APH Resort Guides at a Glance:
Zakopane

Overview
If you’re looking for a break for the norm, you’ll certainly find it in Zakopane. What you won’t find much of is challenging skiing. It’s pretty much an intermediates’ resort. The food and nightlife is cheap and culturally quirky.

Terrain
This cute little town, surrounded by the Tatra Mountains, is home to three ski areas - Nosal, Gubalowka, and Kasprowy Wierch - all of which are great for beginners and intermediates.

Recommended run
The smallest ski area, Nosal, offers nine runs aimed at beginners and intermediates. There’s only one chair up to the top, and you’ll find a fairly steep red to the bottom. The best action is to be had on Kasprowy Wierch, where you’ll find some interesting bowls to play in.

Ski-in, ski-out?
Kasprowy is a 10-minute cab ride from town (or a free bus), while Nosal and Gubalowka bring you into town.

Cost of living
Poland is still refreshingly cheap. An apres beer will cost you between 90p and £1.50.

Nightlife
It may be small but Zakopane is pretty lively. There are lots of bars lining the main drag, Krupowki. A good place to eat is Bakowo Zohylina (say "bonkovo zoheeleena"), a wonderfully cosy wood-timbered restaurant lying a few minutes’ walk from Zakopane’s main drag.

Alternative activities
There are lots of walks to be had in the scenic Tatra Mountains. If you have time, book a few days in Krakow - superb nightlife and gorgeous architecture.

Family friendly
The ski school is pretty decent, although you might struggle with the language.