From Kraków: Slovakia Treetop Walk Bachledka and Zakopane

This 10-hour small-group tour from Kraków offers an exciting blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and hassle-free transport to some of the most picturesque spots near the Poland-Slovakia border. For $276.57 per person, the experience includes door-to-door pickup, admission fees, and the chance to walk an elevated wooden treetop trail in Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains. The tour is ideal for those seeking stunning panoramic views, easy logistics, and a taste of mountain life without the stress of self-driving. While the guide is praised for professionalism, some note that language consistency could be better, so travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and independent exploration will appreciate this trip most.

Key Points

• Explore Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains on a 600-meter treetop trail with panoramic views of mountains and pine forests.
• Skip the hassle of self-driving with door-to-door transport from Kraków, guided by a professional English-speaking driver.
• Visit Zakopane, Poland’s “winter capital”, to stroll Krupowki Street and see traditional wooden villages like Chocholow.
• Enjoy cableways to Gubałówka Mountain and Treetop Walk for spectacular bird’s-eye mountain vistas.
• Optional descent via slide at the treetop walk adds a fun, adventurous element.
• Includes traditional cottage cheeses, water, and admission fees, making it good value with some free extras.

Scenic Journey from Kraków to the Slovakian Tatra Mountains

This tour departs from Kraków at 8:00 am and transports you directly to the village of Bachledka in Slovakia, just about 10 kilometers from the Polish border. The route is carefully arranged for comfort, with pickups and drop-offs included, allowing you to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery without concerns about navigation.

The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes to reach the Bachledova Valley, where the treetop walkway is located. The entire experience focuses on convenience, making it more accessible than attempting a self-drive, especially for those unfamiliar with Slovakian roads.

Walking the Bachledova Treetop Trail and Panoramic Mountain Views

The Bachledova Treetop Walk, also known as “chodnik korunami stromov”, is a standout feature of this tour. The wooden walkway rises 18 to 24 meters high, supported by large pillars that blend seamlessly into the forest canopy.

Spanning more than 600 meters, the trail takes visitors through the treetops, where they can enjoy close-up views of mountain peaks and the forest crowns. The route is surrounded by towering pines and lush foliage, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the Tatra Mountains. Admission is included, and the optional cableway to Gubałówka Mountain enhances the mountain vistas, providing additional photo opportunities.

For those seeking a thrill, there’s a slide option to descend from the treetop walkway, adding a playful twist to the experience. This trail offers a peaceful yet awe-inspiring encounter with nature, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Exploring Zakopane, Poland’s “Winter Capital”

After the treetop walk, the tour continues to Zakopane, renowned as Poland’s premier mountain resort. Located about 40 kilometers from Bachledka, Zakopane offers a lively atmosphere with charming wooden architecture and traditional highlander culture.

In Zakopane, travelers can visit Chocholow village, famous for its original wooden houses built by highlanders, which reflect the region’s architectural heritage. The wooden chapels dotted around the area add to the historic charm. The main street, Krupowki, bustles with local vendors, shops, and cafes, offering souvenirs and local foods.

A notable sight is the ski jump hill, which hosts the Grant Prix Ski Jump competition. This iconic structure provides a glimpse into Poland’s winter sports scene, even if no events are scheduled during the visit.

Cableways, Mountain Vistas, and Optional Activities

Included in the tour are cable rides that take you up to Gubałówka Mountain and the Treetop Walk. The Gubałówka cableway offers sweeping views of Zakopane and the surrounding mountains, making it a highlight for photography and sightseeing.

The Treetop Walk’s optional cableway is another way to elevate your experience, providing bird’s-eye views of the towering peaks and forests. These cableways are designed for comfort and accessibility, ensuring travelers of moderate fitness can enjoy the vistas.

The slide descent at the treetop walk adds an element of fun, especially for those looking for a quick and exciting way to return to ground level. Afterward, the free time on Krupowki Street allows for shopping, local snacks, and culture.

Practical Details: Logistics, Inclusions, and Considerations

The tour is organized by Legendary Krakow and features a small group of up to 30 travelers, which helps ensure a personal experience. The pickup and drop-off service from Kraków makes logistics effortless, especially for those staying in the city.

The price of $276.57 includes admission fees to attractions, water, and a gift of traditional cottage cheeses, which adds a local flavor to the experience. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan for their own meals or snacks.

Participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity, as the walk up to the treetop trail takes about 30-40 minutes. The tour operates with confirmation at the time of booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Insights from Review Feedback

The tour receives a high overall rating of 4.8/5 from 64 reviews, with 97% recommending the experience. The stunning views and beautiful scenery are consistently praised, with many noting the treetop walk as a highlight.

However, some reviews mention that the guide’s language consistency could be improved; one reviewer found the driver speaking hours in a foreign language with only occasional English. This suggests that while the guiding staff are knowledgeable, travelers should be prepared for some language variation.

The tour is appreciated for amazing scenery, good value, and well-organized transport, making it a strong choice for those seeking a full day of mountain scenery and cultural sights.

Visiting the Mountain Towns and Cultural Sites

The trip offers more than just natural scenery; the visit to Chocholow village provides an authentic look at highlander architecture. The wooden chapels and traditional houses demonstrate the region’s craftsmanship and history.

In Zakopane, the local atmosphere is vibrant, with opportunities to meet locals and see how village life unfolds. The main street, Krupowki, provides a lively shopping scene, with plenty of opportunities for souvenirs and local delicacies.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Kraków Trip?

This full-day guided tour balances nature, culture, and convenience. It is perfect for visitors who want to see the Slovakian Tatra Mountains without a car and enjoy the stunning treetop walk in a safe, organized setting. The combination of scenic cableways, mountain vistas, and charming villages makes for a varied itinerary.

While the guide’s language skills may not be perfect, the beautiful scenery and well-planned stops compensate for that. The inclusion of admission fees, transportation, and a local gift adds value, making it a comprehensive experience.

Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in mountain landscapes and traditional architecture, this tour offers a memorable day exploring two countries’ highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $276.57 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours.

Is pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package.

What attractions are included?
Visitors walk the Treetop Walk in Slovakia, visit Zakopane’s Krupowki Street, see Chocholow village, and enjoy cableways to Gubałówka Mountain and Gubałówka.

Can I descend via slide?
Yes, an optional slide descent is available from the treetop walkway.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, admissions to all attractions are included in the price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the moderate walking involved.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and walkway height suggest that children with appropriate fitness levels can enjoy the experience.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Who operates the tour?
The experience is provided by Legendary Krakow.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it is typically booked around 73 days in advance and requires prior confirmation.

This From Kraków to Slovakia for the Treetop Walk and Zakopane tour offers a balanced mix of mountain adventure and culture, wrapped up in a convenient, well-organized package. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting stunning views and easy access to the Tatra region without the stress of driving.