Distance 2.9 km

Estimated time 1 h 10 min

Elevation gain 273 m

Route: Szczawnica Center – Dietl Square (10 min; 600 m) – Bryjarka (30 min; 1.2 km) – Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem (30 min; 1.1 km)

The hike begins in Szczawnica, right next to the lower station of the Palenica cable car. The route leads through the historic spa district, starting at Dietl Square – once known as the ‘Szczawnica Market.’ This is one of the town’s most charming corners, where elegant Swiss-style villas catch the eye, and at its center stands a graceful fountain with a woman holding a jug. Soon, we leave the center behind and begin the ascent to Bryjarka.

The slopes of this hill are covered with characteristic andesite rock debris, and the summit is crowned with a steel cross dating back to 1902. From here, a picturesque view opens up over Szczawnica, the Grajcarek valley, the Small Pieniny, Magura Spiska, and the majestic Tatra Mountains. From this point, it’s only a 30-minute leisurely walk to the destination.

The Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem is a cozy mountain hut located at 750 m above sea level, in the Radziejowa range, near the Bereśnik peak (843 m). It offers a warm, alpine atmosphere that invites a moment of rest. The Bacówka was opened in 1989 thanks to the initiative of the Pieniński Branch of PTTK in Szczawnica and Edward Moskała – a well-known activist and promoter of outdoor tourism. The return along the same route takes just under 45 minutes.

Four-legged friends are welcome on this trail.

Interior of the dining hall
View from the Bacówka
Trail signpost

View of the Tatras from Palenica