Zakopane Gubaówka Hill: Horse Sleigh Ride with local music

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape in Poland’s Tatra Mountains, the Gubaówka Hill sleigh ride might catch your eye. It promises a charming ride through snowy landscapes, topped with traditional highlander music, regional food, and warm drinks. While many travelers find it enchanting, others have raised concerns about some aspects of the experience.

We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but after reviewing plenty of feedback and details, it’s worth sharing a balanced picture so you can decide if it fits your winter plans. What we love? The authentic mountain atmosphere and stunning panoramic views. And a potential snag? The organization and the vibe at the hut can vary quite a bit depending on the day. This tour suits those looking for a cultural, scenic experience in Zakopane, especially if you enjoy a bit of local music and hearty regional food.

Key Points

• Authentic highlander atmosphere with traditional music and culture.
• Breathtaking views of the Tatras from Gubaówka Hill.
• Relaxed, family-friendly experience, though some reviews mention organizational issues.
• Includes warm regional food and drinks at the mountain hut.
• Flexible cancellation policy and options to reserve without immediate payment.
• Transport logistics are straightforward, with pickup and drop-off included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What To Expect from the Gubaówka Hill Horse Sleigh Ride

The Scenic Journey and Pickup

Your adventure begins with a pickup by bus from designated points in Zakopane—either Juliusza Zborowskiego or Droga Oswalda Balzera. Expect a roughly 30-minute drive through scenic mountain roads to Zb, the highest village in Poland. The ride itself is quite pleasant, and you’ll get a glimpse of the Tatras’ majestic peaks and Zakopane’s twinkling lights below.

Travelers have noted that the bus ride can be a mixed bag. One review mentioned the driver was distracted on her phone and the vehicle was overcrowded, with no clear information about timing or delays. So, if punctuality and comfort matter to you, it’s worth being prepared for a potentially crowded or less-than-smooth ride.

The Sleigh Ride: Snow, Bells, and Stunning Views

Once in Zb, you’ll meet the horses and start your horse-drawn carriage or sleigh ride through snow-covered meadows and pine forests. The experience lasts about an hour and offers a lovely chance to soak in winter mountain scenery—frozen valleys, snow-dusted trees, and vast mountain panoramas. The jingling bells on the horses add to the festive feel, and wrapping up in warm blankets is recommended, as temperatures can dip.

According to reviews, the sleigh ride is a highlight. One traveler from Hungary pointed out how the view and length of the ride made it worthwhile, even if the equipment, like the sleds themselves, can sometimes feel a bit creaky. If there’s not enough snow, the organizers switch to carriages with wheels, which still provide a comfortable ride with the same scenic backdrop.

The Mountain Hut Feast

After the ride, you’ll head to a heated wooden hut (regional szaas)—a cozy spot where the real festivities begin. Here, you’ll be greeted with live Highlander music, performed in traditional costumes, creating an authentic mountain vibe. The atmosphere tends to be lively, with plenty of opportunities to sing along, take photos, or just relax by the fire.

The buffet is notable for its local delicacies: bigos (sauerkraut stew with meat), roasted sausages, bread with homemade lard, and unlimited drinks. Mulled wine, highlander tea with a splash of local alcohol, and children’s non-alcoholic options are available. Reviews mention the food is delicious, with some describing the bigos as a standout. The band keeps the mood lively with energetic tunes, jokes, and traditional dances, making it a genuine cultural experience.

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The Pros and Cons

While many rave about the authentic highlander atmosphere and spectacular views, some reviews highlight organizational flaws. For example, one reviewer called the experience “not worth it” due to poor communication, crowded conditions, and less friendly staff during the fire grilling process. Others appreciated the bigos and music, but felt the ride and service could be more polished.

The price point (roughly 70 per person) may seem steep for some, especially given the variability in the overall experience. However, considering the included transportation, food, live music, and scenic views, it can be a fair value if well-organized.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with pickup from Zakopane or nearby, followed by a 30-minute drive to Zb. This ride is the gateway to the mountain experience, offering a preview of the rugged beauty ahead.

Once in Zb, you’ll enjoy about an hour on a horse-drawn carriage or sleigh. The landscape is what really makes this part memorable—snow-laden trees, frozen valleys, and the Tatras’ peaks glowing as the sun sets or rises. If you’re lucky with snow, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a winter postcard.

Afterward, your group heads to the mountain hut, a warm, cozy wooden building where the festivities unfold. The live Highlander music adds an authentic touch, with plenty of local food and unlimited drinks. The fire and convivial atmosphere make it a relaxing, engaging end to your journey.

The Experience at the Hut

Expect a buffet-style feast featuring regional specialties. The biggest draw is the authentic food and drinks, with reviews mentioning how delicious the bigos and sausages are. The music and dancing are highlights, and many find this part of the tour the most memorable.

Some reviews mention the crowding and the indoor grilling process as less than ideal, especially during busy days. Still, the authenticity and warmth of the experience often outweigh these minor inconveniences.

Returning to Zakopane

After the celebration, you’ll hop back on the bus for the 30-minute return trip. The overall duration is about three hours, making it a manageable evening activity. The pickup and drop-off logistics are straightforward, though punctuality and communication can vary.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a truly authentic highlander experience—scenic views, traditional music, hearty food, and a taste of regional culture. If you’re a fan of winter landscapes and culture, you’re likely to enjoy it. The stunning vistas and lively atmosphere can make it a highlight of your trip to Zakopane.

However, the experience isn’t without its pitfalls. Some guests have encountered organizational hiccups and crowded, less friendly service, which can dampen the mood. If you’re traveling with young children or expect a perfectly smooth experience, you might want to manage those expectations.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a genuine, festive outing with scenic beauty and cultural richness. It’s a good choice if you’re okay with some variability and are more interested in the atmosphere than perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the sleigh ride suitable for children?
Generally, yes. The experience involves a cozy carriage ride and a festive atmosphere. However, children should be supervised during the ride and at the bonfire, especially in cold weather.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—think layers, winter coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy winter footwear—since you’ll be outdoors and in cold mountain air.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately three hours, including pickup, the ride, the feast, and return transfer.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, the horse-drawn carriage or sleigh ride, live Highlander music, regional food buffet, unlimited drinks, and a cozy mountain hut setting.

Is there an option if it doesn’t snow?
Yes, if snow is scarce, the ride continues on comfortable carriages with wheels, maintaining the scenic experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves outdoor rides and walking around the village, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
English and Polish.

Is transportation provided from Zakopane?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at designated locations, with clear instructions on where to wait.

Would I recommend this experience?
If you love mountain scenery, traditional music, and regional food, it’s worth considering. Be prepared for some organizational hiccups—if those don’t bother you, it can be a memorable outing.

In the end, the Gubaówka Hill sleigh ride offers a slice of highlander culture wrapped in winter’s beauty. It’s not a perfectly polished tour, but for many, that rustic charm and stunning backdrop make it a worthwhile adventure. Just go with your eyes open, and you might find it to be one of those local experiences you’ll talk about for years.

You can check availability for your dates here: