Attractions & Activities

Szczawnica is one of the oldest, the most beautiful spa resort town located in southern Poland between the ranges of the Pieniny and the Sącz Beskids.  
The town has its 12 different sorrel sources of mineral water and  “szczawy” which the town's name "Szczawnica" was originated.  The mineral rich spring water combined with town's geographical location providing favourable climate conditions (microclimate),  many digestive tract and respiratory illnesses are treated.  

There are plenty of attractions and activities you can enjoy nearby. 
Major local attractions are just moments away including 
Trzy Korony (Three Crowns) summit, Sokolica, Wąwóz Homole (Homole Gorge), Biała Woda (White Water) Nature Reserve and of course the  Splyw Dunaicem (Traditional Rafting) down the Dunajec river.

The region is renowned for outstanding natural beauty  and whether you are an elite hiker or leisurely stroller, there are many local hiking paths where you can enjoy the fresh air, highland flora, and of course, the breathtaking views. 

In winter season, you can enjoy many skiing trails and slopes in Szczawnica, Jaworki and Kluszkowce as well as horse sledging with local highlanders.

Trzy Korony (Three Crowns) Summit

The highest and the most popular attraction in Pieniny mountains (982m above sea level).  There is a observation platform where you can admire the outstanding views of Dunajec River Gorge, Pieniny National Park and many other surrounding peaks including Tatra mountains. 

It is best reached from neighbouring town, Krościenko nad Dunajcem taking the Green/Yellow trail then to Blue trail for reaching the peak, alternatively from Sromowce Niżne taking Yellow/ Green and then to Blue trail.

Sokolica Summit

Lower than Trzy Korony at 747m above sea level, it claims the prize for beauty in Pieniny mountains.  On the summit grows a number of ancient pine trees, estimated up to 500 years old.  One of them being the prettiest  became the spotlight amongst visitors however, upper part of the tree was broken during the helicopter rescue operation in 2018.  The damaged part is now conserved and exhibited in the Museum of Peininy National Park in neighbouring city, Krościenko nad Dunajcem.  Why not combine your trip taking Pienińska Road on the Red trail from Szczawnica and take a short river crossing.

Traditional & Inflatable Boat Rafting / Canoeing / Kayaking (1 April- 31 October)

Probably the most popular attraction is the Splyw Dunajcem, the traditional rafting.  Take a relaxing journey (18km, aprox 2hrs) downstream  on the historical wooden raft, captained by "Goral" highlander rafts-men.  It will provide you with unforgettable experience, going though the picturesque scenery surrounding   Dunajec River Gorge over unhurried waters.  For those who prefers to add more adrenaline to it, why not try the Inflatable Boat Rafting, Canoeing or Kayaking down stream!

The Mineral Water Drinking Room (Pump Room)

Try and feel the benefits of various types of Mineral rich water from 6 local sources available at Pijalnia Wód Mineralnych, Dietla Square.  They are known to help treat the illnesses of airways, stomach catarrh, constipation, arterial sclerosis, with high cholesterol levels, osteoporosis.  While you are there, why not take a look at Museum Uzdrowiska w Szczawnica, where it presents 200-year history of Szczawnica as a spa resort.

Wąwóz Homole (Homole Gorge)

Homole gorge is another major attraction within the region where visitors are able to soak in the unique charm of its landscape.  It forms a deep canyon with steep sides (up to 120 meters high) covered scenically covered with greenery.  Along the trail runs a stream Kamionka, where you will be navigated across along your journey.  Visitors can even combine the visit with Biała Woda as it is also conveniently located nearby.

Biała Woda (White Water) Nature Reserve

Located in neighbouring village of Jaworki, take a easy stroll up the picturesque trail through the nature reserve.  It is also recommended to those who often finds regular hiking routes strenuous or with small children.  This reserve mainly consists of grass and farmlands with interesting ancient geological structures towering along the way, believed to have created  during Jurassic and Cretaceous period.  It is also possible to arrange  Horse Riding and Horse Sledding in winter.  There are number of local shepherd's huts along the route so why not try their original "Oscypek" -  smoked cheese made from sheep milk, or visit Bacówka near by, a traditional highlander's restaurant where you can enjoy many local dishes.

Droga Pienińska

The 9km long pedestrian/cyclist route connecting Szczawnica and Slovak village of  Červený Kláštor (Red Monestery) is another attraction not to be missed.  It runs alongside the Dunajec River and it's outstanding views of Dunajec River gorge, surrounding mountains with rock walls with the gentle flow of the river is spectacular.  This beautiful route is almost entirely flat and also suited to those who prefers more gentle activities.  Czerwony Klasztor Museum can of course be visited as well as combining your trip with visit to Sokolica Summit by taking a river crossing on the Blue trail.

Palenica

The main attraction of Szczawnica is the Palenica (722m).  The peak can be reached using the chairlift or on foot along the Yellow trail from the town centre.  Here, you can admire outstanding views of surrounding nature and panoramic view of Szczawnica from the lift.  At the top you will find a small restaurant, gravitational slide, children play ground, bouncy castle, and many other family friendly attractions for everybody to  enjoy during the summer season.  Of course in the winter, It is primarily visited by skiers and snowboarders alike from far and wide, offering 4 different ski runs/slopes.

Velo Czorsztyn - Cycling Route around the Czorsztyn Lake

Considered as the prettiest in Poland, Velo Czorsztyn extends early 30km of gorgeous cycling route around the Czorsztyn Lake.  The route comprises of two sections:

  • Southern route, which leads along the Velo Dunajec route from Niedzica through Falsztyn and the side dam in Frydman to the bridge in Dębno (aprox. 15 km);
  • Northern route, which takes you from the bridge in Dębno, through Maniowy, Kluszkowce, to the castle in Czorsztyn, built as part of a separate project (aprox 15 km

The whole loop can be completed taking a boat crossing between Niedzica castle and Czorsztyn in either direction.  While you are in the area, why not visit the Niedzica (Dunajec) Castle, ruins of Czorsztyn Castle, take a Criuse on the lake or visit the UNESCO Wooden Church of St. Michael Archangel in Dębno, datng back to early 16th century. 

Thermal Water Parks & Spas

You may be surprised to think about thermal baths in Poland but there are number of them within the vicinity for the whole family to enjoy.   Feel the magic of nature and enjoy the soothing properties of thermal water ranging from 30 to 38C.  Other than thermal water pools, jacuzzis, saunas, steam rooms - where you can unwind, hundreds of meters of crazy water slides awaits for some excitements!

- Chochołowskie Thermal Baths - Chochołów (64km)
- Terma Bania - Białka Tatrzańska (44km)
- Temy Szaflary - Szaflary (46km)
- Gorący Potok - Szaflary (46km)
- Terma Bukovina - Bukowina Tatrzańska (53km)
- Vrbow - baseny siarkowe Slovakia (66km)
- AquaCity - Poprad, Slovakia (73km)

Rope Parks

Both ABlandia and Adventure Sky offers great activity time for children and adults alike in the nature of Pieniny, located in neighbouring village of Krocienko nad Dunajcem just 7km from Szczawnica. There are various routes for different abilities so you are sure to find thrill and excitement for everyone.

The Church of St. Michael Archangel in Dębno was built dating back in 1490 and the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Podhale region.  It is the best preserved wooden church built in Gothic style and the most famous monuments in Poland. 

Visit to the church can be combined with visiting the the Niedzica (Dunajec) Castle, ruins of Czorsztyn Castle, take a Criuse on the Czorsztyn lake.

Mountain Biking Trails

For those who are looking for more extreme thrill, there are plenty of mountain bike trails within and around Szczawnica with range of difficulty levels.    Why not take a look for yourself! 

Krynnica Treetop Walk and Observation Tower

The tallest observation tower in Poland with the eyecatching  wooden tower with the height of 49.5m is located in another famous spa town of Krynica Zdroj.  Walk along a scenic wooden paths among the treetops with a total length of 1030 meters and soak in the beautiful scenery of Jaworzyna Krynicka mountain range.

Niedzica / Dunajec Castle

Visit Niedzica Castle, also known as Dunajec Castle for cultual enrichment.  It is located over looking the Czorsztyn Lake in Niedzica, only 25 minutes drive away.  This 14th Centrury castle was built as a fort defending nothern border of Hungary and once served an important  centre for Hungarian-Polish relations.  The castle holds secret treasures, ancient artwork, and the ghost of a woman who appears nightly.  Along the road leading up to the castle is a sign that warns visitors that they are about to enter a haunted location!

For organised trips and eventscan be booked through various agencies:

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