café are said to change your life. After all that indulgence, there’s only one option: stretch out horizontally on the meadow picnic spot. If it rains, curl up by the fireplace in the lounge—you’ll have plenty of space.

Slowhop’s take:

Łan Sztuk has two triple rooms and two quads. If you’re planning a longer stay, ask Eliza about workshops—she loves to create something special.

'Each of us dreams of a house like this—filled with jazz, the smell of coffee, and nature’s bounty. Surrounded by pristine woods, animals, and wonderful people with pure hearts. Thank you.'

Next stop: the Izery Mountains—a gentler compromise for those who prefer scenic views without steep climbs. Izerski Horyzont sleeps up to 12 and offers plenty of chill spots: a fireplace lounge, outdoor grill and tables, plus a covered gazebo. Start with breakfast al fresco and end with dinner under the stars. In between, pick your hike: a short walk to the viewpoint or slightly longer trails to Bobrowe and Outlaw Rocks. For more, drive 30 minutes to Rozdroże Izerskie, park, and hike 2.5 hours to Chata Górzystów for legendary blueberry pancakes—gigantic and delicious. You can return the same way or add Świeradowiec for an extra hour before looping back. The “Rambo” option? Tackle Stóg Izerski for a full-day adventure, then reward yourselves with sausages by the campfire or roasted potatoes.

Slowhop’s take:

We’ve tested it in winter, too—the Izery are perfect for cross-country skiing and alpine slopes. Mulled wine by the fire is 10/10. Just a reminder: these homes aren’t party venues.

Here, the phrase “you must be dreaming” takes on new meaning. Nestled in the village of Marzysz, this cabin feels like stepping into another world—no deadlines, no boss peering over your shoulder. Imagine the huge table in the living room mirrored on the terrace: the ideal setup for endless conversations. Got a chef in your group? You’re all set—there’s a dishwasher, so no one misses out on the fun. Once a family reunion spot, it can now be your base. The plan is simple: see how it feels to spend a day or two just lounging—towel and sunbathing, deck chairs or the big meal table. When you tire of horizontal r&r (though who does?), hop into a kayak—rentals start just 100 meters away for a paddle down the Czarna Nida River. There’s a small local shop 1.6 km away for basics; for more, head to Kielce. In our vision, sausages over the fire or the grill are more than enough, followed by another deck-chair session by the fireplace. Can you see it?

Slowhop’s take:

The cabin fits up to 13 guests plus dogs.

'We stayed at Marzysz Powoli with our dog. The large fenced garden let our pup roam safely, and the barbecue area had plenty of space. The house is huge with a big terrace overlooking nature. It’s very well equipped—everything you need is there. Cozy living room with fireplace. A perfect place to unwind. Highly recommended, we’ll be back :)'

This one’s for early birds or anyone willing to sacrifice a bit of sleep for sunrise on Babia Góra. Here’s the plan: alarms at 2:30, a quick cold shower, pack headlamps and snacks, then hit the trail that starts right outside the gate. Views like a desktop wallpaper—good thing you’re in a group to pick up your jaws. When fatigue hits, just think of the fresh trout from the local farm you’ll feast on later (with the regional buttermilk drink). By 2 p.m. you’ll be back and ready for more: a soak in the outdoor hot tub or a refreshing dip in Rybny Potok stream flowing under the house. You can do both—why not? Finish the night with wine by the fire under the stars, and morning coffee on the dock listening to the stream.

Slowhop’s take:

Zawoja offers two cabins (one for 4, one for 8), so you might share the fire pit, dock, and tub. For cyclists, Mosorny Groń lift (1 km away) takes you and your bikes up for downhill MTB trails. Families should visit Hala Barankowa—sheep grazing and local cheese tastings.

'Zawoja 1725 is the perfect escape from city noise. The babbling brook, bird songs, forest air—peace and quiet :) You can tire yourselves out on trails (few people in May is a bonus), then soak in the hot tub under the stars (magic!). The cabin is beautiful and fully equipped. Great host communication! We’ll definitely be back :)'

A luxury treat by the Biebrza River for nature lovers and foodies. The view alone will knock you off your feet—then the bathtub will do it again. That tub is hot property, so make a booking schedule to avoid tears. Bring friends who appreciate wildlife, gentle cycling, and hearty regional fare: Podlasie’s meats, dumplings, and flat trails tailor-made for biking. Here’s our day: leisurely breakfast on the terrace, listening to the marsh’s chorus—crickets, frogs, birds, and maybe a shy deer or two. Then hop on bikes for the 35 km “Elk Highway,” a flat gravel route through Biebrza National Park—travel elk-style and watch for wildlife. Pause at the 400 m boardwalk over the wetlands at Długa Luka, then climb the observation tower at Bagno Ławki. Dawn or dusk rides give the best chance to spot a moose. On your way back, stop at Smaki z Goniądza farm shop for fresh dairy, eggs, bread, meats, and ready-made meals in jars. Their Jerusalem artichoke wine and dandelion wine are curiosities worth a try.

Slowhop’s take:

The barn sleeps 8. Bring your bikes. For longer excursions, visit nearby Tykocin—its castle, Great Synagogue, Talmudic house, and charming market square await.

'A beautiful, atmospheric, comfortable house where we felt like guests in a friend’s home. Attention to detail—cleanliness, kitchen essentials, workspace, comfy sofa. Freshly ground coffee in the mill was a sweet touch :) From the terrace (and the sofa) the view is addictive. During our stay we saw storks, a hedgehog, a deer, and countless birds. The guest guide was very helpful. We’ll return for sure :)'

First, you can reach this lodge without a car—Zwardoń station is less than 1.5 km away. No designated driver means everyone can enjoy a post-lunch beer. But before that, Magda offers a cacao ceremony with meditation and Jacobson relaxation to instantly switch to vacation mode. Then gather by the fireplace for “Geometry of Questions,” a game guaranteed to deepen friendships. Day two begins with breakfast featuring local treats you choose from Magda’s extensive menu—fresh sourdough bread with handmade butter, scrambled eggs, village cheese with honey, plus cakes, jams, sausages, milk, soups, even a custom cake. After fueling up, hike to Duży Rachowiec summit for a mountaintop bonfire. In the evening, unwind in the sauna, then sip tea by the fireplace or enjoy local spirits in the renovated barn.

Slowhop’s take:

In summer, soak your feet in the pool or book a yoga session; in winter, hit the slopes at Zwardoń Ski. There’s plenty for every season and group size—even with kids. The lodge fits 8.

'An atmospheric cabin in the middle of nowhere. Peace and quiet. In winter, a ski slope and sledding hills within reach—and sleds are provided. Zwardoń really is the end of the world: spring everywhere else, real winter here. Comfortable, ideal for family or friends. Separate bedrooms ensure privacy, while the open-plan living area invites shared moments we so often miss in city life.'

We were charmed by the abundance of sofas, cushions, loungers, and hammocks—perfect for cozying up in autumn with friends. Tucked between the Narew oxbow and lakes under ancient pines, this cabin is a treat for busy Warsaw dwellers who can’t stray far. You could chase thrills at the nearby water park in Trzciany or paddle before a pork neck feast, but why not just relax half-reclined? Morning coffee on the terrace sofa, then perhaps mushroom foraging followed by a riverside stroll along the Narew. Stock up on eggs and seasonal veggies from neighbors, and for goat cheeses or charcuterie, call ahead at Sikorzanka farm shop. Evening grilling flows into fireside hangs—this setup never fails.

Slowhop’s take:

Masuria Warsaw suits a close group of 8 friends—there’s only one lockable bedroom (the rest are open-plan across two floors).

'A great spot for a short or long break. The charming house in the woods is well-kept and fully equipped. You can unwind on the terrace or a hammock among the pines. There are nice spots along the Narew to relax.'

Orłowiec’s wild charm speaks for itself, but here’s the recipe: start with yoga on the terrace above a gently babbling stream, occasionally joined by neighbor’s sheep—so sweet you won’t mind. Then breakfast in the kitchen with a view, followed by a hike—choose 1.5-hour routes to Orłowiec Peak, Borówkowa, or Jawornik Wielki via the forest, or take the red trail two hours to the spa town of Lądek-Zdrój. No need to hike back hungry: in Lądek, try the legendary Lux bar for pierogi and potato pancakes, or Marianna pizzeria, then sweets at Albrehtshalle. After a stroll through the spa district’s grand villas, down the riverpath to the old market and antique fair, cap the evening at Radochowa Wine Bar with stunning views. Then it’s back to Dzikość for board games, books, and hearthside warmth.

Slowhop’s take:

Don’t miss a visit to the Wojciech Spa House in Lądek-Zdrój—book pools or treatments in advance here.

'A perfect hideaway in a charming cottage. Great for friends or family wanting to escape the city. Super quick, friendly hosts. Highly recommended.'