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Explore the unspoilt national parks of Poland and journey along epic alpine ranges to witness the traditional shepherding lifestyle. Begin in the cobblestone streets of charming Krakow then continue to Jaworki, a cosy village nestled by the Little Pieniny Mountain Range. Walk along White Water's Valley to be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the Tatra mountains that stradle the border of Poland and neighbouring Slovakia. Enter the national park of the Pieniny Mountains, famous for its beds of limestone and dolomite, and discover the beautiful gorge formed by the Dunajec river. Follow the splendid pastures through the national park of Gorces to the Borek Pass and stay at a remote but surprisingly comfortable mountain refuge. Perhaps as memorable as the mountain views are the warm welcomes from the villagers, with folklore shining through the local cuisine and habits. To appreciate the regions unique culture, stay in atmospheric guesthouses and sample unique food like oscypek - warm blocks of cheese made from salted sheep' milk and eaten with sweet cranberry jam. Marvel at the intricate wooden architecture of Zakopane and dive into the thriving atmosphere of its main street. Then return to Krakow following an ascent of Babia Gora (1725m), to recap the highlights of your week while relaxing in the Main Market Square, alive with bars, restaurants and grand buildings.
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25kg of CO2-e PP per day
(197kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Krakow, transfer to Jaworki
Our trip begins at 9.00am from central Krakow. From here we transfer to Jaworki in the heart of the Little Pieniny Mountain Range, about a 2 hour drive. Here we'll stay in comfortable guesthouse accommodation for 3 nights. Our hosts are very friendly and serve tasty food. Jaworki is a small, charming village located in a valley in the mountains, a great place to base ourselves for a few days of outstanding hiking. This afternoon, a warm up hike through the gorge will ensure we have worked up an appetite for the welcome dinner that will be prepared by our hosts at a campfire. We spend time tasting local grilled cheese and sausages and of course home-made vodka.
Meals: D
Day 2
Ridge hike in Little Pieniny along the Slovakia border with views of the Tatra Mountains (5hrs)
Our first hike begins from our pension. We take a trail along White Water’s Valley then climb steadily onto the mountain ridge straddling the border with Slovakia. This track offers magnificent views of both countries with the high peaks of the Tatras mountains in the background. Our route will meander through vibrant, green pastures, used in the summer by the shepherds as they graze their livestock. Return to Jaworki in the afternoon. Distance 15km/9.3mi, elevation +/-600m/1968ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Pieniny National Park hike amongst the characteristic limestone mountains (6hrs)
This morning by local bus we head to the beginning of the trail near Szczawnica. Crossing the river by barge due to the absence of a bridge, we will enter the Pieniny Mountains National Park. This park is made up of limestone and dolomite rock strata, eroded over time. A steep climb awaits us to the peak of Sokolica (747m), from where we will have a splendid view down to the gorges of Dunajec. Continuing the hike along the ridge with the deep gorge of Dunajec River on the left we will now climb the highest peak in the national park, Okraglica (982m). It offers great views of the Podhale region and the Tatras. While descending we will have an opportunity to refresh with the sour milk sold by shepherds to the tourists. Return to Jaworki for dinner and overnight accommodation. +-650m/2130ft
Day 4
Ascend Mt Turbacz, continue to mountain hut (6hrs)
Our day starts with a short minibus transfer to the village of Rzeki (35km/21.7mi), where we begin our climb of the highest mountain in the region, Mt Turbacz (1310m/4298ft). Passing the massif of Kudlon, where we'll see beautiful mountain pastures and charming traditional wooden cabins, we are now in the heart of the national park of Gorces. In blueberry season (July) or raspberry season (early August) the trail is lined with bushes brimming with fruit, slowing the pace of the walk to harvest speed. The climb is steady, crossing Borek Pass before reaching the plateau of Turbacz - another spot with splendid views of the rugged Tatra Mountains. *Please note that as our overnight accommodation is a mountain hut which cannot be accessed by road, you will need to carry all of your overnight requirements including toiletries and spare clothes with you. Distance: 12km/7.5mi, Elevation +900m/2952ft, -350m/1148ft
Day 5
Hike in the Gorce National Park, transfer to Zakopane (5.5hrs)
This morning we will explore the heart of the Gorce National Park with its beautiful mountain pastures and charming, traditional wooden cabins. Descending from the plateau of Turbacz, we head east passing the mountain huts at Stare Wierchy and Maciejowa. We will stop at one of these for lunch, before continuing on to our minibus and clean clothes in the town of Rabka, from where we transfer by road to Zakopane. Arriving in Zakopane late afternoon, considered the capital of the Tatras. The town is a hub of activity in winter and summer. With its charming architecture and busy mainstreet we can relax and enjoy the local hospitality as we spend the evening in a local restaurant with good food, drinks and hospitality. 2 nights in a comfortable wooden pension in a local style. Distance: 11km/6.8mi, elevation +150m/492ft, -700m/2296ft
Day 6
Discover the best trails of the Tatra National Park (6hrs)
Another great day in the Tatra National Park, the highest mountain range in the Carpathians. The guide will choose the trail today depending on the weather conditions. This could be either in the high Tatra for a challenging day hike or a more gentle but equally scenic walk in the western Tatra.
Day 7
Hike in the Babia Gora National Park with ascent of Babia Gora (1725m/5660ft) and overnight in a mountain hut (5hrs)
There will be a short transfer to the Krowiarki Pass. On the way we stop in Chocholow Village were we will walk the main street to admire the beautiful wooden houses. Krowiarki Pass is located at the border of Babia Gora National Park where we will commence our hike to the peak of Babia Gora (1725m). This massif is located on the border between Poland and Slovakia and is colloquially known as 'Queen of Beskidy'. From this peak you can admire one of the most impressive panoramas of the Polish mountains. Descend into the valley for our overnight stay at the refuge Markowe Szczawiny. Dormitory accommodation. Distance: 8km/5mi, elevation: +700/2300ft -500m/1640ft
Day 8
Descend to Zawoja, transfer to Krakow
There is a short descent to the village of Zawoja where we will board the bus to Krakow (100km/62mi), one of the most beautiful cities of Eastern Europe. On arrival in Krakow your guide will take you on a hike around the wooded outskirts of the city or if you prefer you can have free time for your own exploration. After your farewell dinner this evening your guide will say their goodbyes and leave you to experience the colourful nightlife of Krakow.
Meals: B,D
Day 9
Trip concludes
Trip concludes after breakfast.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
In Jaworki, stay in the heart of the Pieniny in a comfortable guesthouse where we enjoy a BBQ dinner on one night and local culinary specialties on others. Watch deer in nearby fields, play a game of badminton, relax in the garden or pick sour cherries and strawberries from the extensive gardens.
Two nights are spent in suprisingly comfortable mountain refuges. These spacious buildings have electricity, comfortable common areas and clean facilities, together with excellent food.
GRADE 3 - This is a guided hike that is approached in stages of 8 - 15km per day, at a medium altitude. There will be a maximum of 6 hours of hiking per day. As with all of our moderate graded trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, jogging, three or four times a week for at least three months prior to your departure. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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