Szczawnica - the health center, Poland
Szczawnica is a historic spa town located approximately 60 km east of the popular tourist destination of Zakopane. Nestled in a picturesque valley between the stunning Pieniny and Beskid Sądecki mountain ranges, the town is famous for its excellent microclimate and twelve natural springs of medicinal acidic waters, which have been used for therapeutic purposes since the sixteenth century. This unique combination of nature and therapeutic properties makes it a perfect destination for both relaxation and active exploration.
The town's history as a spa dates back centuries, and it has evolved into a well-known health and wellness resort, attracting visitors seeking the restorative benefits of its mineral waters. The surrounding mountains offer a beautiful backdrop for a peaceful retreat, with lush forests and fresh air contributing to a serene atmosphere.
Access and parking in Szczawnica
We visited Szczawnica during our stay in Zakopane. First we drove the road 47, then in Nowy Targ we turned onto the road 969, which led us practically to our target. We parked the car in the parking lot at the Zdrojowa street (1; GPS: 49.425519, 20.483383) - near the intersection of the streets Główna and Szalaya. The location is good since we are close to Grajcarek stream and to the cableway, as well as to the center of the spa.
The parking lot's proximity to key attractions makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the town on foot. While parking in such a prime location is typically paid, the convenience it offers is well worth it, as it eliminates the need for long walks from more remote parking areas. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, is always a good strategy to secure a spot without any hassle.
The town's center
We go slightly uphill the Zdrojowa street to the center of the spa. On the way we pass some spa houses on both left and right sides. The houses are mostly renovated, but there are ugly exceptions, such as a big building on the right side (GPS: 49.427120, 20.486308) - it does not fit into the whole place, it's currently unused and times haven't been good for it. The local government should do something with this building, because it spoils the good impressions. Anyway, we soon reach the real spa center - it's the Dietl Square (A; GPS: 49.428826, 20.487832), which looks really interesting. Old buildings with a very interesting architecture are renovated and they are doing right impression on visitors. In the middle of the square there is a nice fountain, we also see a lot of greenery around, many walking paths - all you need for the patients and visitors.
The square is a fantastic showcase of old buildings with interesting, intricate architecture that has been carefully restored. In the middle of the square, there is a lovely fountain, and the area is filled with lush greenery and walking paths, creating a perfect environment for patients and visitors to relax and socialize. The focal point of the spa's health benefits is the historic Mineral Water Pump Room ("Pijalnia Wód Mineralnych") located in the square, where visitors can sample the famous therapeutic waters for a small fee, experiencing the very essence of Szczawnica's reputation as a spa.
The Grajcarek stream and the cableway to Palenica
After visiting the spa center we go back the same way (the Zdrojowa Street) to the intersection of the streets Główna and Szalaya, and then we go downstairs in the direction of the Grajcarek stream to go to a nice promenade called "Nad Grajcarkiem". The promenade was created in 2011, it has a length of almost 2 km and it is really beautiful - there are benches, terraces, bridges, ornamental plants, artificial lighting - and above it we see the mountains with a rich vegetation. The promenade starts at the cableway (B; GPS: 49.425029, 20.480563) to Palenica, so that after a short ride we're on the summit of the mountain (C; GPS: 49.418756, 20.476456). From this point we can enjoy a beautiful scenery, and secondly, we have the opportunity to walk interesting trails that begin there.
The promenade is well-equipped with benches, terraces, and bridges, all beautifully accented with ornamental plants and artificial lighting, making it a perfect spot for a stroll at any time of day. The promenade starts at the cableway (B; GPS: 49.425029, 20.480563) to Palenica, providing easy access to the mountain. After a short and scenic ride, you arrive at the summit of the mountain (C; GPS: 49.418756, 20.476456). From this vantage point, you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of the surrounding Pieniny and Beskid mountains. Once at the top, you have the opportunity to walk along several interesting hiking trails that begin there, offering various levels of difficulty for every kind of hiker.
Palenica offers more than just hiking. In addition to the trails, there is a popular toboggan run that operates year-round, providing a fun activity for families and thrill-seekers. During the winter season, the mountain transforms into a ski resort with well-maintained slopes, making it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. The convenience of the cableway makes this peak accessible to everyone, ensuring that visitors can easily enjoy both the views and the activities available.
Gastronomy in Szczawnica
After a day of walking and exploring the spa and mountains, you'll find plenty of opportunities to refuel with delicious food. The local cuisine in Szczawnica is a wonderful reflection of the Polish mountain region, offering hearty and flavorful dishes. Many restaurants and traditional inns, known as karczmy, serve up local specialties that are perfect for a cool mountain evening.
Be sure to try kwaśnica, a traditional sauerkraut soup with potatoes and smoked meat, which is a staple of the region. Other popular dishes include pierogi (dumplings) with various fillings, and regional cheeses like oscypek, a smoked sheep's milk cheese often grilled and served with cranberry sauce. The restaurants in the main square and along the promenade offer a charming atmosphere where you can enjoy these local tastes.
In addition to traditional Polish fare, you can find modern cafes and restaurants serving international cuisine. Don't forget to sample the local specialties and enjoy a warm cup of tea or a local beer in one of the cozy establishments, making your visit a true feast for all the senses.
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