ENGWycieczkaseniorzy

A TRIP FOR SENIOR TOURISTS AROUND THE SPAS OF LESSER POLAND

CONTENTS

KRYNICA‑ZDRÓJ

MUSZYNA

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) co-funded 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: Konoad Rogoziński

Text: Maria Kościelniak

Translation: Ewelina Natanek-Rogozińska

Design: Klaudia Stochmal

Typesetting Klaudia Stochmal

Photographies: © Konoad Rogoziński / DigitalPlaces.pl

Apart from:

Editorial page; p. 75 Fishing on The Poprad; p. 102 photo no 2; p. 103 photo no 3; p. 137 fishing in podhale; p. 165 © Freepik

P. 10; p. 24; p. 54-55 Homole Cableway; p. 56; p. 70 photo no 1; p. 72 Węgielnik-Skałki Park; p. 73 Radwanów swimming pools; p. 78; p. 118; p. 134 Baligówka Bogs; p. 144; p. 150 Swoszowice; p. 153 Zabłocie, p. 155 Łagiewniki; p. 156 panoramic photo; p. 168 © Łukasz Świętach

Realization: Digital Places Multimedia Publishing www.digitalplaces.pl

Kraszewskiego 1/406

33-380 Krynica-Zdrój

P. 14 © Narodowe Archiwum Cyfrowe

P. 36 © Maciej Zwierz

P. 42 www.szukajwarchiwach.gov.pl

P. 53; p. 70 photo no 6; p. 74 The Panoramic Tower On Eliaszówka

© Wiktor Baron

P. 55 Kuligi © Adobe Stock

P. 71 photo no 5 i 4; p. 74‘ At Saint Kinga Spring in Głębokie’ Park; p. 77 Jackowa Pościel – The Valley Of Remembrance © Mirosław Hobora

P. 79 © Marcelina Kubiak.

P. 81 © Chata pod Pustą

P. 88; p. 92 The Spa Park And The Mineral ; P. 97; p. 101 photos no 1 i 2 p. 104, p. 105; p. 106 photo no 2; p. 107 © Piotr Gaborek

P. 102 no 1; p. 103 no 1, no 2 © Arch. UM Uście Gorlickie

P. 110; p. 119; p. 120, 126 photo no 4 © Joanna Dragon

P. 112 photos no 1 i 4; p. 115 A Forest Educational Path In Krzywoń Enchanted Forest p. 116-117 A Panoramic Tower On Polczakówka, The Church Of The Holy Cross On Piątkowa Mountain In Rdzawka; p. 121 photos no 2, 3, 4, p. 126 photo no 2; p. 127 photos no 1 i 2; p. 128; © Piotr Kuczaj

P. 138 photo no 2; p. 139; 140; 141 © Arch. UG Czarny Dunajec

p. 159 The underground of the Square © Tomasz Kalarus;

P. 160 The Bagatela Theatre © Dariusz Baran;

P. 160 The National Stary Theatre © Ryszard Kornecki

P. 160 The Opera of Cracow © Wiktor Siwanowicz

P. 160 The Cracow Philharmonic © W. Plewiński

P. 166 © Adobe Stock

Krynica, Muszyna, Szczawnica, Piwniczna, Wysowa, Rabka, Swoszowice…These places are popular nation-wide and for years they have been visited by numerous health visitors and tourists. Czarny Dunajec, which is a considerably younger spa, is gradually gaining similar popularity. All of them are famous for their beneficial climate as, apart from Swoszowice in Cracow, they are situated in mountains. All of them abound in healing mineral waters (Czarny Dunajec – geothermal waters and peat) thanks to which they gained the status of a spa and popularity. All of them are full of attractions which make them even more inviting. Senior tourists who decide to visit the spas of Lesser Poland will find the most interesting places chosen

especially for them in this trip. There, either amateurs of historic sites, architecture, art and history or enthusiasts of active leisure will find something for themselves. There are easily accessible panoramic spots for the ones who take delight in wonderful landscapes and hiking routes. There is a calendar of cultural events and information on the most interesting museums for amateurs of culture. There are also propositions of walking trips which will take you around the most prominent places in a given spa and the whole community. Easily accessible spots are marked for the ones whose mobility is decreased. The ebook includes a comprehensive description of the spas and springs present in each of them.

KRYNICA-ZDRÓJ

A spa surrounded by the Beskids

The Pearl of Polish Spas is a classic among the spa communes of Lesser Poland which will always be a good choice. Krynica-Zdrój is located in the south of Lesser Poland between the peaks of the Low Beskids and the Beskid Sądecki. The town is situated in the valley of the Kryniczanka. Park Mountain (742 m), at the foot of which the springs of Krynica flow out, and Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m), a great attraction in itself, tower over it. Krynica-Zdrój is a perfect destination for all those who look for a trendy spa not only with healing waters and treatments but also numerous attractions. While visiting

the place, you will come across a variety of interesting sites such as wooden villas which still remember their former inhabitants, beautiful spa buildings or wooden, Orthodox churches. Active, senior tourists MAY choose from a wide range of hiking or cycling trails offered by Krynica. The ones who enjoy cultural events should definitely visit the place during the Festival of Jan Kiepura. However, the place will provide them with attractions such as dances, concerts or sleigh rides with feasts all year round.

A HIKING TRIP

A hiking trip around Krynica-Zdrój should start at its centre – at famous Deptak. This is a place where you will feel the atmosphere of the spa and its long history. There, at the foot of Park Mountain (742 m), the first settlement was established by the Vlachs. There, all the springs of Krynica flow out. Finally, the most significant sites such as the Main Mineral Water Pump Room, the Band Shell or the New Spa House are situated there. Deptak is said to be a huge ball room across which one can take a stroll among beautiful sites. It used to be a place where one needed to present themselves, a place where famous people, who frequently visited the town, were to be seen. From Deptak, one should go towards the Kryniczanka along which Dietl’s Boulevards run. By the boulevards magnificent, wooden villas stand. In one of them – blue ‘Romanówka’ – the Museum of Nikifor Krynicki has its seat. From the boulevards, we head for the down station of the funicular which runs to Parkowa Mountain. On

the way, we will see the statue of Nikifor Krynicki and ‘Jan’ Mineral Water Pump Room. The slopes of Parkowa Mountain create the Spa Park which is crossed by a number of trails all of which lead to the top. Our route goes along the most interesting one past such places as Swan Pond, Black Pond and the Forest Sanctuary of the Mother of God, the Queen of the Springs of Krynica. One should consider going a bit off the route to see the Statue of the Deer and Bocianówka Spring. Well-marked paths, all of which lead to the top, will prevent us from getting lost. At the top you MAY take a rest on one of the benches, have a bite or have a cup of coffee in a cafe designed in the style of the 1920s through whose glazed walls you can admire a panorama of the Beskid Sądecki. Following the signs of the blue and yellow trails (going in the direction of Krynica-Zdrój), you will reach Deptak.

CULT ATTRACTIONS

THE MAIN MINERAL WATER PUMP ROOM

The Main Mineral Water Pump Room is one of the most characteristic and frequented places in Krynica-Zdrój. It was built in the 1970s in the modernist style and less than 10 years ago it was renovated. It is a glazed construction covered with an aluminium roof. The place offers mineral water from local springs such as: Jan, Słotwinka, Tadeusz, the Main Spring and Zuber. Moreover, inside there is a cafe, the Winter Garden, a concert venue and stalls with souvenirs and cosmetics. It is a spot where a number of events are organised all year round.

PARKOWA MOUNTAIN

Parkowa Mountain rises to 742 m right above Deptak. On its northern and eastern slopes the Spa Park stretches – a place with numerous alleys and benches. On the western slope of Parkowa Mountain landslide dams were formed – Czaple Stawy (Grey Heron Ponds). Michasiowa Polana (Michasiowa Clearing) and the Forest Sanctuary of Mother of God, the Queen of Krynica, are also interesting places.

Trails which lead to the top of the mountain start at Deptak. We can also get to the top by the funicular which dates back to 1937! This is the oldest construction of this type in Poland. The down and upper stations are also unique – there we can go back in time and feel the atmosphere of Krynica from the Interwar Period. At the top, there are some catering establishments and panoramic spots including a cafe with glazed, panoramic walls.

DIETL BOULEVARDS

By Dietl Boulevards by the Kryniczanka there are wooden villas similar to the ones present in Swiss resorts. The villas of Krynica were constructed in the second half of the 19th century along the most rapid development of the resort. They served as guest houses, modern medical centres or the best restaurants. There is the famous ‘Wisła’ Villa where Emilia Burzyńska, the Jagiellonian University professor’s widow, invited young ladies from good homes. Then, we can see ‘Witoldówka’ built by Dr Skórczewski who ran a dietician centre in the building or ‘Małopolanka’ with ‘the House of Coffee and Wine’. Last but not least, there is proudly presenting ‘Romanówka’ which houses the Museum of Nikifor Krynicki –a famous artist from Krynica. We will have a chance to see his works, portraits, drawings of buildings, self-portraits, tools which he used and his possessions.

JAWORZYNA KRYNICKA GONDOLA LIFT WITH A PANORAMIC PLATFORM

The down station of Jaworzyna Krynicka Gondola Lift is situated in Czarny Potok. Its cable cars cover the distance of 2 km and the altitude difference of 456 m in 7 minutes. From the upper station a beautiful panorama stretches but you will see it better from a panoramic platform built on its roof. There are also restaurants. From the place, we can set off on various hiking trips – Jaworzyna Krynicka PTTK Shelter is a few hundred metres from the top and the famous Devil’s Stone a bit more than 1 km away. The Main Beskid Trail (marked red) goes through the top of Jaworzyna Krynicka and runs to Deptak in Krynica or Hala Łabowska (1,061 m).

THE PANORAMIC TOWER WITH A PATH AMONG TREETOPS, SŁOTWINY ARENA

The panoramic tower with a path among treetops is one of the most popular attractions of the town. The tower is located at the top of Słotwiny Arena Ski Station at 896 m. You can get there on foot or by a chair lift. The whole construction is 49.5 m high. The climb is gently sloping so we can take a walk there with children, prams or people with mobility difficulties – the whole path is 1,030 m long. There, you can take a pleasant walk surrounded by nature, look at it up close and admire magnificent views. The path serves an educational purpose – there are boards containing information on the local nature, history, culture and creative installations. Additionally, you can slide down a 60 m slide from the tower!

GOLGOTHA IN TYLICZ

Tylicz is a small village located in Krynica Commune. It is popular among enthusiasts of winter sports due to its excellent ski stations but offers a few attractions to visitors such as popular mofettas where algae for astronauts used to be grown, a wooden Orthodox church, a wooden church and the Golgotha. Among the mountains of the Beskid Sądecki and the Low Beskids, in Tylicz, right by a new parish church and the historic, wooden Church of the Holy Mother of God there is a hill with a tower which is associated with the biblical Tower of Babel. The construction was built with the use of stone from the vicinity of Tylicz and 120 other important for Christians places all over the world. It is 25 m high, has a few chapels and the Way of the Cross leads to its top which is crowned with a panoramic terrace. Around the tower a garden was created in which we can see the statues of people significant for both Tylicz and Poland (John Paul II, Casimir III the Great) and rosary paths. At the foot of the Golgotha, between the churches, there is a 350-year-old linden – a natural monument.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE

SLEIGH/ CARRIAGE RIDES

Sleighs rushing through crunching snow, white valleys, the starry sky and torches – sleigh rides constitute an attraction both for adults and children. It is something you have to try while being in the mountains. Sleigh rides in the area of Krynica commune are organised in Tylicz and Krynica-Zdrój. Sleighs are pulled by horses or tractors. When there is not enough snow, wheels are added to sleighs as an assistance. After sleigh rides, campfires with Highlander music or feasts in regional restaurants are organised. In spring, summer and autumn one can take advantage of carriage rides among green hills of the Beskid Sądecki – the starting point is at Deptak.

Krynica-Zdrój

Address: skrzyżowanie ulic Piłsudskiego i Dąbrowskiego, Krynica-Zdrój

atrakcjekrynicy.pl

Farma Lama, Tylicz

Address: Konfederatów Barskich 11, Tylicz

farma-lama.pl

Gaborek Guesthouse

A SPA HOTEL IN THE MOUNTAINS

Picturesquely located, exclusive, cosy and serving delicious food – so is Gaborek – the only 4-star guesthouse in Krynica-Zdrój. The facility is located at the foot of Krzyżowa Mountain (812 m), only 200 m from Deptak in Krynica, close to mountain trails and a few kilometers from ski stations. Irrespective of its location in the centre, it is surrounded by nature and a peaceful atmosphere.

A TOUCH OF LUXURY

Elegant, well-equipped apartments and rooms await guests in the guesthouse. But this is not everything! After visiting Krynica-Zdrój or after an active day on a trail, we can relax in its Spa zone with a sauna, a jacuzzi, a fitness room and massages. Guests can also take advantage of beauty treatments.

FOR THE YOUNGEST GUESTS

Gaborek Guesthouse is an excellent place for families with children. There is a playroom for small children. Older ones can play billiards or table football. A playground with swings, a slide and a wooden house is available in the garden.

GROUPS AND CONFERENCES

The guesthouse is prepared to host groups (up to 60 guests). Not only do they offer accommodation with the board, but also organise conferences, training sessions and team-building meetings. Every event will be organised at the highest possible level, professionally and with total commitment. Guests can take advantage of a conference room and a beautiful banquet room.

Address: Ul. Szkolna 7, 33-380 Krynica Zdrój

E-mail: recepcja@pensjonatgaborek.pl

Phone: +48 18 26 26 710; +48 18 26 26 711

pensjonatgaborek.pl

Pensjonat „Gaborek” Krynica-Zdrój

Krynicka Koliba

AT THE TOP

At the very top of Jaworzyna Krynicka (1,114 m), in the most charming spot in Krynica or maybe Muszyna – on the border between two spa communes – Krynicka Koliba is situated. It is a regional restaurant which has a unique, mountain vibe. It is also the highest located accommodation facility in the Beskid Sądecki! Nowhere else will you find such beautiful views which spread from Koliba’s windows and such climatic interiors.

THE CUISINE OF MOUNTAIN PEOPLE

What makes Krynicka Koliba really exceptional is its delicious, regional cuisine full of aromatic dishes. The restaurant serves well-known regional dishes which are based on local ingredients – both meat and vegetarian ones. We will also be able to taste dishes which are associated with mountains – aromatic mushrooms and blueberries which smell of summer. Customers are delighted with trout, moskole (potato shortbreads), grilled oscypek or

penny bun soup. There is also a wide choice of drinks. Hot beverages taste best in winter when mountain tops are covered with snow.

EVENTS

A variety of events can be organised in the restaurant. A wedding reception on the top of Jaworzyna Krynicka? Or maybe a team-building stay with the view of the Tatras? Yes, Krynicka Koliba will organise all kinds of unforgettable events for you with delicious food and climatic accommodation.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO KOLIBA

We can reach Koliba following all the hiking trails which run to the top of Jaworzyna Krynicka. The green or the red one from Krynica-Zdrój, the green one from Muszyna or a more ambitious one – the red trail from Rytro. Jaworzyna Krynicka Gondola Lift will also take us there from Czarny Potok.

Address: Jaworzyna Krynicka - szczyt, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój

E-mail: krynickakoliba@interia.pl

Phone: +48 606 114 806

krynicka-koliba.pl

Krynicka Koliba

The Museum of Nikifor Krynicki

The Museum of Nikifor Krynicki is located in ‘Romanówka’ – a wooden villa by Dietl’s Boulevards. The works of Nikifor – a primitive artist from Krynica – are displayed inside. We will see there portraits, paintings of buildings, self-portraits and also tools which were used by the artist and his possessions.

The Museum of Toys

The Museum of Toys presents toys from different periods – from the Ancient Times to the 80’s of the 20th century. It is an amazing place either for children or adults.

The Museum of Tylicz

The Museum of Tylicz – a regional museum which displays exhibits connected with the history and traditions of the place, former crafts or historic skates and skis.

‘Łuczakówka’ Museum of Nature and Hunting

The exhibition prepared by Józef Łuczak displays dissected animals, most of which are protected. The exhibits have been gathered for over 30 years.

odkryjtylicz.pl

atrakcjekrynicy.pl

Dances and knees-up

The tradition of dances in Krynica dates back to the 20’s of the 20th century. Health visitors came to Krynica in order to regain health and after their treatments they looked for a chance to have fun. People danced to live music and it was a great chance to meet new people. During the Interwar Period dances were organised

in Chorążówka Restaurant and in the restaurant on Parkowa Mountain. Famous Hawana was the place in the 70’s where Pudelsi used to perform. We can have fun there until now. It is also a good idea to go dancing in the Old Spa house, Artystyczna Restaurant or CristalPatio Restaurant.

Jan Kiepura

Right after Nikifor or perhaps on a par with him, Jan Kiepura, an opera singer, was the most popular person connected with Krynica. The Festival named after him takes place in the town annually. In the town you will also see

his bust or a guest house which used to belong to him. Despite the fact that he had not been born in Krynica, he was strongly connected with the place. Jan Kiepura came from Sosnowiec and was born in 1902 as a baker’s son. As a young man, he loved singing but his father wanted him to become a lawyer. Hence, Kiepura went to Warsaw to study but secretly he had singing lessons. Already then he started performing. He made his debut in the Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet but he got really recognisable after his concert in Vienna. He gave concerts more and more frequently on the biggest stages of Europe – in Paris, Milan or London. When he performed in Tosca, he knew just a fragment of his part in Italian so he sang the rest in Polish and got a standing ovation anyway. He got numerous awards and came back to Poland as a star. He gave great concerts, sang operas but he also improvised in the streets, on hotel balconies and in his beloved Krynica as well. He loved the town so much that he even built his own hotel there – Patria. He married a Hungarian, Martha Edgar. He emigrated to the USA with his family right before the Second World War when antisemitism started to escalate as both of them were of Jewish origin. After the War had broken out, he got engaged in propaganda actions concerning Poland and frequently sang patriotic songs. Together with his wife, he performed on Broadway, gave concerts or acted in films. He visited Poland after 19 years. Kiepura died of a heart attack after having received unfavourable news from his financial agent in 1966.

Where Kiepura used to stay

Krynica-Zdrój is probably the most well-known resort in Poland which has been visited by health visitors for ages. It has also been trendy among artists and it used to be chosen by aristocrats. It offers plenty of attractions to tourists and has great accommodation possibilities. Let us add mountain climbing and breathtaking views to that. It is a real pearl among Polish resorts whose true treasure is mineral water.

The springs of mineral water were discovered in the 18th and 19th century but local people had been familiar with them much earlier. The name of the place proves it to be true. The first village was founded at the foot of Park Mountain by Wallachian settlers in the 16th century and was named ‘Krzenycze’ which means ‘spring’. In 1788 Baltazar Hacqet, a professor from the University of Lviv, examined the main spring paying special attention to its healing properties. The first mineral water pump room was established in 1806 and the first bath house in 1804. In 1807 Krynica was granted the status of the bathing spa. Several dozen years later the plan of the spa development was outlined and the first spa houses and guest houses were erected including beautiful, wooden villas which may be admired by Dietl’s Boulevard. The dynamic development of the resort started in the middle of the 20th century when Józef Dietl, a professor of the Jagiellonian University and the father of Polish balneology, took to it. He included peat baths in the offer of the spa, contributed

to its technical development and the erection of new spa buildings – the Mineral Baths, the Peat Baths, the Spa House or the wooden Main Mineral Water Pump Room. Deptak (a promenade) was extended all the time and new buildings were constructed around it. It looked like a ballroom with beautifully attired tourists strolling between the buildings. The golden era of the resort is the Interwar Period when great artists and aristocrats such as Tuwim, Solski, Modrzejewska, Gałczyński or Reymont visited it. In 1922 the town officially received the status of a spa. This was also the time of the development of active and mountain tourism. Then, the Shelter on Jaworzyna Krynicka or the Funicular to Park Mountain appeared. Krynica became the famous centre of winter sports – it is where the European Luge Championships took place. Right before the Second World War 40 thousand people visited the place annually. Although the war destroyed it a lot, the resort was renovated. Leon Nowotarski, the director of the Spa Centre, managed to take away and hide spa equipment before the German invasion. After the war, new sanatoria and the natural therapy facility were created. Guest houses, hotels, spa buildings were situated outside the centre, higher and higher, on the panoramic slopes of Jaworzyna Krynicka, exceeding the height of 650 m.

What can be treated here?

Rheumatic diseases diseases of the respiratory tract, diabetes, diseases of the nervous system,

diseases of the digestive system, women’s diseases,

kidney diseases and diseases of the urinary tract, blood diseases and the diseases of the hematopoietic system

What treatments?

Mineral and healing waters constitute the greatest treasure of Krynica-Zdrój. Their properties have been known and valued for ages. They are alkaline acidic waters which are used in crenotherapy i.e. drinking therapy. Depending on the disease, doctors select the appropriate kind of water, the frequency and the period in which they should be drunk. Baths and peat treatments (baths, wraps) are also popular. Moreover, we may undergo inhalations, wraps, physical therapy, massages, light therapy,

kinesiotherapy or ultrasound therapy. Treatments are diverse and adjusted to the needs of a patient. The climate of Krynica, fresh air and the proximity of Beskid woods are significant in the process of treatment as well. The resort has a climate with features of the subalpine one moderated by vast forest areas surrounding the town. Walks are one of the treatment methods. Additionally, they allow us to relax our body and mind.

Zdrój Główny (the Main Spring) is 0.32% acidulous ferric-calcium-manganese water,  Słotwinka is 0.41% acidulous bicarbonate-sodium-magnesium-calcium-ferric water,

Jan is 0.071% acidulous slightly mineralised water which contains calcium bicarbonate,

Józef is 0.11% acidulous calcium bicarbonate water,  Zuber is 2.14% acidulous sodium-magnesium-boric-bicarbonate water,  Mieczysław is 0.42% acidulous calcium bicarbonate water,  Tadeusz is 0.38% acidulous calcium bicarbonate water.

Mineral Water Pump Rooms

The location of mineral water pump rooms and springs

In the mineral water pump rooms of Krynica-Zdrój you are able to taste a few waters of various compositions. Some of them are delicate whereas others have characteristic taste and smell. ‘Zuber’ is one of the most distinctive and the most difficult to swallow one. It is said to reek of rotten eggs (but it is just hydrogen sulphide) and has a metallic taste. It is claimed that it is water for the bravest. For sure, thanks to its rich composition, it has healing properties. It is hyperosmotic, sodium-magnesium-boric bicarbonate acidulous water. It has the biggest number of mineral elements out of all mineral waters from Krynica. It is used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, in the case of hyperacidity, diseases of the circulatory system, hyperthyroidism or gout. What is interesting, it is of great assistance in the case of obesity or a hangover. The water is drawn from the borehole situated on the southern slope of Park Mountain, at a depth of almost 1,000 m. It got its name from a remarkable geologist from the University of

Healing or mineral?

Mineral or healing – these two names are used interchangeably defining these unique waters with characteristic flavour, smell and medicinal properties which can be drunk in numerous pump rooms or at water intakes in the area of Krynica-Zdrój community. However, mineral water or healing one are two different terms. In its composition, mineral water has a lot of dissolved salts and gases whereas healing water comes from natural springs. It has constant physicochemical features, its composition does not raise objections and its healing properties were confirmed by the Council of Ministers. However, if healing properties have not been confirmed, such water may be only called mineral one with some healing properties.

Słotwiński Park is located a bit further from the centre of Krynica. There we can see the Chinese House built in 1806 – it used to serve as the first Mineral Water Pump Room. Moreover, the brine graduation tower awaits

health visitors too. It uses brine which comes from Salt Mine in Bochnia – it has the biggest content of iodine. The air around it is similar to the one by the Baltic Sea.

ORGANISED TRIPS

pttkkrynica.pl

btjaworzyna.pl

MUSZYNA

The town of gardens

I f you visited Muszyna a few years ago, you have to know that it is an utterly different place than it used to be. The location of the commune is the same. It lies in a wonderful, nostalgic land tucked between the mountains of the Beskid Sądecki by the Poprad which peacefully meanders between small villages right by the border between Poland and Slovakia in Lesser Poland. However, Muszyna is changing significantly year after year. New attractions pop up like mushrooms. Today Muszyna is recognised as the town of gardens with

historic buildings such as mineral water pump rooms, temples, a manor or ruins of a castle.

Muszyna is an ideal destination for senior tourists. The commune offers rich accommodation and catering facilities including climatic places which serve the regional cuisine. At the place, amateurs of peaceful walks will find numerous interesting trails, cyclists – cycling routes of various difficulty, enthusiasts of history – impressive historic sites which remember the time of the Muszyna State and Lemko people who used to dwell in this area.

A WALK AROUND THE COMMUNE

A trip around Muszyna starts in the Biblical Gardens by the Church of Saint Joseph. After visiting the gardens and the temple, we go along Kościelna Street towards the Square. It is the most beautiful street in the town with historic, wooden houses with gates which stand out due to their semi-circular arched lintels which were supposed to enable merchants to enter yards. The street ends at the Square which has been renovated recently. This is a very pleasant place with the reconstruction of the town hall in its heart. Inside we will find a cafe and the Mineral Water Pump Room. The underground of the town hall is also open to visitors – there are historic cellars. From the Square along Kita Street we will reach the Manor of Starosts which used to be the seat of starosts of Muszyna. Surrounded by the Spa Park, ruins of a castle, which date back to the 14th century, tower over the Manor. We can extend the trip and climb Baszta Hill from which the

panorama of the Poprad River Valley and neighbouring mountains spreads. Then, we go towards the bridge over the Poprad in order to enter Zapopradzie where all the famous attractions of Muszyna are located: the Sensory Gardens on the slopes of Sucha Mountain, the Themed Gardens and the Magical Gardens situated at the foot of the aforementioned mountain. Signs will lead us to the Sensory Gardens – being there, take a trip to the panoramic tower from which, when the weather is good, one can admire the peaks of the Tatras. We will descend going in the direction of the Gardens of Fairy Tales and Legends and further in the direction of the Themed Gardens and the Magical Gardens where we can see an aviary and alpacas. Going along the Poprad River, we will return to the bridge and come back to the Square taking an already known route.

CULT ATTRACTIONS

THE BIBLICAL GARDENS

The Biblical Gardens are the biggest gardens of this type in Poland. They cover an area of 1.2 ha and are divided into 5 zones in which the events from the Old and the New Testament are presented in an artistic way. We can admire plants present in the Holy Land or mentioned in the Bible, interesting installations, sculptures ideally integrated into the gardens. There is also a mineral water spring – ‘Maryja’

THE TOWN HALL AND CELLARS UNDER THE SQUARE

The Town Hall situated at the Square is a building which was erected in the years 2019 – 2021 and constitutes one of the newest attractions of the place. Its style refers to town halls of the 19th century which have been preserved in other towns. The place where it stands is not random. Under the Town Hall there are historic cellars which are hundreds of years old. The goods which were transported along the Hungarian Trade Route, including wine for royal tables, were stored there. Archeologists also discovered that there used to be a prison. That is why we can see there an exposition which displays medieval instruments of torture, a captured robber in a cell and the last witch of Muszyna. The second part of the cellars presents the way wine was stored hundreds of years ago. Over the cellars there is the Centre of Tourist Information, a cafe, a mineral water pump room and a venue where various cultural events are organised.

PTHE PARK OF CULTURE AND FORMER CRAFTS

The Park of Culture and Former Crafts consists of the Manor of Starosts of Muszyna, a roadhouse and a guardhouse. The manor was erected in the 18th century as the seat of starosts of Muszyna who moved there from the Castle which had been falling into decline. Today it is the seat of the Centre of Culture and a cafe. The roadhouse is a reconstruction of a building from the 18th century which is the seat of the Regional Museum and the Centre of Tourist Information. A collection of exhibits connected with the history and culture of the region is displayed there.

ZAPOPRADZIE

Zapopradzie is a spa district of Muszyna and its recreational centre. It is where the biggest Sensory Gardens in Poland are located – between March and April they are covered with millions of crocuses. Alpacas, rare white fallow deer and exotic birds await tourists in the Magical Gardens. There are also theme parks which refer to various parts of the world. We can start our adventure with kayaks or dinghies in Zapopradzie on the Poprad River. The sports infrastructure of the place is enriched with tennis courts, a skatepark, an ice-rink, a complex of swimming pools, a mini gold field, a line park for children, a water ball, a rental of go-karts, electric bikes or scooters.

THE SENSORY GARDENS

The Sensory Gardens were created on the slopes of Sucha Mountain in Zapopradzie. It is an amazing place, a real pride of the town. They are called the Sensory Gardens or the Gardens of the Senses as they are divided into a few zones which are supposed to stimulate our taste, smell, sight, hearing and touch. The Gardens are designed in such a way to have a recreational and therapeutic function. They are accessible for people with motor disabilities, the blind and people with proms. At the top, in the zone of sight there is a panoramic tower from which we can see a panorama of the Poprad Valley and the Jaworzyna Krynicka Range. The Garden of Fairy Tales and Legends is an interesting part of the Gardens – we can get to know the most interesting legends of Muszyna and peep into a witch’s hut.

THE MAGICAL GARDENS*

The Magical Gardens, also called the Gardens of Love, are located right below the Sensory Gardens. It is a place with a maze of alleys which meander between various plants and Greek and Roman sculptures. Humming streams and ponds add to the charm of the place. It is an especially pleasant place in the evening when the gardens are illuminated with colourful lights. The Aviary should also draw our attention – the newest attraction of the Garden. There we can see a lot of exotic birds such as the Indian peafowl, the Mandarin duck or the black swan. The Mineral Water Pump Room ‘Antoni’ is located within the Gardens – it is a place where the history of Muszyna as a spa started.

TO THE GARDENS

A colourful choo-choo runs along the streets of Muszyna in summer – you can take it to sightsee the town. It starts its route in Kościelna Street by the Biblical Gardens at every full hour. It takes its passengers around the Square so that they can see the most beautiful places in Muszyna and takes them to Zapopradzie, to the Sensory Gardens.

RUINS OF THE CASTLE

The first stronghold built on a hill called ‘Baszta’ (in the Koziejówka Range) is supposed to have been erected in the 11th century as some researchers claim. It was small and in the 14th century it was replaced by a stone tower. The castle, whose ruins we can admire now, was erected in 1390. The initiator of the construction was Bishop Jan Muskata. The Castle had been a residence of bishops from Cracow until 1474. Moreover, it was supposed to protect the borders and the trade route. It also served as a customs unit. During the invasion of Maciej Korwin, the Hungarian king, it was almost completely destroyed. Having been reconstructed in a Renaissance style, it only served as a watchtower and the seat of the starosts of Muszyna. However, when they moved to the manor in the 17th century, the Castle fell into decline. Nowadays, it is being gradually reconstructed and is a great panoramic spot to watch the bend of the Poprad and nearby mountains. The legend says that under the castle there are secret dungeons which hide treasure. According to another version of the legend, the dormant army is stationed there. They are supposed to wake up in the face of danger, join the dormant knights from the Tatras and defend the borders of Poland together.

THE ORTHODOX CHURCH OF ST JAMES THE YOUNGER IN POWROŹNIK

The most valuable church of all wooden ones in the commune is situated in Poworźnik. It is the Orthodox Church of St James the Younger which was listed as a UNESCO site. It is the oldest Orthodox church in the Polish Carpathians as it dates back to 1600. It is a typical tripartite, wooden church with a shingled roof. A tower with a wooden dome rises over the vestibule. The church looks beautiful outside but you should definitely see the interiors of it (a guide awaits tourists all year round). When we enter the building, before our eyes adjust to semi-darkness, we will smell soaked in history wood which adds to the atmosphere of the sacred. Inside we can see the iconostasis from the 17th century, the Baroque altar or the valuable polychromy from 1637. After the Vistula operation and the resettlement of Lemkos, the temple was turned into a Roman Catholic church but the parish tries to preserve the atmosphere of an Orthodox church so that visitors can get acquainted with the heritage of the former inhabitants of Powroźnik.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE

SLEIGH RIDES FROM SZCZAWNIK TO BACÓWKA

If we want to go for a picturesque sleigh ride, we leave Szczawnik and we go through the valley of the Szczawnik Stream up to Bacówka over Wierchomla. Sleighs are pulled by a tractor – it is a unique attraction. When we reach our destination, a campfire awaits us on a clearing below the shelter where we can roast sausages. At the shelter, we can have a warm meal or delicious apple pie. We come back to Szawnik taking the same route.

Dariusz Michurski

phone: 512 916 315

The cellars under the Town Hall in the Square

The cellars under the Town Hall in the Square are a few hundred years old. We can see there an exhibition which presents how wine and goods transported by the trade route from Hungary were stored. There is a reconstruction of the prison across which archeologists came a few years ago and a torture chamber presenting instruments of torture, a witch and a brigand.

The Regional Museum of the Muszyna State

The Regional Museum of the Muszyna State is a local museum where we can see exhibits and memorabilia of the long history of the town. Moreover, there are also exhibits connected with the culture and traditions of the region. mgok.muszyna.pl

The House of Crafts

The House of Crafts is a place where we may get acquainted with the crafts of former inhabitants of Muszyna and try our hand at pottery.

The Wooden Architecture Route

Wooden Orthodox churches constitute the greatest cultural heritage of the commune. These incredible constructions which smell of wood are ideally integrated into the landscape of the Beskid Sądecki. There are 9 of them – almost every village has its own. Each of them is exceptionally beautiful and valuable. Each of them is a part of the cultural heritage of Lemko people who used to inhabit this area. They built them taking care of every tiny detail. They prayed in the temples for hundreds of years. After their forceful resettlement, they had to abandon them, that is why most of Orthodox churches serve

as Roman Catholic churches at present. All of them are on the Wooden Architecture Route of Lesser Poland –thanks to this fact the heritage of Lemko people was preserved as the most valuable sites of folk culture in the voivodeship. They can be visited in summer (the Orthodox Church in Powroźnik is an exception as it is open the whole year round). It is worth visiting them to see their original masses and ecclesiastical equipment. In summer a series of concerts ‘Music Enchanted in Wood’ are held in the temples.

The Wooden Architecture Route includes:

The Orthodox Church of Saints Cosma and Damian in Wojkowa,

The Orthodox Church of Saint Michael the Archangel in Dubne,

The Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrius in Leluchów,

The Orthodox Church of Saint James the Younger in Powroźnik,

The Orthodox Church of Saint Lucas in Jastrzębik,

The Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrius in Złockie,

The Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrius in Szczawnik,

The Orthodox Church of Saints Cosma and Damian in Milik,

The Orthodox Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God in Andrzejówka.

Music mornings, afternoons and evenings

In summertime, at chosen weekends and on holidays small concerts are organised in cafes of Muszyna. Music mornings are meetings organised in the venue in the Manor of the Starosts, the cafe in the Town Hall and the Sensory Gardens in summer. The concerts take place on chosen Saturdays and Sundays all year round and especially during summer and winter holidays. Afternoons with a Cup of Coffee are afternoon concerts which take place on chosen Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in the garden cafe or the venue in the Manor of Starosts, in the cafe in the Town Hall and the Music Pavilion. The Music Pavilion holds Music Evenings as well.

CYCLICAL EVENTS

Art blooms in the gardens!

The gardens of Muszyna are a great decoration of the place despite the fact that their purpose was strictly educational or therapeutic. Walking along the alleys we can admire true works of arts  – flower compositions, sculptures and artistic installations. The Zone of the Sight in the Sensory Gardens presents floral carpets which integrate ideally into the landscape of the Beskid Sądecki. The area of Fairy Tales and Legends displays the legends

of Muszyna. In the Magic Gardens we will see the sandstone sculptures of muses, Greek gods and seasons. In the Biblical Gardens we will be able to admire compositions of flowers from the Bible and the Middle East. The architectural installations which display the scenes from the Old and New Testament complement the landscape of Muszyna. Gardens are places where a variety of events are organised.

THE

The mineral treasure and the climate by the Poprad

Muszyna is a spa with an almost 100 year old tradition. Its beginnings date back to the 30’s of the 20th century. Then, the mayor of the town – Antoni Jurczak and Dr Seweryn Mściwujewski appreciated the healing properties of mineral waters which are present naturally in the area. In 1932 two first boreholes were drilled – ‘Antoni’ spring (called in honour of the mayor) and ‘Wanda’ spring (called in honour of Dr Mściwujewski’s wife). The development of the spa was hindered by the outbreak of the Second World War. The invader destroyed numerous buildings and spa equipment. It was not until 1958 that the functioning of the spa was resumed.

Today the area of the commune comprises two spas, namely, Muszyna-Złockie and Żegiestów-Zdrój. Their main treasure are mineral waters which contain elements significant for our health such as magnesium, calcium, selenium, potassium, sodium, iron or lithium. The

climate by the Poprad River is beneficial as well – it is moderate but there are places in which it is stimulative. Vast forestation is also of importance for the commune. Nature soothes and enables more effective relaxation. It has also been highlighted that movement is not without a meaning for our well-being. That is why, the spa promotes various forms of physical activity – walks, mountain hiking, cycling tours, swimming and many other sports especially the ones which can be carried out in a mountainous area. Health visitors and tourists who come to Muszyna can stay in sanatoria, guest houses, holiday lodges and hotels which can boast of well-developed healing and wellness zones. They can take advantage of healing and relaxation treatments or recreational stays. They can be refunded by NFZ (National Health Service) or funded from private resources.

The official directions of spa treatment

Muszyna-Złockie: Żegiestów-Zdrój:

rheumatologic diseases, diseases of the upper respiratory tract, diseases of the digestive system, endocrine disorders.

What treatments?

Sanatoria and treatment centres offer a wide selection of healing treatments. The most popular are the ones connected with mineral waters, which are present in this area, for instance crenotherapy i.e. drinking healing water, inhalations, brine baths or peat wraps. Mineral water is used in hydrotherapy (various water massages). As in every spa, physiotherapy is also popular (magnetic field, current, laser, ultrasound) and kinesitherapy (exercises), thermotherapy or massages.

rheumatologic diseases, diseases of the digestive system

the urinary tract.

Heliotherapy  – treatment with the use of sun

Heliotherapy, which is the treatment with the sun, was discovered by a Dutch doctor, Niels Ryberg Finsen, in the 20th century. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for this discovery. The doctor proved that the sun can relieve skin diseases and has a positive influence on the nervous system. Thanks to the sun, vitamin D3 is produced which is essential for our organism to function well. Heliotherapy was introduced in Muszyna already in the first half of the 20th century. The Gardens of Muszyna are supposed to refer to the tradition as well. There are plenty of sunny spots with benches and small architecture which are to facilitate our sunbathing. Moreover, the Gardens of Muszyna enable us to relax and calm down – it is a very pleasant form of therapy.

When is water mineral water?

Colloquially, we call every bottled water mineral water. However, it is not the correct name. Mineral water is water which has a minimum of 1000 mg/dm3 dissolved elements in a form of ions (e.g. magnesium, calcium or sodium ones). Most often it is underground water which gets mineral salts in the process of dissolving rocks and minerals – as the one from Muszyna.

Waters present in the area of the spa:

Stanisław  – acidulous bicarbonate-calcium-ferruginous water (recommended to prevent hypertension or in the case of iron and calcium deficiency),

Józef  – acidulous bicarbonate-calcium-magnesium water (recommended to prevent hypertension, in the case of chronic diseases and infections of the urinary tract, in the case of diarrhoea or the inflammation of the digestive system, as a support in an antibiotic therapy or in the case of calcium and magnesium deficiency),

Antoni  – acidulous bicarbonate-magnesium-sodium-ferruginous water (recommended in the case of di seases of the digestive tract, diseases of kidneys and the urinary tract, osteoporosis, obesity, diseases of the respiratory tract, rheumatological disease and some allergies),

Milusia  – acidulous bicarbonate-magnesium-sodium-calcium water (recommended especially in the case of rheumatological diseases, diseases of the respiratory system, diseases of kidney and the urinary tract, osteoporosis, diseases of the digestive system and obesity),

Anna acidulous bicarbonate-sodium-calcium-ferruginous water (recommended in the case of diseases of the digestive system and the urinary tract, it has anti-inflammatory properties and it is beneficial in the case of magnesium, calcium and iron deficiencies).

Grunwald  – acidulous bicarbonate-magnesium-sodium-calcium-ferruginous water (has a beneficial in fluence on the digestive system and the urinary tract and can be used in the case of magnesium, calcium and iron deficiencies).

Water Pump Rooms:

The location of mineral water pump rooms and springs

Żegiestów  – pre-war splendour and a rapid decline

Before the Second World War Żegiestów-Zdrój was said to be one of the most popular spas in the country. It was an elegant and modern resort for elites  – beautifully located with excellent mineral waters. At the end of the 20th century it resembled a ghost town  – destroyed, abandoned, visited only by the fans of urban exploration who sought adrenaline. Nowadays it is being renovated and the investors want to bring it to its previous glory. The history of the place is incredibly interesting.

The spa was founded by Ignacy Medwecki in the second half of the 19th century. He was a Hungarian nobleman who was in charge of the swimming pools in Muszyna and looked for iron in Żegiestów-Zdrój. However, he found something more valuable than iron  – a forgotten spring of mineral water ‘Maria’. He bought the surrounding area from Lemko people and soon discovered two more springs. The chemists who were brought by him to Żegiestów confirmed that water from the springs was healing, mineral water consisting of iron, lithium, potassium and sodium. Medwecki decided to take advantage of the natural potential of the region, bought the whole valley and established the Spa Park, the first Baths, a restaurant and he even built a road to Muszyna.

However, the spa gained amazing popularity when the railway was constructed there. Ignacy’s son, Karol, lived to that time and he made the most of the rail. He developed Żegiestów in a modern way so that it attracted tourists.

Celebrities came there to benefit from specialised treatments and luxurious guest houses. They took advantage of the high quality acidulous waters and the deposits of peat. Entertainment for guests was also an important aspect  – a ball room, mineral water pump rooms, bowling alleys, swimming cabins on the Poprad River were constructed. The surroundings of Żegiestów were also significant  – picturesque mountains of the Beskid Sądecki and its beneficial air about which Józef Dietl wrote. Even though Żegiestów fell into decline during the First World War, its next owners managed to make it the diamond of Polish spas during the Interwar Period. Żegiestów overshadowed Krynica and Muszyna and competed with foreign resorts. At the time modernistic villas  – the New Spa House and the Sanatorium  – were constructed.

The Second World War destroyed everything. The German occupied beautiful and modern buildings which were destroyed and plundered by them at the end of the war. They left Żegiestów in a miserable condition. The management board of Żegiestów-Zdrój could not afford to reconstruct the town. The spa was nationalised but it marked the end of its greatness. It had been gradually falling into ruin until 2015. Then, the descendants of the prewar owners won the case in court about their property which was illegally grabbed after the war. A new investor, Cechini Limited from Muszyna, has appeared and they want to restore the place to its previous state.

The Centre of Tourist Information

muszyna.pl

the Communal Centre of Culture in Muszyna

mgok.muszyna.pl

SZCZAWNICA

A spa in the heart of the Pieniny

Szczawnica is one of the most beautifully located communes among spa communes of Lesser Poland. It is surrounded by the picturesque Little Pieniny, the Pieniny National Park and the Beskid Sądecki. Mountain trails cross the centre of the town, run across main squares and lead to charming corners of the commune. In majority, they are easily accessible for everybody. Dietl’s Square and Zdrojowa Street constitute the heart of the town. They are located in the spa part of the town which lies at the foot of Bryjarka (679 m) where springs of Szczawnica flow out. On the basis of this mineral water, which is called sour water, the spa has created its offer. The water is rich in micro-elements which are of great assistance in the treatment of various diseases. Over the

years artists and personages such as Sienkiewicz, Matejko, Kraszewski, Konopnicka or Tuwim eagerly visited the place.

Below the historic centre of the town, active leisure enthusiasts will definitely be in their element. There are hiking and cycling trails including famous Droga Pienińska (the Pieniny Tract). East of the town former Shlakhtov Ruthenia stretches. It comprises two villages –Jaworki and Szlachtowa – above which sheep are still grazed. There we will be able to see beautiful canyons which are nature reserves.

A WALK AROUND THE COMMUNE

The Promenade over the Grajcarek and the Pieniny Tract

Szczawnica is a commune surrounded by mountains whose trails are likely to enchant us. It also abounds in easy hiking paths which enable us to commune with nature and admire magnificent views. By the trails we can also see architectural pearls of the town. It is a good idea to start such a trip in the centre, at Dietl’s Square. East of it, Park Górny (the Upper Park) stretches where we can take a rest before hiking. By the square, two beautiful, wooden villas are located  – one of them serves as the Mineral Water Pump Room. From the square we can enter equally interesting, in terms of architecture, Zdrojowa Street. The street coincides with the yellow trail which we will follow to the foot of Palenica (722 m) where the trail is crossed by the Promenade over the Grajcarek.

Following further signs, we will reach Palenica. After almost 2 km, in the place where the Grajcarek flows into the Dunajec, we turn south to enjoy the famous Pieniny Tract. The route, which takes us along the river between limestone rocks which are 300-500 m high, is extremely picturesque. After approximately 700 m, we will reach the Information Pavilion of the Pieniny National Park with an exhibition presenting the ecosystems of the Pieniny. A bit earlier a turning marked blue and signs which lead to Orlica PTTK Tourist Shelter may be noticed. The shelter is worth visiting and can be the final point of the trip. The meadow which stretches by the shelter is a great panoramic spot and the shelter offers dishes of the local cuisine.

DIETL’S SQUARE

Dietl’s Square constitutes the heart of the spa. It was outlined by Józef Szalay himself who named it in the honour of his friend, Józef Dietl who rendered great service to the spa. On the square we can see the doctor’s obelisk and in its centre there is a sculpture presenting a woman with a jug of water from Szczawnica. The square is surrounded by villas designed in the Swiss style including Pałac Villa (Palace Villa) where Szalay used to live. ‘Nad Zdrojami’ Villa (Over the Springs Villa) houses a mineral water pump room and ‘Holenderka’ is the seat of the Museum of Szczawnica Spa. The Square is situated at the foot of Bryjarka (679 m) where all springs of Szczawnica flow out.

BRYJARKA (679 M)

Right above the resort part of the town, almost a kilometre from the square, Bryjarka (679 m) stands. It is an extremely interesting mountain which fromally belongs to the Beskid Sądecki but resembles mountains of the Pieniny. It is also extremely fascinating in a geological way  – it is a volcano. On its top there is a cross, similar to the one on Giewont, which is visible from the centre of Szczawnica. From Bryjarka we can reach Bereśnik (843 m) and the Shelter below Bereśnik (843 m) going along the yellow trail. It is only 1.2 km.

PARK GÓRNY

Park Górny (the Upper Park) is located behind the Main Mineral Water Pump Room. It was built by Jan Kutscher in the 20’s of the 19th century and extended by Józef Szalay thanks to whom we can admire rare plant species there. There is the neo-gothic Spa Chapel from 1847 and a band shell. We will find there an inhalatorium in which the Polish hid weapons and ammunition during the Second World War.

PALENICA CHAIRLIFT

Palenica Chairlift is another landmark of the place and one of its main attractions. The route is 800 m long and during the ride one may admire a panorama of the town, the Pieniny with characteristic Trzy Korony (Three Crowns) and the Beskid Sądecki. On the top of Palenica and on Szafranówka, a nearby clearing, in winter a ski station and in summer a slide operate. There are also some catering spots. It is an excellent place to start a hiking trip along a panoramic ridge of the Little Pieniny.

THE PROMENADE BY THE GRAJCAREK

The Promenade by the Grajcarek is a popular hiking route which goes along a mountain stream. The Promenade has its end in the place where the Grajcarek flows into the Dunajec.

DROGA PIENIŃSKA

Droga Peinińska (the Pieniny Tract) is one of the most popular hiking routes in the Pieniny. Apart from being a perfect place for walking trips, it is bicycle-friendly. It is 9 km long and goes along the Dunajec between monumental limestone rocks which are 300-500 m high up to the Red Monastery in Slovakia. By the tract, there is the Information Pavilion where an exhibition on the local ecosystem and a model of the Pieniny can be seen.

RAFTING ON THE DUNAJEC

Rafting on the Dunajec is the landmark attraction of the Pieniny. We float down the picturesque river on rafts and raftsmen tell a story about the history of this land and the most interesting legends in their characteristic dialect. While rafting, one can admire limestone rocks which create the Pieniny National Park. Those in search of adrenaline can go rafting on kayaks or dinghies.

THE PIENINY NATIONAL PARK

The Pieniny National Park is the first Polish national park. It was created in 1932 in the area where other forms of protecting nature had already existed. The park was created in cooperation with Czechoslovakia. It was decided that their part of the Pieniny should be protected too. Hence, the park was also the first international one in Europe. Year after year, the area of the park was extended and now it covers 2,372 ha including 744 ha which is under strict protection. The highest mountain of the park is Trzy Korony and its highest peak, Okrąglica, reaches 982 m. Despite the fact that the park is not very big, its flora is diverse. The most interesting plants may be seen in the massif of Trzy Korony. You will come across some endemic species such as the erysimum hungaricum and the taraxacum pieninicum. As far as rare species of animals are concerned, you can come across a beautiful butterfly  – the mountain Apollo.

NATURE RESERVES OF THE PIENINY

The Homole Canyon is a deep canyon with a length of 800 m and the Kamionka Creek flows through it. There are vertical walls of colourful limestone which reach even 120 m  – in a lot of places limestone has fanciful shapes. These very walls together with the wildlife of the canyon are under protection as precious elements of nature. You will see a lot of protected species there  – the martagon lily, the common yew, and numerous kinds of moss and lichen. The canyon is home to the Eurasian eagle-owl, the common kestrel or the fire salamander. The area of the reserve includes Dubantowska Clearing with the legendary rocks  – Czajkowska Rock and Kamienne Księgi (Stone Books). In the second one the fate of the world is supposed to be written but no one is able to read it. Not far away from the canyon there is Biała Woda Reserve (White Water Reserve)  – the second most popular nature reserve of the Little Pieniny. The rocks which rise over Biała Woda create a picturesque scenery. Smolegowa Skała (715 m) definitely is the most distinguishing one as it resembles a dinosaur.

SLEIGH RIDES

The Pieniny Mountains look magical in winter. It is best to admire them from sleighs which run through crunching snow. A sleigh ride with horses constitutes a great attraction for the whole family. The campfire is an integral part of it. An additional attraction of evening sleigh rides are torches and feasts organised in regional restaurants. In summer we can enjoy carriage rides  – it is an equally interesting attraction thanks to which we will be able to admire the green Pieniny.

Andrzej Mos Biała Woda Agrotourism Farm

Address: Biała Woda 44, 34-460 Jaworki

arenanarciarska.pl

The Pieniny Centre of Tourism

Address: ul. Główna 1, 34 - 460 Szczawnica

HOMOLE CABLEWAY

On the northern slope of Bukowinki, in the picturesque Little Pieniny, a few hundred metres from Jaworki and Homole Nature Reserve, there is Homole Cableway which operates either in winter or summer. The upper station is a panoramic spot from which a magnificent panorama of nearby mountains stretches. There is also ‘U Wojtka’ shepherd’s hut where one may buy local cheese and Bukowinki Hut which serves bar dishes. From there, we can take a walk towards Wysoka (1,050 m) or to Homole Nature Reserve.

Budowlani SPA Hotel***

A HOTEL WITH A VIEW OF THE PIENINY

Located between the Pieniny and the Beskid Sądecki, in the spa part of Szczawnica, Budowlani SPA Hotel attracts everybody hungry for relaxation in the mountains with its location and a rich offer. The hotel is situated on the slopes of Bryjarka (679 m) – a mountain at the foot of which mineral waters of Szczawnica flow out. The facility is a combination of a hotel, a sanatorium and a spa. Everyone who dreams of resting surrounded by relaxing nature and taking advantage of treatments which are to improve our health should choose the place. The location is not the only advantage

Address: ul. Zdrojowa 27, 34-460 Szczawnica

E-mail: recepcja@spabudowlani.pl

Phone: +48 18 262 25 10

of the place. Budowlani SPA Hotel offers a wide range of rehabilitation, wellness and beauty treatments.

A SANATORIUM

‘Budowlani’ Spa Sanatorium offers a professional approach, regeneration and mood improvement. It offers health or beauty treatments and organises rehabilitation and slimming holidays. Treatments are aimed at diseases of the respiratory tract and motor organs. Climate therapy is also of significance – it is to improve our health. The sanatorium has spa and wellness facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a jacuzzi and SPA studio.

spabudowlani.pl

Hotel SPA Budowlani

Jakub Wolski – a Beskid guide

A Highlander from the Pieniny, born in Krościenko over the Dunajec. An amateur of mountains from his early ages. A raftsman. He graduated in biology and geography. A Beskid guide of the third grade. If you want to explore the Pieniny, he is your man!

Jakub Wolski will show you his favourite trails in the Pieniny, will take you to the Beskid Sądecki, the Gorce, the Żywiec Beskids and maybe even further. He will teach you how to love mountains, show you when to look closely to see the most beautiful plants, mushrooms or

blueberries. He will also tell you when you should look ahead to admire magnificent panoramas.

He organises trips along well-known routes, for instance to Trzy Korony (982 m) or around the Little Pieniny, but willingly takes his tourists off the beaten track which frequently is more interesting. He tailors all the routes to individual needs so that every person is pleased and even more delighted with mountains.

He has all the necessary qualifications also as far as English-speaking groups are concerned.

Dworek Gościnny (the Guest Manor)

Dworek Gościnny (the Guest Manor) was erected at the end of the 19th century, at the time when Szczawnica was developing intensively. Then, it was the centre of cultural life  – there was an impressive ballroom and an auditorium with a stage, a restaurant, a patisserie and a piano room. Modrzejewska, Frenkiel or Solski spent their time at the place. Today’s building is a reconstruction of the manor which was consumed by the fire in 1962 but its functions are similar. It is a cultural and business centre where cultural, business and family events are organised. At the place you can take part in a concert, a ball or a play. The restaurant in the building, Jazz Bar, is a place where various events are held for instance concerts

The Gallery of the Mineral Water Pump Room in Szczawnica

W pięknie odrestaurowanych wnętrzach Domu nad Zdrojami, który stoi przy placu Dietla, funkcjonuje pijalnia wód mineralnych, a na piętrze galeria, w której organizowane są różnorodne wystawy. Można tam zobaczyć lokalną sztuk, podziwiać dzieła szczawnickich, i nie tylko, artystów lub poznać historię uzdrowiska.

The Museum of the Pieniny

The Museum of the Pieniny is situated in Szlachtowa and its displays will acquaint you with the history, culture and geography of the region. You will see regional costumes and objects which will inform you about the professions or customs of people who inhabited this area. The exhibition which presents the role of the Dunajec in the life of highlanders, the exhibition which shows the whole region and the one which displays local legends are also fascinating.

szczawnica-galeria.pl

Muzyczna Owczarnia (Music Sheepfold) is one of the cult places in the vicinity  – it is an amazing music club. It was created by Wieńczysław Kołodziejski who, at the end of the 20th century, bought an old sheepfold and moved it from pastures to Biała Woda. He created an event venue

where a lot of concerts of great musicians take place. Music workshops and art exhibitions are organised in a small gallery. Muzyczna Owczarnia can also accommodate 12 people overnight.

muzycznaowczarnia.pl

Baroque Explorations

Baroque Explorations is a cycle of events which take place all year round. Concerts with a soul present the music and art of the Baroque. The best artists from the whole Europe are invited to the event organised by the Chamber of Szczawnica.

baroque.szczawnickichor.pl

Redyk

In April when pastures turn green around the day of Saint Adalbert (23rd April), Spring Redyk (the Spring Trailing of Sheep) takes place. It is the traditional trailing of sheep with shepherds to pastures. Sheep with baca (a senior shepherd) and juhasi (shepherds) stay on pastures until autumn, until the day of Saint Michael (29th

September). At the time, they descend to valleys and this event is known as Autumn Redyk (the Autumn Trailing of Sheep). Both of them are the biggest events in the commune and refer to former traditions – redyk was the most significant feast in a Highlander village. They attract tourists and are accompanied by concerts and fairs.

Children’s Summer in the Pieniny

The Festival of Children of Mountains

The Days of Polish and Hungarian Friendship

Autumn Redyk around Saint Michael the Archangel’s Day (29th September)

Music over the Springs

Where Sienkiewicz used to be treated

Many of us associate Szczawnica with its down part  –with the Pieniny Tract, the Dunajec and rafting, with raftsmen, with the promenade over the Grajcarek and the Pieniny Mountains which surround the town. However, the spa heart of Szczawnica pounds a little bit higher  – in Zdrojowa Street and on Dietl’s Square where Sienkiewicz, Asnyk and Konopnicka used to stroll, where Szalay and Dietl realised their great plans!

Szczawnica was granted the spa status in 1924. However, its health-resort history is longer. It is enough to look at the name of the town. The word ‘Szczawnica’ was derived from ‘szczawa’ which means acidulous mineral water which local highlanders must have known much earlier as they had called their town after it.

We can discuss the development of Szczawnica as a spa since Stefan Szalay appeared. He inherited the town from his father and contributed greatly to its growth. The first spa buildings and guest houses sprang up. Szalay organised first tourist raftings on the Dunajec and was the initiator of creating the Pieniny Tract. During his lifetime another Józef came to Szczawnica, Józef Dietl  – a doctor, a balneologist, the promoter of Polish health resorts who

helped to determine the direction of the development of Szczawnica. Then, a lot of important mineral water springs were discovered. Both men aspired to make Szczawnica a spa which would suit European standards. The aim was quickly accomplished  – in the second half of the 19th century Matejko, Prus, Konopnicka and Sienkiewicz would come there. In Zdrojowa Street we can still see beautiful buildings which remember the beginnings of the spa.

In 1909 Earl Adam Stadnicki was in possession of Szczawnica  – at the time he was in charge of nearby lands up to Nawojowa. That was the time of great prosperity for the town. After the War, the resort was nationalised. Then, a lot of sanatoria started operating, especially the ones which focused on the treatment of occupational diseases of miners and foundry workers. The earl’s heirs regained the spa in 2005.

Today Szczawnica is still a well-known and frequently chosen health resort. Visitors can take advantage of beneficial mineral waters and the climate of the Pieniny. Szczawnica also tempts with numerous attractions, clean air and breathtaking views!

What can be treated here?

the diseases of the digestive system, the nervous system, the respiratory tract, the urinary system, rheumatic diseases,

obesity, osteoporosis, diabetes and orthopaedic injuries.

What treatments?

You will find there sanatoria either for adults or children and outpatient clinics. Treatments are also conducted in a lot of hotels and guest houses. However, the most important are acidulous waters (bicarbonate, iodine, sodium, bromine, boric, chloride and calcium ones) which

can be drunk, used in baths and inhalations. The climate plays a crucial part as well. Not only does mountain air of the Pieniny support treatment but also allows relaxation.

The location of mineral water pump rooms and springs

ORGANISED TRIPS

PIWNICZNA-ZDRÓJ

The green land of Black Highlanders

T ranquillity and omnipresent nature define Piwniczna-Zdrój – a spa located in the heart of the Beskid Sądecki, in the picturesque valley of the Poprad River, in the south of Lesser Poland. This is an ideal spot for everybody who seeks rest or a contact with nature, who wants to listen raptly to the rustle of the forest and river, who wants to admire undisturbed landscapes and drink healthy, mineral water.

So is Piwniczna-Zdrój at first sight. However, when we get to know the place better, we will see its second nature –a land with a rich history and folklore. Walking around the green forests of Piwniczna, we will see the traces of the long history of the region. We will be able to familiarise ourselves with the history of war couriers who, during

the Second World War, used forest paths to get to the border or partisans who fought there. The valley of the Poprad River reminds us of merchants who travelled with carriages full of Hungarian wine along the trade route in the direction of Cracow.

Piwniczna-Zdrój is also known for its folklore as the land has been dwelled in by Black Highlanders who created the culture of the region – they weave carter’s gloves, graze sheep and make sheep cheese, cook regional dishes, paint and sculpt. Their traditions are presented at various events in the commune.

A WALKING TRIP

The Square and Węgielnik-Skałki Park

We start a walk around Piwniczna-Zdrój in its centre. The small Square is surrounded by historical buildings and its plan dates back to the time when the place was established. Mountains of the Beskid Sądecki tower over the Square and on their slopes estates and villages are situated. A reconstruction of a historic water tank from 1913, which is in the centre of the Square, is worth having a closer look at – the tank used to supply citizens with water. In the southern part of the Square there is the Town Hall and opposite it, the Centre of Culture, the Centre of Tourist Information and the small Regional Museum where a collection of skis and exhibits connected with the history and culture of the region are displayed. From the Square, we head for the north-east, in the direction of the Church of the Birth of Saint Mary. Inside we may see a painting of Bolesław Barbacki. From the church, we go down, in the direction of the railway station (following the signs of the yellow hiking trail). Right before the station, we will see two dots – a green and a red one –they mark the beginning of two trails which will lead

us to Węgielnik-Skałki Park. Initially, we move along the Poprad River, along Kazimierz Wielki Street up to Daszyński Street which we will reach after a few hundred metres. Along this street, at the edge of the park, a path runs which we will follow. We can have a rest by the spring of mineral water and the monument which commemorates the Battle of Grunwald. Right by the spring, we need to look for stairs which will take us to the top. We leave the green and red trail – they will run to Obidza and Eliaszówka (1,023 m). In order to reach a panoramic platform, we will have to follow a rocky path with chains – it is a short but quite demanding route which can be skipped. In such a case, we go along a park path to a panoramic tower. Having seen a panorama of the Poprad River Valley, we go along a forest path which will take us to the trenches from the period of the Second World War. At the trenches, there are information boards, benches and a playground. Heading for the north-east we descend in the direction of Daszyński Street which will lead us back to the Square.

THE SQUARE IN PIWNICZNA

The layout of the Square dates back to the establishment of the town (the 14th century) but the buildings are much younger. The Town Hall was built in the 19th century and the well in the Square is a reconstruction of a burnt down tank which provided water for the town from 1913. In its turret St. Florian stands  – the only element which was not consumed by the fire. On the western frontage the Centre of Culture, which houses the Regional Museum, is located. Inside we can see objects made by Black Highlanders, equipment from former folk workshops and elements of folk outfits. A collection of skiing equipment, out of which the oldest item is 200 years old, is an interesting proposition. The ski of Adam Małysz, a famous Polish ski jumper, can be found there.

WĘGIELNIK-SKAŁKI PARK

Węgielnik-Skałki Park is situated on the top of Węgielnik (498 m). The maze of paths leads us between rock outcrops and reconstructed war trenches from the Second World War. The park abounds in sports and recreation facilities such as barbecue sites, a gazebo, a volleyball court, weight training equipment and a playground. A path with chains will lead us to a panoramic platform.

At the foot of the hill, there is a figure of Mary the Mother of God with a mineral water spring at her feet.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE

RAFTING ON THE POPRAD RIVER

The Poprad River Valley is one of the most picturesque river valleys in Poland. Piwniczna-Zdrój is a starting point of a 10 km route which leads us along the river to Rytro. We can cover the distance by dinghies or kayaks. It is a safe attraction which does not demand any special abilities or physical fitness  – an attraction for everybody.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE

RADWANÓW SWIMMING POOLS

The swimming pools in Radwanów are another summer attraction of the spa. There is a large outdoor swimming pool with lanes, a bath with a hydromassage, a sauna and a paddling pool for children.

THE PANORAMIC TOWER ON ELIASZÓWKA

Eliaszówka towers over Piwniczna-Zdrój at a height of 1,023 m. It is forested but thanks to a 20 m panoramic tower on its top we can admire beautiful views. The green trail leads to Eliaszówka from the centre of Piwniczna-Zdrój (about 8 km). On the way there is Chata Magóry Shelter.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE

‘AT SAINT KINGA SPRING IN GŁĘBOKIE’ PARK

The Park of Saint Kinga in Głębokie is a green, peaceful place devoted to Saint Kinga. One of the oldest mineral water sources in the region springs up at the place. We can also admire the statue of Saint Kinga and walk along an educational path.

FISHING ON THE POPRAD

On the section between Leluchów and Piwniczna-Zdrój the Poprad is a truly mountainous river, it has winding bends and a rocky bottom with tunnels and riffles. There are 25 species of fish such as the common chub, the river trout, the grayling, the common dace, the common barbel, the barbus, the common roach, the common bleak, the common perch, the common nase, the common minnow, the European bullhead or the gudgeon. The rainbow trout, the brook trout, the brown trout and even the huchen are present but less common.

THE ORTHODOX CHURCH OF ST MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL IN WIERCHOMLA WIELKA

This Greek Catholic church was erected in 1821. Its construction serves as a typical example of Lemko architecture. Inside we will find the baroque-classical polychromy from 1928. After the ‘Vistula’ Operation in 1947 the church was taken over by the Roman Catholic Parish of St Michael the Archangel. Since 1964 it has been a historic site and it has become a site of the Wooden Architecture Route.

CHATA MAGÓRY HORSE RIDING CENTRE

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.

JACKOWA POŚCIEL  – THE VALLEY OF REMEMBRANCE

A place worth visiting due to its amazing history is Jackowa Pościel. Late Grandma Nowak, called the queen of the Beskid Sądecki, lived alone below Kordowiec. A Beskid guide, Jacek Durlak, visited her house to see if everything was ok and brought her some essentials. In 2004 when he was on his way back, he collapsed and died on a clearing close to the yellow trail from Piwniczna to Niemcowa. Tourist activists and guides wanted to commemorate the place of his death and this was the reason to create Jackowa Pościel  – the Valley of Remembrance. The memorial obelisk was soon accompanied by other ones. In this way the place where friends who died in the mountains are remembered was created.

BACÓWKA OVER WIERCHOMLA

Bacówka over Wierchomla is a tourist PTTK (Polish Tourist Sightseeing Society) shelter located undoubtedly in one of the most panoramic places in the whole Beskid Sądecki. A lot of tourists visit the place to sit on a terrace and enjoy amazing views of the Radziejowa Range and the Tatras, have a bite of a delicious apple pie and have a sip of hot tea. We will reach the place along a road from Szczawnik or by a chairlift with Wierchomla Góna. The upper station is 2 km from the shelter and to get there, we need to follow the blue trail that has low elevation gain.

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, ART

The Centre of Culture

The Centre of Culture in Piwniczna-Zdrój is the cultural heart of the commune located in the centre of the town (11 Rynek Street). Inside the building there is an auditorium where concerts are organised and plays are staged. The centre also organises outdoor concerts. Moreover,

there is the Centre of Tourist Information and the Regional Museum of Amateurs of Piwniczna Association where, apart from memorabilia, we can see a collection of skis including the ski of Adam Małysz.

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Local handicraft is an amazing element of the culture of a given region. The goods which have been manufactured for ages are of high quality, refined and have a rich history. Carter’s Gloves are such a product in Piwniczna. They have been woven in a traditional way for ages. Initially, they were made for carters (hence their name) who transported timber. The Weaving Trail has been created in the commune – it gathers local artists who weave the gloves with traditional and modern patterns. They also make hats or bands. The Regional Museum, where we can see the historic gloves, is also on the trail. The creators are trying to put their product on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Weaving workshops, exhibitions and various events focused on this traditional handicraft are organised in the commune.

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The Artistic Pump Room in Piwniczna-Zdrój is located in the Spa Park. It is a place with an exceptional vibe where one can taste geomineral water ‘Piwniczanka’, have a delicious dessert or a cup of coffee. It is also a place where concerts, performances or plays are organised and culture is promoted including the local one.

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CYCLICAL EVENTS in the commune

Concerts under the stars and by the fire

12 km from Piwniczna-Zdrój, at the foot of mountains there is climatic Chata pod Pustą (the Cottage at the foot of Pusta). It is a holiday lodge which comprises a large, underpinned cottage with a wooden construction. Chata pod Pustą, apart from its beautiful location, has something that makes it outstanding. Concerts which are

organised there in summer under the stars and in winter by the fire have become cult events. Eminent Polish artists are always invited and the incredible place in the heart of the mountains adds charm to the concerts. The place offers dishes of regional cuisine.

The underground treasure

The Beskid Sądecki is famous for its mineral waters which flow out from the earth’s interior. They owe their valuable properties to the rocks of Magura nappe which saturates underground water with minerals. At the end of the 19th century a doctor from Lviv, dr Juliusz Korwin Gąsiorowski, discovered springs of mineral water with healing properties in Piwniczna. However, the first boreholes were made in 1932. This event gave a new character to Piwniczna  – it became a spa and relaxation centre which was known nationwide. The bottled water started to be sold outside the town. Piwniczna-Zdrój is currently one out of nine resorts in Nowy Sącz Poviat acknowledged by the Minister of Health. The Spa Park and the Mineral Water Pump Room were created for health visitors who want to try mineral water

from Piwniczna. The pump room has become the centre of various cultural events as the Artistic Pump Room. In the park there is an amphitheatre great for outdoor concerts, charming alleys ideal for peaceful walks and a playground for children. The beginning of the 20th century is connected with the development of the second resort in the commune, namely, Łomnica. The first records about its mineral waters are from 1910. Doctor Ziarko in his villa created a bathing house where one could have a mineral or peat bath. However, the place was destroyed by a flood which struck Łomnica in 1939 and it has never been rebuilt. Today the spring ‘Stefan’ lined with a stone underpinning flows out from a slope over the village. Everyone can go there and try Łomniczanka mineral water.

What can be treated there?

Local mineral waters, called ‘sour’ by the locals, are distinguished by a high content of magnesium and calcium bicarbonate. Thanks to them mineral waters are of great assistance in the treatment of:

peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory conditions of the intestines and pancreas, inflammatory conditions,

diabetes, diseases of the respiratory tract : bronchitis, emphysema and pneumoconiosis.

What treatments?

Relaxation and treatment centres or sanatoria offer a wide selection of therapies and treatments with the use of mineral water. Mineral water baths, hydro massages and peat treatments are very popular among health visitors.

Inhalations have a beneficial influence on the respiratory tract. Krenotheraphy i.e. water drinking therapy is also implemented there.

The location of mineral water pump rooms and springs

Mineral waters present in the area of Piwniczna-Zdrój Commune can be found in pump rooms or directly at places where they flow out  – from the ground or a rock.

‘Piwniczanka’ is acidulous bicarbonate water rich in magnesium and calcium. It is helpful when you need to strengthen your bones, improve the absorption of iron and enhance metabolism. It has anti-allergic properties, positively influences the functioning of the vascular and nervous system.

‘Hanna’ in Wierchomla Wielka is acidulous sodium bicarbonate water rich in magnesium and calcium. Carbon dioxide adds to its healing properties. It is recommended in the case of high blood pressure, limb ischemia due to atherosclerosis or diabetes and functional heart diseases.

The spring of Saint Kinga in Głębokie is acidulous sodium bicarbonate water rich in magnesium and calcium. It is of great assistance in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, constipation, gout, diabetes, kidney stones and anaemia.

‘Stefan’ in Łomnica-Zdrój is acidulous bicarbonate water rich in magnesium and calcium. It is recommended in the case of chronic conditions of the digestive system and constipation.

‘Łomniczanka’ in Łomnica-Zdrój is acidulous bicarbonate water rich in magnesium and calcium. It is recommended in the case of chronic inflammatory conditions of the digestive system and constipation.

‘Zdrój’ in Wierchomla is acidulous bicarbonate water rich in magnesium, calcium and sulphide. The water from this spring is of great assistance in the case of chronic inflammatory conditions of the respiratory tract, the digestive tract, metabolic disorders and metal poisoning.

‘Wierchomlanka’ in Wierchomla is acidulous bicarbonate water rich in magnesium and calcium. It is helpful in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, chronic cholecystitis, constipation, gout, diabetes, kidney stones and anaemia.

ORGANISED TRIPS

the Centre of Tourist Information

UŚCIE GORLICKIE

A spa in the Low Beskids

ście Gorlickie is a spa commune situated in the Low Beskids  – a green land ideal for those who seek tranquillity and want to commune with nature. It is also a place with a long and rich history. Although we will not find there as many attractions as in cult Krynica or Cracow which abound in historic sites, we will be able to admire picturesque landscape, discover healthy water and intriguing stories of people who lived in the area hundreds years ago.

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A small village located close to the border with Slovakia, Wysowa-Zdrój, is the spa centre of the commune. It is a place where springs of mineral water flow out – they are the reason why tourists flock to the place. The Spa Park constitutes the heart of the place where we can find

a historic building of the Mineral Water Pump Room. Wysowa-Zdrój is surrounded by forested mountains of the Low Beskids  – their vicinity creates a special climate which is beneficial for health and an atmosphere of blissful idleness.

Amateurs of sites and history will discover numerous, wooden Orthodox churches including the ones listed as UNESCO sites, cemeteries which date back to the First and Second World War and places connected with the history of Lemko people. Those who enjoy picking mushrooms will be delighted to find there the red pine mushroom and the penny bun which are present in nearby forests.

A WALKING TRIP

We will start a walking trip around Wysowa-Zdrój and its vicinity in the Spa Park. This is the most significant place of the spa. There is the Mineral Water Pump Room and a number of walking paths. It is a big, green, wild park where in the morning birds’ singing can be heard and evenings are full of tranquillity. Leaving the park, we head for the Old Spa House and then for a small bridge over the Ropa River. Having passed the bridge, we turn left into the main road which coincides with the blue trail. The trail will lead us further until we reach the Orthodox Church of Saint Michael the Archangel. By the church, the red trail of the commune has its beginning –we will follow it to reach Jawor Mountain (723 m). At first we walk along paved roads and, after 1 km, we enter a forest. It is a very pleasant walk. Having walked 2 km, we will get to the Orthodox Church of Mother of God’s

Protection situated on Jawor Mountain. The place is believed to be sacred by followers of the Eastern Church  – it is called the Holy Mountain of Lemko People. Apart from the wooden temple, there is a spring of water. Being at the church, we should climb another 700 m to get to the top. Initially, we walk along a path which is not marked and after 300 m we reach the red trail which leads us along the border between Poland and Slovakia. We walk another 400m east following red signs and we reach the top. We descend along the same route but we do not come back to the Orthodox church. We head for the Cigelka Pass (652 m). From the pass, the green trail which runs through a forest along the Cygołka Stream will lead us to Wysowa-Zdrój where in the Mineral Water Pump Room we can take a rest after a hike.

CULT ATTRACTIONS

THE SPA PARK AND THE MINERAL WATER PUMP ROOM

The Spa Park is an area for visitors where numerous events are organised. There is the Mineral Water Pump Room  – its building beautifully integrated into the landscape is a reconstruction of a former one. In May the Festival of Brass Orchestras ‘The Echo of the Trembita’ and May picnic take place there. August is the time of ‘Villages Smelling of Herbs in Lesser Poland’ and ‘the Feast of Red Pine Mushroom’ is organised in September. In summer we can participate in a series of concerts called ‘Summer Music’. There is also the Old Spa House which houses a restaurant and a small hotel at present.

SPA ARCHITECTURE

Local architecture definitely deserves our attention. Until today we can admire a few wooden buildings from the Interwar Period  – located close to the Orthodox church, a former post office and the seat of the General Corps of Volunteer Firefighters which now serves as the Centre of Tourist and Cultural Product of the Gorlicki Beskid. Opposite the centre, a former clergy house rises (till 1995 it served as a watchtower of Border Protection Troops). South of the former manse, a building of an old Lemko cooperative ‘Jednist’ and a former school are located.

LEMKO CHURCHES

Orthodox churches constitute an integral part of the landscape. Wooden pearls are picturesquely integrated in the nature of the Beskids. The majority of Orthodox churches in this area are wooden and are included in the Wooden Architecture Route. The real pearls are the ones which were listed as UNESCO sites in 2013  – the Orthodox Church in Brunary and Kwiatoń. You may come across stone temples too. The ones worth visiting are located in Uście Gorlickie, Izby, Śnietnica, Banica, Czarna, Hańczowa, Wysowa, Skwirtne, Zdynia or Nowica. In some places one can come across temples made of bricks.

THE ORTHODOX CHURCH OF SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL IN BRUNARY

The Orthodox Church in Brunary was built at the end of the 18th century as a tripartite temple. Several dozens years later the church was rebuilt  – the mass of the church was lengthened. It is decorated with the polychromy which dates to the 18th, 19th and 20th century. The ornaments are various  – baroque, rococo and classical ones. We can see floral, architectural and geometric elements. The baroque iconostasis dates back to the 18th century.

UNESCO SITES

THE ORTHODOX CHURCH OF SAINT PARASKEVA IN KWIATOŃ

The Orthodox Church in Kwiatoń was erected in the second half of the 17th century. It is a model example of Lemko sacred architecture. It has ideal proportions with distinguishing three parts  – a presbytery, a nave and narthex. Inside we can see the polychromy from the beginning of the 19th century and a complete iconostasis from 1904. Lemkos left the church in the 40’s of the 20th century but it is believed to be one of the best preserved Orthodox churches in Poland. At present, it serves as an auxiliary Catholic church for the parish in Uście Gorlickie and Greek Catholics use it as well.

UNESCO SITES

THE ORTHODOX WOODEN CHURCH OF ST MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL IN WYSOWA-ZDRÓJ

The temple dates back to 1779. It is said to have burnt down in the 19th century during the battles of Confederates who, later on, rebuilt it, nevertheless, the information has not been confirmed. The interior of the temple is decorated with the polychromy which dates back to 1912-1913. The ecclesiastical equipment is from the 18th and 19th century. The interior contains late-Baroque iconostasis with a set of well-maintained icons. As many other churches in the region, this one is included in the Wooden Architecture Route. A pentecostal church functions next to it.

THE PARISH CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION OF MARY

In the north of Wysowa there is a wooden Roman Catholic church which was erected in the years 1936-38 according to the design of a wellknown architect, Zbigniew Mączyński. It stands out with its interesting but not very typical post-frame construction. The design refers to old buildings of the region. The church is a site of the Wooden Architecture Route.

HUCULS FROM LEMKO LAND

Huculs  – small but extremely intelligent and tough mountain ponies are one of the oldest breeds in Poland. They were mainly connected with Hucul Land but they have been bred in the Low Beskids, in Gładyszów and Regietów, for many years. Thanks to their gentle character, they are perfect for equine-assisted therapy. The Hucul Stable in Regietów is the biggest stable in Europe which breeds these horses. This is the place where in September Hucul Days take place. During this event sports, breeding and artistic programmes are presented. Apart from horse riding classes, horseback tours, carriage rides and, in winter, sleigh rides, are organised here.

HOLY JAWOR MOUNTAIN

A Greek Catholic sanctuary on the ridge of Jawor Mountain (720 m) is one of the most interesting places in the region. In 1925 Mother of God was supposed to reveal herself on the top of the mountain. At the place, the wooden Orthodox Church of St Mary’s Protection was erected. After Lemko people had been resettled, the church was transformed into a watchtower and the ecclesiastical equipment was burnt down. Lemkos regained their temple in 1956 and renovated it. Currently, it constitutes a popular destination for pilgrims of the Eastern Church.Dziś jest to miejsce pielgrzymkowe dla wiernych kościoła wschodniego.

SLEIGH RIDES

Sleigh rides in the Low Beskids are amazing. In the vicinity of Regietów and Gładyszów the stables of hucul ponies are situated which organise real horse rides with huge sleighs. Sleighs run through the forests of the Beskids, among trees covered with snow, under the starry night and we can hear snow crunch. There is always time for children to play in snow and for a campfire. Adults who decide to go on a sleigh ride in the evening will enjoy torches which add to a special atmosphere of a trip. After such a ride, there is a regional feast with Lemko dishes.

The Stable of Hucul Ponies

‘Gładyszów’

Address: Regietów 28, 38-315 Uście Gorlickie

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Gładyszów Stara Cegielnia

Address: Gładyszów 70, 38-315 Uście Gorlickie

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BY THE WATER

In summer, Klimkówka Lake gives us a number of possibilities to rest and relax. The water reservoir is an excellent place to do water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing and paddle boarding, which is becoming more and more popular. Changing winds over the lake will be appreciated by sailors as well.

Zosi’ Training and Recreation Centre in Zdynia

IN THE BESKID VALLEY

‘U Zosi’ Training and Recreation Centre in Zdynia is located in a picturesque valley in the Low Beskids. This is an ideal place for rest and recreation. It is also a great place to organise training sessions, camps, group integration or special events. The area gives a lot of possibilities to do a variety of sports and have fun. At the place we can also visit beautiful, wooden Orthodox churches and discover the culture of Lemko people who used to inhabit this area. The microclimate of the Beskids, the proximity of a spa and fresh mountain air will make you come back to the place.

THE TRAINING AND RECREATION CENTRE

The centre offers accommodation of various standards – comfortable rooms, tourist accommodation, 18 rooms in total and a summer cottage for 6 guests. The facility is adjusted to the needs of people with mobility impairments.

The area abounds in various attractions and within the centre there is a roofed barbecue site. What is more, the facility makes two conference rooms available which can seat 60 people. There is also a bike rental – you should definitely take advantage of it as the area abounds in picturesque cycling trails. A general store is nearby.

HOMEMADE FOOD

‘U Zosi’ Training and Recreation Centre in Zdynia is famous for its homemade, delicious regional dishes. All of them are created on the spot with the use of local ingredients. We will eat there aromatic, traditional bread, homemade cold meats, mutton or game, honey straight from a beehive, sheep cheese and aromatic mushrooms from Beskid forests.

Address: Zdynia 72, 38-315 Uście Gorlickie

E-mail: oswzdynia@wp.pl

Phone: +48 18 351 00 03, +48 605 915 788

Ośrodek

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The Museum of Horse Riding

Stara Cegielnia Centre in Gładyszów

The Museum of Horse Riding functions by the centre and the stable ‘Stara Cegielnia’ (‘the Old Brickyard’). The place displays a collection of approximately 40 saddles from different parts of the world including historical and

army ones  – the collection has been gathered by the owners of the place who are great enthusiasts of horse riding. Moreover, we will see stirrups, bits, cold steel weapons and historical uniforms.

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The time of the First and the Second World War was very difficult for the Low Beskids. During the First World War the front ran across this area. Russians wanted to cross the Carpathians. In 1915 one of the greatest battles took place there  – Gorlice-Tarnów Offensive  – during which the Austro-Hungarian army broke through the Russian front. The battle was bloody  – the forests of

the commune hide numerous graves of the soldiers who fought on both sides. After the war, the graves were organised into cemeteries. One of the most beautiful ones is located on Rotunda (771 m). Its creative manager was Dušan Jurkovič  – a Slovak architect. He created a cemetery in a proto slavic style using wood as the base material.

Wooden churches are an inseparable element of the commune and one of its greatest treasures. Temples are beautifully integrated into the landscape. They are delightful outside and inside we can find pearls of Orthodox art. We can admire magnificent icons written by local artists or the ones brought from distant places, iconostases which

tell us so much about the faith of Lemko people or polychromies. The majority of the churches are listed as the Wooden Architecture Route sites. The real pearls can be found in Kwiatoń or Brunary which in 2013 were listed as UNESCO sites.

The Feast of the Red Pine Mushroom

The Feast of the Red Pine Mushroom commences autumn  – it is an annual event organised at the turn of September and October when mountains are decorated with autumn colours and forests smell of mushrooms. Then, the amateurs of mushroom picking and the connoisseurs

of red pine mushrooms come to Wysowa to stroll around a forest with a basket and participate in ‘Red Pine Mushroom Hunting’, listen to lectures on mycology, watch artistic performances and have fun at a dance. Local hostesses present their delicacies at the fairs.

CYCLICAL EVENTS in the commune

‘Villages Smelling of Herbs in Lesser Poland’

Music enchanted in wood is a series of concerts which take place at summer weekends in various sites of the Wooden Architecture Route. The programme is always diverse – early and classical music prevail but more and

more often we can listen to the modern one as well. Concerts are accompanied by dance shows and mystery plays. Music in such interiors sounds extraordinarily.

Music enchanted in wood

Cykl koncertów, które odbywają się w letnie weekendy w obiektach położonych na Szlaku Architektury Drewnianej. Program zawsze jest różnorodny, przeważa muzyka dawna i klasyczna, coraz częściej jednak można usłyszeć

także tę współczesną. Koncertom towarzyszą widowiska taneczne i misteria sceniczne. Muzyka w pięknych, drewnianych wnętrzach wybrzmiewa wyjątkowo.

The spa between mountains

The main town of Uście Gorlickie Commune, located by the Slovak border, is Wysowa-Zdrój. It is tucked into a mountainous valley and attracts visitors with peace and picturesque scenery. Additionally, it is one of the biggest centres of tourism in the Low Beskids.

The first mention of Wysowa Spa dates 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 this year, a local economist, Ignacy Zychowicz, constructed a spa building with 6 bathrooms and 9 rooms. Soon, the first guest houses appeared. Wysowa started attracting health visitors and since the paved road from Ropa appeared (1876) people could witness a dynamic development of the resort. New wooden buildings of the spa were constructed gradually. Moreover, a stylish water pump room was built according to the design of Karol Stryjeński.

In the 1880s the exploration of local mineral waters was launched. From 1887 ‘Józef’, ‘Olga’, ‘Rudolf’, ‘Bronisław’ and ‘Słony’ were bottled.

Wysowa-Zdrój had its period of prosperity before the First World War. The high quality of its mineral waters

was appreciated at national expositions (awards from Przemyśl and Cracow).

The resort was destroyed during the First World War after which the land was bought by the partnership of doctors from Cracow with Dr W. Kraszewski in the lead. Thanks to their endeavours, the spa infrastructure was rebuilt. Unfortunately, another war caused large-scale destruction and Wysowa itself became a military base for the German army, including the border patrol. After the Second World War, the spa fell into oblivion. In 1959 ‘Wysowa Spa’, a national company, was created and brought the spa back to life. In the 1960s and 1970s the majority of sanatoria were erected. After 1999, the company was bought by a joint entity of Polish companies. At present, Wysowa-Zdrój is popular and enjoys recognition among health visitors and tourists. The spa offers 14 mineral water intakes and these are, first and foremost, acidulous sodium-hydrogen-carbonate-chloride and sodium-carbonate-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.

What can be treated here?

The spa specialises in treating diseases of the respiratory system (Wysowa-Zdrój is one of the cleanest resorts in Poland), the digestive tract and the urinary system. Healing properties of waters from Wysowa manifest themselves in the process of neutralisation of the gastric acid in the stomach and the inhibition of the secretory function. That is why ‘Wysowianka’ would be a great solution in the treatment of the digestive tract diseases (peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, bile duct diseases and constipation). It also has a positive influence in the case of kidney stone disease, the urinary tract inflammation and diabetes.

What treatments?

The spa has a wide selection of treatments such as balneotherapy, hydrotherapy, kinesiotherapy, light therapy, electrotherapy, magnet therapy, heat therapy and ultrasound therapy. Wysowa-Zdrój also offers baths, massages, and inhalations with the use of local mineral waters. Peat

baths are available as well. The treatment facilities are provided by local treatment centres, hotels and sanatoria. One may also take advantage of complementary Spa & Wellness treatments.

Water for health and beauty

It is worth remembering that regular intake of mineral water not only hydrates our organism but also is a great way to strengthen our bones (thanks to the content of calcium) and improves one’s fitness (magnesium and potassium). Additionally, it equals healthy and beautiful skin (beneficial electrolytes). Appropriate hydration of our body influences our attention span and mental abilities. High content of natural iodine in ‘Wysowianka’ reduces fatigue. The abundance of minerals in this water makes it highly recommended in a daily diet.

The Mineral Water Pump Room was commissioned in 2006. It is a reconstruction of a former building which burnt down in the 1960s. The first Mineral Water Pump Room was erected probably in 1923 according to the project of a well-known architect from Cracow  – Karol Stryjeński. The water from 5 intakes was served to visitors

by ladies in folk costumes. The current Mineral Water Pump Room fits perfectly into the infrastructure of the Spa Park in the centre of Wysowa. You can taste water from the following springs: Anna, Franciszek, Henryk, Józef II and Słone. Nearby, there is a bottling plant and numerous springs.

The most popular water springs from Wysowa

Franciszek  – highly mineralized acidulous sodium-bicarbonate-chloride-bromide-iodide water. It accelerates digestion and improves metabolism. It soothes ailments connected with peptic ulcer disease. It is particularly recommended in the case of bile duct diseases. It also relieves symptoms of a hangover. The spring was named after Franciszek Kokot  – an outstanding nephrologist, a professor of the Medical University of Silesia.

Józef I  – mineral water which is highly recommended in the treatment of urological problems. It will serve great in the inflammation of the urinary tract, kidney stone disease or gout.

Henryk  – acidulous sodium-bicarbonate-chloride-bromide water excellent for any conditions connected with the stomach. It is especially recommended for those who suffer from hyperacidity and iodine deficiency. It also brings relief in the case of peptic ulcer disease, metabolic disorders and bile duct diseases. It lowers sugar level in blood. The spring was named after Henryk Świdziński, an expert on the Carpathians and their mineral waters, an explorer of the region of Wysowa and a professor of AGH University of Science and Technology.

ORGANISED TRIPS

the Centre of Culture

kultura.usciegorlickie.pl

RABKA-ZDRÓJ

Rabka – not only for children

Located in a valley, between mountains and on their slopes, Rabka is a small but popular spa surrounded by tiny villages inhabited by Rabka Highlanders. Mountain trails which run into the Gorce, the Island Beskids or Podhale, cycling trails, Highlander folklore, the cuisine, museums and galleries of regional art, an amusement park, historic trains, skiing slopes  – the commune attracts visitors with a number of diverse attractions aimed various groups of people. There are plenty of peaceful trails which abound in mushrooms, quiet, wooden temples and fast carousels.

Brines are the biggest, natural treasure of the commune  –they were the reason why the spa has been created in this place. Rabka-Zdrój became famous as a place for the youngest health visitors and in 1996 it was given a title ‘the Town of Children of the World’. However, it offers a lot to adults as well. Brines are used in a variety of ways in Rabka  – in numerous treatments which are conducted in sanatoria and hotels with treatment facilities. Moreover, there is a brine graduation tower in the Spa Park and the Mineral Water Pump Room. Mountains which surround the town create an exceptional microclimate which is of great assistance in the treatment of various diseases.

A HIKING TRIP

We start a hike around Rabka-Zdrój in the Spa Park which constitutes the centre of the town. At the place you can take a walk between trees or gardens and rest. Walking along the paths, we will go past the Park Cafe, the monument of John Paul II – the Tourist, the monument of Julian Zubrzycki and numerous fountains. When we get to the ‘Pod Trzema Różami’ Fountain (Under Three Roses Fountain), we will notice signs of the yellow hiking trail. The trail will lead us south, to the Boulevards by the Poniczanka. Following the trail, we cross the river and go south along it. Having walked 700 m, we will reach another bridge thanks to which we will return

to the Boulevards and then to the Spa Park. The yellow trail runs further along the Pocieszna Woda Stream (the Comforting Water Stream) to ‘Krzywoń’ Enchanted Forest. Following the trail, we will lengthen the trip but we will have to go up through a dense forest – the total length of the route will be 7 km. Walking along the Boulevards, we will reach the Cardiac Hospital behind which we turn right in order to get to the Mineral Water Pump Room and the Brine Graduation Tower. Both places are situated at the edge of the Spa Park where we finish our trip. Both places are perfect for resting and relaxing.

CULT ATTRACTIONS

THE SPA PARK

The Spa Park is located in the central part of the town – its foundation dates back to the second half of the 19th century. The most important spa buildings are located by the park; however, it is an attraction itself, a place where we can take a walk, relax, play and spend time in a nice way. The western part of the park is the so-called sun zone which is devoted to rest and recreation. There are thematic gardens, a brine graduation tower, a playground, tennis courts, a trial park, a skatepark and a cafe. The eastern part is the shadow zone created in the style of an English garden where we can walk and calm down. On the edge of the park there is the Brine Graduation Tower and the Mineral Water Pump Room. EASILY ACCESSIBLE

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.

THE OPEN-AIR MUSEUM OF RAIL IN CHABÓWKA

The Open-air Museum of Rail in Chabówka is one of the biggest tourist attractions of the commune. It was established in the area of a former steam locomotive bay which had existed in Chabówka since the 19th century. You will find here the biggest collection of railway rolling stock in Poland. There are steam, diesel and electric locomotives, wagons, snow plough trains and railroad cranes. There is also an exhibition presenting the history of the rail in the region. One can also go on a retro train with a steam locomotive and in summer have a ride along the most beautiful routes in the region.

A FOREST EDUCATIONAL PATH IN KRZYWOŃ ENCHANTED FOREST

Not far from the centre of Rabka-Zdrój, you will find Krzywoń Enchanted Forest with an interesting educational path. A wooden pavilion with a barbecue site is at the beginning of the path – you can have a picnic there. If you go further, you will come across boards including information on the wildlife. The path leads through a forest, marshes, next to a pond to a panoramic spot. It is an exceptionally interesting walk which will last from 1h to 1.5 h! The path is wide and comfortable even when you need to push a pram.

THE SPRING OF POCIESZNA WODA

The spring of Pocieszna Woda (Comforting Water) flows out from a slope of Piątkowa Mountain which rises over Chabówka. It constitutes the beginning of the creek with the same name. A legend says that one rich merchant was robbed there by brigands. When he saw them, he supposedly shouted ‘Holy Cross save me!’. It worked and a luminous cross appeared over his head. It petrified the brigands and made them run away. The spring burst out at the place. Local people believed that the water from the spring gives comfort and called it Comforting Water. Since that time, people had been flocking there to take some water which was supposed to help in the treatment of leg and eye diseases. A statue of Mother of God and an information board was placed next to the spring. There is also a hand pump thanks to which we may draw water. Since 1977 the spring together with surrounding trees has been a natural monument.

A PANORAMIC TOWER ON POLCZAKÓWKA

North of the centre of Rabka-Zdrój there is a hill called Królewska Góra (Royal Mountain 588 m) with a 25 m high panoramic tower. From the wooden construction you can see nearby mountain ranges. The tower is situated on Królewska Mountain; however, its name is taken from a ski slope next to which it is located. You can get there following an easy and pleasant trail.

THE CHURCH OF THE HOLY CROSS ON PIĄTKOWA MOUNTAIN IN RDZAWKA

A long time ago on Piątkowa Mountain (714 m) above Rdzawka there was a chapel. In 1757 the chapel was replaced by a church which had stood on the hill until 1994 when it was consumed by a huge fire. At present, we may admire the reconstruction of the temple in Rdzawka. Despite the fact that the new church was erected at the end of the 20th century, it is one of the most recognisable temples in Poland. It has a log construction and one nave. It consists of a semi-hexagonal termination of the chancel and a rectangular nave. The walls and the ceiling are decorated with a polychromy with figures, ornaments and architectural motifs from 1901. The Baroque equipment destroyed by the fire was partially reconstructed. It is one of very few temples whose form was maintained apart from numerous reconstructions and renovations for approximately 250 years.

COTTAGES AT THE FOOT OF THE GORCE AND THE ISLAND BESKIDS

Rabczańska Valley and Rabka-Zdrój is an ideal place for spending one’s holiday either in summer or in winter. In the heart of the spa, by the Ponicznaka Boulevards, Dolina Barw (the Valley of Colours) awaits guests who seek relaxation in the spa. Dolina Barw is a complex of five luxurious all-year cottages for rent located in a huge garden. This is a place where it is impossible to get bored. An excellent location makes it close to the attractions of the spa and mountain or cycling trails.

COTTAGES

The Valley of Colours consists of two cottages with an area of 92 m2 and three cottages which cover an area of 87 m2. Each of them is air-conditioned and comprises a well-equipped kitchen and two bedrooms with two

single beds and a private bathroom. On the ground floor there is a living room with an electric fireplace, a TV, a fold out sofa bed and a rocking chair. The decor and equipment is modern with regional accents which add to the cosiness of the place. There are two private terraces with garden furniture.

RECREATION AREA

The Valley of Colours is not a place where one can get bored – guests can take advantage of a common area which is accessible from all the cottages. There is a wooden banya with heated water where one can relax after a day spent in an active way and a sauna. Evenings may be spent by the fire – there is a designated place where guests can organise feats. The garden is an ideal place to have fun outdoors and breathe in fresh air. There is also a playground.

Address: ul. Nowy Świat 70d, 34-700 Rabka-Zdrój

E-mail: kontakt@dolinabarw.pl

Phone: +48 789 203 330

dolinabarw.pl

MUSEUMS/GALLERIES/ART

The Museum of Highlanders and Brigands is located in a historic cottage from the 19th century (the House under Three Madonnas). The museum presents the traditional life of Highlanders from Rabka in a modern, interactive way. Visitors can do the chores of former Highlanders and even get a Brigand Tracker Badge. There you will see the works of Jan Fudala – Jasiek from the Gorce Mountains and Zygmunt Pytlik. The exhibition is available in a number of languages, various presentations and workshops are organised there as well. The Museum of Władysław Orkan, which is situated in a wooden church from the 17th century, is of a bit different character. The building itself is a historic site present on the Wooden Architecture Route. Inside we can admire pipe organs from 1778 which are the most valuable part of church

equipment – in summer we can participate in pipe organ concerts. There is also the polychromy which dates back to 1802. What is more, exhibitions which present pottery, pasturing, folk costumes or former folk sculpture are displayed in four rooms. ‘Pod Aniołem’ (Under the Angel) Villa is the seat of the Gallery under the Angel where exhibitions of local artists, literary meetings, declamation evenings, vernissages and concerts are held. ‘Pod Lilianą’ Gallery should also draw our attention. It is one of the oldest galleries in Rabka-Zdrój where works of local artists and craftsmen are displayed, where you can take part in interesting workshops, for instance, painting on glass or wood, paper tissue craft, wood sculpture, embroidery, ceramics or pottery. The artists from Rabka run the classes.

chataartystyczna.wixsite.com

Holiday retro trains

In summer time train rides are organised in the Museum of Rail in Chabówka. This is an amazing journey on a historic train which consists of a steam locomotive and wagons which are 80 years old! The trains run to Kasina

Wielka – the train station at the foot of Śnieżnica which is one of the highest and most beautifully located train stations in Poland.

skansenchabowka.pl

CYCLICAL EVENTS in the commune

The Puppet Theatre

The National Puppetry ‘Rabcio’ was founded 70 years ago as an amateur theatre. It was supposed to entertain children who stayed in the resort. The forest plays took place on a movable stage with puppets made by Władysław Biedroń and Stanisław Ciężadlik. During the first performance the name of the theatre was chosen together with

the audience – ‘Rabcio-Zdrowotek’ (Rabcio the Healthy). At present, the theatre has its seat in Rabka-Zdrój at 3c Orkan Street. It stages puppet shows and traditional plays and its main idea is to entertain the youngest health visitors and tourists.

teatr.rabcio.pl

Historic healing waters

The history of the brine of Rabka dates back to the 13th century. At the time, the voivode of Cracow enabled a cistercian monastery to use salt sourced from the brine for their own needs. The interest in brine increased significantly in the 16th century when Jerzy Grossman got permission to search and dig underground deposits of this valuable resource. However, he did not find anything – the minerals found in the brine from Rabka did not come from lumps of salt. In the first half of the 19th century, Józef Zubrzycki got interested in mineral waters, nevertheless, the spa was created not by him but by his son, Julian. The chemical analysis of the brine from Rabka was carried out in 1858. The tests showed that the brine is one of the strongest iodine-bromine brines in Europe! The first mineral water pump room was opened here in 1864. In this year the Spa House with a covered promenade, baths, a pharmacy, restaurants and first guest houses were put into use.

Rabka gained bigger and bigger popularity in Poland and in the world. On 16th February 1928 the president of Poland issued a decree according to which Rabka became a town whose nature deserved to be protected. Unfortunately, the Second World War destroyed the spa and after the war State Treasure took it over. At the time, Rabka started to become a resort for children. Until the 1960s tuberculosis had been mainly treated there. A bit later, the institutions in Rabka specialised in treating chronic diseases of the respiratory tract and the circulatory system, mainly in children. Nowadays, there is a hospital and a sanatorium for adults, a hospital for children, a sanatorium for children and their guardians and the Natural Therapy Centre. The facilities specialise in the treatment in the field of cardiology, pulmonology, laryngology, rheumatology, orthopaedics and diabetology.

What can be treated here?

Mineral waters from Rabka are mainly iodine-chloride-sodium brines. They may be used in the treatment of:

various ailments of the respiratory tract, various ailments of the cir culatory system, anaemia, allergies, asthma,

rheumatism, diabetes, metabolic diseases, sclerosis, neurosis.

What treatments?

The location of facilities in Rabka-Zdrój which offer healing treatments

A brine graduation tower

A brine graduation tower is located on the edge of the Spa Park, next to the Mineral Water Pump Room. It is an open-air inhalation place – the first site in Lesser Poland of this type. In the middle of it there is a column surrounded with a wooden grate with blackthorn twigs inside. Brine from the Helena borehole goes down from the top of the column and splashes on the twigs creating a microclimate around the tower. Breathing in such air is beneficial for our immune system.

Uzdrowisko Rabka S.A.

Uzdrowisko Rabka S.A. (Rabka SPA JSC) comprises a hospital for children, a sanatorium for children with a guardian and the Natural Therapy Centre. The last one has the biggest in Lesser Poland treatment facilities –you can take advantage of 90 different treatments either wellness or rehabilitation and healing ones. They include massages and treatments based on mineral water. Bath salts, shower gels, sprays, gels and ointments on the basis of the brine from Rabka are also produced here.

Cegielski Sanatorium

Cegielski sanatorium is located in the centre of Rabka-Zdrój, on a slope of Bania Mountain. The facility offers a wide range of different treatments: brine inhalations, drug inhalations, a dry massage, a BOA pressure massage, aquavibron, hydromassage with ozone therapy, brine baths, cryotherapy, magnetotherapy and magnetic stimulation, ultrasounds, INT, iontophoresis, laser therapy, quartz lamp, Sollux lamp,BIO-V lamp.

The Silesian Rehabilitation and Spa Centre of Adam Szebesta

In the Silesian Rehabilitation and Spa Centre there is a spa hospital for children from 3 to 18 years old, a sanatorium for children from 3 to 6 years old with their guardians and a spa hospital for adults, a sanatorium and a systemic rehabilitation. Children can take advantage of corrective, breathing gymnastics, brine and drug inhalation, exercises in a pool, physiotherapeutic treatments, dry massages and hydrotherapy.

ORGANISED TRIPS

the Centre of Culture

mok.rabka.pl

Rabka with a guide

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.

CZARNY DUNAJEC

Right at the foot of the Tatras, in Podhale, in the southwest part of Lesser Poland, one of the biggest communes in Poland is situated – Czarny Dunajec Commune. Numerous, small, beautifully located villages are dwelled in by Highlanders of Podhale who have been creating colourful, unique folklore over the years. Highlander traditions are well visible at local events, in regional dances and music or can be tasted in the local cuisine. Geothermal waters and peat, which is called ‘black gold’, constitute the greatest treasure of this land. Boglands, where peat is extracted, used to cover a significant area of the region. Geothermal waters and peat are the reason why a spa has been established and has been developing

at the place. Even though it is young, the spa is developing dynamically year after year. Moreover, the commune offers magnificent views and interesting routes. Hiking, cycling or skiing trails and bridle paths allow us to admire the landscape of Podhale. The villages of the commune are a great starting point for the trips into the Tatras, the Beskids and the Gorce Mountains which offer either easy or more difficult routes. The Czarny Dunajec River enables us to do water sports such as rafting or swimming. Furthermore, historic architecture which integrates perfectly into the landscape is visible at every step.

A WALKING TRIP

A walk across this picturesque commune, Czarny Dunajec, located between the Tatras, the Gorce and the Żywiec Beskids will begin in Chochołów. The village is a living museum famous for its wooden architecture. We will walk along the red route of the Chochołów Uprising at the beginning of which there is a museum devoted to this historical event. The Museum of the Chochołów Uprising is situated in one of wooden cottages and its exposition will serve as an excellent introduction to our trip along the aforementioned route. The trail will lead us from the museum towards the church of Saint Hyacinth of Poland and further in the direction of a cemetery. We head towards the east. Behind the cemetery, we leave an asphalt road and begin a gentle climb. We go across panoramic meadows from which the Tatras, the Gorce and majestic Babia Mountain (1,725 m) can be seen. The trail reaches Cyrlica (896 m), a mountain top which played a crucial part in the Uprising – from it, insurrectionists discerned Highlanders conscripted by the Austrian to put down the

uprising. From Cyrlica, we walk along the ridge towards Tomiński Wierch (837 m) still enjoying the views. After another kilometre, we start going up – it is a sign that we are on the way to Ostrysz (1,023 m) which constitutes the highest point of the trip. Its top is forested but below it panoramic meadows stretch. 800 m from the top, we will get to a crossroads of the route and a road which leads in the direction of Dzianisz. We turn right and descend to the village. By the main road, next to a shop, there is a bus stop. We come back to Chochołów by local bus (https://transit.podhale.pl/). While in Dzianisz, one should enter the beautiful, wooden Church of Saint Mary of Częstochowa. If you feel like hiking further, you can follow the red trail in order to reach Gubałówka (1,126 m) from which we will descend along the black trail to Zakopane. We can come back from Zakopane to Chochołów by local bus. It is a proposition for a day trip. In total it is 15 km long.

CULT ATTRACTIONS

WOODEN ARCHITECTURE OF CHOCHOŁÓW

Wooden architecture of Chochołów constitutes the most valuable historic site of the commune and a characteristic element of Podhale. You can admire there over 100 year old cottages which form a linear settlement along the main road. Every year in spring the houses are washed and scrubbed with yellow soap and water so that the logs remain white. The most interesting ones include ‘the house from one fir tree’ whose front wall was entirely made from the wood of one, huge fir tree, Jan Zięder Regional Chamber – a private museum and a sculpting studio of a folk artist , Aniela Stanek’s gallery of glass painting and the cottage of the Bafia family which houses the Museum of the Chochołów Uprising.

BALIGÓWKA BOGS

Baligówka Bogs constitute one of the raised bogs located in Czarny Dunajec Commune. They used to stretch from Babia Mountain up to the Tatras but they were destroyed due to extraction of valuable peat. Now, they are present in the form of isolated islands. There is an educational path called ‘Baligówka’ which consists of 12 stops with boards displaying various information connected with peatlands. You will see there plants typical for this kind of an ecosystem such as the peat moss, the round-leaved sundew or the bogbean. In order to explore the topic more, you need to drop in at the Peatland Museum in Chochołów.

INFO-TOUR – A TRIP AROUND CHOCHOŁÓW

An excellent way to sightsee Chochołów is a trip by exhaust-free tourist bus offered by Eko-Taxi – a local company. During such a trip participants listen to stories and legends about places they go past. A trip lasts 45 minutes and during stops tourists may get to know visited places better. Trips are offered in four languages  – Polish, Slovak, English and German.

THE MONASTERY OF JASNA GÓRA PAULINE FATHERS AND MARIAN SANCTUARY ON BACHLEDÓWKA MOUNTAIN

The Monastery of Jasna Góra Pauline Fathers built on Bachledówka (947 m) is a pearl of Podhale architecture. From the mountain where it stands you can see views of all four directions of the world. The monastery was founded after the Second World War, at the site of a house which belonged to two women who hid weapons and people during the war. When soldiers came to search the premises, one of the women prayed and promised the house to God if the German did not find the weapons hidden in a beehive. After the war, she did as she had promised – she gave the house to the Pauline Fathers from Jasna Góra.

THE OSCYPEK ROUTE

The Oscypek Route leads us from one to another shepherd’s hut where oscypek is made according to traditional methods protected by the EU certificate. There are 50 huts on the route – in each of them there is baca (a senior shepherd) attired in a traditional highlander costume who tells stories about sheep or his life and offers oscypek to visitors. Such a shepherd’s hut within Czarny Dunajec Commune is located on Baligówka.

FISHING IN PODHALE

The rivers and streams of Podhale are a real treat for the enthusiasts of fishing. The Czarny Dunajec within the 30 km section between the Tatras and Czarny Dunajec, the village, is a great spot for catching fish. It is worth remembering that only fly-fishing is allowed there. From the mouth of the Lepietnica Creek into the Czarny Dunajec there is a no-kill zone which means that you have to free all the caught fish.

CHOCHOŁOWSKIE THERMAL BATHS

Chochołowskie Thermal Baths is the biggest complex of thermal swimming pools in Podhale. Geothermal waters (the ones which are heated under the earth’s surface up to at least 20℃) are used in the baths. The complex includes a swimming pool zone, a healing zone with barrels full of sulphide water and a swimming pool with iodised brine, a SPA zone with a normobaric chamber, bio juniper, dry, steam, aromatic and infrared saunas. Children can take advantage of a water playground, an artificial wave, a rapid river, a geyser, slides and a ship swimming pool. There is also a zone for the active ones – there is a swimming pool, a volleyball and basketball court or a gym. You can enjoy all these attractions and have a wonderful view of the Tatras. Visitors can dine at a catering zone.

Art in wooden cottages

Wooden buildings in Chochołów constitute one of the most valuable treasures of the commune. It is a characteristic element of the whole Podhale. You can admire there over 100 year old cottages which form a linear settlement along the main road. The most interesting ones include ‘the house from one fir tree’ whose front wall was entirely made from the wood of one, huge fir tree or Jan Zięder Regional Chamber – a private museum and a sculpting

studio of a folk artist and Aniela Stanek’s Gallery of Glass Painting. The Museum of Chochołów Uprising has its seat in the cottage which belonged to a rich man, Jan Bafia. The Uprising broke out in Podhale on 22nd February 1846 against Austrian rule and was a significant event in the history of the region. The Museum displays the Uprising memorabilia and objects connected with the daily life of a Highlander family in the 19th century.

Museum of Chochołów Uprising Jan Zięder Regional Chamber

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The

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The biggest, cross-border complex of bogs is located within Czarny Dunajec Commune and Žilina Region in Slovakia. The peatlands were formed at the end of the last Ice Age approximately 10,000 years ago. In order to protect these valuable areas, a Polish-Slovak project was launched. Its main aim is to make the bogs available to people and educate about their ecosystem, plants and

animals which inhabit them. It also guides us on how to admire peatlands without destroying them and promotes their protection. The Peatland Museum in Chochołów, located in a modernised, wooden building (a former medical centre), is a place where knowledge about the formation and functioning of peatland ecosystems is presented in a modern way.

Podhale equals music and highlander dances! Music has always been significant in the tradition of Highlanders. The ability to play music and dance is passed down from generation to generation. Highlanders play the instruments created by themselves such as the fife, the pipe, the trombite, the bagpipes, the gusle but also the popular ones like the violin. Men dance so-called ‘Zbójnicki’ (the Dance of Brigands) which is supposed to show how strong

and nimble they are. Another dance, in pairs this time, is ‘Krzesany’ – a very fast and vibrant one. There are a few regional bands for children, teenagers and adults in the commune. We can see their performances at various events in the whole commune including the stage of the Centre of Culture and Promotion of Czarny Dunajec Commune. This is a great chance to learn about the living traditions.

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THE SPA

Water heated under the surface of the Earth

Czarny Dunajec is the youngest out of all the spas in Lesser Poland. It was granted the status of spa protection in 2016. The largest treasure of the commune is water (not mineral as you will not find it in Podhale) – geothermal water. It is water which is heated in the Earth’s interior to at least 20 °C. A borehole of geothermal water was drilled in Chochołów and the largest complex of thermal pools with attractions both for children and adults in Podhale was created.

The spa also has deposits of healing peat which is used in treatments. What is more, the climate of Czarny Dunajec influences the process of treatment and our well-being in a positive way – it is harsh, but it has a small number of hot days and it is not sweltering. Additionally, bioclimatic conditions are very favourable, there is fresh air and other beneficial features created by the landform. All these factors create a balneological and climatic spa which is an ideal place to treat numerous medical conditions, regain vitality and relax.

What can be treated?

Sulphide water has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps to treat rheumatoid and joint diseases or arteriosclerosis. Thanks to it, our skin is more flexible. It also has a positive effect on skin blood flow, blood pressure and heart efficiency. It triggers our metabolism and strengthens our immunity.

The spa offers treatment of the following diseases: orthopaedic disorders and injuries, rheumatic diseases, gynaecological diseases.

What treatments?

Czarny Dunajec Commune is a new spa but offers numerous interesting treatments. Chochołowskie Thermal Baths give us a chance to benefit from saline and sulphide baths. There are water jets, hydromassages, relaxation and physiotherapeutic treatments or a Rhassoul

bath where you can participate in Hammam ritual with clay. The hotels of Czarny Dunajec which have treatment zones offer physiotherapeutic treatments, massages, peat wraps or baths.

ORGANISED TRIPS

the Centre of Culture and Promotion of Czarny Dunajec Commun

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CRACOW A spa in a big city

Cracow is a city which stands on the podium of every ranking for the most beautiful city in Poland. Unquestionably, it is an exceptional place. It is a former capital city, the seat of the most potent rulers of our country, the city of artists, poets, and personages. It is a place which abounds in historic sites, also the ones listed as UNESCO sites. Who does not dream of visiting Cracow? There, everyone will find something which appeals to them starting from the centre i.e. the Old Town and the Wawel Castle where we will be able to see the oldest sites of Cracow. Those who seek something more will definitely appreciate other nooks and crannies. There is Kazimierz – a district, whose history is inextricably linked with the Jewish and which is loved by artists. There is post-war Nowa Huta, Zabłocie with its hipster vibe or

green Zwierzyniec. In these places we will be able to admire centuries-old sites, art and modern attractions. They are available to everybody and can be accessed on foot, by melex or by special, tourist bus. The capital of Lesser Poland is also a great spot for active leisure enthusiasts. After all, not only can we visit museums in Cracow but also go kayaking, cycling or have a hot-air balloon ride! Not everyone knows that Cracow has its spa part – Swoszowice. This estate used to be a small, mining town where sulphur was extracted. When mining ceased to be a lucrative industry, Swoszowice became a spa which did have its time of glory. At this place sulphide waters, which have a beneficial influence on our looks and are of great assistance in the treatment of various diseases, are present.

A WALKING TRIP

An excellent way to visit the Old Town is a walk along the Royal Route which is the most representative road of the city which was used by kings who came to the Wawel for their coronations. It was also taken by the most significant guests on their way to the Wawel Castle. The route starts in Kleparz. There, numerous inns were located where you could have fun or stay overnight. From Kleparz, we go in the direction of the Barbican  – a place where all the incoming guests were disarmed. The Barbican was an integral part of Saint Florian Gate  – they were connected by a bridge called a neck. Further, the route leads us along Saint Florian Street by which we will see Michalik’s Den (the Green Balloon Cabaret used to perform there) and Jan Matejko’s House. The route takes us further, to the Main Square. We go past St Mary’s Basilica where we can hear the Trumpet Call played every hour. There is also the Altarpiece by Veit Stoss. We go past the Monument of Adam Mickiewicz, the Cloth Hall and the Church of Saint Adalbert where this famous martyr used to sermonise.

At the corner of Grodzka Street there is Wierzynek Restaurant where the famous Feast at Wierzynek took place –a meeting of European monarchs and dukes called by Casimir III the Great. From the Town Hall Tower, which definitely stands out, it is a stone’s throw to Saint Ann

Street which will take us to the district of universities. From Saint Ann Street, we take a turn into Jagiellońska Street with the CollegiumMaius  – it is worth visiting as it is the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University. Then, we go towards the Planty Park in the direction of Franciszkańska Street by which Bishops’ Palace with the famous ‘papal window’ is situated. We follow Franciszkańska Street west (next to the monastery of Franciskan Fathers and the Church of Saint francis of Assisi with the famous God the Father stained glass by Wyspiański is located) up to the Square of All Saints. From the Square with the monument of Fózef Dietl we go south into Grodzka Street. We go past the baroque Church of Saints Peter and Paul, which was funded by Sigismund III Vasa after he had moved to Warsaw. The church was built by the Square of Mary Magdalene. Then, we go along Kanoniczna Street where the oldest tenements of the canons of Cracow are located including the Palace of the Bishop Erazm Ciołek which houses the branch of the National Museum in Cracow. There is a little known exhibition of paintings and sculptures with an even 1,000 year old history. From Kanoniczna Street we stroll towards the Wawel where we end our walk. It is a great idea to sightsee the Cathedral and castle chambers or continue the walk along the Vistula to Kazimierz.

CULT ATTRACTIONS

SWOSZOWICE

When you think about Swoszowice, greenness, sulphur and the Spa Park come to your mind. However, the place also has a long history connected with mining. Sulphur was extracted there a few hundreds years ago and constituted an important resource for the region as it was an ingredient of gunpowder. Thanks to mining, this district of Cracow which used to be a village, could develop. The history of mining in Swoszowice was the reason why the Sulphur Mining Trail was created – it leads to the most important facilities of the spa – the tenement of the Administrator of the Mine, the Smeltery, mine slag heaps, a mine shrine or an ammunition bunker. The trail ends at the Parish Church in Wróblowice. There are 10 boards with information on the places on the trail. It starts close to Swoszowice Fort 51 ½, the seat of the Museum of War Matters, which was built as a part of Cracow Fortress by Austria-Hungary. Inside, we can see the exhibition presenting the history of weaponry and army equipment from the First World War and the field hospital room.

THE OLD TOWN – THE HEART OF CRACOW

The Main Square together with the surrounding streets is the most popular place in Cracow. Crowds of tourists flock there annually! The long history of the former capital was the reason why so many historic sites from different epoques are located in the centre. The Old Town is a small part of today’s Cracow but historically it is the most important one. Nowadays, it is surrounded by the Plant Park where the town walls used to stand. Going through the park, you can go around the whole Old Town! There are a few hundreds of historic tenement houses, more than a dozen churches, over twenty museums and almost two millions of movable works of art. The most recognisable historic sites in the area of the Old Town are St Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall, St Florian’s Gate, the Collegium Maius or the Town Hall Tower. The streets of the Old Town are also incredible – Bracka Street which owes its popularity to Grzegorz Turnau, St Anna Street between the buildings of the Jagiellonian University or St. Jan Street on the side of which royal tenement houses were constructed including Czartoryski Palace. The Wawel Castle, Kazimierz and Stradom district and the Old Town were enlisted as one of the first twelve UNESCO sites.

UNESCO SITES

THE WAWEL HILL

The Wawel Hill is the most distinguishing spot on the map of Cracow. For a hill, it is quite small and rises to a height of 228 m but thanks to the location by the Vistula, it is definitely visible. Here, at the Wawel Castle, the royal history of Cracow was created! The greatest kings of Poland reigned from this place. You will see there the beautiful courtyard, the cathedral, and the castle whose interiors are definitely worth seeing. The first stone castle was erected at the beginning of the 11th century when Cracow became the seat of Polish kings and it was rebuilt repeatedly. It gained its Renaissance look in the 16th century. After the fire, which was supposedly caused by Sigismund III Vasa during his alchemic experiments, it was largely destroyed. Sigismund moved the capital from Cracow to Warsaw. Now it delights us as it always has. It is worth going inside to see representative chambers or the collection of tapestry. The Cathedral is a must. Apart from beautiful chapels including Sigismund’s one or the Coronation Altar, you will admire royal crypts and the Silver Bells Tower with the most popular of bells – the Sigismund’s Bell. Beyond the walls of the castle, right by the Vistula, the Wawel Dragon which belches out fire and his den await visitors!

UNESCO SITES

KAZIMIERZ

Next to the Old Town and the Wawel Hill there is Kazimierz, a district which used to be a town. King Casimir III the Great established it in the 14th century to relieve the overpopulated capital and called it in his honour. When in 1495 the Jews were banned from Cracow (after the Great Fire for which they were blamed), they found their refuge in Kazimierz. At the time, the Jewish part was separated from the Christian one with a high wall which was supposed to separate the two communities. With Austrian rule in the 19th and 20th century, all people were equalled irrespective of their faith. Due to this fact, the Jewish community received more rights and could move to other parts of Kazimierz, Stradom and, of course, Cracow. Until 1939 they created an extraordinary district full of magnificent architecture, soaked with their culture. They were violently forced out by the Second World War. At present, Kazimierz is one of the trendiest districts of the city. It is a place where two different cultures combine – the Christian with the Jewish one.

ZABŁOCIE

Zabłocie has become a very trendy district, a post-industrial one with a special vibe appreciated by hipsters. It used to be an industrial district, hence its name (over the mud). All the production processes of factories, a tannery or a foundry took place there and were extremely troublesome for the citizens of Cracow. Hardly anyone ventured into the district without a particular reason. Nowadays, Lipowa Street has transformed into a place frequented by tourists. The district has an artistic vibe – there is MOCAK (the Museum of Contemporary Art) or Lipowa3.pl Glass and Ceramics Centre (former Glassworks). We may take part in glass forming shows or visit the museum and the gallery as well.

PODGÓRZE

Despite the fact that Kazimierz is called the Jewish district, the biggest number of places connected with their tragic war history is located in Podgórze. Together with the Second World War and German occupation, holocaust started. In 1941 a ghetto was established where all the Jewish community was resettled and, later on, deported to extermination camps.

In Zabłocie, within a walking distance from the ghetto, there is the former Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory which is now a museum (a branch of the Museum of Cracow). It is an outstanding place with the history of the Jewish people who were saved from extermination. Steven Spielberg got inspired by the place and directed the famous ‘Schindler’s List’.

NOWA HUTA

Another trendy district of Cracow is Nowa Huta. Not so long ago Nowa Huta (New Steel Mill) evoked negative associations. It was established after the Second World War, in suburban areas as a model town. It was built almost from scratch around a metallurgical enterprise where its inhabitants were supposed to work. It was designed according to the guidelines of social realism – it was supposed to be a model town. Bunkers from the 50’s of the 20th century constitute a curiosity in the district – they were constructed in case of another great armed conflict. One of them is available to the public by the Museum of Nowa Huta (a branch of the Museum of Cracow). The Manor of Jan Matejko or the Mogiła Abbey from the 13th century can be visited in Nowa Huta as well.

ŁAGIEWNIKI

Łagiewniki is one of the most popular parts of Cracow located between the Old Town and Swoszowice. It is famous for the Divine Mercy Sanctuary – a sacred complex connected with the life and activity of Faustyna Kowalska – a saint of Catholic Church. In this place there is the famous, worshipped painting ‘Jesus, I trust in You’. It was painted by Adolf Hyła according to the directions of Faustyna to whom Jesus had revealed. The painting was placed at the side altar, in the chapel of St Joseph in the neo-gothic Monastery of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy. After the beatification of Faustyna, the chapel was upgraded to a sanctuarium. The bigger Basilica was erected next to the monastery which was supposed to house all pilgrims who came to Łagiewniki. The 77 metre panoramic tower rises over the Basilica. Today Łagiewniki constitutes the world centre of Divine Mercy. There is also the Centre of John Paul II. Close to this place of worship, we will find the Solvay Soda Plant which exploited the limestone quarry in Zakrzówek. Karol Wojtyła would work there during the Second World War.

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ZWIERZYNIEC AND DĘBNIKI

Zwierzyniec and Dębniki are partially located within the Bielany-Tyniec Landscape Park. The park was created to protect the unique landscape of the Vistula Valley, the beautiful limestone rocks and the culture of the place. The Monastery in Tyniec, the Monastery in Bielany, Piłsudski Mound, Kościuszko Mound, the complex of forts of Cracow Fortress, the Zoo, Zakrzówek Reservoir with Twardowski’s Rocks and a variety of hiking trails are situated in the area of the park.

Krakowska Pijalnia Zdrojowa

Swoszowice is famous for sulphide baths but sulphide water cannot be used in crenotherapy. However, it does not mean that we may not drink mineral water in Cracow. In Mateczny Estate, by one of the busiests roundabouts of Cracow, Antoni Mateczny Roundabout, there is an oasis of tranquillity – Mateczny Spa Complex (the Spa Park and spa buildings). It is a modern mineral water pump room located in a beautiful, Art Nouveau building which is surrounded by the green Spa Park. The place dates back

to 1898. There, one can try healthy, unique mineral sulphate-chloride-sodium-magnesium-calcium mineral water which comes from the local ‘Mateczny Spring’ (highly mineralised) and ‘Anton’ (moderately mineralised).

TAKEAWAY WATER

If you like the mineral water of Cracow, you can take it with you. The water is bottled in specially prepared, glazed rooms so that the whole process is visible.

Address: Wadowicka 1b, 30-347 Kraków

E-mail: biuro@krakowskapijalnia.pl

Phone: +48 12 630 39 38, +48 792 100 018

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Krakowska Pijalnia Zdrojowa

A day in a museum

Cracow is the city of art. Jan Matejko had his house, worked and left a few of his outstanding works there. This is the place where Veit Stoss created his famous altar. Stanisław Wyspiański decorated churches with his stained glass. ‘Lady with an Ermine’ by Leonardo da Vinci and ‘Landscape with the Good Samaritan’ by Rembrandt have their houses in the city. It is impossible to count all the works of art which are in Cracow. The most interesting ones are presented in the temples, for instance in Saint Mary’s Basilica where we can admire the famous altar by Veit Stoss (opened on weekdays at 11.50, on holidays at 14.10 and closed at 18.00). Not only are they available in museums, especially in the branches of the National Museum and the Museum of Cracow, but also in numerous private facilities. The most popular ones are the Underground Square Central Museum which is a branch of the Museum of Cracow. It is an interactive exhibition under the Cloth Hall and the Square. On the first floor of the Cloth Hall there is the Gallery of Polish Art of the 19th century. The Town Hall Tower and Krzysztofory Palace, where an exhibition

of Nativity scenes is held during the Christmas period, can be also visited in the Square. In Floriańska Street there is the House of Jan Matejko, in Poselska Street there is the Archeological Museum of Cracow. The university district will interest us with the Museum of the Jagiellonian University Collegium Maius where we will see the musical clock performance at 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 and 17:00 (the procession of historical figures which move outside are connected with Cracow Academy). We will be able to see the Princes Czartoryski Museum at 8 Pijarska Street – ‘the Lady with an Ermine’ by Leonardo da Vinci is displayed there. The Living Museum of Obwarzanek (a kind of Polish bagel) by the Kleparz Square organises workshops of baking this traditional delicacy. In Swoszowice we can pay a visit to the Museum of War Matters which is located in Fort 51 1/2 Swoszowice (one of the forts which were created at Galicia times as a part of Cracow Fortress by Austria-Hungary). Inside, we will see the exhibition which presents the history of weaponry and the army equipment from the First World War.

Cracow is the city of culture and it has the biggest number of theatres out of all the spas in Lesser Poland. We can choose from the big ones with a long history and pre-war traditions or small stages with an intimate atmosphere. Cracow was the place where in the second half of the 16th century the first Polish paschal mystery Historyja o chwalebnym Zmartwychwstaniu Pańskim (the Story of the Glorious Resurrection of Jesus) by Mikołaj from Wilkowiecko was published. The theatre has been developing in this place since the Middle Ages and during the Jagiellonian times plays were often staged at the Wawel. In 1781 the first national stage was created – the Theatre of Kraków – which in 1956 changed its name into the National Stary Theatre and today it is named after

The National Stary Theatre

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The Bagatela Theatre

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The BARAKAH Theatre

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Helena Modrzejewska who used to play there frequently. The smallest out of all the theatres of Cracow is the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre which was created in 1893 (until 1909 it had functioned as the Municipal Theatre). Plays staged at the highest level can be seen in the Modern Theatre, the Grotesque Theatre, the STU Theatre or the Bagatela Theatre which is famous for the best comedies. One of the smallest stages can be found in the Loch Camelot Theatre in Zaułek Niewiernego Tomasza (the Backstreet of Doubting Thomas). The BARAKAH Theatre is also exceptional  –it is located in Kazimierz in the building which used to be the Jewish Mikveh. The amateurs of music should attend the Opera of Cracow or the Cracow Philharmonic.

The Juliusz Słowacki Theatre

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Groteska Theatre

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The Opera of Cracow

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The Modern Theatre

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The STU Theatre

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The Cracow Philharmonic

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Michalik’s Den was created in 1895 as the Lviv Patisserie by Jan Michalik who came from Lviv. At the beginning of the 20th century the legendary cabaret ‘Green Balloon’ operated there. During the Interwar Period it was the place where artists, writers and bohemian artists met. The ideas of Young Poland were born there. Malczewski, Przybyszewski,

Rydel or Wyspiański spent their time at the place. From 1960 to 1991 the Michaik’s Den Cabaret operated there. Today concerts of famous artists take place at the venue. However, you can visit the place just to have something to eat in this artistic atmosphere.

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CYCLICAL EVENTS

The Festival of Science and Art

The Museum Night

The University Students’ Festival

The Parade of the Lajkonik Wianki

The Festival of Jewish Culture

The Summer Festival of Opera

Sacrum Profanum Festival

The Festival of Street Theatres

The Competition of Nativity Scenes

Christmas Fair

THE SPA

From gunpowder to a spa

Nobody would think that within Cracow there could be a spa. And yet, in the south of the city, in Swoszowice district there is an estate which has such a status. What is more, this is the only health resort in Poland located in the area of a big city and also one of the oldest ones in Poland! For many years it has been appreciated by a lot of doctors even though its history starts with…a sulphur mine and gunpowder!

Sulphur has always been a natural treasure of Swoszowice. Mineral water enriched with sulphur was taken advantage of already in the Middle Ages and it is said that it might have been known even earlier. The legend says that Skuba vel Dratewka, a shoemaker, stuffed a sheep with sulphur and gave it to the Wawel Dragon. Whereas historians inform that sulphur started to be extracted in 1415. It was a time of development of firearms and sulphur, as an ingredient of gunpowder, was a desirable resource. A mine was established in Swoszowice which operated until 1888. At the time of Galicia, 85% of the whole sulphur extraction in Austria-Hungary came from Swoszowice.

There, where sulphur is present, the springs of sulphide water can be found too. Waters from Swoszowice were described by the court doctor of Stephen Batory in the 16th century – it is said that he recommended them in the treatment of rheumatic ailments. Jakub Esprinchard, a Frenchman who had visited the mine in Swoszowice a few hundreds years ago, claimed that a stay in a mine treats plague.

Since the beginning of the spa, the place was popular among citizens of Cracow due to its close location. Józef Dietl himself, a doctor, a promoter of Polish spas and the president of Cracow, believed that highly mineralised waters which are present at the place are one of the best in Europe. As far as the content of sulphur is concerned, they take the fourth place in Europe and the fifth place in the world. He tried to create a spa based on sulphide water which would suit European standards. It was popular for a long time among citizens of Cracow and visitors. We can benefit from waters in Swoszowice until today so this peaceful, green part of Cracow is really worth visiting.

What can be treated here?

Sulphur ion which is present in the water of Swoszowice prevents tissues from destruction caused by inflammations and destruction of blood vessels. It improves blood circulation, regenerates connective tissue, detoxicates (e.g. in the case of lead intoxication) and has a positive impact in the case of atherosclerosis. Thanks to its properties rheumatic, neurological diseases, injuries, skin diseases and psoriatic arthritis can be treated in Swoszowice. Swoszowice Spa is an ideal place for people who have undergone surgeries of the musculoskeletal system.

What treatments?

The natural treasure of Swoszowice is sulphide water. There are two springs in the area of the spa – ‘Zdrój Główny’ (the Main Spring) and ‘Napoleon’ from which we can draw sulphate-bicarbonate-calcium-magnesium mineral water. It is used for body treatments, most often

baths, and cannot be used for crenotherapy. Sulphur ion, the main ingredient of the water from Swoszowice, is well absorbed into an organism through skin. Peat treatments and rehabilitation treatments are popular in the resort as well.

Sulphur for beauty

Podobno już królowa Marysieńka używała kosmetyków

It is claimed that Queen Marysieńka (Maria Kazimiera de La Grange d’Arquien, the wife of John III Sobieski) used cosmetics enriched with sulphur to keep beautiful, young appearance. Even though she did not have access to research which confirmed the beneficial influence of sulphur on broadly defined beauty at the time, she had a gut feeling for this smelly resource. Nowadays we know that sulphur is a part of creatine and collagen i.e. protein

which build skin, hair and nails. Hence, a low concentration of this element makes skin more supple whereas a higher one softens and exfoliates it. It is also helpful in the case of bacterial or fungal ailments. Dermatologists often recommend cosmetics containing sulphur if somebody suffers from acne and psoriasis. Moreover, sulphur in shampoos or conditioners aimed at greasy hair, makes it healthy and shining. It also strengthens nails and rejuvenates skin.

Equine-assisted therapy

Nearby the Spa Park in Swoszowice there is the Equestrian Centre of the Voivodeship Folk Sports Club ‘Krakus’ where we can benefit from equine-assisted therapy. It is an amazing method of psychomotor education which includes horses. It is usually implemented in the case of children and teenagers but it can be beneficial for adults too. Contact with a horse enables us to combat various fears, communicate with the world and build relationships. A session of equine-assisted therapy lasts approximately 30 minutes. Patients, depending on their age and possibilities, help with preparing a horse, get acquainted with it and sit on it doing various exercises. The method is applied in the case of children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy or people who have problems walking or after amputation of the limb.

Swoszowice is famous for sulphide baths but sulphide water cannot be used in crenotherapy. However, it does not mean that we may not drink mineral water in Cracow. Mateczny Spa Complex (the Spa Park and spa buildings) survived in a good condition in Mateczny Estate. Antoni Mateczny discovered the water on his land in 1898. Soon afterwards, the bath centre, the Spa Park and other spa facilities were created. Unfortunately, during the Nazi invasion, the German occupied these buildings and in the years 1945-1946 the Red Army was stationed there – they destroyed the spa equipment and the Park. After the war, the family of Mateczny regained the spa for a while but when the owners were forced to leave it in 1952, it was taken over by the State Treasury and later by the management of National Spas in Swoszowice-Zdrój.

A few years later, Mateczny functioned again and in 1970 Krakowianka bottling plant was put into service in the area of the Park. The heirs managed to get back the spa after several dozen years and in 2003 they sold it to IPR company. Today we can walk along the beautiful Spa Park there and drink water from Cracow Spa Pump Room. The Mineral Water Pump Room is located close to the former building of the bath facilities. We can take a sip of sulphate-chloride-sodium-magnesium-calcium mineral water which comes from the local ‘Mateczny Spring’ (highly mineralised) and ‘Anton’ (moderately mineralised). Cracow Mineral Water Pump Room is also a meeting spot and a place which hosts various cultural events, it is a beautiful Art Nouveau building surrounded by the Park.