Crocuses in the Tatras, or what you should know when planning a trip.
One of the most beautiful seasons of the year has come - spring. Astronomical began on March 20, a day later the calendar indicated the expected end of the astronomical winter. However, we could observe the spring accents a bit earlier. Increasing temperatures, more sun and longer days meant that the first buds began to appear on the trees, the grass began to turn green, and the birds, a little louder than before, chirped. Such circumstances of nature make us take more and more frequent walks and use the benefits of nature. Nothing unusual. After a long winter, we all need to take a deep breath and start a new period as best we can.
When it comes to spring in the south of Poland, it is impossible not to mention the unique holiday of colors that every year is funded by crocuses in the Chochołowska Valley. Every year, this unique spectacle of nature attracts tens of thousands of tourists who want to see the crocuses in the Tatra Mountains live.
When asked when saffrons bloom, because this is the correct name of the popular crocuses in colloquial language, how to best plan a trip and every crocus patrol, we will answer in our post.
When do crocuses bloom in the Tatras?
There is no clear answer to the question of when crocuses bloom in the Tatras. Each year they appear at a slightly different time. It depends on many factors, especially the temperature and snow cover that fell on the Tatra valleys during the winter months.
At the beginning of spring, i.e. around the first quarter of the year, there is usually still snow in the higher parts of the mountains. In the first weeks of spring it is the most beautiful and safest then - in the valleys and clearings, where one of the first spring flowers - crocuses - begins to bloom around March. However, this date does not guarantee that we will see patches of purple flowers in the valleys. We will have to wait a bit for this moment ... In order for the crocuses to show their full glory, most of the snow has to melt, thanks to which we can see crocuses in the Tatra Mountains.
Before the trip, it is worth checking the information on mountain portals and social profiles of tourist hostels that update the information on an ongoing basis. Crocuses are a spring showcase and a true pride of the Tatra Mountains. As soon as they start to bloom, Podhale people boast about them on the Internet.
Crocuses in the Tatra Mountains. Where to plan a trip?
When it comes to where to plan a trip to see crocuses in the Tatra Mountains, you should mention the Chochołowska Valley. For when we think about saffrons, this Valley immediately comes to mind. No wonder, floral rugs look really phenomenal there.
To see crocuses in the Chochołowska Valley, you should start your trip from Siwa Polana. The route to the shelter on Polana Chochołowska is 7.5 km in one direction. It takes just over 2 hours to walk slowly. When planning a trip aimed at crocuses in the Chochołowska Valley, however, we must take into account that we will not be alone in the Valley. For enthusiasts of less popular places, we suggest a walk to: Kalatówki, Polana Biały Potok, Polana Huciska, Polana Olczyska, or Ścieżka pod Reglami. Not so many, but there you will surely also see the first signs of spring in the form of purple saffrons.
It is worth remembering that it is worth booking a stay in Zakopane at this time a bit earlier, Zakopane accommodation facilities are very popular at this time and are often booked long in advance.
Crocuses in the Chochołowska Valley, how to get there.
As mentioned above, to see the crocuses in the Chochołowska Valley, it is best to start the trip from Siwa Polana. You can easily get there from Zakopane by bus or car. Right next to the route there are numerous parking lots where you can comfortably leave your vehicle.
The route to the Chochołowska Valley can be covered in several ways: on foot, by bike, which can be rented near the parking lots located at Polana, or by the tourist train to Polana Huciska, which is located more or less in the middle of the trail, and then about 3 km on foot, wide and comfortable route. Each of the options has its advantages and disadvantages, but we wholeheartedly encourage you to go on foot.
Crocus Patrols, or what to remember.
Every year, around the flowering date of Crocuses, "Crocus Patrols" appear in the Tatras. They were created to protect this unique spectacle of nature and prevent the flowers from being destroyed. Volunteers make sure that the crocuses do not fall victim to their own charm and are not trampled Volunteers cooperating with the park guards make sure that tourists do not go out into the clearing, litter, lie on flower patches, do not make noise and move only along the marked trail. Implementing and respecting the rules of the National Park is necessary to protect nature and enjoy its benefits as long as possible.
A handful of tips for people who are going to see Krakusy in the Chochołowska Valley?
During the walk, try to relax and enjoy the charms of nature as much as possible! Being in the bosom of nature can be not only calming, but also regenerating for the body and mind, tired from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
We hope that our post has clarified the issues that you should know and keep in mind when planning a trip to Zakopane, the destination of which are crocuses in the Tatra Mountains.
If you are planning a longer stay in the capital of the Polish Tatras, please contact us by e-mail: biuro@apartart.pl or by calling 12 638 02 12.