Zakopane is located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. It is one of the most popular rest folklore and sports resort in Poland. It is situated in a valley closed by the Tatras from its southern side. It has been attracting many visitors both from Poland and world. Zakopane is associated with winter sports. It is said to be the cradle of skiing. Podhale is the only region in Poland with so well preserved folklore culture. The history of Zakoane begins at the end of XVI century. The beginnings of Zakopane are connected with the smelting centre in Kuźnice. In the 70s of XIX centrury Zakopane became a spa and then the centre of summer tourism and winter sports. The history of the city is reflected by many monuments like Our Lady of Częstochowa church [Kościół Matki Boskiej Częstochowskiej] with a very famous cemetery, historical wooden buildings and villas in regional style (Oksza, Witkiewiczówka, Pod Jedlami, Koliba). Zakopane has been a modern resort for over a hundred years. Every year, there are over several million visitors in Zakopane. It is the biggest ski resort in Poland. The skiers can choose from ski runs and winter stadium to ski jumps. To the east you can find Nosal (1206 m. above sea level) with a licensed by FIS slalome slope and most difficult areas of Kasprowy Wierch. It is where Willa Nałęcz is situated.
