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The project is co-funded by the Regional Operational Programme of Lesser Poland for the years 2014 – 2020. The support of small and medium-sized enterprises which operate in tourism and increasing the recognisability of Lesser Poland as a tourist economic brand.

The project ‘The support of small and medium-sized enterprises which operate in tourism and increasing the recognisability of Lesser Poland as a tourist economic brand’ (no RPMP.03.03.01-12-0593/18) cofunded by the European Union as a part of the Regional Operational Programme of Lesser Poland for the years 2014 – 2020.

The Foundation for the Development of Regions www.f-rr.org

The Association of Polish Spa Communities www.sgurp.pl

Art Manager: Konrad Rogoziński

Text: Natalia Starzyk, Maria Kościelniak

Translation: Ewelina Natanek-Rogozińska

Proofreading: Agata Kościelniak

Design: Klaudia Stochmal, Nina Kieblesz

Realization: Digital Places Multimedia Publishing www.digitalplaces.pl

Kraszewskiego 1/406

33-380 Krynica-Zdrój

Typesetting: Klaudia Stochmal, Nina Kieblesz

Photographies: © Konrad Rogoziński / DigitalPlaces.pl

Apart from: P 2-3, photos no 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, p 4-5 photos no 2, 3, 5; p 20 photo no 2; © Wiktor Baron; p 6 photo no 1; p 12-13 photos no 2 i 3, p 18-19 photos no 1, 2, 6; © Łukasz Świętach P 5, photo no 6 © Freepik.com; P 17, photos no 2 i 3; p 24 photo no 3; p 28 photo no 1; p 32 photo no 1, p 36 photo no 1; p 41 photo no 4; p 46 photo no 2 i 3 © Adobe Stock P 19 photo no 1 © Aleksandra Nowak; p 19 photo no 2 © Freestyle World Piwniczna; P 28 photo no 3; p 32 photo no 2; © Piotr Kuczaj; P 33 photo no 1 i 2 © Joanna Dragon; p 33 photo no 3 i 4 © Piotr Dragon; P 35 photo no 1 © Baseny i Park Wodny Kraków; p 45 photo no 2 © Park Wodny w Wysowej-Zdroju; P 44 photo no 1; p 47 photo no 2 © Piotr Gaborek

Introduction

Active recreation is inextricably linked with Lesser Poland. The spa communes do not differ from the rest of the voivodeship in this matter. Either in winter or summer there are numerous activities we can choose from. This is possible thanks to the richness of natural treasures of this area.

The region offers high, steep mountains such as the Tatras, the Beskids or the Pieniny, gentle hills of the Low Beskids and valleys, for instance the Nowy Targ Valley, which encourage hiking, horse tours and cycling trips. There are numerous trails – more or less difficult, but equally beautiful. There is not a better way to rest from our everyday life than being active in fresh, mountain air. The area is rich in trails perfect for running, hiking or Nordic walking. There are also the best ski centres in the whole country – Krynica-Zdrój, Szczawnica or Wierchomla Mała. Mountain rivers such as the Dunajec,

the Czarny Dunajec or the Poprad flow rapidly providing canoeists, who decide to take a trip along their rocky channels, with thrills. There are plenty of swimming pools where we can swim and relax. The amateurs of extreme sports can take advantage of bike parks, diving or paragliding spots.

Uście Gorlickie tempts with bridle paths and hucul ponies. Krynica is a commune of extreme sports, both Muszyna and Piwniczna are starting points for rafting (rafts, canoes, dinghies). Czarny Dunajec is crossed by one of the most beautiful cycling routes of Lesser Poland. We can see paragliders over Rabka. In Cracow we can dive and climb. And what about Szczawnica? Szczawnica is surrounded by the Pieniny, so beautiful and interesting that they are a perfect spot for active recreation. It is a place where everything is possible – rafting (rafts, kayaks, dinghies), running, trekking or cycling.

Szczawnica is a commune in the south of Poland on the border between the Beskid Sądecki and the Pieniny. The commune combines all the best features of the regions. The Dunajec Valley is in its western part. The river meanders between Jurassic limestone of the Main Pieniny. Kayakers love it and rafting with the use of dinghies can be thrilling as well. The Pieniny National Park stretches by the Dunajec.

Bryjarka rises over the spa from the north – the peak is not very high and at its foot mineral waters of Szczawnica flow out. From the mountain, we can hike further into the Beskid Sądecki.

The eastern part of the commune is the picturesque valley of the Grajcarek over which the Little Pieniny and the Beskid Sądecki tower. Runners, skiers, hikers love this region. It also is rich in bridle and cycling paths. Palenica (722 m), which is a part of the Little Pieniny, offers a lot of attractions such as hiking, cycling and skiing trails or a gravity slide. We can reach the mountain by a cableway.

People who inhabit Szczawnica Commune are active and organise numerous events connected with the promotion of physical activity, they run companies which promote active tourism, they are guides and instructors. We should look at their offer to get to know the region as well as possible.

Mountain trails

Szczawnica Commune is located within the area of two mountain groups – the Pieniny and the Beskid Sądecki. Such a location creates a lot of possibilities for hiking. From Szczawnica we can set off to the Pieniny National

Park, Trzy Korony Mountain (Three Crowns Mountain), Sokolica Mountain or to the Little Pieniny. The trails of Szczawnica run in the direction of Koziarz, Radziejowa or Przehyba.

The yellow trail from the upper part of Szczawnica leads to the PTTK Shelter below Bereśnik (843 m), Dzwonkówka, Koziarz and to Łącko.

The blue trail from the down part of Szczawnica leads west, across the Dunajec, to Sokolica (747 m) and Trzy Korony (982 m) and, further, to the Main Pieniny in the direction of Czorsztyn.

The blue trail from the down part of Szczawnica leads east, to Palenica (722 m) and, through the Little Pieniny, to Wysoka (1,050 m) from which we can go down to Jaworki. The blue trail leads further to the Rozdziela Pass (803 m).

The blue trail from the upper part of Szczawnica leads past the Zaskalnik Waterfall to the PTTK (Polish Tourist Sightseeing Society) shelter on Przehyba (1,150 m) and in the direction of Rytro. We can also reach Radziejowa (1,266 m) from Przehyba following the red trail.

The green trail from Jaworki runs through the Homole Canyon at the foot of Wysoka (1,050 m).

The red trail from Jaworki leads through former Ruthenian meadows to the Obidza Pass (938 m) and goes down to Piwniczna-Zdrój. From the pass we can reach Eliaszówka (1,023 m) following the green trail.

Andrzej Sproch

A mountain guide

Andrzej Sproch is a person brought up by mountains, and to be more specific, by the Pieniny. His career is connected with them and since 1988, as a raftsman, he has been showing the most beautiful places of the region to tourists. He has been a mountain guide of the Polish Carpathians (the Pieniny, the Gorce, the Bieszczady and the Beskidy), apart from the Tatra National Park, and the Slovak mountains for a few years. If we choose to hike with him, we will come back rich in experiences, stories and we will look at mountains in a different way. Andrzej Sproch is a member of the Group of the Beskidy Guides of the PTTK Pieniny Branch in Krościenko over the Dunajec, the president of the board of PTTK Pieniny Branch in Krościenko over the Dunajec, a member of the Board of Guides ZG PTTK and, last but not least, an instructor of PTTK guides. Being in the Pieniny, feel free to stay at his agritourism farm in Sromowce Wyżne.

E-mail: biuro@wpieniny.pl

Phone: + 48 508 175 811

Tomasz Salamon

wPieniny.pl

Tomasz Salamon is a native of Szczawnica and the author of wPieniny.pl – a website which was created out of love for the Pieniny and fascination for mountains. Everyone who wants to spend time in the Pieniny will find complex information on the attractions, region, accommodation and catering facilities at the website. There are also ready programmes of one-day or longer, hiking, equestrian, cycling or dinghy trips. We may go for such a trip alone or, with the use of the website, find a guide. wPieniny. pl is also an online shop where we will be able to buy books, maps and guidebooks around the Pieniny. There are T-shirts, novelties and exceptional canvas prints connected with the Pieniny.

wpieniny.pl

wpieniny.pl wPieniny

Port Pienin

Kayak and dinghy rafting

Port Pienin is a local company which organises rafting down the most beautiful river gorge in Poland – the Dunajec Gorge in the Pieniny. Rafting with the use of kayaks or dinghies is one of the greatest attractions of Szczawnica Commune. It can be combined with a cycling trip or trekking in the mountains. The routes lead through the most picturesque regions of the Pieniny for instance from Sromowce Niżne to Szczawnica. The company offers kayak training run by Polaczyk siblings who have done this sport since their childhood and can boast of numerous medals brought from international events. Port Pienin offers a rental of MTB, trekking bikes, bikes for children, bicycle carts and saddles for children. We will get there a map with cycling trails which will lead us to the most interesting places of the region – the Red Monastery (Slovakia), Niedzica, Szafranówka, the Homole Canyon, Biała Woda Reserve, Wysokie Skałki Reserve or Czorsztyn.

Address: ul. Pienińska 1b 34-460 Szczawnica

E-mail: portpienin@op.pl

Phone: + 48 721 977 632

portpienin.pl

portpienin port_pienin

By bikes!

VeloDunajec is a cycling route along the Dunajec. It starts in Zakopane and leads along the Dunajec to Wietrzychowice. In total, it covers a distance of 240 km and its most beautiful section goes through the Pieniny. This is a 10 km, beautiful and easy path. We set off from the down part of Szczawnica and reach the Red Monastery in Slovakia. We can come back to Szczawnica by dinghy, kayak or raft.

The Little Pieniny - even though there are no designated paths for cyclists, we can take advantage of roads and hiking trails. We may start our trip in Jaworki, ride up to Durbaszka (934 m), to a shelter. From there along the ridge of the Little Pieniny to Wysoka (1,050 m) – it is impossible to ride up to the peak. We can also go in the direction of Palenica (722 m). The descent from Palenica is difficult so one should consider an earlier one to Szlachtowa (from Wysoki Wierch).

Rajd Horse Stable is in Jaworki, in a beautiful region between the Beskid Sądecki and the Pieniny. Well-marked bridle paths run through the nature reserves of the Pieniny which are ideal for a ride. This is a perfect starting point for equestrian tours along picturesque trails. The stable is the Centre of Mountain Tourism affiliated by PTTK (Polish Tourist and Sightseeing Society).

Rajd Horse Stable

Muszyna is a small spa town whose vicinity and neighbouring villages hidden in the mountains are an ideal destination for those who enjoy various physical activities. The commune is located in the south of Poland, in the Poprad bend, at the foot of the Beskid Sądecki and the Poprad Foothills. On one hand, it is an extremely interesting region in terms of history and architecture. On the other hand, it is an oasis of nature, clear air and modern attractions. You can walk, do nording walking, for instance around the Sensory Gardens, and visit local attractions at the same time. We can go into the mountains

along the picturesque trails of the Beskid Sądecki. We can organise a long-distance bike trip or take the local Mineral Cycling Route. The amateurs of horse riding will be able to visit various horse stables and take advantage of organised horseback tours. The ones who enjoy activities connected with water can spend their time at swimming pools or go kayaking and rafting.

In winter the place abounds in attractions as well. There are numerous cross-country skiing trails, spots to go sledding or an ice-rink.

The swimming pools

In Muszyna, at the bend of the Poprad River, the Centre of Sports and Recreation is located. It offers numerous attractions among which there are recreational swimming pools. There are training lanes, 25 m long, a water umbrella, water cascades, wall massages, an artificial wave grotto and a bottom geyser. We can have a rest in four jacuzzis filled with healing water and a pool for children with fountains in the shape of an elephant and a rhino, a slide and a climbing net. Older visitors can get crazy on slides with two tracks (each of them is 180 cm wide and 10 m long). When you go out from a swimming pool, you can sit at the bar which offers cold or hot drinks and food. After having fun in the water, we can have dinner at the restaurant – wearing a complete attire of course.

Active Zapopradzie

In the area of the Centre we will find ‘Falandia’ inflatable slide, a volleyball court, tennis tables and a playroom for children. It is possible to rent bikes and electric scooters.

The Line Park

The line park in the Centre of Recreation and Sports covers an area of 20 ares. It has 11 towers between which various attractions and obstacles hang. There is a 20 m zip-line. The whole route is 70 m long and 1.5 m above the ground.

Rafting and kayaking

The Poprad is a perfect river for rafting. There are a few routes – they can start in Leluchów and the longest ones finish in Stary Sącz where the Poprad River Valley ends. We can go kayaking or use a dinghy.

splywypopradem.pl

The Bike Park around Sankolandia in Muszyna

The Bike Park around Sankolandia is situated on the slopes of Kotylniczy Wierch (1,032 m). There are three routes of various difficulty so that everyone can choose the one adjusted to their skills. We can rent a bike and a helmet at the place.

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Electric bikes and scooters

In Zapopradzie, a spa district of Muszyna, we can rent an electric bike or a scooter. This is a great alternative to long walks. A bike assisted with an electric engine will help us get to places which, otherwise, would be too difficult to reach. Everyone, irrespective of their age, will have fun! Electric scooters can be rented at the ice rink which in summer serves as a tennis court. Electric bikes are available at the Centre of Recreation and Sport Zapopradzie.

zapopradzie.pl

Off Road

Beautiful landscapes and a huge dose of adrenaline –Off Road will definitely appeal to the enthusiasts of fast and extreme driving! A trip by a four-by-four car across mountain areas is available in Złockie in Kolejarz State Guest House.

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Mountain trails

The Jaworzyna Krynicka Range and the Poprad Foothills (called the Leluchów Mountains in the past) surround Muszyna. They are densely wooded with few panoramic spots. Due to the fact that they are not frequently

visited by tourists, they have always been popular among true hikers. The trails of Muszyna will enable us to rest, breathe deeply and commune with nature.

The yellow trail from Muszyna to Malnik (726 m), Dubne (904 m) or Wojkowa.

The yellow trail from Szczawnik to Wyżne Młaki (929 m) from where, along the blue trail, we can go in the direction of Bacówka over Wierchomla (a tourist shelter) and also through Pusta Wielka (1,061 m) to Żegiestów.

The blue trail from Powroźnik to Dubne (904 m) (on the way we go past a path which leads to Czarna Młaka Pond) or to Leluchów.

The blue trail from Żegiestów through Trzy Kopce (687 m) to Bacówka over Wierchomla, Runek (1,080 m), Drabiakówka (894 m) and to Krynica-Zdrój.

A road to Bacówka over Wierchomla (a tourist shelter) from Szczawnik (an educational path coincides partially with the road).

The green trail from Złockie to Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m) and to Krynica-Zdrój.

Good Look Shop

Sports clothes and shoes

A shop with tourist clothing ‘Good Look’ offers a wide selection of sports and casual clothes for women, men and children. There are brand clothes for every season perfect for mountain tourism but not only! We will also buy various accessories such as rucksacks or bum bags there. In winter we will be able to purchase warm hats, socks, boots adjusted to given weather conditions or special skiing clothing. If you look for an ideal dress or a comfortable shirt, this is a place for you as well. A warm sweatshirt with a fashionable motif or a down jacket will be waiting for you too! The clothes are mainly imported from England. This is an outlet which selects the best, brand clothes and offers them at a good price to its customers.

Address: ul. Piłsudskiego 1, 33-370 Muszyna

E-mail: amarant2018@gmail.com

Phone: + 48 504 824 510

sklepGOODLOOK

Good Look Shop is located at the Square in Muszyna, at the exit into Piłsudski Street

Go-karts in Muszyna

A go-kart rental

to

In Zapopradzie, which is a recreational part of Muszyna, opposite ‘Grzyb’ cafe, we may rent pedal go-karts for children and adults, which are suitable for one or two persons. Such entertainment is a great way of spending your spare time with your family or friends and visiting Zapopradzie. There are numerous wide paths which allow safe driving and sightseeing. It is worth mentioning that the rental operates in summer time on dry days.

Pedal go-karts are muscle-powered but apart from legs, we will also need our hands to steer the vehicle. They have three, massive wheels which will ensure safety and stability. If we end up going too fast, we will be able to hit the brakes. Go-karts constitute great and safe fun.

Address: Aleja Zdrojowa (naprzeciwko Grzybka), 33-370 Muszyna

E-mail: telefony.muszyna@gmail.com

Phone: +48 503 993 005

t-gsm.pl

Gokarty-w-Muszynie

Go-karts in Zapopradzie are

be found opposite the famous ‘Grzyb’ Cafe.

The Carpathian Cycling Route – one of its sections runs through Muszyna Commune, on the route between Leluchów and Wierchomla. It is 25 km long and marked with red signs.

By bikes

The Mineral Water Cycling Route in Muszyna Commune – the route is marked red and it is 33 km long. It runs through Żegiestów, Milik, Szczawnik, Złockie, Jastrzębik and Muszyna..

The Tourist Loop of Muszyna – the trail is marked red and is 30 km long in total. It is a loop which leads from Muszyna through Leluchów, Dubne, Powroźnik and comes back to Muszyna.

Around Kotylniczy

Wierch – it is a route for the demanding ones which is almost 20 km long. It runs from Muszyna through Szczawnik, Bacówka over Wierchomla (a tourist shelter) and Runek (1,080 m).

EuroVelo 11 – the route is marked with an international sign EV11 and is 6,000 km long. It is called ‘the Beast of the East’ by cyclists. It runs through six capitals: trendy Helsinki, picturesque Vilnius, Warsaw – the city of Phoenix, Belgrade – the White City, ancient Skopje and exceptional Athens – it is 6,000 km long. On the way stop in Muszyna to catch your breath and recuperate.

Aqua Velo – is a cycling trail, 230 km long, which connects Polish and Slovak spas of the borderland such as Krynica-Zdrój, Muszyna, Piwniczna-Zdrój, Szczawnica, Vyšné Ružbachy, Stará Ľubovňa, Ľubovnianske Kúpele and Bardejov.

Piwniczna Commune consists of a small spa town located by the Poprad River and villages surrounding it which are tucked into the mountain ranges of the Beskid Sądecki – the Jaworzyna Range and the Radziejowa Range, and the Lubowelskie Mountains. Such a location offers a lot to the amateurs of nature, mountain challenges, spas and history. The wildlife of the place is truly unique – we can come across the wolf, the lynx or the bear. Small creatures such as the mountain dragon i.e. the fire salamander will delight us as well. The forests of the Beskids hide amazing rocks, caves and waterfalls. Hikers and cyclists

will find a plethora of trails with panoramic spots from which breathtaking views of the Beskids, the Gorce, the Tatras and the Pieniny spread. Piwniczna, the town, offers numerous ways in which we can spend our time actively, either in summer or winter. We can sail on a boat, go kayaking or rafting by dinghies on the Poprad river or go fishing. There are cycling trails, which run through the valley or mountain wilderness, for the amateurs of enduro cycling or even a pumptrack and a skatepark. We can go horse riding and, in winter, we will be able to choose from a variety of ski stations and cross-country skiing trails.

Bananarama Monika Zachradnik

A Beskid guide and an entertainer

‘Bananarama Monika Zachradnik’ is a company which was established in 2019. Its founder is an entertainer for children, teenagers or adults. She runs and creates quests and city games, organises survival classes or hare and hounds games, creative art classes or creative movement games indoors and outdoors. The entertainer runs art workshops too – making Easter eggs with the use of various techniques, weaving garlands out of wild flowers or herbs, making Christmas baubles and winter decorations and many more depending on the topic. All the classes take place in previously agreed places – houses, schools or hotels.

Monika Zachradnik is also a Beskid guide – trips around the Beskids, the Beskid Sądecki in particular, are her passion due to the fact that she is a Black Highlander –she was born in the heart of Beskid Sądecki. A trip with her means that you will get to know the culture of a given region through legends, history, stories and get to know various techniques of surviving in the mountains and admire beautiful landscapes of the Beskids.

Rafting through the Poprad River Valley

The picturesque Poprad River Valley creates great conditions for rafting with the use of kayaks, dinghies and even SUP boards. The route, which is 10 km long, starts in Piwniczna and finishes in Rytro – rafting takes from 1.5 to 2 hours. The season lasts from April to October but it can be changed depending on the weather.

splywypopradem.pl

Rafting starts in Piwniczna-Zdrój

and finishes in picturesquely located Rytro

The Horse Riding Centre Magóra is one of the highest located spots on the map of equestrian tourism in Poland (831 m). The centre is home to huculs, Małopolski horses and an Arab horse — they differ with respect to their age, breed and experience. However, all of them do without a stable – they spend all year round on pastures and paddocks surrounded by forests with access to open shelters. Everyone can ride a horse at the place irrespective of one’s skills – children or complete beginners too. What is more, you can take advantage of individual, group horse riding lessons, horse riding camps or weekends in the saddle, field trips, walks in the forest or rides in the riding arena. You may also come with your horse and leave it for some time or permanently in a horse hotel. Chata Magóry offers 30 accommodation places.

noclegizklimatem

Freestyle World Piwniczna

Freestyle World Piwniczna Sports Club has its seat in the ideal place for various sports. Children and teenagers can train acrobatics, cycling, rollerblading, skateboarding and skiing or snowboarding in winter under the watchful eye of experienced instructors. At the same time, they build up their strength, speed, endurance, jumping ability and balance. Cycling training sessions start in Rowerowa Dolina (Cycling Valley) – there is a rental, a service point, a test centre and a tourist information spot by the Poprad River. Moreover, you can train there skate&roll&scoot during group or individual training sessions in a skatepark or at a pumptrack.

Swimming pools at Radwanów

freestyleworld.pl

Swimming pools at Radwanów is a place with a big outdoor swimming pool with three swimming lanes, a bathtub with a hydromassage, a sauna and a paddling pool for children.

basenyradwanow.piwniczna.pl

Chatka Magóry Horse Riding Centre

Mountain trails

In the area of Piwniczna, the town and the commune, tourist hiking, cycling trails, bridle paths and fitness trails which run through the Beskid Sądecki are marked out. The spa is crossed by the Kazimierz Sosnowski Main Beskid Trail and the Beskid section of the Camino de Santiago.

The yellow trail from Piwniczna leads to Hala Pisana (1,044 m), then to Frycowa or the shelter on Hala Łabowska (1,061 m). Taking the trail in the opposite direction, we will reach Niemcowa (963 m) and, further, Wielki Rogacz (1,182 m) and Radziejowa (1,266 m).

Hala Łabowska (1,061 m) can be reached along the yellow trail from Łomnica-Zdrój through Parchowatka (1,004 m).

The green trail from Piwniczna leads along the border of Poland through Eliaszówka (1,023 m) and to the Gromadzka Pass (938 m).

The black trail from Wierchomla Mała leads to Bacówka over Wierchomla (887 m) and to Runek (1,080 m) or Pusta Wielka (1,061 m).

The blue trail from Piwniczna leads to Hala Łabowska (1,061 m), then to Runek (1,080 m) and to Hala Pisana (1,044 m).

By bikes

VeloNatura is a part of a network of EuroVelo trails in Lesser Poland. It is 271 km long. This picturesque route runs through Barcice, Rytro, Młodów, Piwniczna-Zdrój, Żegiestów and Muszyna.

Aquavelo is a cycling path which connects Polish and Slovak spa towns of the Poprad Valley. It connects such resorts as Krynica-Zdrój, Muszyna, Piwniczna-Zdrój, Szczawnica, Vyšné Ružbachy, Stará Ľubovňa, Ľubovnianske Kúpele and Bardejov.

At the foot of the Tatras and Babia Mountain, a vast plain stretches which is home to Highlanders from Podhale. They inhabit villages in the Czarny Dunajec River Valley and on the other side of the Orawa Watershed, in the Czarna Orawa Valley.

Czarny Dunajec, the seat of the commune, and villages which surround it are a perfect spot for summer and winter holidays. It is a great starting point for trips into the

Tatras, the Beskids, the Gorce and the Pieniny. There are thermal pools (in Chochołów), hiking and cycling trails (e.g. the Cycling Route around the Tatras), the Czarny Dunajec River which is a great attraction for the amateurs of kayaking and fishing. You can ride a horse or take advantage of a sports stadium at the place. It is a stone’s throw to ski stations (CzerwienneSki) and far from the crowds of Zakopane. There is even a ski-jumping complex and cross-countr skiing trails.

Ranczo Hajnos

Czarny Dunajec Horse Riding Club

Ranczo Hajnos (Hajnos Ranch) with Czarny Dunajec Horse Riding Club is situated in Czarny Dunajec. The club offers horse riding lessons for beginners or more advanced ones. Additionally, you can keep your horse at the stable and train with it. Sports ponies and horses are bred there as well. Czarny Dunajec Horse Riding Club is certified by the State Equestrian Federation (PZJ) and conducts exams for PZJ badges.

Czarny Dunajec Horse Riding Club organises training sessions and horse riding competitions. This is the place when you want to prepare for exams for PZJ badges,

horse trails (WKKW), jumping, dressage and instructor courses.

Wioleta Hajnos – the instructor of Polish Equestrian Federation, a dressage and horse trials judge, a member of the national team and an active contestant – runs training sessions. As a trainer, she was rewarded in 2017, 2018 and 2019 for sports results of her contestants. She participated in Young Horse Championships in horse trials and dressage. The club offers winter holidays, a weekend in the saddle or summer horse riding camps.

Address: ul. Ojca Świętego Jana Pawła II 92, 34-470 Czarny Dunajec

E-mail: kjczarnydunajec@gmail.com, ranczohajnos@op.pl Phone: 607 278 731, 663 831 502

ranczohajnos.pl

koniedunajec

Chochołowskie Thermal Baths

Chochołowskie Thermal Baths is the biggest facility of this type in Podhale – there are 30 pools, a healing zone, a saunarium, SPA , a water playground, the centre of sports and a restaurant. If we choose relaxation in outdoor swimming pools, we may admire the Tatras being immersed in warm water which will soothe our tired muscles.

chocholowskietermy.pl

Kayaking on the Czarny Dunajec

The Czarny Dunajec River is an attraction in itself –apart from fishing or swimming, we can go kayaking on it as well. The upper section of the river is more appropriate for more experienced ones as it is natural, rapid and not regulated in any way. However, from Koniówka the Czarny Dunajec is more peaceful but still we will come across some steps and will be forced to carry our kayaks over them.

Mountain trails

Czarny Dunajec Commune which lies in the pre-Tatra Foothills is not rich in mountain trails but we will come across a few hills from which we will be able to enjoy

magnificent views. Instead of marked trails, we can follow forest and educational paths.

The red trail from Chochołów leads to Slovakia and, in the opposite direction, to Gubałówka (1,126 m).

The red trail from Pieniążkowice through the hills the Orawa Watershed and, in the opposite direction, to Ludźmierz.

From Czerwienne following a road we can reach Bachledówka (947 m) from which breathtaking views spread.

An educational path runs through Baligówka Boglands.

The Cycling Route around the Tatras

Czarny Dunajec Commune is crossed by the famous Cycling Route around the Tatras. Almost the whole area of Czarny Dunajec commune, 15 villages, was incorporated into the system of trails. The commune renovated the former rail station in Podczerwone – currently the building serves as a place for rest for cyclists and an information spot on the history of the Polish rail. One can visit an exhibition available to visitors. There is a charging station, a repair station and a bike rental. If you decide to stop at the place to regain your strength, pop into the Bistro where breakfast, dinners, delicious burgers, coffee, cakes and cold drinks are served.

The green trail from Czerwienne in the direction of Szaflary and, in the opposite direction, to Zakopane.

Rabka-Zdrój Commune is a place in which every tourist will find something for themselves. Mountain trails, mineral waters which spring from the interior of the earth, museums, an amusement park, ski stations and highlander folklore may tempt visitors. The hiking and cycling trails start at the very centre of Rabka-Zdrój and lead us to the Gorce and the Island Beskids. The Mains Beskid Trail runs through the Spa Park. From nearby mountains magnificent views of the Tatras and Babia Mountain spread.

Rabka-Zdrój is famous for numerous attractions but brine is its greatest treasure. Either adults or children can take advantage of its beneficial qualities in a mineral water pump room, sanatoria or at a brine graduation tower. The Spa Park and the Boulevards by the Poniczanka offer a variety of spots to do active tourism. Moreover, the commune is attractive for thrill seekers – in Rabkoland, a family amusement park, you will be able to get crazy on carousels, a roller coaster or a Ferris wheel.

IDEA Foundation and Świstak

Recreation in the countryside

Under IDEA Foundation, the staff from Świstak organises a lot of interesting, summer attractions. Workshops and meetings whose main aim is to maintain local traditions, cultivate the dialect and former customs are conducted in beautiful surroundings, between the Gorce and the Island Beskids, in an idyllic village. The main aim of the foundation is to preserve chores which used to be done in a village. They organise meetings with a highlander woman, a bee-keeper or a herbalist who tell about their work. Świstak wants to share the richness of nature and the cultural heritage with their guests. They want to show the countryside which smells of hay, which is associated with holidays at your grandparents’. They want to take you for a walk to a forest. They will show you how to thresh cereal and encourage you to rake hay and make hayricks!

The foundation organises idyllic picnics for families and organised groups in the bosom of nature, by a rustling stream, by a shepherd’s hut. During such an event, one may rest from their everyday life, immerse oneself in nature and come themselves down. A ride by tractor or fasiąg (a highlander, open, four-wheeled carriage) will be an additional attraction.

Świstak – a tourist equipment rental – which is mainly associated with winter sports in Rabka and its vicinity operates also in summer! If you intend to hit mountain trails with your children, they offer carriers. If you want to get to know the area by bike, Świstak is the place to rent a bicycle trailer. After having booked the equipment over the phone, you can collect it at 6 Zakopiańska Street.

Address: Spytkowice 338 A, Spytkowice 34-745

Phone: 506 748 153

SwistakWypozyczalnia fundacjaidea

Skatepark

Since 2014 the Spa Park has been enriched with a new attraction for the amateurs of skateboarding, cycling and rollerblading. A modern complex of a skatepark and a trial park with a wheelchair track was created. You can have a try at trial cycling, bmx, mountain bikes, summer and winter snowboarding or parkour at various levels. Different obstacles such as stones, rocks and tree trunks await the brave ones.

The Boulevards by the Poniczanka

At the Boulevards by the Poniczanka you can have a walk, ride a bike or relax at the brine graduation tower and by a pond surrounded by nature. There is a climbing wall, a line park, an outdoor gym and even a beach volleyball court. The Rabka Boulevards cover the area of 1.6 ha –the area to spend your free time in an active way.

Koperniak Sport

Sports Shops

Everyone who is interested in sports, cycling in particular, even a little bit will find something for themselves in Koperniak Sports Shops. Professional sports clothes, accessories, sports equipment, bikes, bike equipment and even cups and medals are sold there. We will get everything we need to do mountain tourism. Koperniak Sports Shops Chain includes Sports-Trekking Shop in Rabka-Zdrój at 42 Jan Paweł II Street, Kross Shop –a bike shop and a service point in Rabka-Zdrój at 25 Sądecka Street. The online Koperniak Sports Shop is also worth visiting.

Address: ul. Chopina 16 34-700 Rabka-Zdrój

E-mail: koperniak@interia.pl

Phone: 18 267 07 30, 661 920 312

www.koperniak.pl

koperniaksport

Kum-Ak Sport

Rabka Line Park and the Climbing Wall

Rabka Line Park is situated in the Spa Park, next to the Amphitheatre. At the place, a child at every age will find a place to have fun and develop their motor abilities. The routes which hang between trees are diverse and adjusted to the skills of children, teenagers and adults. All the routes are equipped with a system which provides the highest level of safety. There are three aerial runways. By the Poniczanka, the climbing wall awaits the amateurs of active leisure. Under the watchful eye of experienced instructors, you can take your first steps climbing or perfect your abilities. It is a great place for children. The instructors have the right touch with children and will instil fascination for this sport in them.

Address: ul. Orkana, 34-700 Rabka-Zdrój

E-mail: parklinowyrabka@gmail.com

Phone: 609 606 613

Rabczański-Park-Linowy

Stanisław Mlekodaj

A Beskid and Tatra guide. Creative training and workshops

Stanisław Mlekodaj, a native of Rabka, is a true guide straight from the mountains! His ancestors had lived in Rabka since the 15th century so he is highly competent to tell about the highlander culture of this region. He is a passionate guide, a raconteur who will take you for a trip along the most beautiful, unknown trails. He will instil his passion for mountain hiking in you and will show you how to walk and explore mountains safely, with respect to nature and culture. On a trip, he tells stories about places on the way and region, its culture, history and wildlife.

Stanisław is a certified guide for the area of the Polish Beskids, the Pieniny, the Tatras and he is also a GOPR rescuer, a rescue instructor and a skiing instructor. Moreover, he is a member of the prestigious Union of International Mountain Leader Associations.

He conducts creative workshops and lectures on highlander culture for younger tourists. Metalwork, making flowers out of wood, milking a cow or painting on glass – these activities seem to be designated for adults but an experienced instructor, who knows his profession and

health and safety procedures well, enables children to discover the secrets of craft and create their own works of art in a safe and fascinating way. All the workshops are accompanied by an introductory lecture. The materials used in the workshops are of highest quality so that created objects can be a souvenir for many years. When we paint on glass, our pictures are framed, after eco-art classes, children take their wooden, mountain flowers home. During metalwork, copper roses, metal candlesticks or steel riddles are created. Farm workshops are extremely interesting – children can try milking an artificial cow and make butter. However, if you feel like having a true adventure, you should choose ‘The ABC of Mountains’ during which you will have fun at aerial runaways or line bridges over a river. A group of professional GOPR rescuers run the event. A lecture on highlander culture is a great chance to get to know the region from the inside. The one about highlander fashion is especially interesting – participants can try on elements of the traditional costume. All the workshops are organised at a place chosen by customers for instance at school or a hotel.

E-mail: st_ml@o2.pl

Phone: +48 693 540 635

abcgory.eu

with a guide Cycling in Rabka

Rabczańskie Rowerowanie (Rabczański Cycling) are cycling trips free of charge organised by Cyklo-Rabka Cycling Society. Electric MTB bikes and classical ones

The main aim of the ‘Rabka with a guide’ campaign is to bring closer landscape, history, culture and healing properties to tourists who decide to visit the place and its vicinity. Its goal is to popularise hiking tourism, socialise people from different environments around tourism, and encourage active relaxation outdoors. The campaign is free and not commercial. It is addressed to individuals, groups, children with their guardians who want to visit Rabka and its vicinity, like hiking, want to learn about nature and respect it, abide by the rules on a trail and who are willing to meet people.

are provided by wypożyczalniarabka.pl. We can choose from trails of various length and difficulty.

Rabka

Mountain trails

Hiking, cycling trails and bridle paths are marked out in the area of Rabka Commune. The Kazimierz Sosnowski

Trail runs through it as well. The trails will

Main Beskid

take you to the picturesque Gorce Mountains and to the Gorce National Park or to the Island Beskids.

The red trail (the Main Beskid Trail) from Rabka-Zdrój leads in the direction of Jordanów and east to the shelter on Maciejowa (852 m), Stare Wierchy (968 m) and up to Turbacz (1,310 m).

The green trail from Rabka-Zdrój to Luboń Wielki (1,022 m).

The blue trail from Rabka-Zdrój to Luboń Wielki (1,022 m) or in the opposite direction to the Gorce through Poręba Wielka.

The green trail from Rdzawka through Ponice to the Shelter on Maciejowa (852 m) and further into the Gorce.

Swoszowice itself is a quiet, green, peaceful part of the city located in the south. We go there to rest and heal, to take advantage of treatments, sulphide baths and the beautiful Spa Park. Only a few kilometres further there is a city full of historic sites from various periods, full of art, museums, cultural events, restaurants, cafes and pubs. Additionally, it offers sports facilities suitable for running, hiking, climbing, ice-skating and even diving. We can make use of cycling trails and the Vistula on which we can go kayaking or hot-air balloons thanks to which we can rise up over the Old Town! There is not another spa in Poland which has an equally interesting location!

Even though Cracow is located far from the mountains, within its area there is a trail which leads to them. In the centre of Swoszowice, the blue hiking trail which leads to the real mountains – the Maków Beskids – has its beginning.

Cracow offers beautiful trails through Bielany-Tyniec Landscape Park. On the edge of Swoszowice Estate one of the oldest pilgrim routes runs – the Way of St James which leads to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The rocks of Bielany-Tyniec Landscape Park are a climbing site and Zakrzówek is a great spot for diving.

Swimming pools and the Water Park

More than a dozen swimming pools operate in the area of Cracow in which we can train swimming, take part in a variety of classes and relax. One of the most interesting water facilities is the Water Park – one of the biggest aqua parks in Poland. It is huge and offers numerous attractions for children such as slides, a paddling pool with a pirates’ island, a rapid river, a climbing wall or a fountain. There are also attractions for the older ones – a saunarium, a brine jacuzzi and a hydromassage.

parkwodny.pl

Diving in Cracow

A few kilometres from the centre of Cracow one can dive in Zakrzówek – a former limestone quarry which was filled with water. The maximum depth of the water reservoir is 32 m. Over the surface of water, vertical rock walls rise. On the road which leads to the lake, we will find a work out platform. The wrecks of AN plane, a bus or a cutter will definitely add to the attractiveness of diving. A few training centres and diving instructors operate in the area of Cracow.

Climbing the rocks

The capital of Lesser Poland is rich in climbing clubs and centres where you can have climbing lessons and use artificial climbing walls. However, you will get the biggest thrill climbing real rocks surrounded by beautiful nature. You can climb in Sikornik Enchanted Forest, over Zakrzówek or in Krzemionki. They are said to have the most beautiful climbing routes in Poland. What is more, a lot of great climbers trained there. The highest walls in Zakrzówek are 30 m high!

Kayaking on the Vistula

Sightseeing Cracow from the Vistula? Yes, it is possible! A few kayak clubs and rentals are active in the city. The Vistula on its section in Cracow is a peaceful river, ideal for beginners. We can take advantage of kayaking lessons

or rafting with instructors. Depending on the chosen route, we can admire Lasek Wolski (Wolski Forest), the Wawel, the Monastery of Norbertines and a panorama of the Old City.

Hiking trails around Bielany-Tyniec Landscape Park

The amateurs of hiking will find their attractions on the outskirts of Cracow. The red trail crosses Wolski Forest leading from Chełm Estate, next to Kościuszko Mound, the Zoo, the Camaldolese Monastery by the Vistula. The yellow one runs through the Maiden Rocks Reserve and the blue one surrounds almost the whole forest. A loop runs along Zakrzówek Lake and Twardowski Rocks next to a few caves and entrenchments. It is a truly picturesque trail and its length is only 2.6 km.

The Vistula Cycling Route - its section in Cracow is ideal for everybody, it is 25 km long and runs from Tyniec, through Wolski Forest, nearby the Wawel Castle, through the Old Town, Kazimierz and along Nowa Huta to the border with Niepołomice.

Cycling Cracow

Cycling Nowa Huta - Nowa Huta is a large and intriguing district. If you want to sightsee on foot and reach all the places, it may take you a lot of time. It would be a good idea to take advantage of cycling guides and visit the place by bike. The guides are available in the Centres of Tourist Information.

Wolski Forest - is a proposition for more demanding cyclists. It is the highest point of Cracow so you will find here a lot of uphills and unmade, forest paths.

Krynica, the pearl of Polish spas, is located among mountains, almost in their heart, in a place where mineral water springs flow out to the earth’s surface. The commune is loved by tourists. Within its area the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids meet by the Kryniczanka Stream and the Tylicka Pass (683 m). Krynica-Zdrój, the town, is located at the foot of Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m) and Park Mountain (742 m) which is in the centre of the town. Its geographical location and landform make it

a great starting point for those who adore spending their free time in an active way. The infrastructure for winter and summer sports is well-developed. The spa provides people with numerous attractions and the surrounding villages are full of silence and tranquillity. The commune is crossed by a number of hiking trails including the Main Beskid Trail. You can hike, run, ride both a regular and electric bike and go alpine and cross-country skiing.

Mountain trails

Krynica is surrounded by the mountains of the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids. The most beautiful trails of the commune lead mainly into the Beskid Sądecki. The longest trail in the Polish Beskids runs through Deptak in Krynica – the Main Beskid Trail – but we can hit less

popular ones and reach Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m), Huzary (864 m) or Park Mountain (741 m). The trails of Krynica are full of breathtaking panoramas and interesting places.

The red Main Beskid Trail is over 500 km long. It starts in Ustroń in the Silesian Beskids and ends in Wołosate in the Bieszczady Mountains. The section of the trail in Krynica starts on Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m) and runs through the valley of Czarny Potok Stream, the centre of Krynica-Zdrój, to Huzary (864 m) and further to Mochnaczka Niżna which lies on the border between the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids.

Jaworzyna Krynicka (1114 m) - is the highest peak of the Jaworzyna Range. Beautiful trails and the Gondola Lift lead to it. A bit lower from the top, at 1,050 m, there is the PTTK (Polish Tourist Sightseeing Society) Shelter of Józef Piłsudski. You can spend a night or grab a bite at the place. We will reach Jaworzyna following the red trail from Czarny Potok (or Deptak) and the yellow or blue trail from Deptak which lead to the Krzyżowa Pass (770 m). At the pass, we change the trail into the green one which will lead us directly to Jaworzyna Krynicka.

Huzary (864 m) - we can get there walking from Deptak through Park Mountain (742 m) following the yellow trail. We come back to Krynica along the red Main Beskid Trail.

By bike to Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m) - it would be a good idea to reach Jaworzyna Krynicka by the Gondola Lift with our bike in order to cycle on the mountain trails. From the top, we can reach Runek (1,080 m) and Bacówka over Wierchomla (895 m) from which we will ride down to Szczawnik along a forest road.

By bike

Velo Krynica is an easy trail for the ones who want to visit Krynica Commune by bike. It starts at Deptak in Krynica and leads to Muszyna. On the way we go past Powroźnik. The trail is 12 km long so it will take us approximately 1 hour to cover it. If we want to extend the route a little bit, we go to Tylicz from Powroźnik and come back to Krynica along Pułaski Street. The longer route is 21 km long.

Słotwiny Bike Park - Słotwiny Ski Station operates also when winter is over. In spring, summer and autumn, the station offers Bike Park to its guests. There are 4 one-way routes of various difficulties – an easy one, two moderate ones and a difficult one. In total, they are 10 km long. They are enriched with moguls, berms, step-up and step-down tables on easy and moderate routes. The difficult one offers rocks, protruding roots, a narrow passage and a descent along a steep slope to thrill seekers. There is also a bike rental for both adults and children which offers necessary accessories such as helmets, protective patches and goggles as well. If we want to improve our skills, the cycling school which operates in Słotwiny will definitely help us with it.

By electric bike to the mountains - in the area of the commune there are a few spots where you can rent electric bikes or scooters. It is a great proposition for those who want to hit the picturesque trails of the Beskid Sądecki or the Low Beskids. A bike assisted by an electric engine enables us to ride up the most difficult descents and trails of various difficulty irrespective of a cyclist’s fitness. This is a great alternative for beginners.

Cycling, mountain trails

There is an extensive network of cycling trails – you may gain more information about them at:

krynica.org.pl/aktywnie/trasy-rowerowe-mtb

Go-kart track in Tylicz

Go-kart track is a real treat for motorisation enthusiasts or thrill seekers. The width of a lane is from 5 to 6 metres. It is possible to rent small go-karts for children so that they can learn how to drive. The track is open in summer, in winter it transforms into an ice-rink.

tortylicz.pl

The area of Uście Gorlickie Commune spreads over the Low Beskids – one of the lowest mountain massifs in the Carpathians but, at the same time, one of more interesting ones. The amateurs of active tourism will definitely find there a plethora of attractions. The enthusiasts of mountain hiking can take advantage of a well-developed network of tourist trails. Cyclists will be glad as well since the area of the Low Beskids is perfect for doing this sport. A stay by Klimkówka Lake can be an excellent idea. In winter the place is also worth visiting – there are a number of places perfect for cross-country skiing.

The main tourist centre and the best starting point of the commune is Wysowa-Zdrój. The town offers numerous accommodation facilities (holiday lodges, rooms for rent, agritourism farms) and a well-developed transport system which facilitates the process of planning our trips. Other places in the commune offer agritourism farms which would serve well as accommodation facilities.

Even though there are plenty of hiking trails in the area, the valleys are definitely more interesting in the Low Beskids. While planning your trip remember that trails usually run along forested ridges bypassing charming and picturesque valleys.

Stara Cegielnia Gładyszów

The accommodation. The horse stable. The Museum of Horse Riding.

Stara Cegielnia Centre (the Old Brickyard Centre) is situated in a renovated brickyard which used to operate in Gładyszów. The centre was created out of love for horses and the wildlife of the Low Beskids. Camps, school camps, carriage rides, horse-riding trips, horse shows, business retreats and family stays are organised at the place. Stara Cegielnia is a certified PTTK (Polish Tourist Sightseeing Society) facility and a PTTK training centre. The Museum of Horse Riding operates by the centre. The collection gathered by the owners comprises 40 saddles from different parts of the world including historical and military ones from Europe, interesting stirrups and bits. Moreover, there are historical uniforms and cold steel.

The centre offers 40 accommodation places, a restaurant with an original brick furnace which has been transformed into an event venue. There are three buildings – the main one comprises 5 double rooms, an 8-person room and a 9-person one, a dining room, a common room with a fireplace, table tennis, billiards and table football. Additionally, there is a big cottage which can accommodate 8 people in double rooms with a kitchen and a dining area and a fireplace, two bathrooms, a porch and a roofed terrace. The small one can accommodate 4 people. There is a bathroom, a kitchenette and a tiled stove.

Address: Gładyszów 70, 38-315 Uście Gorlickie

E-mail: tkario@wp.pl

Phone: 503 068 055, 502 677 460

kario.com.pl

Brodek-Stara-Cegielnia

By Klimkówka Lake

In summer Klimkówka Lake is a perfect spot for rest and relaxation. The reservoir is an excellent place to do water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing or SUP which is growing in popularity. Changing winds will be appreciated by sailors too.

The Water Park in Wysowa-Zdrój

The Water Park in Wysowa-Zdrój is a beautifully situated facility open to those who seek water attractions and relaxation. This is a rehabilitation and recreation swimming pool with an area of 287m2 and depth from 1.2 m to 1.4 m. The temperature of water reaches 30°C. The swimming pool is equipped with air coaches, a water massage wall, an air geyser, a water cannon or a water cascade for a neck massage. There is a pool for children with a water umbrella, a steam sauna, a dry sauna and a bar.

The Multicultural Cycling Route

The name of the trail refers to multicultural traditions of the Low Beskids. In the commune it leads from the Wysowska Pass to Blechnarka, Wysowa-Zdrój and through Hańczowa to Brunary. Then, the route goes to Grybów and to the north up to Sędziszów. It is relatively easy, any difficulties you may come across are on the section which leads through the Wysowska Pass (610 m).

Mountain trails

The commune is crossed by a network of diverse tourist trails with a total length of 900 km which give us a lot of possibilities to walk around the area. Due to the fact

that the commune is right by the border, it is a good idea to visit Slovakia in order to explore Lemko land on the southern side of the Carpathians.

The green trail from Wysowa-Zdrój leads to the Cegiełka Pass (805 m) on the border and further, on the Slovak side, to Busov (1,002 m) which is the highest peak of the Low Beskids. If we go in the opposite direction, we will reach Kozie Żebro (847 m).

The yellow trail leads to the Wysowska Pass (610 m). On the border, it connects with the red border trail which runs to Lackowa (997 m).

The green trail goes from Hańczowa to Kozie Żebro (847 m) and to Skwirtne.

The red trail from Regietów to Rotunda (771 m) and Zdynia.

Studio Active

Sports and Tourism Travel Agency

Studio Active Sport and Tourism Travel Agency is a wellknown brand in Uście Gorlickie Commune which comes from nearby Gorlice. They organise trips in the area of Uście Gorlickie Commune, in the Low Beskids and its picturesque vicinity, in the whole Poland or even Europe. All the members of the staff – administrative employees, guides or drivers – are well-qualified and will take care of every little detail so that each trip is unforgettable. They will take you hiking in the mountains, show you around spas, take you to the most beautiful cities in Poland, organise a sleigh ride with a regional feast. For children, they will prepare semi-camps or camps where incredible attractions will await participants. All the programmes are tailored and adjusted to the needs of the most demanding customers.

Address: Tadeusza Kościuszki 36, 38-300 Gorlice

E-mail: studioactive.turytyka@gmail.com

Phone: +48 693 761 744

Studio.Active.Sport.i.Turystyka

The Orthodox Church of St Paraskeva in Kwiatoń

The First World War cemetery no 51