Zakopane Tours from Krakow
Brief overview of Zakopane Thermal Baths
Are you looking for a way to relax and wind down after a weekend trip to Krakow and Southern Poland? The small, but busy village of Zakopane has its perks in the summer as well. You’ll find Zakopane thermal baths and spas are open year-round. Check out Chocholowskie Termy for a fun, relaxing hot spring experience in the heart of the Tatra Mountains.
Types of thermal baths in Chocholow
Chochołowskie Termy are among the largest thermal baths in Europe. Located 15 km from Zakopane in the village of Chocholow, it’s a prime destination for those seeking to enjoy the miraculous mineral waters. Water running in the indoor and outdoor pools comes directly from a hot spring, making it a true geothermal bath. It’s an excellent place for a day trip to get away from the historical environment of Krakow. The Terms have also plenty of attractions, which are divided into several zones. That way, you can find something that suits your wants, no matter the mood.
Thermal pools – indoor & outdoor
Did you know the thermal waters in Chocholow come from a source that’s almost 4 km underground? That’s a big reason why the water can stay so hot naturally, even in winter. Here are some of the main attractions of the Zakopane thermal baths:
Leisure pools and baths
Large, thermal water baths will most likely the main event of your visit. Whether you want to socialise, get rid of your fatigue, or just kick back and enjoy the change of pace from your Krakow trip, these will do great at all these things.
Swimming Pools
If, on the other hand, you’d like to get some cardio in, Chocholow Thermal Baths also have more conventional swimming pools, designed for doing laps. One of them has special sensors that detect someone potentially drowning, and the other is a fully specked-out Olympic swimming pool.
Hydro massagers
Both inside and outside, you can find many hydro massage devices. Here’s a top tip, though – the best massage spots are by far the outdoor ones. They let you fully admire the incredible mountain ranges you’re basically surrounded by – the views are immaculate there!
Kids’ zone with slides
Paddling pools for children, multiple slides and many fun attractions are waiting for you and the family in the Kids Zone. There’s even a pirate ship that will guarantee fun adventures for you and your children!
Saunas and steam rooms
The Saunarium is, by far, Poland’s biggest and most diverse sauna zone. It’s created with true sauna enthusiasts in mind and for many of you, it may be a great reason to visit Chochołów in and of itself.
Panorama Sauna – brewing ceremonies
The Panorama is the most iconic sauna room of the bunch. 8 times a day, the sauna masters perform a special heating ritual, which helps maintain a constant temperature and moisture levels throughout the day. It’s made into an interesting spectacle you can spectate while inside.
Pieronska Sauna Hall
It’s Chocholow’s biggest sauna room. Over 300 hundred people can fit in there at all times. Usually, people associate saunas with small spaces for up to 12 people, so the first time going to a massive sauna hall like that is an interesting experience.
Bio sauna with juniper
The Bio sauna boasts special benefits for your digestive system on top of the usual benefits of a dry sauna. Make sure to drink your water, though – dry saunas are especially dehydrating.
Spa & Hydrotherapy facilities
Healing zone
The best pools with thermal water enriched with sulphur and other minerals are completely at your disposal. They’re basically like jacuzzis, as they run way hotter than the usual pools at around 36-38 degrees Celsius.
The Normobaria
It’s one of the most unique parts of the thermal spa in Chocholow. It’s a pressure chamber that completely changes the air and atmosphere that you breathe in. It is scientifically proven to:
- slow ageing
- improve physical condition
- improve mood
- improve cellular regeneration
- help with many ailments, such as osteoporosis
- improve your immune system.
Bear in mind that entering Normobaria needs a separate charge from the Open ticket. Ask your tour operator about it before your trip.
Benefits of visiting Zakopane thermal baths
Just 10 km from Zakopane, Chocholow Thermal Baths offers a great way to wind down after intense sightseeing sessions. While you can be a little sceptical about taking a retreat from your retreat, there are a lot of benefits to taking the plunge, including:
- Relaxation and stress relief
- Improved circulation and muscle relaxation
- Great impact on skin cleanliness
- Overall wellness and health benefits
Our top tips for the Zakopane Thermal Baths day trip
What to bring
You’ll need a pair of flip flops and a proper swimming suit. Loose swimming shorts are most likely a no-go. You can also take a swimming cap, especially if you intend to visit the Olympic swimming pool.
Best times to visit
Honestly, there is no limit to when you can visit. The baths are a great attraction no matter the season. You can enjoy the milder outdoor experience in the summer or the interesting contrast between the winter weather and super hot water. It’s an interesting feeling – imagine sleeping in a warm blanket in a breezy room, but 10x more intense. Everything is open all year round, except for some specialised outdoor areas and the Kids Zone.