Chochołów Travel Guide

Discover the charming village of Chochołów in Poland, with natural attractions, cultural landmarks, delicious cuisine, and tips on where to stay, what to buy, and how to get around.


Introduction to Chochołów

Nestled in the scenic mountain region of Małopolskie, Chochołów is a charming village that offers a glimpse into the traditional life and rich heritage of Poland. With its distinctive wooden architecture, picturesque countryside, and cultural landmarks, Chochołów is a popular destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and authentic cuisine.

Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or gourmet enthusiast, Chochołów has something to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best things to do in Chochołów, from outdoor adventures and scenic views to museums and historical landmarks. We will also provide tips on where to stay, what to buy, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Chochołów

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in learning about the rich history and traditions of Chochołów and the surrounding region, there are several museums and historical landmarks that are worth a visit.

Muzeum Chochołowskie

Located in the heart of the village, Muzeum Chochołowskie is a fascinating museum that showcases the cultural heritage and lifestyle of the Górale people, who inhabited this region for centuries. The museum features a collection of traditional clothing, tools, and household items, as well as exhibits on local customs, folklore, and art.

Zakopane

While technically not in Chochołów, the nearby town of Zakopane serves as the gateway to the Tatra Mountains and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike. Known for its stunning vistas, outdoor markets, and unique architecture, Zakopane is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the region.

Natural Attractions of Chochołów: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Chochołów offers a range of activities and attractions that showcase the natural beauty of the region. From hiking and biking to horseback riding and skiing, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Tatra National Park

Located just a short drive from Chochołów, Tatra National Park is a breathtaking wilderness area that spans the Poland-Slovakia border. Home to rugged peaks, glacier lakes, and scenic trails, this park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike. There are also several opportunities for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.

Chocholowska Valley

The Chocholowska Valley is a scenic hiking area that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Known for its diverse flora and fauna, the valley is home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals. There are several well-marked hiking trails in the area that range in difficulty from easy to challenging.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chochołów

Chochołów is a great destination for hikers and bikers, with many trails of varying difficulty levels to choose from. Some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region include:

  • Tatra National Park hiking trails
  • Chocholowska Valley hiking trails
  • Biking trails along the Dunajec River
  • Zakopane hiking trails

Best Things to Do in Chochołów: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are several other activities and tours that you can enjoy in Chochołów, such as:

  • Horseback riding
  • Skiing and snowboarding (in winter months)
  • Rafting and kayaking on the Dunajec River
  • Guided tours of local historical landmarks and museums

Week-Long Itinerary for Chochołów

If you are planning to spend a week in Chochołów, here is a suggested itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the village and visit Muzeum Chochołowskie
  • Day 2: Hike in the Chocholowska Valley
  • Day 3: Take a guided tour of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains
  • Day 4: Horseback riding and/or rafting on the Dunajec River
  • Day 5: Visit local historical landmarks, such as Kosciol Swietego Marcina and Dom Ludowy
  • Day 6: Bike in the Tatra Mountains
  • Day 7: Enjoy a day of skiing or snowboarding (in winter months)

Food and Drink Scene of Chochołów

No visit to Chochołów is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oscypki: a smoked sheep’s milk cheese that is a regional specialty
  • Kwaśnica: a hearty soup made with sauerkraut and smoked pork
  • Golonka: roasted pork shank served with sauerkraut and potatoes
  • Bigos: a stew made with meats, sausage, and sauerkraut

Local Beverages

  • Wódka: Polish vodka is world-renowned and many local brands can be found in Chochołów.
  • Piwo: Polish beer, especially those produced by local brewers, is a must-try
  • Krupnik: A sweet honey vodka that can be served warm or cold

Where to Stay in Chochołów: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in Chochołów, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to cozy guesthouses and luxurious hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Pensjonat Kasia: a charming guesthouse with cozy rooms and a restaurant
  • Willa Pod Grusza: a family-run hotel with a restaurant and outdoor patio
  • Hostel Chochołowska: a budget-friendly hostel with shared facilities and friendly staff

What to Buy in Chochołów: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking to bring home a piece of Chochołów, there are several local products and souvenirs that are worth considering, such as:

  • Hand-carved wooden figurines and crafts
  • Traditional Górale clothing and accessories
  • Local cheeses and sausages
  • Hand-knit woolen socks and gloves

Local Culture and Customs of Chochołów

Chochołów is known for its distinct cultural traditions and customs, many of which have been preserved for centuries. Visitors can experience these customs firsthand by attending one of the many local festivals and celebrations, such as:

  • The Harvest Festival in September
  • The Nativity Scene Festival in December
  • The Mountain Folk Festival in August

Best Time to Visit Chochołów

The best time to visit Chochołów depends on your interests. For outdoor activities like hiking and biking, the summer months (June - August) are ideal. Winter sports enthusiasts will want to visit between December and March. Visitors interested in cultural events and festivals can choose from a variety of events year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chochołów

When visiting Chochołów, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine!
  • Respect cultural traditions and customs
  • Pack appropriately for outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or plant life in natural areas
  • Ignore safety warnings or trail closures
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their customs

Safety and Health

While Chochołów is generally a safe and healthy destination, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

Safety in Chochołów

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in natural areas
  • Stay on marked trails and heed safety warnings
  • Lock up valuables in your accommodations

Health in Chochołów

  • Make sure you are up-to-date on local vaccinations (especially for tick-borne diseases)
  • Drink bottled or filtered water
  • Seek medical attention for any health concerns or injuries

Getting to Chochołów: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chochołów is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are a few options:

Airports Near Chochołów

  • Krakow Airport (KRK) is the closest international airport, located approximately 85 km from Chochołów.

Bus Stations Near Chochołów

  • There are several bus stations in the nearby town of Zakopane, which is approximately 10 km from Chochołów.
  • Flixbus and PolskiBus both offer regular daily service to Zakopane from major cities in Poland.

Other Options

  • Taxis and rental cars are both available in Krakow and Zakopane, and can be arranged in advance or booked upon arrival.

How to Get Around in Chochołów

The best way to get around Chochołów is on foot, as the village is small and easy to navigate. For longer distances, taxis or rental cars can be arranged in advance.

Where to Go Next from Chochołów: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have additional time in the area after exploring Chochołów, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth considering. Some popular options include:

  • Zakopane: The nearby town of Zakopane offers a range of outdoor activities, cultural landmarks, and dining options.
  • Krakow: Poland’s historic and cultural capital is located just a short drive away and is worth a day trip or extended stay.
  • Tatra Mountains: Tatra National Park offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and winter sports, and is easily accessible from Chochołów.

Conclusion

Whether you are seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or delicious cuisine, Chochołów has something for everyone. With its unique heritage, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming locals, this charming village is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Poland.

Wooden houses on the main street. Wooden houses on the main street.