Poland hides many charming places that are ideal for weekend getaways. Our country abounds in diverse landscapes – from picturesque mountain peaks to vast plains and dense forests. For trekking enthusiasts, Poland offers numerous trails that are both charming and diverse. In this article, I will present the most beautiful trekking routes in Poland that are ideal for a weekend getaway, and we will also recommend some products that can come in handy during short and long expeditions.
The places we recommend in this article:
- Bieszczady – why Tarnica and Połonina Caryńska are must-see spots for mountain lovers.
- Karkonosze – how to conquer Sněžka and why it is worth visiting the Snowy Cirques.
- Pieniny – what Trzy Korony and Wąwóz Homole have to offer.
- Tatry – how to plan a hike to Dolina Pięciu Stawów and Czerwone Wierchy.
- Góry Stołowe – why Szczeliniec Wielki and Błędne Skały are must-sees.
- Beskid Żywiecki – what awaits tourists on the trails leading to Babia Góra and Pilsko.
- Jura Krakowsko-Częstochowska – how to discover the Trail of the Eagles’ Nests and the Ojców National Park.
- Mazury – which trekking routes to choose around Lake Sniardwy and in the Piska Forest.
Bieszczady – an oasis of peace in the wilderness
The Bieszczady are one of the most beautiful and at the same time most wild places in Poland. They are characterised by vast stretches of forest, which in spring and autumn attract tourists with their picturesque landscapes. The most popular trail is the route to Tarnica – the highest peak of the Bieszczady (1346 m).
- The trail to Tarnica – is a route that starts in Wołosat and leads through the beautiful Poloniny. The hike to the summit takes about 3-4 hours and the views you can enjoy from the top are truly stunning. On the way, you pass the Bukowska Pass, where, if you are lucky, you may encounter rare bird species.
- Połonina Caryńska – another popular trail is the route to Połonina Caryńska. The trail starts in Ustrzyki Górne and leads through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Bieszczady. The views stretching across valleys, mountains and forests are worth every moment of effort.
💡 THIS MAY WORK FOR YOU: During weekend excursions on mountain trails, especially if you plan to hike at dusk or early in the morning, a head torch is an essential piece of equipment. The Newell Campina Multi provides a powerful and reliable light source thanks to its XPG and COB LEDs. With 7 different light modes, including a red warning light and flashes, this torch will perform in all conditions. Thanks to the adjustable headband, you can keep your hands free, which is extremely important on demanding trails. In addition, the torch is equipped with a cap-mounting clip and a magnet for attaching it to metal surfaces. The IPX4 waterproof standard means that even rain will not prevent you from returning safely to the shelter. Charging the torch is simple and fast thanks to the USB-C port and the capacious battery.
Karkonosze – majestic mountains with legend
The Karkonosze are some of the most famous and highest mountains in Poland. They are characterised by a harsh climate and unusual rock formations. They are famous for their beautiful waterfalls, as well as their rich history and legends. The most popular hiking destination is of course Śnieżka, the highest peak of the Karkonosze (1,603 m).
- Trail to Śnieżka – you can start your hike in Karpacz, from where several different trails lead to the summit. The most picturesque of these leads through the Łomniczka Cauldron – a valley where snow often lingers, even in the late spring months. Along the way, you also pass the Dom Śląski (Silesian House) chalet, where it is worth stopping for a moment to rest before the final ascent.
- Trail through the Śnieżne Kotły – for those looking for slightly less frequented routes, the trail through the Snowy Cauldrons is an excellent choice. This is one of the most charming places in the Giant Mountains, characterised by steep rock walls and picturesque views.
Pieniny – picturesque gorges of the Dunajec River
Pieniny is a small mountain range, but extremely picturesque. They are best known for the Dunajec Gorge, which can be admired during rafting trips. However, trekking enthusiasts will also find something for themselves here – the trails in the Pieniny are full of amazing views.
- Trzy Korony – this is the most popular peak in the Pieniny, offering a magnificent panorama of the Tatra Mountains, Babia Góra, the Gorce Mountains and the Dunajec Gorge. The route to Trzy Korony starts in Sromowce Niżne and leads through picturesque meadows and forests. At the summit, there is a viewing platform from which the views are simply unforgettable.
- Wąwóz Homole – another interesting route leads through the Homole Gorge, which impresses with its wild nature and rock formations. This trail is a little less demanding, so it is ideal for families with children or those looking for a quieter hike.
💡 THIS CAN WORK FOR YOU: Mountain hiking requires not only good fitness, but also the right equipment, which can prove crucial in difficult situations. The Lunar Multitool is a multifunctional LED light that will not only light your way after dark, but also provide visibility with red flashing emergency lights. What’s more, this gadget acts as a multi-tasking multitool that offers, among other things, a socket spanner, a screwdriver with interchangeable bits, a glass breaker and a bottle opener. Thanks to a sturdy carabiner, you can attach it to your backpack and the built-in rechargeable battery will provide up to 3 hours of continuous use on a single charge. Whether you are planning a camping trip in the forest or a trek in the mountains, the Lunar Multitool is a gadget that will get you out of trouble more than once.
Tatry – a kingdom of mountaineering
The Tatras are the highest and at the same time the most demanding mountains in Poland. They are famous for their rugged peaks, crystalline lakes and wild nature. Although many of the trails in the Tatras require considerable stamina, there are also trails that can be completed in a single day, enjoying the beauty of these majestic mountains.
- Dolina Pięciu Stawów – this is one of the most beautiful places in the Tatras. The trail leads through a picturesque valley with five ponds surrounded by high peaks. The hike can be started from Palenica Białczańska and the whole route takes about 5-6 hours.
- Czerwone Wierchy – for those looking for a slightly more challenging route, I recommend the trail to Czerwone Wierchy. This is a mountain range consisting of four peaks: Ciemniak, Krzesanica, Małołączniak and Kopa Kondracka. The route offers breathtaking views of the Western and High Tatras.
Góry Stołowe – rock labyrinths and unusual formations
The Table Mountains are one of the most unique places in Poland. Famous for their flat table-like peaks and numerous rock formations that form real labyrinths. It is an ideal place for a weekend getaway, especially for families with children, but also for more experienced tourists.
- Szczeliniec Wielki – the highest peak of the Table Mountains, to which a picturesque trail through rock labyrinths leads. The route is not too demanding, and the views from the top are unforgettable – there is a panorama of the entire Sudety Mountains, and in good weather you can even see the Karkonosze.
- Błędne Skały – is another attraction of the Table Mountains. The trail leads through an unusual rock labyrinth, where you can admire fantastic formations such as the ‘Kwoka’ or ‘Kurza Stopka’. It’s a place that will delight both adults and children, giving you the opportunity to discover the beauty of nature in a slightly different way.
💡 THIS CAN WORK FOR YOU: On demanding trails where reliable illumination is key, the Newell EDC Nyks torch will work perfectly. With a beam range of up to 100 metres and power adjustment, you will adapt the light to your needs, whatever the conditions. With a maximum output of 900 lumens, this torch successfully competes with larger tactical models. The side LED panel offers 5 modes, including UV and red warning light, making it extremely versatile. The design of the light is suitable for harsh environments, meeting dust and moisture resistance standards (IP65). Thanks to its pendant and magnet, the Nyks torch can always be at hand, ready for use. Its operating time in economy mode reaches up to 76 hours, which is particularly useful during longer expeditions.
Beskid Żywiecki – green hills and majestic panoramas
The Beskid Żywiecki is one of the greener and less crowded mountain ranges in Poland. It is famous for its beautiful wooded hills and wide panoramas. It is an ideal place for quiet, relaxing hikes.
- Babia Góra – the highest peak of Beskid Żywiecki and at the same time the second highest peak in Poland (1,725 metres above sea level), also known as the ‘Queen of Beskids’. The trail to Babia Góra leads from the Krowiarki Pass and, although it is quite demanding, the views from the top compensate for any effort. Babia Góra offers panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains, the Pieniny Mountains and also the Orava Basin.
- Pilsko – the second highest peak in the Beskid Żywiecki (1557 m), offering equally beautiful views. The trail to Pilsko starts in Korbielów and leads through picturesque forests and mountain pastures. It is a slightly less frequented route, which makes it possible to feel a real contact with nature.
Jura Krakowsko-Częstochowska – limestone rocks and castles on the Eagle’s Nest Trail
Jura Krakowsko-Częstochowska is a region full of limestone rocks, caves and medieval castles. It is a perfect place for a weekend trek, especially for those interested in history and nature.
- Szlak Orlich Gniazd – this is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Poland, leading through the ruins of castles and fortresses. The trail starts in Krakow and ends in Częstochowa. On the route it is worth visiting the castle in Ogrodzieniec, which is the largest and best preserved castle in Jura.
- Ojcowski Park Narodowy – although it is the smallest national park in Poland, it offers many attractions, including picturesque gorges, caves and the castle in Pieskowa Skała. It’s the perfect place for a quiet walk or short hike.
💡 THIS MAY WORK FOR YOU: The FL1000LUV USB-C LED torch is an advanced tactical torch encased in a robust metal housing. It provides a maximum luminous flux of 1,000 lm, making it an ideal tool both outdoors and indoors. The torch offers up to 6 operating modes, including ultraviolet light (UV) and red laser, which significantly broadens its spectrum of applications. Thanks to the movable head, which can be adjusted to a 90-degree angle, the torch can light the way while clipped to a belt or backpack. The beam range reaches an impressive 109 metres, providing excellent visibility over large areas. The torch meets the IP54 waterproof standard and is powered by a replaceable 18650 battery (included).
Mazury – lakes, forests and silence
Masuria is a region that is mainly associated with sailing, but there are also many beautiful hiking trails through forests, hills and along lake shores. This is a great place to relax and get in touch with nature.
- Trail around Jezioro Śniardwy – Śniardwy is the largest lake in Poland, and the trail leading around it offers many picturesque views. Here you can encounter wildlife, admire beautiful bays and relax on numerous beaches.
- Puszcza Piska – a vast forest complex where you can take long, relaxing walks. The Piska Forest has many trails that lead through dense forests and along small lakes, making it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Share your adventures!
Poland is a country that offers many opportunities for trekking enthusiasts. From the majestic Tatra Mountains, the picturesque Pieniny Mountains and the wild Bieszczady Mountains to the mysterious Table Mountains and the green Beskids, there is something for everyone. It is worth using the weekend to discover the beauty of Polish nature and enjoy moments spent in the fresh air. Whichever route you choose, each of these trails will provide you with unforgettable experiences and allow you to get away from everyday life for a while.
Have you visited any of the described routes? Or are you just planning a trip? Share your trekking photos on social media and show us what Newell equipment accompanies you on your mountain treks! Tag our profiles and use the hashtag #Newell – we look forward to your reports and inspiring views from the Polish trails!