Beskid Niski is a picturesque mountain region in southern Poland, forming part of the Western Carpathians. It is located on the border of the Małopolskie and Podkarpackie voivodeships, stretching from the Biała River valley in the west to the Osława River valley in the east. Beskid Niski is the lowest and least populated part of the Polish Carpathians, making it an ideal place for lovers of peace, nature, and hiking.
World War II and Its Consequences
During World War II, Beskid Niski once again became a theater of military operations. After the war, as a result of Operation “Vistula” in 1947, many Lemkos were resettled to the Recovered Territories, significantly changing the region’s demographics.
Modern Times
Today, Beskid Niski is a tourist region known for its beautiful landscapes, numerous hiking trails, and rich folk culture. Towns like Krynica-Zdrój attract tourists with their spas, and the local Lemko culture is preserved and showcased during numerous festivals and cultural events.
Beskid Niski – what to see?
1. Magura Małastowska
Magura Małastowska is one of the highest peaks in Beskid Niski (813 meters above sea level). There is a PTTK shelter and ski trails. From the summit, there is a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
2. Kornuty Nature Reserve
The Kornuty Reserve is a unique place with interesting rock formations. There are caves and characteristic rock outcrops, which are an attraction for geology and nature enthusiasts.
3. Krynica-Zdrój
Krynica-Zdrój, although formally located on the outskirts of Beskid Niski, is a popular spa town known for its mineral waters and beautiful spa architecture. It is worth visiting the Spa Park, the water drinking halls, and Góra Parkowa with its funicular.
4. Wysowa-Zdrój
Wysowa-Zdrój is another spa town in Beskid Niski, offering numerous sanatoriums and mineral water drinking halls. The area features numerous hiking trails and picturesque river valleys.
5. Churches and Wooden Churches
Beskid Niski is rich in sacred monuments, particularly Lemko wooden churches. It is worth visiting the churches in Kwiatoń, Owczary, and Sękowa, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
6. Wooden Architecture Route
The Wooden Architecture Route is a tourist trail encompassing the most beautiful wooden buildings in the region. Besides churches, it also includes historic village houses and cottages.
7. Magura National Park
Magura National Park protects the unique ecosystems of Beskid Niski. The park offers numerous hiking trails, educational paths, and places for nature observation. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and hikers.
8. Dukla and Surroundings
Dukla is a small town with interesting monuments, such as the Baroque church and Bernardine monastery, the Mniszchów Palace, and war cemeteries from World War I. Nearby is also Cergowa Mountain with its lookout tower.
9. Dukla Pass
Dukla Pass is a historic place that witnessed heavy fighting during World War I and II. Today, there is a museum and a war cemetery commemorating the fallen soldiers.
10. High Meadows and Scenic Areas
Beskid Niski offers numerous trails leading through picturesque meadows and hills, from which there are stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. These are ideal places for hiking and enjoying the landscapes.
