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Travel blog
Holidays in the Karkonosze Mountains are an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Are you wondering what to see in Karpacz on holiday? We present our summary TOP 17 the best attractionsthat you will surely like. Regardless of whether you are planning a longer holiday or a weekend getaway - our guide will help you make the most of your time spent in this picturesque area. We invite you to read!
Karpacz, located in the picturesque Karkonosze Mountains, is one of the most frequently visited tourist centers in southwestern Poland. Its rich history dates back to the 14th century, when the first settlements were established here, such as Wilcza Poręba, Budniki and Bierutowice. In the 19th century, tourism and winter sports developed here, and before World War II, Karpacz was already a famous resort with railways, bobsleigh tracks and a ski jump.
Today's Karpacz received city rights in 1960. Despite the passage of time, the town still delights with the intimate atmosphere of a mountain resort.
Karpacz attracts tourists not only with its wonderful monuments, but also with its rich gastronomic, accommodation and entertainment offer. Here are the best attractions in Karpacz that are worth seeing on holiday:
While wandering around Karpacz, it's hard not to come across a place that literally transports you back in time—to the times of the Vikings and mysterious runes. Wang Temple, also known as Mountain Church of Our Savior — one of the greatest tourist attractions in the region and at the same time one of the most valuable wooden monuments in Poland.
The temple was not built in Poland. Its history dates back to Norway, or more precisely, a charming town Vang, located on the lake of the same name. It was built of massive pine logs at the turn of the 12th and 13th centuries, making it one of the oldest examples of wooden religious architecture from the Viking era.
In the 19th century it was dismantled, transported across half of Europe and – thanks to the initiative of the Prussian king – she went to Karpacz, where in In 1842 it was reassembledSince then, it has served the local Evangelical community and delighted generations of tourists.
What immediately catches your attention is unique architecture — a massive structure without the use of nails, a richly decorated wooden altar, and numerous sculptures that give the interior a unique atmosphere. You can see figures here lions, dragons, and even images of Vikings, carved with extraordinary attention to detail.
There are also preserved on the walls Scandinavian runes – an ancient script that served both a utilitarian and decorative purpose in Nordic culture. These mysterious symbols only add to the mystical character of the place.
The Wang Temple is not only history and art, but also breathtaking surroundings. Situated on a slope Czarna Góra (885 m above sea level), halfway from lower Karpacz to Śnieżka, offers amazing views of the Karkonosze Mountains.
Admission prices:
Opening hours:
On Sundays and most holidays, services are held at 10:00. Visiting the church is then possible after 11.30.
The fee for visiting the Wang Church can be paid by VISA, MASTERCARD or cash at the cash desk on the day of the visit.
If you are looking for a place in the Karkonosze Mountains that combines history, peace and absolutely fabulous views – you must visit PTTK Samotnia ShelterThis is one of the oldest and most atmospheric mountain shelters in Poland, located at an altitude of 1195 m above sea level, right on the Small Pond, in the heart Karkonosze National Park.
The history of Samotnia dates back to the times when the entire Karkonosze Mountains were dotted with shepherds' huts - there were about 2.5 thousand! Today's shelter was built on the basis of one of them. Over the years, the facility has been expanded and today it delights. wooden facade, rustic interior atmosphere and architecture that blends perfectly into the Karkonosze landscape.
One of the most recognizable elements of Samotnia is wooden turret with a bell – once used to announce mountain alarms. It's a true landmark of this place.
The shelter is accessed by, among others: yellow and blue trail from KarpaczThe route is very picturesque and not too difficult – perfect for a day trip, even with children or a dog. Along the way, it's worth stopping at the Wang Temple – an ideal stop before continuing your hike.
Accommodation prices: The cost of accommodation in a shelter is approximately PLN 100 per person - depending on the room standard. In this matter, it is best to contact the facility directly.
Opening hours: The shelter is open all year round.
Located at a height 1258 m above sea level, in a picturesque, treeless clearing One zloty, Academic thatch This is the second largest mountain shelter in the Polish Karkonosze Mountains. Its unique location – right next to the main junction of hiking trails, winter trails, and a ski lift – makes it an ideal place for both hikers and skiers.
The facility gained its name shortly after World War II, when it was acquired by students of Krakow's universities. Since then, Academic thatch It combines the spirit of youth, mountain adventure, and hospitality. It's the perfect stop on a mountain hike—with atmosphere, history, and views that will stay with you for a long time.
Accommodation prices: Prices range from PLN 80 to PLN 130 per person. In this matter, it is best to contact the facility directly.
Opening hours: The shelter is open all year round.
An apartment with a fireplace, a sauna, or a view of the Karkonosze Mountains? Get inspired and choose a Wonder Home apartment that perfectly suits your needs:
Located at a height 1400 m above sea level, right next to the border with the Czech Republic and almost at the foot Snow White, Silesian House This is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Karkonosze trail map. Its unique location at the intersection of major tourist routes means that almost all hikers heading to the highest peak in the Sudetes stop here.
The building is two-story, completely renovated and offers comfortable, higher standardThe Silesian House is an ideal stop, whether for a short break along the route or an overnight stay with a view of the mountains.
Accommodation prices: Accommodation costs range from PLN 50 to PLN 100 per person. In this matter, it is best to contact the facility directly.
Opening hours: The shelter is open all year round.
On the northern slopes of the Kowarski Ridge, at an altitude of approximately 900 meters above sea level, lies a unique place – the former settlement of Budniki. Although it no longer appears on maps, it still attracts those who love mountain secrets and stories with a touch of oblivion.
Budniki was founded during the Thirty Years' War, when civilians fled the chaos of war high into the mountains to escape. These temporary shelters eventually grew into a settlement of a dozen or so houses. Residents made their living from cattle breeding, cheesemaking, and sometimes even smuggling. Snuff and tobacco smuggled through the mountains left a legacy – the "Snuff Path," which still tempts hikers today. After the war, Budniki became a student base, housing the "Bratnia Pomoc" recreation center. But that's not the end of this remarkable story.
Budniki was also unique for another reason: for 113 days a year (from November 26th to February 15th), the sun didn't reach it at all. The mountain slopes cast shadows, plunging the settlement into semi-darkness. The residents celebrated this symbolically: they bid farewell to the sun in late autumn and welcomed it back with a rousing cheer in February.
After 1950, uranium ore exploration began in the area, and Budniki began to be depopulated. Eventually, it was completely abandoned and disappeared from official maps. Only the legend and paths through the trees remained.
Today, Budniki is a stop on a route steeped in mountain atmosphere, tranquility, and history. If you enjoy places with soul, it's worth seeking out.
Admission prices: Free
If you are looking for a place in the Karkonosze Mountains that combines the raw beauty of nature with panoramic views – The Rock Table will meet all expectations. It is the highest peak of the Kowarski Grzbiet, rising to 1,281 m above sea level, with a characteristic, flat ridge that really resembles stone tables.
From its top there is a view one of the most beautiful views in this part of the Sudetes:
It's a real treat for photographers, space lovers and those who like to relax "on the edge of the horizon".
Skalny Stół (Rock Table) lies on the border of the Polish and Czech Karkonosze National Parks. Walking through here, you can experience the unique atmosphere of the borderland, literally and figuratively. It's a place where trails, languages, and above all: views worth every minute of the climb.
➤ Blue trail from Przełęcz Sowia to Przełęcz Okraj
➤ Yellow trail to Kowary via Budniki
Admission prices: Free
In the heart of Karpacz there is a place that combines the history of engineering with the charm of the Karkonosze nature. This is the dam on the Łomnica River - an important point on the city map, and at the same time the silent heroine of many flood stories.
Construction of the dam began after the tragic downpour of 1897, which caused massive destruction throughout the region. Between 1910 and 1915, a structure was built from massive granite blocks to tame the capricious Łomnica River. And it succeeded – the dam still effectively regulates the water flow today, protecting Karpacz from further cataclysms.
Although its main purpose was to protect the city, today the dam is also a popular place for family walksThe path along the river valley is incredibly picturesque, and the massive granite structure impresses both children and adults.
Admission prices: Free
If you are in Karpacz, climbing Śnieżka is a must-see. This highest peak of the Karkonosze Mountains and the entire Sudetes (1603 m above sea level) is not only impressive in height – is a symbol that has attracted travelers from all over Europe for centuries.
Śnieżka is famous for its exceptionally capricious weather – low temperatures, strong winds, snowstorms and rain are everyday occurrences here. It is shrouded in fog for over 300 days a year., which only adds to its mysterious character. And yet – or precisely because of this – it is so magnetic.
Built of granite and hornfelsŚnieżka delights with its boulder fields—rocky rubble that covers its slopes. This rugged landscape makes you feel as if you're standing on the edge of the world.
On a clear day, from the top of Śnieżka you can see distant mountain ranges, and the view reaches up to 200 km! This is one of those places where you can truly feel the power of nature.
It's not just a mountain – it's also a place with history. On August 10, 1681, the Chapel of St. Lawrence was consecrated here. This date is considered a holiday for guides and mountain people. Every year, a mass is celebrated there, attracting crowds of tourists.
The characteristic "flying saucers" are High-Mountain Meteorological Observatory – one of two in Poland. Systematic meteorological measurements have been carried out here since 1880.Although the structure is currently closed to visitors, it remains an icon of Śnieżka.
Admission prices: There is a way to the top free of charge, but fees apply for using the cable cars.
The restored building of the Karpacz railway station houses a place full of nostalgia, magic and artisan craftsmanship – Henryk Tomaszewski Municipal Toy MuseumFounded in 1995, it arose from the private collection of this extraordinary artist – mime and founder of the Wrocław Pantomime Theatre.
This is not an ordinary museum – is a journey through over 200 years of the history of children's imaginationIn the display cases you will find:
Each exhibit tells a different story – about childhood, culture and the craftsmanship of the craftsmen.
An additional attraction of the museum is Railway Tradition Room – perfect for little train enthusiastsThe facility regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, themed events, and creative workshops for families with children. And importantly – the museum is fully adapted for people with disabilities.
Admission prices:
Opening hours:
Museum closed to visitors: every Monday and January 1, January 6, Easter Sunday, Corpus Christi, November 1, November 11, December 25.
Is it magic, an optical illusion, or perhaps… a glitch in the matrix? There's a place in Karpacz that surprises even the most rational tourists. On Strażacka Street, between the Piecuch Hotel and the bridge over the Łomnica River, the laws of physics seem to be malfunctioning.
Stop right there, leave the bottle, the can, or even the car in neutral – and observe. Instead of rolling down, objects start to… roll up! Although the road visually appears to be descending, the vehicles are moving backwards in the direction that should be "uphill".
Research indicates that the force of gravity in this place may be up to 4% weaker than normalAlthough most experts attribute this to an optical illusion, many visitors feel as if they are in a true anomaly zone.
This place attracts not only tourists with children, but also enthusiasts of unexplained phenomena, photographers, and... skeptics who want to see everything for themselves. 🙂
Admission prices: Free
In Karpacz you will find not only mountain trails and charming shelters, but also a place where the spirit of sports competition has been alive for decades. The Orlinek ski jump, now serving as a viewing point, has a history dating back to the beginning of the 20th century.
The first wooden structure was built here in 1912. After the war, without documentation or official plans, the legendary Polish ski jumper Stanisław Marusarz helped to create a new ski jump.The 1970s brought modernization: the wooden tower was replaced by a steel structure, and in 1979 the new Stanisław Marusarz ski jump was officially opened.
In 2000, Orlinek underwent a major renovation before the Junior World Championships, but it was 2004 that went down in the history of the ski jumping hill – it was then Adam Małysz set a record for the facility by jumping as high as 94.5 meters!
Today, Orlinek is a magnificent vantage point with panoramic views of the Karkonosze Mountains. You can climb the ski jump tower, feel the adrenaline rush, and gaze upon the route masters have conquered.
Admission prices: Free
Be sure to check out our other posts about Karpacz:
On the slopes of Krucza Kopa, in the Płomnica valley, rise the Raven Rocks – a place where nature reveals its power, and people have been trying to uncover its secrets for centuries. These impressive rock formations, reaching heights of 25 meters, attract both nature lovers and adventurers.
Raven Rocks is a paradise for geologists and all who love minerals. There are large concentrations of pegmatites here., which hide such wonders of nature as:
The most beautiful specimens from this region can be admired today at the Geological Museum in Wrocław – but who knows what else awaits in the nooks and crannies of the Karkonosze Mountains?
According to local legend, tunnels were dug here in search of gold in the Middle Ages. A reminder of those times is a huge boulder lying at the foot of the rocks. – a silent witness to ancient dreams of fortune.
Today, Krucze Skały is also a popular climbing center. Here you'll find dozens of trails of varying difficulty—perfect for both beginners and experienced climbers. And if climbing isn't your thing, just sit back and admire it. The view of the Karkonosze Mountains is truly impressive!
Admission prices: Free
In Karpacz Górny, right at 53 Karkonoska Street, stands a small but unique facility that has been capturing the imagination of lovers and lovers of local stories for years. Love Mill – a place where, according to folk legend... love is born.
Once upon a time, it was an ordinary mill, its wooden wheel powered by mountain water. But the locals believed it ground more than just grain—it also had the magical power to awaken love in the hearts of those who encountered it.
The mill's contemporary appearance is the result of modernization designed by Janusz Motylski. Today, it is not only a romantic memento of the past, but also one of the most atmospheric corners of Karpacz – perfect for a walk for two or a moment of reflection among the landscapes of the Karkonosze Mountains.
Admission prices: Free
In Karpacz, at Kopernika Street 2, there is a place that takes us back to the times when Śnieżka was accessed by sedan chair and skiing was a true art. Museum of Sports and Tourism, founded in 1974, is located in a historic half-timbered building and tells the extraordinary story of the region through the prism of sports and mountain tourism.
The exhibition is divided into three main sections:
Among the exhibits you will find real gems – old litters, horned sleighs, one of the oldest skis and bobsleighs, as well as numerous sports trophiesParticularly moving is the section devoted to Mountain Volunteer Rescue Service, which shows the courage and dedication of mountain rescuers.
The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions and thematic eventsThis is a must-see stop for anyone who loves mountains, sports, and the history of the Karkonosze Mountains.
Admission prices:
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
Museum closed to visitors: every Monday.
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Right next to the lower station of the Kopa cable car lies one of the most charming corners of Karpacz – Wild Waterfall on ŁomnicaAlthough it looks like a work of nature, it was created thanks to man and his attempts to tame the capricious river.
The Łomnica River is famous for its rapid decline and... turbulent nature. In the past, it flooded the surrounding areas many times. Therefore, in the years 1910–1915 A dam was built, which today forms a spectacular waterfall. The dam performed exceptionally well even during the millennium flood of 1997.
The Wild Waterfall is a place that delights at any time of the year.It's not just a vantage point, but a space where you can feel the power of the elements and at the same time... catch your breath.
Admission prices: Free
The Kolorowa Recreation and Sports Center is a modern sports complex that attracts tourists all year round. It is located in the city center and offers plenty of attractions – for both children and adults. Toboggan run, rope park, play areas – this is the perfect place for those looking for active recreation and adrenaline during their stay in the mountains.
The real gem of the Kolorowa Center is toboggan run – one of the longest in PolandThis is where the 360-degree turn is located, providing a thrilling experience for both beginners and more experienced downhill fans. The track operates regardless of the season, so excitement is guaranteed in summer and winter.
Each track in Kolorowa is appropriately marked, lit and meets the highest safety standards.This is a place where laughter and joy combine with attention to the comfort of visitors. The center is a great choice for a family outing, but also a good option for a moment of activity after a mountain hike.
Trip prices:
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00-20:00.
The Karkonosze National Park Information Centre is a place worth visiting if you want to truly get to know and feel what the Karkonosze Mountains are all about. It is located in one of the few houses preserved in the traditional Karkonosze style, which in itself makes it unique.
Inside, you'll find a fascinating geological and geomorphological exhibition, a touch model of the Eastern Karkonosze Mountains, and an impressive collection of local minerals. A special attraction is also 3D panorama and mosaic geological map of the eastern Karkonosze Mountains – a real treat for lovers of geology and art at the same time.
Outside there is Karkonosze Herb Garden – a place where you can feel the spirit of old herbalists and take a closer look at the local floraIt's also worth checking out Laboratory House, which faithfully recreates the realities of the work of ancient herbalists from the Karkonosze Mountains. The center also offers practical information about trails, events and nature conservation. – this is an ideal knowledge base before continuing your journey.
Admission prices: Free
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Karpacz's rich array of attractions includes picturesque mountain views, unique historical sites, and a variety of active recreation options for the entire family. Regardless of preferences or age, everyone will find something for themselves. This is what makes your holiday in Karpacz an unforgettable experience!
Author: Eliza Tomaka