DUNAJEC RIVER RAFTING
A rafting trip down the Dunajec on a traditional wooden raft is an unforgettable way to experience the region’s stunning nature and wildlife. Floating through a narrow gorge with its dramatic bends is without a doubt one of the most fascinating attractions of the Pieniny National Park.
Each raft holds 10 to 12 passengers and is steered by two flisaks — one at the front and one at the back. But who exactly is a flisak (raftsman)? It’s a prestigious and hard-earned profession. To qualify, a flisak must come from one of five Pieniny villages — Szczawnica, Krościenko nad Dunajcem, Czorsztyn, Sromowce Niżne, or Sromowce Wyżne — complete a three-year apprenticeship under a master, pass an exam, and then serve another three-year term of practice before earning the title of master raftsman.
The rafting route begins with a view of the Červený Kláštor (Red Monastery) on the Slovak side. Soon the buildings fade from sight, giving way to a panorama of the Trzy Korony peaks. From there, the raft glides between towering limestone cliffs draped in lush greenery. Along the way, watch for the distinctive peaks known as the Seven Monks and Sokolica — the latter often called the ‘mother of the Pieniny.’ The trip starts at the Sromowce–Kąty or Sromowce Niżne marina, and ends in Szczawnica or Krościenko.
The journey takes two to three hours, depending on the weather and water conditions. The route covers 18 or 23 kilometers, depending on the option chosen. Along the way, passengers are entertained by the raftsmen’s stories and jokes. The rafting season runs from April 1 to October 31.
CONTACT:
+48 18 2629793
