Village

The town of Piwniczna Zdrój is one of the oldest in Poland. It acquired its city rights in 1348 but has ever since remained a small and charming town of 5000 souls. It is situated within a sweeping bend of River Poprad and is surrounded by hills as high as 700 metres.

The central area is the "Rynek" where cultural and culinary events are held throughout the summer and in the festive season. Most of the shops and public services are located here. Off the major road leading from Rynek, you will find "Galeria Manisoons", the only art gallery in the region.

The adjective "Zdrój" signifies a spa resort with a healthy climate and good air quality as well as mineral springs and baths. Usually spa resorts offer plenty of health and relaxation services, as does Piwniczna Zdrój.

The mountain peak "Kicarz", just outside city centre, is known nationwide for its mineral water springs "Piwnicznianka". Originally it is this spring that provided the city with its title of Spa. Nowadays the mineral water is bottled and sold throughout Europe. You can however still collect the water yourself from the main spa building or one of the many springs.

Through the valley a single-track railway meanders parallel to the river from Piwniczna Zdrój to Krynicna Zdrój. This is definitely worth a trip because it one of the top scenic rides in Europe.

At a mere 5 minute drive in different directions you will find one of four challenging and charming ski centres in the Piwniczna area. Sucha Dolina is the oldest and most charming of them all, situated in a picturesque valley which can be reached using horse-drawn sledges. Wierchomla is a modern top class ski station: a national icon and a skiers' dream. Kokuszka is a new and attractive sunny ski slope. Ryterski Raj in Rytro offers challenging skiing in a typical Polish mountain-style atmosphere.

The River Poprad is an excellent spot for lovers of wild water sports and angling: the rivers are populated with salmon and trout in springtime. In the summer season it offers wild water rafting and kayaking.

The countryside surrounding the town is rich in hiking and biking tracks. They will carry you to the loveliest spots of the whole Beskid Sadecki. The ski resort of Wierchomla is an excellent spot for mountain bikers in summertime.