I have been investigating the possibility of organising a trip to the Polish Tatra Mountains next winter. The Polish lass, Anna who I climb with has been useful in providing info.
EasyJet fly to Krakow from both Manchester and Edinburgh (for me). It is then 2 hours south to Zakopane by hire car.
There are various mountain huts in the national park which can be used. Morskie Oko has been recommended to me. Morskie Oko Mountain Hut (schroniskomorskieoko.pl)
Unfortunately, you cannot drive to these huts, so you have to park and hoof it. And it’s 15km … on a road though.
There is a very comprehensive guide book which has an English introduction and details on approaches and descents. I’m sure we can all read Polish topos! CLIMBING GUIDE – WINTER TATRAS – Jakub Radziejowski – Międzynarodowy Przewodnik Wysokogórski IVBV (przewodnikwysokogorski.com.pl)
One major downside seems to be the unpredictability of the weather, but hey we climb in Scotland, and the fact that the authorities close the park when there is high possibility of avalanches.
Large rooms for up to 6 people can be booked at Morskie Oko but I have yet to enquire about availability. Early booking (i.e. a year in advance) is recommended. Prices are about £12 pppn. Food in the restaurant looks equally cheap.
At this stage, I just want to gauge interest before doing more leg work. If anyone has been before and can provide tips, that would be great.
Cheers, Kevin