About attractions in the Beskid Mountains and Szczyrk itself
The Beskid Mountains are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges. They attract tourists with picturesque landscapes – there are as many as 5 landscape floors in the area, each characterized by different forms of terrain, fauna, and flora – as well as a large variety of trails, making it possible for even less experienced hikers to embark on a walk. The gentle slopes and easier ascents make them an ideal alternative to the demanding and increasingly crowded Tatra Mountains. The region itself has a lot to offer as well. That is why today we share our suggestions of places worth visiting. Welcome to the review of attractions in the Silesian Beskid!
16 attractions worth seeing in the Silesian Beskid
Picturesque mountain peaks
Skrzyczne, Barania Góra, and Malinowska Skała – these are true gems of the Beskid Mountains. Skrzyczne is the highest peak of the Silesian range, rising to 1257 m above sea level, and thanks to a small observation platform, it offers the opportunity to admire the beautiful surroundings, including Żywiecczyzna and the Little Beskid. You can reach the top either on foot or by using the lift (one of which is located right next to our hotel). Another noteworthy route is the one to Barania Góra – a hill reaching 1220 m above sea level. The best way to go is from the direction of Wisła, but you have complete freedom in choosing the trail. From here, you can enjoy wonderful views, including the Silesian Beskid, Żywiecki Beskid, Little Beskid, Little Fatra, and if you look further, even the Tatras. A wealth of wonderful experiences is also guaranteed by the ascent to Malinowska Skała, especially if you go from the Salmopol Pass. Along the way, you can visit the Malinowska Cave, and at the summit, see rocky outcrops.
Must-see points on the Szczyrk map
Szczyrk is primarily known for its well-developed tourist infrastructure, but the city is also rich in places to explore. Where should you direct your steps? Certainly to the Sanctuary of St. James the Apostle. This historic wooden church with a log structure was built between 1797 and 1800. The building is located on a hill, has a rectangular nave and a narrower presbytery. It looks magnificent from the outside, but the greatest impression is made by its late-Baroque interior. Also worth noting is the complex of three ski jumps at Skalite, located on the northern slope of the mountain, where Polish jumpers regularly train and competitions take place. In addition, it is worth visiting the Bator Art Gallery, a private gallery of contemporary art (the collection includes works by local artists such as graphics, sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and glass works), strolling along the Promenade by the Żylica River, and checking out St. James Square, where an ice rink operates in winter.
What to see a little further from Szczyrk?
- Wisła, Ustroń, and Istebna are additional towns worth visiting. When planning a trip to Wisła, we recommend including the following in your sightseeing schedule:
- Rodła Cascades – 25 small waterfalls and river thresholds on the Biała Wisełka stretching for a length of 6 km, with the slopes of the ravines covered with ancient spruces and firs.
- The waterfall on Wisełka, measuring 8 meters in height, with a charming pond just below it.
- The Hunting Lodge of the Habsburgs built between 1897-1898, near Barania Góra. Erected on the Przysłop clearing, it is maintained in Tyrolean style. At one time, it functioned as a shelter, and currently serves as a branch of PTTK.
- The Beskid Museum, established in the former inn from 1794. Located in the city center, the exhibition includes items related to the life and work of mountain dwellers from this region.
- The Alley of Legends and Tales – a park path near the amphitheater, where sculptures depicting visions of oral traditions and tales are positioned along the path.
- The Castle of the President of the Republic of Poland – a modernist palace built between 1929-1930 on the site of the ruins of a wooden hunting lodge from the early 20th century. It currently serves as a place of rest for the head of state, but in previous years it also functioned as a vacation center for the Office of the Council of Ministers and a holiday home for KWK XXX-lecie PRL.
In Ustroń, be sure to visit the Ustroń Museum (with exhibitions covering the city’s history, ethnography, and showcasing crafts by local artists) and the Regional Museum Stara Zagroda (established in a traditional mountain farmhouse from 1768), whose exhibition reflects the former culture of Cieszyn Silesia. A wonderful attraction for children will be a visit to the Forest Park of Surprises, where they can observe animals up close, pet them, and feed them. While in the city, be sure to indulge in therapeutic baths in saline pools, for which this spa town is known. Moreover, it is worth going to Istebna to see the largest Koniaków lace. The doily has a diameter of 5 m and weighs 5 kilograms! It was made using 50 km of cotton thread. Interestingly, it is the largest handmade doily in the world, and therefore has been entered into the Guinness Book of Records. We hope our suggestions help you successfully plan your sightseeing during your trip. And if you need a place to stay that will provide you with ideal conditions for relaxation, we invite you to book a room in our Hotel Meta
