Morskie Oko
The largest high-mountain lake in the Tatras, ringed by peaks. It is Poland's most famous natural landmark and the first thing to see in Zakopane.
Morskie Oko sits at 1,395 meters. Its clear waters lie at the foot of the cliffs of Mięguszowiecki Peak and Rysy, Poland's highest peak. Starting from the Palenica Białczańska car park (about 20 km from Zakopane), follow the paved road on foot for about 9 km, taking roughly 2 to 2.5 hours one way and passing Mickiewicz Waterfall. You can also ride a horse-drawn carriage for much of the way. A century-old mountain hut by the lake serves meals. If you're fit, you can climb about another hour to the higher Black Lake (Czarny Staw pod Rysami). You need a Tatra National Park ticket, which can be bought online, and parking must be reserved online in advance. Starting before 7 a.m. on summer weekends helps you avoid crowds.
Opening hours
Open all day (national park trails)
Nearby sights
- Five Polish Ponds Valley
- Rusinowa Polana
- Hala Gąsienicowa
- Kasprowy Wierch Cable Car
- Jaszczurówka Chapel
- Wielka Krokiew Ski Jump
- Giewont
- Krupówki Street