Poland 16-Day Tours and Trips

Although the weather was challenging (very hot) our leader and our mountain guide made the most of the available alternatives. Our leader Gabi was sociable, extremely knowledgeable and always ready with a suggestion for activities or restaurants. The Penny Grand spa hotel was truly superb and I took the opportunity to have a foot and leg massage - heavenly!

Poland is a lovely country to visit great food, transport, views, accommodation, very reasonable prices for taxis, museum tickets etc. The coutryside is not very busy with other visitors or hikers until you come to the mountain hsuts were the service is generally very efficient.

Hiking the Polish Carpathians was a very good experience. The only downside was the extreme temperatures (36 degrees) and humidity, both of which were outside the control of Explore. Gabi the tour leader was very good and gave great insight into Polish culture and history. The leader had to make a judgement call on the first hiking day when it was clear that some of the group would struggle to make the summit of the first hike, due to high temperatures and exposed approach to the summit, the leader opted for a lower elevation and shaded route. Some of the group were not happy with decision, but it was the right call and showed good leadership skills. I would recommend either arriving a few days early or staying on at the end of the tour to experience more of what Krakow have to offer. E.g excursions to Auschwitz, Schindler's Factory and Salt Mines.

Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture to explore. The Carpathian Mountains are just as good for walking as The Alps but not yet as visited.

It was a little fast paced. There was hardly any time to just rest and enjoy our time. We were constantly on the go. I think it would be better to get back to the room earlier so we can either go out and do things on our own or to have more time during the day to see things that are not included on the tour.

Very good. Lots of information on polish history