Last Updated: December 21, 2023
When thinking of a European ski destination, automatically comes to mind the likes of The Alps and The Dolomites. When a place is so popular, it usually also means that due to the hordes of people visiting each year, makes them expensive destinations. Why not explore new, hidden gems across Europe that turn into winter wonderland as soon as the first snow starts falling? Such destinations can promise the same experience, with a much lower price tag.
Szklarska Poreba in Poland is one of the most notable ones. A very popular ski resort in between the borders of Poland and Czech Republic. I have visited this beautiful town twice during winter and I had the time of my life. It is a wonderful winter destination and one that you don’t have to break the bank in order to enjoy it to the fullest. Continue reading to find out what to do in Szklarska Poreba, where to eat and a few insider tips that will have you wishing you had discovered this place sooner. Here is the ultimate guide to Szklarska Poreba, Poland.
HOW TO GET TO SZKLARSKA POREBA
The easiest way to get to Szklarska Poreba is by catching a flight to Wroclaw which is roughly 2.5 hours away by car. Alternatively, you can take the train in which case it’ll take approximately 3.5 hours to arrive at your destination. If you choose the latter, keep in mind that winters in Poland are quite rough, so there may be delays along the way.
WHERE TO STAY IN SZKLARSKA POREBA
Szklarska Poreba is a small town but that doesn’t mean that your lodging options are limited. When visiting a quaint town such as this one, I usually choose to stay at a homey, family run BnB. Both times I’ve visited, I was extremely happy with the places we chose to stay. During our last visit, we booked it through Booking.com and it was a dreamy little place with an incredible view. Not only the owners made us feel like home but also they were kind enough to drop us off the train station when we were ready to leave. This kind of hospitality is difficult to receive from a standard hotel. Such personal touches create lasting memories and travelling is all about that, won’t you agree?
WHAT TO DO IN SZKLARSKA POREBA
HAVE FUN SKIING
Whether you are a pro or amateur, this is your chance to try skiing. If you don’t have gear, no need to worry, as you can rent one there. Even if you have two left feet, you must try it at least once. With almost 20 km of pistes waiting for you at Szklarska Poreba this will be the time to challenge yourself!
TREKKING
The town’s location is idyllic, surrounded by mountains and lush forests. Take a break from skiing and dedicate a day on trekking at the town’s largest waterfall, Kamienczyk. One of the most spectacular and largest waterfalls in the Karkonosze Mountains. You will need at least a few hours to explore nature here but it will be very much worth it! Another place worth exploring is the Szklarki Waterfall, located on the east of Szklarska Poreba. It may be smaller than Kamienczyk but it is a wonderful place to escape from the bustling town and it is reachable by car in only 15-minutes.
EXPLORE THE TOWN
Szklarska Poreba is so picturesque that makes even a simple stroll around the town very enjoyable, even when the temperature hits below 0 degrees. The town is very small so you can easily explore it on foot. There are plenty of quaint shops where you can buy traditional memorabilia to bring home with you. In case you’re looking to escape the busy streets, then follow one of the paths that lead to the forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The forests surrounding the village are popular amongst the visitors, so there won’t be a moment that you may feel unsafe. Also, once you enter the forest there are trekking trails leading to different paths, so you won’t have a problem exploring it.
WHERE TO EAT IN SZKLARSKA POREBA
The more popular Szklarska Poreba becomes, the more great restaurants open across the town. Most of them serve excellent food and offer great hospitality. One of my top favorite restaurants is Oberza U Hochola. Loved the traditional interior decor and the food was sublime. Be sure to try the trout if you like fish or the breaded pork chop with bacon and potatoes. Another restaurant that I enjoyed very much was Karczma Karkonoska. The tables that are close to the fireplace are the best, especially if you’ve spent a few hours outside in the snow. Do not leave without trying their Zurek soup, a traditional Polish sour soup, with egg, sausage and spices, served in a sourdough bread. As well as, the traditional pierogi, which are dumplings with various options of fillings such as cabbage and mushrooms. You’ll leave wanting more!
If you’re looking for a place to simply have a warm cup of tea or coffee, then look no further than the Szklana Chata. They also serve excellent hot chocolate and desserts.
GOOD TO KNOW
If you decide to visit during winter and rent a car, be sure that the car has tire chains and invest in insurance that will cover you fully in case something goes wrong. Parking in Szklarska Poreba can be a bit of challenge, especially in the centre of the town. It is best that you find accommodation at a walking distance from the centre, so that you don’t have to move your car much. Prices for groceries, dining out and accommodation are very affordable and in most places they accept cards. The local currency is Polish Zloty and you can check the exchange rate here. Finally, be sure to bring with you a beanie hat; a scarf, gloves and comfortable and warm shoes. The type that is waterproof and non-slip, as you’ll be walking a lot on the snow.
