More and more often we look for an alternative. A place where winter break means a true breath of fresh air, not another race against time. So where to go for winter break with children?
For most parents in Poland, winter means one association: heading south. As soon as the first snow falls and the school calendar signals a semester break, hundreds of thousands of families instinctively pack their skis and head towards the Tatras or the Beskids. But does a successful winter holiday have to mean standing in traffic jams on the "Zakopianka", fighting for a spot in the ski lift queue, and constant noise?
When to go for winter break with children?
Planning a winter holiday is inextricably linked to the school calendar. Dividing the winter break into periods for individual provinces theoretically reduces crowding in resorts, but in practice extends the winter season to six weeks. It is during this period – from mid-January to early March – that we have the greatest chance of snowy weather and frost, which adds charm to the forest landscapes.
In 2026, the winter schedule looks as follows:
- January 19 – February 1: first to rest will be students from the provinces of Mazowieckie, Pomorskie, Podlaskie, Świętokrzyskie and Warmińsko-Mazurskie.
- February 2 – February 15: the second group of winter break will include Dolnośląskie, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Łódzkie, Zachodniopomorskie, Małopolskie and Opolskie regions.
- February 16 – March 1: winter break will end for the provinces of Podkarpackie, Lubelskie, Wielkopolskie, Lubuskie and Śląskie.
However, it is worth remembering that knowing the date is just the beginning. The most interesting places – those intimate, atmospheric and family-friendly – disappear from offers quickly. Regardless of whether your province starts in the first or last group, it’s not worth postponing the decision to leave to the last moment. Booking early ensures you get to a place that really meets your expectations rather than choosing from what is left.
Most common destinations: warm countries and Polish mountains
When we think about winter holidays, we usually face a dilemma: skiing in Poland or sun abroad? The Polish mountains are a classic. They have their undeniable charm, but at peak season they suffer from their own popularity. Crowds on Krupówki Street, high prices and smog in the valleys can effectively take away the joy of the holiday, especially from parents of younger children who do not spend whole days on the slopes. Instead of relaxation, we often cause ourselves additional stress and noise that we wanted to escape from.
On the other hand, warm countries tempt – Egypt, the Canary Islands or Zanzibar. The idea of a beach in the middle of winter is tempting, but the logistics of such a trip with the whole family is challenging. Long flights, sudden climate change and risk of infections after returning home make it less than optimal for many parents. Thus, we often look for a “third way” – a place in Poland that offers winter magic but allows you to avoid the crowds typical of ski resorts.
Where to go with a child for winter break? – bison, forests and SPA
The answer to this question lies in the east, in the heart of an ancient forest. The Białowieża Forest in winter transforms into a land that looks like it came out of a fairy tale about the Snow Queen. Here the snow crunches underfoot louder than anywhere else, and the silence is so deep it rings in your ears. It is a perfect destination for those who want to show children nature in its wildest form.
Instead of crowded slopes, the Forest offers encounters with its king – the bison. In winter these majestic animals are perfectly visible against the white background, and watching them in the Show Reserve is a nature lesson for the youngest, which no textbook can replace. Active recreation takes on a different dimension here. Traditional torch sleigh rides through the snowy forest, ending with a bonfire, bring the family together much more than standing in a lift queue.
Skiing and nordic walking are also very attractive here. The flat terrain of the Forest is safe and accessible for everyone, regardless of fitness and age. Most importantly, you breathe crystal-clear air here, free of urban pollution, which in the heating season in Poland is a luxury.
Enklawa Białowieska Forest & SPA
If you are looking for a base that combines proximity to this wild nature with high comfort, Enklawa Białowieska is a place designed for you. It is a space created to give parents respite and children lots of joy. Instead of cramped hotel rooms, we offer you spacious apartments. They provide freedom and intimacy that a family needs – you can feel at home while enjoying service.
After a day spent in the frost, nothing is more pleasant than a visit to Forest SPA. We also take care of our guests' palates. Our kitchen focuses on local products and the flavors of Podlasie, which taste best in winter, warming and giving energy for further walks.
In the Enklawa boredom does not exist, even when the weather is bad. A rope park, a safe snow play area just outside your door and nearby educational trails make every day a new adventure.
Summary: where to go for winter break with children
Choosing a place for a winter holiday doesn’t have to be limited to common patterns. If you dream of recovery, peace, and showing children winter in its most beautiful, primal form, Białowieża Forest will be a perfect choice. It is an alternative to crowded mountains, offering space, silence and close contact with nature – something we greatly miss every day.
Questions and answers
1. The best hotels for winter break with a child – what to look for?
When choosing a facility for a winter trip, look for places that provide a comprehensive offer under one roof. Spaciousness of rooms is key – apartments with separate bedrooms guarantee much higher comfort than standard rooms. The hotel surroundings are also important; proximity to forest and walking areas allows for activity without the need to travel by car.
2. Where to go for winter break with children in Poland to avoid crowds?
To escape the hustle and bustle, it is best to avoid the most popular ski resorts in the Tatras or Karkonosze. An excellent choice is eastern Poland – Podlasie and Białowieża Forest. These regions offer wonderful winter weather, silence and plenty of nature attractions, while being free from mass tourism, queues and noise typical of the south of the country.
3. Where to go in Poland for 3 days in winter?
For a short, several-day winter trip, it is best to choose a “resort” type place that offers everything on site. Facilities like Enklawa Białowieska work perfectly because you don’t waste time on logistics and travel.
4. Where in Poland is worth going in February?
February is a great time to visit Białowieża Forest. There is usually still snow, and it is the best moment to observe bisons gathering at feeding spots. Alternatively, a trip to the seaside is an option.
5. What are the most beautiful cities in Poland in winter?
In winter, Krakow captivates especially with its Market Square and Cloth Hall, as well as Wrocław, famous for its beautiful illuminations. However, if you look for smaller, more atmospheric towns, it’s worth visiting the gems of Podlasie like Tykocin or Supraśl, which under snow look extremely picturesque and offer a unique, peaceful atmosphere.
6. What are the most beautiful places in Poland?
Among the winter landscapes of Poland, Białowieża Forest leads the way, listed as UNESCO World Heritage – its snowy old-growth forest creates a view unique in Europe. Also very beautiful are the Tatras, e.g., Chochołowska Valley, and the frozen lakes of Masuria. However, the Forest wins with its wildness and lack of human intervention in the landscape.
