The Tatra Mountains are located in Southern Poland and they form natural border between Poland and Slovakia. Peak of Rysy is the highest point of Poland (2499 m) and also the highest walk-up peak in Slovakia. The highest mountain of the whole mountain range lies in Slovakia and its name is Gerlach (2655 m) but climbing there is allowed only with a professional guide.
The Polish Tatra National Park was founded in 1954 and in 1993 its area was added to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve list. It covers only 0,07% of Poland’s total area but it’s visited by approximately 3 million tourists every year. Polish Tatra Mountains are divided in two different parts: High Tatras and West Tatras. There are hundreds of caves and seven of them are open to public (five in Poland).
Major attractions of Tatra Mountains:
- Morskie Oko is said to be the most beautiful Tatra lake. Breathtaking and absolutely amazing. It’s name literally means “Marine eye” and it’s the largest lake in Tatra Mountains.
- Kasprowy Wierch lies in the center of Polish Tatras and that is why it’s a very good starting point for a lot of mountains trails. To admire unforgettable views you can get there by cable car (built in 1936 and modernized in 2007).
- Koscieliska Valley is one of the most picturesque places in Poland. It’s 9 km long and runs along Koscielski Stream. While walking there you can visit the following caves: Mrozna, Mylna, Raptawicka, Smocza Jama and Oblazkowa.
- Valley of Five Polish Lakes is an example of post-glacial landscape. Simply gorgeous.
- Wielka Siklawa is the longest waterfall in Poland (ca. 70 m). It’s especially beautiful when heavy rains and bright sunlight create fantastic rainbows.