Planning a winter trip to Zakopane and wondering how to truly soak in the mountain charm? This VIP Chochoowska Valley Horse Sleigh tour offers a delightful way to enjoy the Tatra landscape while indulging in regional flavors and local music. It’s one of those experiences that feels both authentic and leisurely — perfect if you’re tired of busy sightseeing days and just want to sit back and enjoy the scenery.
What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to glide through the snowy Chochoowska Valley on a traditional horse-drawn carriage or sleigh, coupled with a hearty highlander bonfire feast. Plus, the live folk music adds an extra touch of culture. We especially love that it combines scenic beauty with genuine regional hospitality — a package that’s both charming and relaxing.
That said, it’s worth noting that the experience is conducted in Polish, so if language is a concern, it’s good to be prepared. Also, the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users, which might be a consideration for some travelers. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor winter landscapes, regional cuisine, and a cozy, festive atmosphere rather than high-adrenaline adventure.
If you’re looking for a slow-paced, authentic taste of Podhale’s mountain life, this tour could fit the bill nicely. It’s especially appealing if you want a memorable, family-friendly outing with plenty of opportunities to enjoy regional traditions and winter scenery.
Key Points
- Scenic ride through Chochoowska Valley on a horse-drawn carriage or sleigh, offering picturesque winter views.
- Authentic highlander bonfire feast with unlimited regional food and drinks, hearty and satisfying.
- Enjoy live folk music that adds a festive and cultural touch to the experience.
- Traditional mountain dishes like bigos, grilled sausages, and mulled wine make the feast memorable.
- Family-friendly activity (though not suitable for wheelchair users or pets).
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
What to Expect from the Tour
This 3-hour adventure begins with a comfortable minibus transfer to the Chochoowska Valley, situated in the heart of the Tatra Mountains. Once there, you’ll hop onto a sleigh or horse-drawn carriage — depending on snow conditions — for about an hour of scenic riding. The ride is designed to be relaxed, allowing you to take in the snowy landscape and maybe snap some photos of the majestic mountain backdrop. With a capacity of 45 people per sleigh, the group maintains a cozy, communal feel, though it can be quite lively depending on the crowd.
In case of insufficient snow, the activity shifts to horse-drawn carriages, ensuring the experience remains scenic and enjoyable regardless of winter weather. The ride itself is a highlight, not only for the views but also for the gentle rhythm and the sound of hooves on snow or the squeak of carriage wheels.
After the ride, it’s time to settle around a bonfire for about an hour of hearty mountain-style food and drinks. The regional menu features traditional dishes like bigos — a hunters stew packed with sauerkraut, meat, and spices — along with grilled sausages, bread topped with lard, and pickled cucumbers. Guests also enjoy unlimited mulled wine, traditional highlander tea, and for kids, raspberry juice with lemon or tea. The feast is served in a warm, welcoming setting that feels authentic and festive.
Throughout the evening, you’ll be entertained by live highlander folk music, which adds a special, lively atmosphere. The music is traditional, lively, and perfect for soaking up the true spirit of the Podhale region during winter.
Planning more time in Zakopane? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Experience in Detail
The Transportation and Duration
The tour starts with a smooth minibus transfer, which is a good way to relax after a morning of sightseeing or travel. The group size is enough to create a convivial atmosphere but not so large as to feel crowded. The entire activity lasts about 3 hours — a perfect length for those wanting a taste of mountain life without committing an entire day.
The Scenic Ride
The highlight for many is the scenic sleigh ride through Chochoowska Valley. This area is less commercialized than other mountain attractions, offering a more authentic experience immersed in nature. Winter in the Tatra Mountains has a quiet, almost magical quality, with snow-dusted trees and distant peaks. Guests have commented that the ride feels peaceful, and some reviews mention the way the landscape “felt like a winter postcard.”
More Great Tours NearbyThe Feast and Live Music
After the ride, the bonfire feast is a highlight that keeps guests warm both figuratively and literally. The all-you-can-eat approach makes it a generous experience, and the traditional dishes are hearty and flavorful, perfectly suited to the mountain climate. Multiple reviews mention how tasty and filling the food is, with one guest saying, “The bigos was delicious, and the grilled sausages hit the spot after the cold ride.”
The live mountain folk music helps create a festive, authentic atmosphere, making it feel like a true celebration of regional culture. It’s lively but not overwhelming — just enough to add a sparkle to the evening.
- Zakopane: Ski Lesson on Gubaówka Hill for beginners
- From Krakow: Zakopane, Gubaówka Hill, and Snowlandia Tour
- Krakow: Zakopane Private Tour with Chauffeur
- From Krakow: Private Trip Zakopane and Thermal Baths
- Zakopane: Hrebienok Ice Temple Tour by funicular railway
- From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour
The Cost and Value
While the exact pricing isn’t specified here, the experience’s inclusiveness — with unlimited food and drinks, a scenic ride, and live music — suggests it offers good value. It’s a package designed to give you a taste of local culture in a relaxed setting, making it a worthwhile splurge if you’re after a memorable, authentic experience.
Practical Tips
- Dress warmly: layers, winter coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes are essential.
- Bring your camera: the scenery is picture-perfect, especially with snow.
- Language note: activity is conducted in Polish, so a basic understanding or a translation app might help if you want to follow along closely.
- Pet and wheelchair policies: Pets are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing, cultural winter outing. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy scenic rides, traditional food, and live folk music. Families with older children might find it a charming way to spend an evening, though it’s not designed for very young kids or those with mobility issues.
If you’re a couple looking for a cozy, romantic winter activity or a group of friends wanting to indulge in regional hospitality, this tour hits the right notes. It’s not a thrill-seeking adventure but rather a gentle, heartwarming immersion into mountain traditions and stunning winter scenery.
FAQ
- Is the activity suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly, though children should be able to handle the outdoor elements and sit for the duration comfortably.
- Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted on this tour.
- Does the tour operate in snow or rain? The activity is designed for winter conditions, and if there’s insufficient snow, it will be operated with horse-drawn carriages instead.
- How long does the entire experience last? Approximately 3 hours, including transportation, ride, and feast.
- What should I wear? Warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and layered winter gear are recommended.
- Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- What language is spoken during the tour? The activity is conducted in Polish.
VIP Chochoowska Valley Horse Sleigh from Zakopane
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an authentic taste of mountain winter life, this VIP Chochoowska Valley Horse Sleigh tour offers a peaceful, scenic ride combined with hearty regional food and lively folk music. It’s a relaxed experience that emphasizes tradition, nature, and good company — perfect for travelers who want to slow down and embrace the charm of the Tatra Mountains.
While it may not be suited for everyone — especially those with mobility restrictions or who don’t speak Polish — it’s certainly a memorable way to connect with local culture and enjoy Poland’s snowy landscape. For those seeking an atmosphere-rich, cozy, and genuinely regional outing, this tour could be just the right choice.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Zakopane
More Zakopane experiences we've covered
- Krakow: Zakopane, Thermal Baths and Cable Car
- VIP Chochoowska Valley Horse Sleigh from Zakopane
- Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Snowmobile Ride & Thermal Baths
- Zakopane: Orava Castle & outer bailey The beauty of Slovakia
- Zakopane: Extreme Shooting Range with Hotel Transfers
- Zakopane: Sightseeing Tour from Krakow
- Krakow: Zakopane, Gubaówka, Cheese Test & SkyWalk Day Trip
- From Zakopane: Krakow Old Town Private Guided Day Trip
- Kraków: Zakopane Tour with Private Guide and transportation
- Zakopane – Be Happy Museum – entry ticket
- From Krakow: Morskie Oko and Zakopane Day Trip
- Zakopane: Ski or Snowboard Adventure with Lunch


