Guide
What to wear on a sleigh ride in Zakopane
A sleigh ride is a whole evening: an hour on the sleigh in the frost, and another hour in a warm mountain hut by the fire. So dress to stay warm on the way and not to overheat by the fire. Here are the main rules.
Rule number one: dress in layers
You hardly move on the sleigh, so the cold gets to you faster than you expect. In the hut by the fire, though, it gets warm. The answer is three thin layers instead of one thick one:
- next to the skin: thermal underwear or a long-sleeve shirt,
- in the middle: a fleece or a wool sweater,
- on the outside: a warm, windproof jacket.
In the hut you take off one layer. When you step back out into the frost, you put it back on.
Boots: warm, high, with a thick sole
You walk to the sleigh and to the hut through snow. Winter boots with a non-slip sole, like the ones you would wear for a mountain walk, work best. Thick socks are enough, but the boots should not be too tight, because tight boots get cold faster. Leave high heels and smooth-soled shoes at your accommodation.
Head, neck and hands
- a hat that covers your ears,
- a scarf or a neck gaiter,
- warm gloves, plus a spare pair.
Every guest gets a burning torch, included in the price, so pick gloves you can hold it in securely. Near the fire and torches, it is better not to wear a new, delicate jacket made of thin material, because a spark can leave a mark.
What to bring and what you don't need
Food and drinks are included, so you don't need to bring anything from your accommodation. Hunter's stew (bigos), sausages to roast over the fire, bread with lard, mulled wine and tea are waiting, with no limit. Among personal items, these will come in handy:
- a charged phone, because the battery drains faster in the cold,
- tissues,
- a spare pair of gloves.
And if there is no snow?
Then we ride comfortable carriages on wheels, and the rest of the programme stays the same. Dress the same way, because evenings in Podhale are cold even without snow.
Quick checklist before you leave
- three thin layers instead of one thick one,
- winter boots with a non-slip sole,
- a hat over your ears, a scarf or neck gaiter,
- warm gloves and a spare pair,
- a charged phone.
Choose your route and date
Three routes, sleigh rides every day in season. Check available dates online or give us a call, and we will match a route to your group.
Keep reading
Sleigh ride with kids in ZakopaneChildren's prices, choosing a route and getting the family ready.Read more
When to go on a sleigh ride in ZakopanePrice periods, holidays, start times and the dates that go first.Read more
How much does a sleigh ride in Zakopane costRoute prices, holiday prices and what the price includes.Read moreQuestions? Write to us
We answer every question about routes, dates and seats on the sleigh. Call us, message us on WhatsApp or get in touch through social media.