A new resort on Poland's Baltic coast has opened its doors, establishing itself as one of the largest hotels in Europe by room capacity. The Hotel Gołębiewski Pobierowo, which welcomed its first guests on 10th June, initially offers 532 rooms but is set to expand to a total of 1,240 rooms by next year. This expansion will position it as Poland's largest hotel and among the biggest on the continent, surpassed only by a few complexes in Russia and London's Royal National Hotel.
Situated on the outskirts of Pobierowo, the extensive 180,000-square-metre property is nestled within a dense forest, on the site of a former military unit, and boasts direct access to its own beach. Despite its considerable size, the hotel's design is said to be almost imperceptible from the beach or forest paths, resembling a passenger cruise ship. Over 80 per cent of its future 1,240 rooms will offer sea views, each featuring a private balcony.
Guests at the Hotel Gołębiewski Pobierowo have access to a wide array of amenities, including the Tropikana Water Park. This facility features both indoor and outdoor pools, waterslides, water playgrounds, saunas, salt caves, and salt brine inhalation rooms. Notably, the largest outdoor pool measures 104 by 60 metres, comparable in size to a large football pitch, offering ample space for relaxation and recreation.
Beyond the water park, the resort caters to a diverse clientele with three additional restaurants, providing options ranging from pan-Asian cuisine to traditional Polish dishes and a comprehensive buffet. Younger guests are also well-provided for, with three dedicated playrooms, slides leading to ball pits, a projector room, and a children's restaurant, ensuring family-friendly entertainment.
The opening of the Gołębiewski Pobierowo has also brought significant employment opportunities to the region, initially creating 300 new jobs, with plans to increase this to 400 by July. Jarosław Gołębiewski, CEO of Gołębiewski Holding, emphasised the importance of the staff during the opening, stating that their work is crucial to the guest experience and the overall success of the resort.
For UK travellers considering a trip to Poland, a passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned departure date is required. As Poland is a member of the European Union, British citizens do not currently need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises that most visits to Poland are trouble-free, but recommends checking their latest travel advice for any updates. Costs for a stay at such a resort would vary significantly based on season, room type, and package inclusions, but generally, Poland offers good value compared to Western European destinations. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings.