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.
RABKA-ZDRÓJ - CHOCHOŁÓW CHOCHOŁÓW - SZCZAWNICA
SZCZAWNICAPIWNICZNA-ZDRÓJ
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: Małgorzata Kotarba, 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. 5, photo no. 2 © Arch. Muzeum Spraw Wojskowych
P. 6, photo no. 1; p. 21 photo no 2; p. 28-29 photos no. 1 i 3; © Łukasz Świętach
P. 7 photo no. 1; p. 8-9 photo no. 2 i 3, p. 10 photos no. 1 i 2; © Mirosław Hobora
P. 7, photo no. 2; p. 8-9 photos no. 1 i 5; p. 11 photo no. 3; p. 15. photo no. 3 i 4 © Piotr Kuczaj
P. 45 photo no. 2; p. 46 photo no. 1; © Piotr Gaborek
P. 9 photo no. 2; p. 14 photo no. 1; © Adobe Stock
Cycling is an extremely popular form of physical activity and a more and more popular form of tourism. By bike we may get further than by car and we are able to admire beautiful views on the way. We can ride off the beaten track where it is impossible to drive. During such a trip, we get some fresh air, take care of our body and even lose some weight. What’s most important, we increase the level of endorphins, relax and get rid of stress. A one-day trip outside a city along panoramic, cycling trails is a great idea for a weekend. However, a few days’, long distance trips through various terrains are gaining popularity too. We may choose from easier or more difficult routes, through valleys or mountains, through cities, villages and lands full of attractions. The resorts of Lesser Poland can be visited by bike as well. The route is incredibly interesting, at times easy or more difficult, and, for the more ambitious ones, it has sections which lead through mountains.
The route will partially lead along local roads and popular cycling paths such as the Vistula Cycling Route, VeloDunajec, the Cycling Route around the Tatras, EuroVelo11, the Cross-Border Cycling Route, the Mineral Water Cycling Route, VeloKrynica or the Multicultural Cycling Route. In majority the routes are well-prepared and lead along panoramic sections full of places where we can have a rest. Sometimes it is worth turning aside to reach interesting attractions. It is also a good idea to stop in a given place in order to visit it properly. Resorts are especially worth our attention. The route was designed in such a way that every section ends in one of the spas. After a day of pedalling, we can relax, drink mineral water or undergo some spa treatments.
We start our trip in Cracow, at the Railway Station. It is a great starting point as we can reach it from any place in Poland. Then, we go in the direction of Swoszowice through the Foothills to Rabka-Zdrój which is surrounded by mountains. Further, the trail takes us from Rabka to Podhale, partially along the Cycling Route around the Tatras, to Czarny Dunajec and Chochołów. From Chochołów we set off to Nowy Targ from where, along VeloDunajec, we ride through the Pieniny to Szczawnica. From Szczawnica, through valleys or mountains, we head for Piwniczna-Zdrój, and further along the border, through next resorts – Żegiestów-Zdrój and Muszyna up to Krynica-Zdrój. From there, we follow the route to the last spa located in the Low Beskids – Wysowa-Zdrój.
It will take us a few days to cover this distance – approximately 6, but shorter sections may be connected and cycled on one day and longer ones may be divided depending on our general fitness and needs. If we cover shorter sections daily, we will be able to get acquainted with numerous attractions of particular regions. A wide choice of accommodation facilities lets us finish particular stages in various places. However, if we do not have so much time, we can get to a given commune by train (this is the most comfortable means of transport while travelling with a bike) or by our own transport and cover chosen distances. There is also a possibility to rent equipment – at the moment we can do it almost everywhere. A trekking bike will perform well during the whole route. If we choose a mountain variant, an MTB bike will be essential.
The route of the trip
We start our trip in Cracow which lies quite close to the mountains. The fact that the capital of Lesser Poland is well-connected means we may get there using public or our own transport – it will definitely make planning of our trip and travelling easier. We set off at the Railway Station which is in the heart of Cracow.
Although the city encourages us to stay there a bit longer, this time, after visiting its main attractions, we suggest focusing on the spa which is located within its borders – Swoszowice.
Swoszowice is an estate and a spa located in the south of Cracow. Yes, we do have a spa in Cracow! The first records about the local sulphide waters appeared in 1578 but they had been already used in the Middle Ages. Wojciech Oczko, a court doctor of King Stephen Bathory, wrote about them. Jakub Esprinchard, a Frenchman, claimed in 1597 that a stay in the local mines treated plague. The waters themselves were popular among people who eagerly took advantage of their healing properties. On the initiative of the owners of Swoszowice, three huts (made of clay and brushwood) were created and called Baths in 1795. Officially the spa has existed since 1811. In the year, thanks to Feliks Radwański, a professor of the Jagiellonian University, the first Spa House with accommodation for visitors was built. The Spa Park was also created. Swoszowice had their golden age in the 19th century due to intensive work of Józef Dietl. The waters from Swoszowice are highly mineralised sulphide waters which are one of the best healing waters in Europe even though they reek of rotten eggs.
From the station we go south, in the direction of St Florian’s Gate. We may enter the Old Town, but there is a very pleasant path in the Planty Park which surrounds the Old Town. There, the town walls which used to surround mediaeval Cracow were located. The path through the park leads us to the Wawel Castle. The Hill with the Castle and the Cathedral is a spot worth visiting. We set off at the Hill in the direction of Stradomska Street which leads to Kazimierz – one of the most beautiful districts of the city. We can ride through the centre of the district along Krakowska Street – there is a designated cycling line – to see beautiful buildings, feel the artistic vibe of the place or have lunch in one of the climatic cafes. However, it will be more comfortable for us to go towards the Vistula and ride along a section of the Vistula Cycling Route up to a cycling bridge (the next one after the bridge of Marshal Józef Piłsudski) where we cross the Vistula.
It is one of the most beautiful and the longest cycling routes in Lesser Poland. It is going to run across the whole Poland, from the source of the Vistula to its mouth – then, it will give us 1,200 km of a cycling adventure. Currently, the sections in Lesser Poland, Silesian and Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship are being finished. The Lesser Poland section starts in Jawiszowice and ends in Szczucin. Due to a flat terrain and the lack of altitude differences, it is excellent for family trips. It is well marked and we will not have any problems with a sense of direction. Although it is one of the most popular routes in Cracow and on sunny days it is a bit crowded, it is worth going on a trip along the Vistula to Tyniec.
By the bridge, we turn right and go along the Boulevards of Podolski to Florian Nowacki Planty Park. Outside the park, we turn right into Krasicki Street and further into Mitera Street which leads us to Mateczny Roundabout. Right by the roundabout there is the Cracow Mineral Water Pump Room where we can taste waters from the spas of Lesser Poland. We ride on a cycling path along Wadowicka Street
and we reach Zakopiańska Street. Zakopiańska Street leads us to a bridge on the Wilga River. Having crossed the bridge, we turn left towards the Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Łagiewniki. Going along the railway tracks, we ride through the Sanctuary and we get to Kąpielowa (Bathing) Street – its name suggests that we are close to the spa!
Kąpielowa Street takes us to the Spa Park. Next to the Park, there is the Sulphur Mining Route in Swoszowice. It is an interesting trail – if we take it, we will extend this stage of our trip. It leads us to Swoszowice Fort – there is the Museum of War Matters which is worth visiting. The route has eight stops and the Spa Park is close to the sixth
The Cracow Fortress Route is divided into the northern route (approximately 60 km) and the southern route (approximately 40 km). It is marked with yellow-black-yellow signs which refer to the colours of the House of Habsburg and Imperial Austria. We can walk or cycle the route. If we decide to cover it by bike, we need to remember about diverse road surfaces (asphalt, gravel roads and forest paths) when we choose a bike. The route will be ideal for any adventure seeker – despite being unique, it is still not well-known and popular. One of the stops on the route is Fort 51 ½ Swoszowice which houses the Museum of War Matters.
one located in Szybisko Street. We finish the first stage of the trip in the spa. This is a great chance to stay overnight in one of the hotels which offer healing treatments and sulphide baths.
The Sulphur Mine Trail is a tourist route which gathers the most significant places connected with mining and processing of sulphur in Swoszowice. There are 10 boards with information on the places on the trail. It starts close to Swoszowice Fort, the seat of the Museum of War Matters, and leads next to the tenement of the Administrator of the Mine, Topiarnia, mine slag heaps, a mine shrine or an ammunition bunker. The trail ends at the Parish Church in Wróblowice where we can admire the altar of Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners, funded by the miners from Swoszowice.
Distance: 13,6 km
Estimated time: 1 h
Ascents: 235 m
Descents: 217 m
ROUTE
SWOSZOWICE (THE SPA PARK) –RABKA-ZDRÓJ (THE SPA PARK)
Another stage of the cycling trip through the spas of Lesser Poland will begin at the Spa Park in Swoszowice and will end in Rabka-Zdrój. There, the long-distance blue hiking trail which leads from Swoszowice, through Wielicki Upland, the Maków Beskids, the Island Beskid to Kasina Wielka starts too. The section of the trail which leads through uplands is ideal for cyclists – it leads mainly along asphalt roads but sometimes diverges from them to go uphill or along dirt roads. In such places we have an alternative – an easier ride on an asphalt road through villages. Unfortunately, the easier route does not include many paths solely dedicated to cyclists.
On the route. In Lusina.
Rabka Commune lies in the Rabczańska Valley surrounded by mountains – the Gorce and the Island Beskids. South of Rabka, the Orava-Jordanów Foothills and, right behind it, Podhale stretch. It is beautifully located and rich in deposits of valuable brine. The commune offers numerous attractions to visitors as its seat, Rabka-Zdrój, is the Town of Children of the World and a popular resort. We may come here to treat diseases from which we suffer, regain our health or to hike in the mountains, run, ski, get crazy in Rabkoland, visit museums and wooden temples, taste the local cuisine and ride a bike! There is the Open-air Railway Museum in nearby Chabówka and if we visit the place in summer, we can go on a trip by a retro train!
The blue trail starts in the Spa Park in Swoszowice, in Lusińska Street. Following its signs we will ride through the Wilga Valley and Lusina. There, we turn into a dirt road which leads to Brzegi. Right before Świątniki Górne, the trail connects with the ‘In the heart of Wielicki Foothills’ trail. Świątniki Górne constitutes the highest point on the route. We ride past a closed quarry - Kamieniec, where stone used for the construction of nearby houses and temples was extracted. One of the temples built from the aforementioned stone is situated in Siepraw which we need to reach. There is also a hiking path from the quarry leading to an interesting rock ‘Kopytko’. In Siepraw we hit the road to Myślenice. It is the last town where Foothills end and the Maków Beskids stretch.
From Myślenice we cycle to the south still following the blue trail up to the Raba River. Over the river, the trail goes to the east, to the slopes of Uklejna (680 m) and into the Maków Beskids but we will leave it there and take a path leading to the south, parallely to Park Street along the Raba, up to Zarabie Beach. It is another great place for a stop where we can have ice-cream and cool drinks.
The Raba, a river which creates a picturesque valley between the peaks of the Maków Beskids, will accompany us up to Rabka-Zdrój. VeloRaba, which goes along the river, is going to be completed soon but now we will also find there paths well adjusted to cyclists’ needs or peaceful streets along which we can cycle.
VeloRaba is a route which has not been opened yet. The construction of many of its sections is scheduled for 2023. At the moment, a predicted route is mapped out and it leads along asphalt, forest and park roads from Chabówka to Uście Solne in the north of Lesser Poland (the place where the Raba flows into the Vistula). The route is supposed to go across five poviats, through the Rabczańska Valley, the Maków Beskids, the Wieliczka Foothills and Cracow Gate. In total it is going to be 125 km long. The Raba itself is a mountain river which flows out from the Sieniawska Pass (711 m).
From Myślenice we follow the road parallel to Zakopianka through Stróże where we enter the Main Carpathian Cycling Route which will lead us to Pcim. Further, we travel along the Raba to Lubień outside which we ride into the Island Beskids. The route takes us through Kasinka Mała to Mszana Dolna. The last section from Mszana Dolna to Rabka-Zdrój goes along the national road 28 – one of the most picturesque roads going between the Foothills and the Beskids, from Zator to Medyka (on the border with Ukraine). Unfortunately, this part of the trip does not offer any roads dedicated to cyclists. An interesting but more difficult alternative would be a ride along the planned VeloRaba through Mszana Górna, Podobin, Poręba Wielka (we go past Gorce Thermal Baths – a good place to have a break).
The Carpathian Cycling Route is a project carried out by the communes of Lesser Poland and Sadecki Tourist Organisation. It is divided into the main trail and a few links – in total it is 800 km long. The main trail is marked red and leads along the historic trade route from Leluchów, through Muszyna, Piwniczna-Zdrój, Rytro, Nowy Sącz, Rożnów, Iwkowa, Lipnica Murowana to Wieliczka and Cracow. It is approximately 175 km long. Other interesting trails of Lesser Poland such as the Sądecki Cycling Route, the Wine Cycling Route, the Multicultural Cycling Route or the Crossborder Cycling Route are a part of the Carpathian Cycling Route.
Between Rdzawka and Klikuszowa
We end the route in the centre of Rabka-Zdrój, in the Spa Park. It is a good idea to replenish fluids in the Mineral Water Pump Room where we will get water rich in beneficial minerals. We can also have a rest at the Brine Graduation Tower breathing in air full of iodine. Rabka-Zdrój is full of attractions so it is a good idea to visit it, stay overnight in one of the spa facilities or in a cosy guest house. Here, we will also be able to taste the regional cuisine of Highlanders from Rabka and the Gorce.
Distance 68,5 km
Estimated time: 5 h 30 min
Ascents: 1 085 m
Descents: 808 m
ROUTE
The brine graduation tower in the Spa Park The entrance to the Spa ParkBike shops. A service point. A wash
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 active 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: +48 18 267 07 30, 661 920 312
koperniak.pl
koperniaksport
Only 200 m from the Poniczanka, right by the planned route of VeloRaba and almost a kilometre from the Spa Park there is a cosy place to stay at – Przystanek Rabka (Rabka Stop). It is a cyclist-friendly place!
The site comprises a house with an area of 72 m2 and it is intended for up to 7 people. Inside, there is a living room with a large fold-out bed and a TV, a kitchen equipped with all the necessary utensils, cutlery and crockery, and a bathroom. There is a bedroom with two double beds and three single ones and a toilet. Right by the house, there is a private garden, a garden house and a barbecue site. There is a 4-person apartment/studio too which is recommended for families with children or for a small group of friends. There is a 3-person room/studio for couples or a family with a child and a 5-people apartment which is located on the ground floor of a historic tenement house. All the places have fully equipped kitchens. During the whole stay we can count on friendly and professional help from the owners in the case of choosing the right attractions or when our bike is broken.
Address: ul. Zakopiańska 6, 34-700 Rabka-Zdrój
E-mail: noclegi@przystanekrabka.pl
Phone: +48 536 281 820
przystanekrabka.pl
Leaving Rabka-Zdrój, we also leave the valley in which the town is located and the Beskids behind and go towards the Tatras! We start the next stage of our trip in the Spa Park and we head towards the Boulevards by the Poniczanka along which we go south. The Boulevards are well adjusted to cycling. We go past numerous attractions and places ideal for resting. Right by the brine graduation tower, the Boulevards end and we turn left on a bridge. Further, we go along the yellow hiking trail ‘Do pociesznej wody’ (‘To Comforting Water’).
The Boulevards by the Poniczanka is a charming fragment of the town where we can walk, run or ride a bike. It is also an excellent place to take a rest or relax at a brine graduation tower or by a pond surrounded by nature. We will find there a climbing wall, a line park, an open-air gym and even a beach volleyball court. The Boulevards of Rabka cover an area of 1.6 ha – the area to spend our free time in an active way.
On the crossroads with Podhalańska Street we turn left. The trail crosses the road and goes uphill to Krzywoń (627 m) – it is an interesting option for more demanding cyclists to make the route more attractive. The road which is an extension of Podhalańska Street leads us to Rdzawka, then we follow DK47 road to Klikuszów (3 km). From Klikuszów, along a local road by the Lepietnica Creek, we go to Ludźmierz – there is a famous Marine sanctuary. We can have a rest there and take advantage of extensive tourist facilities. Leaving Ludźmierz, we go along DW957 and after 650m we reach ‘the Cycling Route around the Tatras’. It will be one of the most beautiful sections of our trip. The route will lead us to Czarny Dunajec on the way to which we will go past Rogoźnik. The road does not go through the centre of the village so if we want to see the famous Baligówka Bogs or try oscypek from Baligówka Shepherd’s Hut, we need to ride into the village along DW957 road.
Czarny Dunajec Commune spreads at the foothills of the Tatras , in picturesque Podhale, close to the Żywiec Beskids. It is located halfway between Rysy and Babia Mountain. It is the land of Podhale Highlanders who have been living there peacefully for ages enjoying sheep grazing and agriculture. Today tourism constitutes a significant element of the commune’s life. We come here to experience the tranquillity of Podhale and the proximity of the mountains. There are no crowds, as in Zakopane, but pleasant, small guest houses, the regional cuisine where oscypek and kwaśnica reign and local feasts during which we can observe the traditions of highlanders. There are incredible boglands with unique wildlife, small museums, picturesque trails, either hiking or cycling ones, and geothermal swimming pools which the commune is famous for.
After visiting the attractions of Czarny Dunajec, we come back to ‘the Cycling Route around the Tatras’. We ride through Górny Młyn to Podczerwone – it is a good idea to make a stop at Podczerwone Station. Right by the station, the road goes towards Slovakia, to Chochołów-Suchá Hora border crossing. Following the Trail of Spas in Lesser Poland, we do not enter Slovakia but go in the direction of Koniakówka and Chochołów (DW958) in order to reach Chochołów. In the village we will see amazing, wooden
architecture listed on the Wooden Architecture Route and the Museum of Chochołów Uprising. At the end a real treat awaits us – the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths. It is an ideal place to finish another stage of our trip. In Czarny Dunajec Commune there are plenty of small, climatic guest houses, holiday lodges and hotels with spa zones where we can stay. The inns of Czarny Dunajec offer the local cuisine of Podhale which is worth sinning for.
Chochołów is a small village located in the south of the commune. It is small but extremely popular due to two reasons. First of all, there are geothermal waters which are a natural phenomenon in the area of the commune and are the reason why the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths were created. Moreover, the village can boast of traditional, wooden architecture. It is simply a living museum! We can admire over 100 year old cottages situated by the road in a traditional way called a linear village. The houses are built from bright logs and covered with sloping, shingled roofs. They are the Wooden Architecture Route sites.
Chochołów
The historic, cultural, nature route around the Tatras comprises 250 km of well-prepared cycling paths. It leads through historic lands such as Podhale, Spiš, Liptov and Orava and goes around the Tatras on the Polish and Slovak side. New paths, loops, links and side paths are constantly being added to it. Almost the whole area of Czarny Dunajec Commune, 15 villages, was incorporated into the system of trails. One of the most interesting sections of the route is the path which goes through beaver grounds in the area of Orava-Nowy Targ Boglands. Along with the construction of cycling paths, bus shelters, information spots and other tourist infrastructure which encourage sightseeing were created. 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.
Distance: 42,9 km
Estimated time: 3 h 20 min
Ascents: 652 m
Descents: 376 m
ROUTE
In Podczerwone, right by the Cycling Route around the Tatras which in that place leads to a closed in 1991 railway track, in a historic building of the railway station, an amazing place was created! A bistro and a bike rental! Everything in the place is devoted to cyclists who come here for a one-day trip or ambitiously cycle long-distance. There is a large parking space by the station so this is a great spot to start our cycling adventure.
The bistro is a place where we can have breakfast, lunch, dinner, drink aromatic coffee or beer or have dessert. Apart from traditional sausages or scrambled eggs, the breakfast menu offers shakshuka. Crispy baguettes, salads or pancakes are available during the whole day. For dinner, we can have a burger for which the Bistro is famous! We will eat dumplings, grilled baguettes or other grilled dishes. On a cool day the Station will welcome us with soup which will warm us up. Delicious cakes from Lila Vanilla Cafe in Nowy Targ are served for dessert. We can eat all this food inside (there are a few tables available) but if we decide to eat outside, we will be very pleased. There are tables and deck chairs in the garden – this is an ideal place for dining and relaxing!
There is a rental of classical and electric bikes for adults (for men and women), teenagers and children next to Podczerwone Station. We will be able to rent a bicycle trailer, a bike seat, scooters both classical and electric ones. The staff will help us choose the ideal equipment and advise us which trail will be best for us. It is good to follow Stacja Podczerwone FB fanpage as we will find there a lot of advice and descriptions of trails. What is more, they organise various events such as bike tours or concerts. On special request, we will be able to organise our own celebration, for instance, a birthday party.
If we enjoyed delicacies from Stacja Podczerwone, visiting La Vanilla Cafe in Nowy Targ is a must (the Cycling Route around the Tatras will lead us there). They supply Podczerwone Station with delicious cakes. There we can have dessert and drink aromatic coffee or visit the place for breakfast or dinner.
Address: Stacja Podczerwone, 34-470 Podczerwone
E-mail: stacjapodczerwone@gmail.com
Phone: +48 515 352 340
stacjapodczerwone.pl
StacjaPodczerwone
From Chochołów we head towards the north along the trail ‘Na Gubałówkę przez Ząb z zaciśniętymi zębami’ (‘To Gubałówka through Ząb[Tooth in Polish] with clenched teeth’) towards Ciche Dolne where we leave the trail and go along the road to Czerwienne. A quite ambitious ascent awaits us, but it is so short that we can walk instead of cycling. Further, we just ride down. If we are in Czerwienne, we should go on a short trip to Bachledówka where we will admire beautiful views. Then, we follow the road along which the green trail to Maruszyn leads. Next to the Church of Transfiguration, the route goes to the east but we still head towards Ludźmierz.
Right before Ludźmierz, we reach the Cycling Route around the Tatras. We follow it to the east and, after crossing the bridge on the Wielki Rogoźnik, we continue along VeloDunajec. This is a beautiful trail that will accompany us for the next several dozen kilometres. It leads us on the outskirts of Nowy Targ to Łopuszna. Sometimes we will cycle on a cycling path and sometimes along a regular road. We can have a stop in Łopuszna to visit the wooden Manor of the Tetmajer Family, a branch of the Tatra Museum in Zakopane. Velo Dunajec will lead us further through Harklowa to Dębno where the beautiful, wooden Church of St Michael the Archangel is located – it is a UNESCO site. The section between Nowy Targ and Dębno marks the border between the Gorce and the Spiš Pieniny – it is an incredibly picturesque route.
The Cycling Route around the Tatras from the vicinity of Ząb
The Church of St Michael the Archangel in Dębno
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 – both on the Polish and Slovak side. This is a 10 km, beautiful and easy path (the elevation difference is only 11 m). Following it, we go past a lot of interesting places. It is possible to rent necessary cycling equipment, return it in Sromowce and come back to Szczawnica by dinghy, kayak or raft.
From Dębno, we go along Czorsztyn Lake to Niedzica. It is a part of the route which abounds in interesting places where we can stop to rest by the lake, taste regional dishes and admire views. In Niedzica we should visit the Dunajec Castle. There is also a public beach and a dam on which we can take a walk. VeloDunajec leads us to Sromowce Wyżne and, along the border, through the Pieniny to Sromowce Niżne where rafting on the Dunajec starts. We can take a break from cycling and reach Szczawnica by raft
(we can come back to collect our bikes by bus). However, if we choose to continue our trip by bike, we cross the footbridge on the Dunajec in Sromowce Niżne to enter Slovakia. Further, we follow the signs of VeloDunajec to Szczawnica along the Pieniny Tract. We finish the route in Szczawnica Dolna, in the place where the Grajcarek flows into the Dunajec. There are plenty of restaurants and accommodation facilities. The spa area of the town is located a bit higher, in Szczawnica Górna.
The official name of VeloCzorsztyn is ‘The Trail around Czorsztyn Lake’. It is a short but interesting and picturesque route. It partially coincides with VeloDunajec. Its basic length is 30 km and it leads close to the shore. It is quite easy but in order to come back to the start, we need to take a ferry between Niedzica and Czorsztyn. The longer option is more difficult, at times it leads us along asphalt roads, but if we choose it, we will make a loop around the whole lake.
Szczawnica is a popular spa commune, a place where health visitors and tourists come all year round. It is located in the south of Poland, by the Dunajec and the Grajcarek, close to the border with Slovakia. It is surrounded by mountains – the Beskid Sądecki and the Pieniny. Szczawnica constitutes its heart – it has been a well-known and highly valued place for many years. People come here to regain health and enjoy famous attractions of Szczawnica – rafting, the Pieniny Tract or trails which lead to Trzy Korony (982 m). The Grajcarek Valley spreads east of the town – two villages, Szlachtowa and Jaworki, are situated there. The area is former Shlakhtov Ruthenia which used to be inhabited by Ruthenians before the Second World War. Two mountain ranges rise over the villages. From the south, there are the Little Pieniny Mountains – a less known part of the Pieniny and definitely less crowded one which offers beautiful views of the Tatras and the Main Pieniny. From the north, the Radziejowa Range, a part of the Beskid Sądecki, towers over the valley. We will find Ruthenian meadows, limestone rocks and even extinct volcanoes in the area. This is a region famous for pasturing. Sheep graze above Jaworki and Szlachtowa, there are numerous shepherd’s huts where we can taste sheep cheese.
Distance: 83 km
Estimated time: 6 h 35 min
Ascents: 907 m
Descends: 1 248 m
ROUTE
Camps. Training courses. Bike trips.
Project Camp is a brand created by mountain cycling and snowboarding enthusiasts. The company organises unforgettable cycling camps and professional MTB and ENDURO training for adults and children. Such camps last from 2 days up to a week and allow us to improve our MTB/ENDURO technique and spend time in an active way. Project Camp will take us not only to the most beautiful corners of the Pieniny and the Beskid Sądecki but also to other spots in Europe e.g. the French Alps. Every camp or training is something more than a cycling trip. It is full of professional training at various levels of advancement.
Such a trip is a great idea for a company retreat, a team building trip, a hen party, a stag night or a birthday. Project Camp will organise a perfect event for us during which we will have fun with a group of our friends!
Project Camp Rental is situated in Szczawnica at 15 Główna Street (close to PKL Palenica car park). We will rent there classical, electric enduro bikes and all the necessary equipment. It is a good idea to reserve equipment earlier by the phone.
In winter Project Camp invites us to snowboarding training – one day of schussing for people of various skills, weekend freestyle snowboard training or one week camps.
Address: osiedle Połoniny 1/8, 34-460 Szczawnica
E-mail: biuroprocamp@gmail.com
Phone: +48 796 317 888
projectcamp.pl
ObozPro
Another stage of our trip through the spas of Lesser Poland can lead us through mountains or valleys. The first variant is shorter but goes through a difficult, mountain area. The We set off from Szczawnica and go through the Grajcarek Valley in the direction of Szlachtowa and Jaworki. The route leads a bit uphill along an asphalt road. In Jaworki we should stop to see the Homole Canyon (without a bike). Along the road from Jaworki, we get to a gate of another nature reserve – ‘Biała Woda’ (White Water). The cycling path runs parallely to the yellow hiking trail through the reserve, between picturesque rocks. In the place where the reserve ends, the cycling path goes to the north-east and, after a few hundred metres, it connects with a hiking trail again which runs through the Rozdziela Pass (803 m).
second one goes along VeloDunajec and EuroVelo. Both of them are panoramic and full of attractions.
Through the mountains
The pass constitutes the border between the Pieniny and the Beskid Sądecki. From there, we go along the border of Poland to the Obidza Pass (938 m). It is a place where we can take a rest in a regional inn or taste local cheese. We ride down from Obidza to Piwniczna-Zdrój through the Sucha Dolina (the Dry Valley) and Kosarzyska. An alternative route leads us to Eliaszówka (1,023 m) from which we ride down along the green hiking trail. The cycling path is well-marked. On the way, we may visit a climatic shelter – ‘Chata Magóry’.
Piwniczna-Zdrój is located in the heart of the Beskids, in the picturesque Poprad Valley. The commune consists of a small spa town and villages, which surround it, scattered in the valley and on the slopes of the Beskid Sądecki. From the south, the commune borders on Slovakia. The pace of life is very slow here – its rhythm is regulated by seasons. In summer, we can hike in the mountains, ride a horse or go kayaking on the Poprad River. In autumn, the forests in this area are full of mushrooms. Winter provides excellent conditions for skiing and other winter activities. In spring, the meadows of the Beskids tempt us with colourful flowers and birds trilling. Piwniczna is the land of Black Highlanders who have been grazing their black sheep in this area
for ages. The commune is a perfect place to get to know their culture, taste the regional dishes, listen to the regional music or admire the highlander handicraft. Let us not forget about mineral water springs which are the reason why health visitors come to this place.
Distance: 28 km
Estimated time: 2 h 40 minut
Ascents: 775 m
Descents: 802 m
If we choose the route through the valleys, we must also take ascents into account but they will be milder. We ride on asphalt roads all the time. From Szczawnica, we take VeloDunajec along the Dunajec River in the direction of Krościenko over the Dunajec and further to Tylmanowa. It is a beautiful section which runs between the Beskid Sądecki and the Gorce. In Zabrzeż, we leave the Gorce Mountains behind and, on our left side, we will see the Island Beskids. Going along VeloDunajec, we ride through Łącko which is famous for blooming orchards and Śliwowica (plum vodka). In the local inns we can taste local cuisine. Leaving Łącko, we enter Maszkowice and we cycle past Zyndram Mountain (410 m) where a prehistoric, fortified town, which dates back to the Bronze Age, is located. Going further along VeloDunajec, we reach Stary Sącz in the place where the Poprad flows into the Dunajec. It is an intriguing area where we can have a rest by a pond and in Bobrowisko Natural Enclave (Beaver Ground Natural Enclave). If we want to dine in the town, we need to enter its centre.
There is a small Galician square and the Monastery of St Kinga. We can ride up Miejska Mountain where we will find Leśne Molo (Forest Pier) i.e. a footpath in treetops. In Stary Sącz we change our route into EuroVelo11 – a section of a long-distance route in Lesser Poland which is also called VeloNatura. The route will take us along the picturesque Poprad Valley. We head for Barcice where we can turn aside from the route to Wola Krogulecka to admire views from ‘Ślimak’ (Snail) which is a panoramic platform. Then, we cycle towards Rytro – a town tucked between the ruins of a mediaeval castle and Radziejowa (1,266 m) – the highest mountain of the Beskid Sądecki. From Rytro, we set off to Młodów and Piwniczna-Zdrój. There is a small spa famous for mineral waters and a mountain climate where we will end the next stage of our trip.
VeloNatura is a part of EuroVelo11 in Lesser Poland. It runs through the valleys of the Dunajec and the Poprad. This picturesque trail starts in Muszyna and ends in Kościelec (the border with Świętokrzyskie voivodeship). It leads us through beautiful and important places in the region – the Poprad Valley, Stary and Nowy Sącz, the Dunajec Valley, Tarnów or Cracow. Partially, it connects with VeloDunajec or the Vistula Cycling Route. In total it is 271 km long.
The bridge on the Dunajec in Zarzecze
EuroVelo11 is called ‘the Beast of the East’ by cyclists. It runs through six European capitals from Scandinavia to the Balkans, through Helsinki, Vilnius, Warsaw, Belgrade, Skopje and Athens – it is 6,000 km long. It leads along asphalt, gravel and forest roads. The section of EuroVelo11 in Lesser Poland coincides with VeloNatura.
Aquavelo is a cycling trail which connects Polish and Slovak spas in the Poprad River Valley. It runs through the most valuable, in terms of nature and landscape, areas of both countries. It connects such spas as Krynica-Zdrój, Muszyna, Piwniczna-Zdrój, Szczawnica, Vyšné Ružbachy, Stará Ľubovňa, Ľubovnianske Kúpele and Bardejov. It partially goes through the mountains so it is not an easy one. In Hniezdne in Slovakia it is supposed to connect with the Cycling Route around the Tatras.
Distance: 64 km
Estimated time: 5 h 15 min
Ascents: 907 m
Descents: 931 m
ROUTE
VeloNatura by the Poprad in Rytro
Another stage leads us through four mountain spas. We start our trip in Piwniczna-Zdrój. We still go along the Poprad following EuroVelo11 to the border with Slovakia in Mníšek nad Popradom. We continue on the Slovak side to Malý Lipník in which we cross the footbridge over the Poprad and come back to the Polish side, to Andrzejówka. EuroVelo11 leads from Scandinavia to the Balkans and the Beskid Sądecki, Poprad Foothills and Muszyna Commune constitute its picturesque parts. It is a well-prepared path with a new surface and great infrastructure. There are new footbridges designated for cyclists (Milik and Andrzejówka) thanks to which we can cross the Poprad and visit various parts of the region. The route is equipped with special service points for cyclists (MOR – Miejsce Obsługi Rowerzystów).
One of the most beautiful railway lines goes along the Poprad as well. It is Tarnów-Leluchów Rail whose establishment in 1876 allowed dynamic development of the spas in the Poprad Valley. We can reach Muszyna on the Polish side too – it will give us an opportunity to admire the architecture of Orthodox churches as its examples are located in all the villages from Wierchomla to Krynica.
The Poprad in the vicinity of Milik
By the Poprad in Piwniczna-Zdrój
The Mineral Water Pump Room ‘Anna’ in Żegiestów-Zdrój
The Orthodox Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God
Żegiestów-Zdrój is a small spa located in a beautiful area by the Poprad surrounded by the Beskid Sądecki. Before the Second World War Żegiestów-Zdrój was claimed to be one of the most popular resorts in the country. It could definitely compete with Muszyna or Krynica-Zdrój which were extremely fashionable places at the time. It was an elegant and modern spa for the elite – beautifully located with excellent waters and a beneficial climate. At the end of the 20th century it resembled a ghost town – dilapidated and abandoned. Today it is being reconstructed and the investors want to restore it to its previous glory. Going through the Poprad River Valley, we can see spa buildings which are being reconstructed. The beautiful Mineral Water Pump Room has already been put into use.
Although we will have to turn aside from the trail to reach some of them, they are worth the effort. Today these temples serve as Roman Catholic churches and memorabilia of Lemko people who used to inhabit this land until 1947.
Żegiestów-Zdrój, a spa on the route, is also an interesting place to visit. Before the Second World War it was incredibly popular and recognised among visitors from Poland and abroad.
We should definitely make a longer stop in Muszyna. In this town, we will come across magnificent gardens, a reconstruction of the Town Hall with a historic cellar, the ruins of the Castle and many other attractions. The town will give us a chance to dine in excellent restaurants.
We leave Muszyna and head for Krynica-Zdrój. We cycle along the Muszynka River following the Cross-border Cycling Path and VeloKrynica which will lead us to Powroźnik. There is one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches – the Orthodox Church of St James the Younger which is a UNESCO site. From Powroźnik, we ride to Krynica-Zdrój along VeloKrynica along the Kryniczanka Creek. The path takes us to the heart of the spa – to Deptak. There, we will be able to have a sip of mineral waters, eat regional dishes and see spa architecture including wooden villas. Krynica-Zdrój is a town of numerous attractions too so it is a good idea to stay here a bit longer. We can get off our bikes and hit the trail or try our hand at mountain cycling!
Muszyna is a commune located in the south of Poland in a picturesque corner of the Beskid Sądecki. The town of Muszyna is a constantly developing spa famous for healing waters and a beneficial climate. It is full of attractions – it is the town of gardens and culture. It is surrounded by small villages which used to be inhabited by Lemko people. The villages are scattered over
by the Poprad and on the slopes of the Beskid Sądecki. They are famous for beautiful, wooden Orthodox churches and picturesque views. Poets called these areas the land of gentleness. We may do a lot of sports activities there – hiking in the mountains, running, cycling, skiing or horse riding.
The Transborder Carpathian Cycling Route leads through various mountain ranges along the border with Slovakia. It starts in Muszyna and runs through Powroźnik, Tylicz, Krynica-Zdrój, Brunary, Uście Gorlickie, Gładyszów and Radocyna up to the Długie Pass. Further, it leads through the Bieszczady Mountains as the Podkarpacki Cycling Route which is marked with red signs. It finishes in Krościenko over the Strwiąż. It is 71 km long and it is moderately difficult.
Distance 41,5 km
Estimated time: 3 h 30 min
Ascents: 762 m
Descents: 576 m
ROUTE
The ones who long for ambitious ascents should choose a route through the mountains. From Żegiestów we can go in the direction of Szczawnik and Muszyna by the Mineral Water Cycling Route which leads through the most charming corners of Muszyna Commune. While cycling, we can see the biggest in Poland Sensory Gardens, Bible Gardens, the ruins of the Castle which reminds us about the long history of the Muszyna State, the famous moffeta located on the border between Złockie and Szczawnik (also called devil’s breath) and wooden Orthodox churches.
However, the biggest advantage of the route is a possibility to try water from mineral water springs located in Muszyna Commune. The route is almost 33 km long and has 13 stops at which we can take a break and drink refreshing mineral water rich in valuable minerals. The route is marked with red signs and starts in Żegiestów, right by the footbridge Żegiestów-Sulin. It leads us to the centre of the village.
The Mineral Water Cycling Route is an interesting route which crosses Muszyna Commune. It is marked red and it is 33 km long. It runs through Żegiestów, Milik, Szczawnik, Złockie, Jastrzębik and Muszyna, through the most interesting corners of the commune to places where mineral water springs up. In some places it is a bit difficult but it is worth the effort as we will be able to see the amazing world of mineral waters of the Beskid Sądecki.
A panorama from Bacówka over Wierchomla on the route
The second stop is located in the vicinity of St Anna Church (a former Greek Orthodox church) where we will find a mineral water spring. From Żegiestów we set off towards Palenica (624 m) on an asphalt road. By the peak, next to a distinctive cross, the trail divides. One of its branches goes south to Milik where we will be able to taste water from Kazimierz spring (stop number 4) and see the former Orthodox Church of Saints Kosma and Damian (stop number 5). The second branch of the trail leads along the green hiking trail east by St Hubertus shrine to the stop number 3 where the branches connect again. If we skip the stops number 4 and 5, we will shorten the whole trip.
The stop number 6 is in Szczawnik. It is another small village where we will see the historic Orthodox church of St Demetrius and try mineral water. Further, we ride in the direction of Złockie (stop number 7). From Złockie, the route will lead us to Jastrzębik (although we can shorten the trip again by cycling down directly to Muszyna) where we can see the moffeta of professor H. Świdziński which is located on the border between Jastrzębik and Złockie on a muddy bottom of the Złockie Creek (stop number 8). Going further, we will see the wooden the wooden Orthodox Church of St Luke (stop number 9). The trail leads us from Jastrzębik to Muszyna.
We start the route by the border footbridge Żegiestów-Sulin by the Poprad
The Orthodox Church of Saints Cosma and Damian in Milik
On Palenica over Żegiestów
Before entering the town, we may take a break at the stop number 10 i.e. a transport node. At this point, we can continue riding to the stop number 11 at the seasonal Mineral Water Pump Room ‘Anna’ in Muszyna. We can also switch routes into AquaVelo (yellow signs) which leads to Krynica-Zdrój and Bardejov in Slovakia. The Tourist Loop of Muszyna which is marked red will lead us to Powroźnik. If we choose the way to Muszyna, we will reach its centre. The stop number 12 is located at ‘Milusia’ Mineral Water Pump Room. On the way, we ought to stop at the revitalised Square to see the new Town Hall and drink mineral water from the pump room located in its building. We can also visit the historic cellar and eat something sweet in the stylish cafe. From the Square, we will go in the direction of Zapopradzie where the Sensory and Magical Gardens are situated. In the latter ones, there is ‘Antoni’ Mineral Water Pump Room where we will finish our journey along the Mineral Water Cycling Route. We reach Krynica-Zdrój along VeloKrynica through Powroźnik.
If, however, we still long for some mountains, we can come back from Muszyna to Szczawnik in which we take a gravel road to Bacówka over Wierchomla (895 m). It is an exceptional tourist shelter from which we can admire the panorama of the Tatras. We leave Bacówka and go along the blue hiking trail to Runek (1,080 m). At Runek, the blue trail meets the Main Beskid Trail and both lead us to Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m). From the top, we cycle down to Czarny Potok and along an asphalt road to Krynica – we will reach its centre following VeloKrynica.
AquaVelo by the Muszynka in Muszyna
From Szczawnik to Bacówka over Wierchomla
Krynica-Zdrój has been called the pearl of Polish spas not without a reason as it has been a popular and recognised resort for a long time. The whole commune lies between the mountains, almost in their heart. At the foothills of the Beskid Sądecki the springs of precious mineral water flow out. The spa used to be extremely popular among aristocrats and artists. Today, it is chosen by health visitors, sports enthusiasts, the amateurs of architecture or business people. Rich sports infrastructure attracts fans of active tourism all year round. Spa architecture and wooden temples tempt history and art amateurs. The commune is crossed by a number of hiking trails including the Main Beskid Trail, cycling or bridle paths very attractive for the fans of nature. Lemko culture and delicious regional cuisine make tourists appreciate Krynica for its tasty local dishes and exquisite restaurants.
VeloKrynica 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 – a place worth seeing as there is tthe Orthodox Church of St James the Younger (a UNESCO site). The trail is 12 km long so it is a great choice for a short trip. If we want to extend the route a little bit, on the way back in Powroźnik we may turn in the direction of Tylicz from where we will come back to Krynica along Pułaski Street. The longer route is 21 km long.
Distance: 45 km
Estimated time: 4 h 15 min
Ascents: 1 308 m
Descents: 1 151 m
ROUTE
The Bike Park created around Sankolandia in Złockie is an ideal place for those who want to get crazy on their bikes. We will be able to cycle on the paths with a total length of 12 km – two down hill ones and one wide, two-way forest path. The routes vary in difficulty and have almost one hundred bends which allow an attractive descent. They are wide and levelled so we can enjoy the increasing speed! The upper station of the Park is at Kotelniczy Wierch (1,030 m) – we will get there with our bikes by special transport. At the down station, there are two shelters where we can rest after cycling craze – it is possible to have a campfire or organise a bigger party – a birthday, a stag night or a business event.
Cyclists will find a great attraction in Krynica-Zdrój, in Słotwiny which is famous for the excellent ski station and the panoramic tower. 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. Moguls, berms, step-up and step-down tables are 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 also offers necessary accessories such as helmets, protective patches and goggles. If we want to improve our skills, the cycling school which operates in Słotwiny will definitely help us with it.
Muszyna is one of the most interesting places in the Beskid Sądecki. The resort is surrounded by smaller but equally interesting villages. They are worth visiting as they abound in attractions, accommodation facilities and restaurants. One of them is Złockie located by the Złockie Creek only 4 km from Muszyna. There are legends which tell about gold in the place. Even Długosz (a Polish chronicler) wrote that gold used to be present in this area. There is a moffeta, a wooden Orthodox church and beautiful mountain cycling and skiing trails. There is also ‘Lena’ – a small but well-stocked shop where we can buy souvenirs, local products and postcards. We will also find there guidebooks, maps of the mountains and information brochures. The staff is always ready to help, not only in the case of choosing the best souvenir! They will answer all the questions concerning the region (they know it very well), recommend places to visit, to stay or eat! It is a private tourist information point!
Address: Złockie, 33-370 Złockie (next to ‘Groszek’ shop)
Phone: +48 696 421 753
LOCATION
The Nikifor Hotel is one of the most interesting accommodation facilities in Krynica-Zdrój. It has beautiful, artistic interiors and an inn with delicious, regional cuisine. At the place, we can rent an electric bike. It is a great option for those who plan to hit the picturesque trails of the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids. A bike which is assisted by an electric engine enables us to go up even the most difficult ascents and ride on the hardest trails irrespective of our physical fitness. It is a great alternative for beginners. If we stay in the hotel, we can purchase a special package which will include bike rental fee. The price includes a helmet and there are special discounts for children.
Address: ul. Świdzińskiego 20, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój
E-mail: recepcja@nikifor.pl
Phone: +48 662 198 328
nikifor.pl
Nikifor-Hotel
Rowerowa Łabowa (Cycling Łabowa) is a place created by cycling enthusiasts for cycling enthusiasts. Or for those who are awakening their passion for bikes. The area of the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids, where the company operates, is full of interesting, easy or difficult cycling trails. We can ride them alone or with a guide, on our own bike or on a rented one, on a traditional bike or an electric one.
Rowerowa Łabowa invites both passionate cyclists and families with children to their rental and encourages them to hit the picturesque, cycling trails. We will be able to rent electric bikes of various sizes for adults (both men and women), teenagers and children. Accessories such as kids bike saddles or trailers. What’s most important, we do not have to get to Łabowa to rent the equipment. The employees will deliver it to any chosen spot, for example, to a hotel in Krynica-Zdrój. However, if we want to get the equipment ourselves, we can do it in Łabowa, at a fishing farm ‘Pstrągowa Dolina’ (Trout Valley).
Address: Łabowa 336, 33-336 Łabowa
E-mail: rowerowalabowa@gmail.com Phone: +48 691 916 082
Rowerowa Łabowa provides cycling guides and organises amazing bike tours into the Beskid Sądecki, the Low Beskids, Podhale or Rożnów-Ciężkowice Foothills. They will take us for eMTB trips along mountain ridges with interesting descends chosen with the skills of participants in mind or along the Cycling Route along the Spas of Lesser Poland.
Łabowa also offers a service point for traditional and electric bikes. The employees will check pressure in tyres, adjust gears or replace tubes.
sites.google.com/view/rowerowalabowa-wypozyczlnia
Rowerowa Łabowa
The last stage of our trip leads through the east part of the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids. We set off from the centre of Krynica-Zdrój following the red signs of the Main Beskid Trail. We cycle along Pułaski Street past Parkowa Mountain (742 m). The red trail goes further to Huzary (864 m) but we stick to the asphalt road which takes us to Tylicz. This small village is an excellent place to have lunch – we will also find mineral waters here and moffetas.
Today, Tylicz is a small village famous for its great ski stations, hiking trails and cycling and bridle paths, mineral waters and a legendary moffeta. It used to be the second after Muszyna, the most important town in the Muszyna State. Then, it was called Miastko and was bigger than Krynica! Nowaday the Square is the only proof of its town character. Tylicz was granted town rights two times – and two times it lost them. If we want to have a rest from the hustle and bustle of Krynica, we should come to Tylicz. It is definitely a more peaceful place. There is a wooden Orthodox church and a Roman Catholic church. Both temples are sites of the Wooden Architecture Route.
We start in the centre of Krynica-Zdrój
A panorama of Tylicz from Łan Mountain
From Pułaski Street we ride into Kazimierz Wielki Street along which the Sądecki Cycling Route and the Crossborder Cycling Route run. We cycle on the road past Łan Mountain (742 m). After 3.4 km, we go east following the Crossborder Cycling Route along the Mrokowski Creek on a peaceful, forest path which guides us to Izby. Leaving Tylicz, we enter the area of the Low Beskids. In Izby we go north along the road which runs through the Biała Valley. In Izby we will see the Orthodox Church of St Luke The valley of the Biała leads us to Stawiska where we change the route into the Multicultural Cycling Route and go in the south-east direction. The area of the Low Beskids used to be inhabited by Lemko people, Polish Uplanders, the Polish and the Jewish. The multiculturalism is reflected in temples which we pass by. The trail leads us to Hańczowa where the Greek Orthodox Church of the Protection of the Mother of God is located.
The Sądecki Cycling Route is one of the variants of the Carpathian Cycling Route – it is 63 km long and it is an easy one. As the name implies, it runs through Sądecczyzna (Sądecki Land). It starts on the border with Slovakia, in Muszynka, and leads along the east border of the Beskid Sądecki, through Tylicz, Kamianna, Nawojowa up to Nowy Sącz.
A view of Tylicz from Łan Mountain
The Orthodox Church of St Luke in Izby
The beginning of the route in Muszynka on the border
The Multicultural Cycling Route leads through beautiful, tranquil and very green areas of the Low Beskids which are famous for multiculturalism. A lot of villages were established by Wallachians who, with time, started to be called Lemkos. They were resettled after the Second World War but their culture is still alive. The Polish and the Jews lived next to them. The Multicultural Cycling Route links places connected with the people who used to inhabit this land, leads to Blechnarka (the border with Slovakia) through Hańczowa, Brunary, Grybów, Bobowa, Ciężkowice and ends in Zakliczyn. The trail is currently 120 km long and its ultimate destination is Tarnów.
From Hańczowa, we go south in the direction of Wysowa-Zdrój through the Ropa Valley. Wysowa-Zdrój indicates the end of our trip. This is the last spa of Lesser Poland located in a beautiful area between the mountains of the Low Beskids. It is famous for mineral waters which we can taste in the Spa Park in the beautiful Mineral Water Pump Room. While being in Wysowa, we should take a trip around the commune. One of the trails leads around
Gródek (712 m) to Regietów from which we can come back to Wysowa through Blechnarka. Another variant of the trail leads through Kwiatoń, where we can admire an Orthodox church listed as UNESCO site, to Uście Gorlickie and by Klimkówka Lake. Ambitious cyclists can try to cycle up Lackowa (997 m) – the highest mountain of the Low Beskids.
Over BlechnarkaWysowa-Zdrój is a small resort located in the south of Uście Gorlickie Commune, in the Low Beskids. It is tucked into a mountainous valley and attracts its visitors with tranquillity, picturesque views, interesting historic sites and delicious mineral waters. Moreover, it is the biggest tourist centre in the Low Beskids. The first records about the place date back to the 17th century. Sobczak, the brigand, together with his comrades are said to have been healing with the local waters. The healing qualities of waters in Wysowa were also appreciated by Earl Maciej Lanckoroński in the 18th century who claimed that annual baths in the waters had hardened his body.
The year 1812 is regarded as the beginning of the spa character of the place. In the 80’s of the 19th century local deposits of mineral water started to be extracted. Since 1887, the water from ‘Józef’, ‘Olga’, ‘Rudolf’, ‘Bronisław’ and ‘Słony’ springs had been bottled. The spa offers 14 mineral water intakes and these are, first and foremost, acidulous sodium bicarbonate-chloride and sodium bicarbonate-calcium waters. Furthermore, Wysowianka contains a lot of natural iodine, especially vital as mountainous air lacks this element. On the basis of local springs, ‘Wysowianka’ mineral water is still produced here.
Distance: 36,1 km
Estimated time: 2 h 55 min
Ascents: 716 m
Descents: 782 m
What is essential to visit Uście Gorlickie Commune and the whole Low Beskids by bike? We need a good bike, accessories and gadgets. Another vital thing is a well-prepared route (although getting lost in the forests of the Beskids would be an interesting adventure). Where do we get good equipment from? ‘Ostre Koło’ (Sharp Wheel)–a shop, a service point and a rental – will be perfect.
The service point will take care of every bike irrespective of their brand. They paint frames, interlace spokes, bleed hydraulic brakes and serve cyclists good coffee! Nobody else will take care of our bike before a trip better than the employees of Ostre Koło!
Ostre Koło has its e-shop where we will buy bicycles of the best brands and all the essential accessories – helmets, glasses, bags, saddlebags, lamps, grips, blocks and spare parts such as pedals or tyres. Products to clean and maintain our equipment are available too. We will also be able to buy metres and cycling clothes there. They also have electric bikes for rent in ‘Dosbajka’ in Małastów.
Address: ul. Bardiowska 1A, 38-300 Gorlice
E-mail: ostrekolo.gorlice@gmail.com
Phone: +48 18 307 00 04
We have bikes, essential equipment – it is time to hit the trail! If we lack ideas, have a look at the website http://www. ostrekolo.com.pl/. We will find there a lot of interesting, well-described routes. Ostre Koło organises cycling tours including the ones leading to Wysowa-Zdrój.
ostrekolo.com.pl ostrekolo
