This trip to the Tatras was a bit different from what we’re used to. Almost the entire mountainous area is part of a national park or protected zone, so you can’t just drive around freely. If you want to avoid park regulations, you have to stick to the outskirts or know some locals you can visit. So, we had to stick to designated roads, and our trip ended up being more about hiking and sightseeing than cruising through nature. We barely got into the wilderness. Still, it was a different kind of experience, and the mountains were as beautiful as ever.
In Slovakia, we explored an old, majestic castle and visited a beautifully preserved manor house—the only castle in Slovakia that survived World War II without being looted, and which has retained its original interior. We also ventured into an ice cave, wandered scenic trails, took in breathtaking views, and explored an open-air museum.
In Southern Poland, the standout experience was the Bachledka Treetop Walk in Bachledova Valley—high above the forest floor with panoramic views. The highlight there was a spiraling observation tower. We also visited old castle and toured a salt mine.
Food was a big part of the trip too—delicious and hearty in both Slovakia and Poland. Most nights we stayed at official campgrounds. At first, camping didn’t seem like the best idea, but the sites were decent and worked out better than expected.
All in all, the Tatras, Slovakia, and Southern Poland offered great views, rich history, and a mix of warm lake water and freezing mountain streams. It wasn’t the wilderness escape, but it turned out to be a rewarding journey in its own right.
P.S. Since our page focuses on offroad adventures, all photos from this trip show only the driving parts—even though most of the highlights were off the beaten path and explored on foot.
