Cross-country skiing in Harrachov and Jakuszyce: Krkonoše trails straight from the hotel

Harrachov lies where the Krkonoše Mountains meet Poland – and that is exactly where one of the largest cross-country areas in Central Europe begins. Tracks around town, the ridge route on the crest and the Polish cross-country centre at Jakuszyce only a few kilometres away make Harrachov an ideal base for cross-country skiers. And after the loop, sauna, pool and dinner are waiting at Hotel Šedý Vlk.

Trails around Harrachov

The nearest groomed tracks start at the edge of town. From there trails lead through the forests towards the ridge and join the Krkonoše ridge route (Krkonošská magistrála) – the long high-level track that runs the length of the range. Whether you want a quiet loop in the woods or altitude and panoramas, you will find it here.

You do not need a car from the hotel: the access points are within walking distance at the edge of Harrachov. By car you are in Jakuszyce in ten minutes.

Jakuszyce: the cross-country paradise just across the border

Polana Jakuszycka is the best-known cross-country centre in Poland and lies only around six kilometres from the hotel, just beyond the Harrachov–Jakuszyce border crossing. Dozens of kilometres of groomed tracks at every level, classic and skating, wide loops for beginners and long routes for endurance skiers – plus rental, food and a very reliable snow record in winter.

Many of our guests combine both: a loop in Jakuszyce in the morning, the trails near Harrachov or the slope right at the hotel in the afternoon.

For beginners and regulars

Skiing for the first time? Around Harrachov and in Jakuszyce there are flat, wide tracks where you can practise technique in peace. Rental points in Harrachov and Jakuszyce supply classic or skating equipment. Experienced skiers find long loops with climbs and wide views on the ridge route and the crest trails.

Sauna after the trail: the best end to the day

After kilometres in cold air, the private Finnish sauna with a plunge pool is what makes a cross-country day perfect. You book the sauna at reception and have it to yourselves. The heated pool with a relaxation zone is included in the price, and so is dinner in the hotel restaurant – more about the wellness area.

When is the best time for cross-country skiing?

The season usually runs from December to March, in Jakuszyce and on the ridge often into April. Outside the Christmas and winter school holidays the tracks are pleasantly empty. Reception will gladly give you current snow reports.

More than cross-country

Harrachov also offers downhill skiing right at the hotel, winter walks to the Mumlava Waterfalls, the ski jumping hills and the historic glassworks. The overview is under skiing in Harrachov.

Accommodation for cross-country skiers in Harrachov

At Hotel Šedý Vlk you stay in the heart of Harrachov, with half-board, pool and sauna in the building and a safe place for your equipment. Double, triple and quadruple rooms for couples, families and clubs. About two hours from Prague, under an hour from Jelenia Góra. See the rooms or book directly online.