The Tatra mountains (in the Carpathians)
The Tatra mountains are possibly the most well-recognised mountain range and definitely one of the most popular travel destinations among tourists. Its popularity means that in order to enjoy your treks without crowded summits or too much traffic on the way you might want to set out early in the morning. Once you hit the trails you will enjoy the best of what the Tatra mountains have to offer. Some rocky summits, steep climbs and breath-taking valleys. You may climb Rysy – the highest peak in Poland or try yourself on Orla Perć, which is one of the most challenging treks in Poland. If that is a bit too much, you may enjoy the staggering views of the Five Ponds Valley, especially mesmerizing on a sunny day.
Bieszczady (in the Carpathians)
The Bieszczady mountains are in direct opposition to the Tatras. The vast open spaces of this sparsely populated region in the very South-East tip of Poland are a perfect destination for those seeking peace and solitude. Surely, you will meet other travellers in the most popular travel locations, however, for the majority of time you are most likely to be on your own. The trails are generally not too challenging and without any steep climbs either. One of the must-see points in Bieszczady is the Solina lake and Solina Dam offering some spectacular views. The lower parts of Bieszczady are covered in thick forests that are home to a large population of bears, although the sightings are not that common. Bieszczady are also frequently referenced in Polish culture and films.
Pieniny (in the Carpathians)
The Pieniny mountains are second most visited mountain range in Poland and compared to the neighbouring Tatras the climate here is slightly more pleasant. Generally, less cloudy, which translates to slopes being exposed to lots of sun, however, the valleys are still enjoyably cool. Pieniny are also characterised by enormous diversity of flora and fauna with over 1.100 various vascular plants and about 14 thousand species of animals – roughly a half of the total volume of all the species in Poland. Your travel itinerary should include a visit to Niedzica castle overlooking lake Czorsztyn and rafting down the Dunajec River Gorge.
Karkonosze (in the Sudetes)
The Karkonosze mountains are the highest mountain range within the Sudetes and stretch across South-West of Poland and bits of Czech Republic. The highest peak, Śnieżka, may be just 1603 metres high but it is still quite a popular travel destination in the region with its distinctive weather observatory. Once here be sure to visit popular Polish resorts of Szklarska Poręba and Karpacz. Another place worth visiting is the Karkonosze National Park – one of the oldest national parks in Poland and UNESCO’s Nature Reserve.
Summary
The south of Poland offers some amazing opportunities for trekkers of all sorts. With easy rolling hills, advanced vertical climbs and everything that lies in between. A Polish travel agency ITS Poland will help you choose the right destination and help you with your travel planning. You may rest assured that with their help you will get decent accommodation, transfers where necessary and they will help you get a guide too. All you have to do is pack your bag and head to Poland!