Planning a trip to Zakopane, many people wonder where to stay in Zakopane to enjoy beautiful views, peace and quiet, and easy access to attractions all at once. More and more often, the choice falls on Gubałówka and its surroundings, which combine closeness to the center with a cozy atmosphere. Is it really worth staying on Gubałówka? It all depends on what you expect from your stay.
Why are more and more people choosing to stay on Gubałówka?
The Gubałówka hill has for years been one of the most recognizable places in the Podhale region. It captivates with its panorama of the Tatra Mountains, proximity to hiking trails, and convenient location between Kościelisko and Zakopane. This is exactly where many people find their dream accommodation with a view of the Tatras, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Gubałówka — an exceptional place to relax
Views you won’t easily find in the center
The greatest advantage of this location is, without a doubt, the mountain panorama. A view of the Tatras from the apartment can make morning coffee or an evening of relaxation feel entirely different. For many people, the chance to admire the mountains every day is one of the main reasons to choose accommodation on Gubałówka instead of a property located on busy streets. The hillside location also makes the area significantly quieter than the strict city center. It’s a great option for those seeking peace after a day of sightseeing or mountain hiking. It’s no surprise that many tourists search for phrases like “peaceful accommodation Zakopane” or “apartment with mountain views.”
An excellent base for exploring the region
One of the biggest advantages of this part of Podhale is its location. In a short time, you can reach both Krupówki Street and places like Szymoszkowa Meadow, Butorowy Wierch, Kościeliska Valley, or Chochołowska Valley. This makes it easy to plan both an active day on the trail and a peaceful family walk. It’s also a great place for those planning a longer trip to Zakopane or a weekend getaway. On one hand, you can enjoy the city’s attractions, and on the other, quickly return to a quieter area.
Advantages of staying on Gubałówka
Choosing accommodation on Gubałówka comes with many benefits:
- beautiful views of the Tatra panorama,
- a quieter area than the strict center of Zakopane,
- easy access to the main attractions,
- proximity to walking and cycling trails,
- a convenient location for families with children,
- comfortable accommodation close to the top of Gubałówka and Szymoszkowa Meadow.
Thanks to this, the area works well both during summer holidays and winter ski trips.
Does staying on Gubałówka have any downsides?
Like any location, Gubałówka is not the perfect choice for everyone. It’s worth getting to know its specifics before booking accommodation. This makes it easier to match your place of stay to your own expectations.
The most commonly mentioned downsides are:
- the need to navigate a few steeper sections of road,
- heavier tourist traffic near the Gubałówka funicular during peak season,
- for people who want to walk along Krupówki Street every day, the return trip may be somewhat more demanding.
In practice, much depends on the exact location of the property. Accommodation on the outskirts of Gubałówka usually allows for a good balance between peace and quiet and easy access to attractions.
Who is Gubałówka the best choice for?
Not everyone comes to the Tatras with the same plan. Some want to conquer mountain peaks, others dream of peaceful relaxation with a view of the mountains, and still others are looking for a family-friendly place.
| Type of tourist | Why choose Gubałówka? |
| Families with children | A quiet area and easy access to attractions. |
| Mountain lovers | A great starting point for numerous trails. |
| Couples | A cozy atmosphere and beautiful views. |
| Seniors | The chance to relax away from city noise. |
This is exactly why more and more people are choosing family-friendly accommodation in Zakopane or accommodation close to hiking trails in this part of Podhale.
Apartments on Gubałówka, comfort and quiet
In recent years, modern apartments on Gubałówka and apartments in Zakopane have become very popular, offering significantly more space than traditional rooms. A kitchenette, balcony, or terrace with mountain views make a stay more comfortable, especially during family trips. Many guests also appreciate the chance to relax after a full day of sightseeing without the noise typical of the strict city center. This is an especially attractive solution during a longer stay in the Tatras.
Apartments at Willa Magnus, a peaceful spot on the map of Gubałówka
A good example of such a location is Willa Magnus, situated on the Gubałówka hill in Kościelisko, right at the border with Zakopane. Thanks to this, guests can enjoy both the charms of a peaceful area and quick access to the most popular attractions in the region. Comfortable apartments, mountain views, and proximity to Szymoszkowa Meadow, Butorowy Wierch, and trails leading toward the valleys make this property a convenient base for both a weekend trip and a longer stay.
Is it worth staying on Gubałówka?
If peace and quiet, beautiful views, and a good location matter to you, the answer is simple — it’s worth staying on Gubałówka. This place lets you rest from the hustle and bustle of the center while still staying close to the main attractions of Zakopane and the surrounding area. For those looking for a balance between active sightseeing and peaceful relaxation, this will be one of the most versatile locations in Podhale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gubałówka a good place for a family trip?
Yes. A peaceful area, numerous nearby attractions, and easy access to hiking trails make it a very good choice for families with children.
Is it easy to get from Gubałówka to the center of Zakopane?
Yes. The drive takes only a few minutes, and many people also choose to walk or use local transport.
Is accommodation on Gubałówka a good option in winter?
Yes. The proximity of Szymoszkowa Meadow, ski areas, and convenient access to other attractions make the area popular during the winter season as well.
Sources and inspiration
This article was prepared based on information about Podhale’s attractions, rules for moving around the Tatra Mountains, and tourist infrastructure published by the Tatra National Park and the Polish Tourist Organization. Knowledge about the location of Gubałówka, Kościelisko, and Zakopane, as well as experience related to planning a stay in the region, was also used.