Welcome to our blog! Today, we’re taking you to the picturesque corners of the Beskid Sądecki mountains, or rather, to a place that has for years attracted lovers of mountain peace and those unforgettable views. Bacówka PTTK pod Bereśnikiem is a true gem hidden within the Radziejowa Range. This mountain hut, often simply called Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem or the Bereśnik Mountain Hut in honour of E. Moskała by hikers, makes an excellent destination even for a very short trip from Szczawnica, as well as a fantastic base camp for further, more ambitious treks.

It’s a place with real soul, you must believe us, and it’s sure to steal your hearts, just as it once stole ours! But what makes it so special?

Location and access to the hut

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem is formally located in the Beskid Sądecki, although its proximity to Szczawnica means it is very often associated with, or even included within the nearby Pieniny mountains. The hut is situated at an altitude of around 750 metres above sea level, quite close to the peak of Bereśnik itself (843 m a.s.l.). The most popular and convenient starting point is the charming town of Szczawnica, which everyone probably knows as a famous spa resort.

Szczawnica as a starting point: route description from Dietla Square

If you’ve arrived in Szczawnica by car, you’ll easily find space in one of the several car parks, for example, the one on Ulica Zdrojowa. We usually start our trip to the Bacówka from the very heart of the spa town, from the magical Dietla Square. Dietla Square is undoubtedly the most charming part of Szczawnica, full of that characteristic spa architecture from days gone by.

The yellow trail, which we follow to our destination, leads precisely through Dietla Square. Passing the beautifully renovated building of the Mineral Water Pump Room and Cafe Helenki on your right, and the distinctive Zdrojowa building opposite, you need to look out for the yellow trail markers subtly veering off diagonally. To follow the correct trail here, you should turn left, heading towards the Szczawnica Spa Museum, after which the trail turns onto Ulica Języki, which, interestingly, becomes something of an extension of the access road to the Bacówka itself. It’s worth knowing that this road isn’t entirely tarmacked, especially in its upper section.

I remember the last time we were looking for this yellow trail by Dietla Square – it’s easy to miss if you get caught up looking at those beautiful, renovated buildings, *mind you* the marking is quite good. However, finding this trail is essential to reach your destination.

Alternative routes and hiking trails

Apart from the standard yellow trail from Dietla Square via Bryjarka, you can reach Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem via other paths. There is also a blue trail and a black trail leading from Szczawnica, for example, via Sewerynówka, which takes you, among other places, to Zaskalnik Waterfall. It’s worth noting that Zaskalnik Waterfall itself is a popular destination for short trips. It’s also possible to creatively combine trails, creating some very interesting loops. For example, you could ascend via the yellow trail through Bryjarka and descend via the black trail or simply along Ulica Bereśnik towards Zaskalnik Waterfall, eventually returning to Szczawnica.

Is it worth exploring these less popular routes? Absolutely, although you need to be prepared for a bit more navigation.

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem: history and architecture

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem is not just a place where you can stay overnight or eat. It’s also a facility with a really interesting history, inseparably linked to the beginnings of Polish mountain tourism in this format.

The hut’s beginnings: Edward Moskała and PTTK

The Bereśnik Hut itself was opened to tourists in 1989. It was primarily established on the initiative of Edward Moskała, a prominent Polish tourism activist, who can safely be called a co-creator of the concept of structured outdoor tourism huts (bacówkas). The work of Edward Moskała and active members of the PTTK Pieniny Branch in Szczawnica resulted in the creation of this charming place, which has continuously served hikers traversing the Beskid Sądecki ever since.

Edward Moskała was officially named the patron of Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem in 2013, which only underscores his immense significance in its creation and operation. *Indeed*, it was a symbolic recognition for a visionary who wanted to create mountain huts that were more intimate and closer to nature.

Architecture and facilities at the hut

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem in honour of E. Moskała is characterised by simple but very atmospheric wooden architecture, which clearly references traditional mountain pastoral huts (bacówkas). The hut offers hikers 40 overnight places, distributed in rooms of various sizes – you’ll find both twin rooms and larger ones accommodating up to 9 people.

Although *unfortunately* it’s not on the list of PTTK huts that include *all* member discounts, *which can be a minor inconvenience for some*, it’s always worth checking the current offers and price list directly with the hosts. Inside, a warm, almost family atmosphere awaits you, and you’ll very often be accompanied by two friendly, resident cats (they’re simply adorable!). You’ll also find something to make your time more pleasant after a full day’s walk – board games are available for tourists in one of the cabinets. Basic information about the area is also provided.

Attractions near the hut

The surrounding trails and attractions mean that a stay at Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem can be a great starting point or simply part of an unforgettable adventure in the Beskid Sądecki, as well as in the nearby Pieniny mountains.

Zaskalnik Waterfall: a short walk and amazing views

From Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem, you can take a short, really pleasant walk to Zaskalnik Waterfall. This charming Zaskalnik Waterfall is already located in Szczawnica itself, in the Sewerynówka district. Although Zaskalnik Waterfall is certainly not as big as Niagara (who would expect it to be?), it constitutes a beautiful, natural drop on the Sopotnicki Stream and is a very popular destination for short trips both from the hut and from Szczawnica. Turning left from the trail, you’ll reach it after a dozen or so minutes of gentle walking.

Bereśnik Peak: a hike with breathtaking panoramas

The black trail, which starts near the Bacówka, leads to the summit of Bereśnik. Although the peak itself is unfortunately forested and doesn’t offer views, there is a scenic clearing nearby. And it is from this clearing that a wonderful, wide view spreads out, and further on, a panorama of the Tatras and Pieniny unfolds, making the short ascent to Bereśnik very, very satisfying.

From here, you’ll see the full beauty of the mountain landscapes of both the Beskid Sądecki and the Pieniny. Particularly impressive are the views of the High Tatras and the Belianske (White) Tatras, as well as the Radziejowa Range, where Bereśnik is located, *although* visibility can sometimes be unpredictable. From here, you’ll see the Small Pieniny, the Beskid Sądecki, and above all, an unforgettable panorama of the Tatras.

Hiking trails around the hut

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem is undoubtedly an excellent base camp for further, longer hikes in the Beskid Sądecki, especially in the Radziejowa Range. You can also set off from here on excursions to the Pieniny mountains, located literally on the other side of the Grajcarek Valley.

The yellow trail: the most popular route to the hut

As we’ve already mentioned, the shortest and at the same time most popular trail, marked with yellow, leads directly from Szczawnica to the Bacówka. It runs straight from Dietla Square, through the charming Ulica Języki, and then traverses the slope of Bryjarka, eventually reaching the hut directly. It’s a pleasant, not very demanding hike, ideal for an afternoon walk or as a warm-up before planned longer routes. The yellow trail bypasses the main peak of Bryjarka from the west, but you can turn off it at any point to ascend this small but towering peak above Szczawnica.

This is probably the most frequent route chosen by spa visitors and families with children, *and quite rightly so*, as it’s very picturesque.

Other trails: hikes for more experienced tourists

For those with better fitness and more experienced hikers, Bacówka pod Bereśnik opens many doors to further adventures. For example, you can head towards Dzwonkówka (which takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes of walking) and from there descend picturesquely to Krościenko.

Alternatively, from Dzwonkówka, you can continue walking further along the yellow trail, passing the observation tower on Koziarz, and then descend all the way to Łąck, *although* this option is already a quite serious, full-day expedition. Another popular option is to reach the PTTK Przehyba Hut, following the descending blue trail – getting to Przehyba takes just over 3 hours or even 4 hours, depending on the chosen route variant.

It’s also quite a good choice for those planning to conquer peaks belonging to the Crown of Polish Mountains, as summits such as Radziejowa (the highest peak in the Beskid Sądecki, about 4 hours and 45 minutes walk from the Bacówka) or Wysoka (the highest peak in the Pieniny, about 5 hours) are within reach of a one-day trip from the hut. As my guide friend says: “The Beskid Sądecki and Pieniny can tire you out, but they always reward you with views!” You can also set off from here towards other huts located in the Pieniny, for example, the Hut under Durbaszka, the PTTK ‘Orlica’ Hut in Szczawnica, or the PTTK ‘Trzy Korony’ Hut. *But are you up for that kind of effort?*

Accommodation and services at the hut

When planning a longer hike in the Beskid Sądecki and considering where to stay overnight, Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem appears as a great, atmospheric choice. It offers relatively comfortable conditions and, above all, a welcoming, truly mountain atmosphere.

Accommodation: room types and prices

The Bereśnik Hut has 40 overnight places, scattered in rooms with a different number of beds, from twin rooms up to nine-bed rooms. This makes it a good choice for couples seeking a secluded spot, families with children, as well as larger groups of friends planning a joint mountain trip. It’s best to check the price list and current availability of rooms directly with the hut. It’s worth remembering that the hut, although it’s part of PTTK, does not include all discounts for PTTK members, which is important information when planning your trip budget.

Additional services: board games, kitchen

At the Bacówka, not only will you find a comfortable overnight stay after a full day’s walk, but also a place where you can simply sit down, relax, and spend time in pleasant company. The aforementioned board games are a great option for the evening, especially when the weather outside isn’t cooperating, or when you simply want to spend time differently than in front of a phone screen. The hut also runs a basic kitchen/canteen serving meals, where you can refuel before heading out onto the trail, which is very important, or after returning from your hike, regaining your strength. Free access to boiling water is also available for tourists. It’s always worth it, but always, to ask the hosts about local specialities – sometimes you can come across something really delicious!

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem: practical information

To ensure your visit to Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem goes smoothly and is fully successful, we’ve gathered some practical, important tips and essential information for you.

Opening hours and contact

Usually, mountain huts, at least the popular ones, are open all year round, but it’s always, simply always, worth checking the opening hours of the kitchen and reception, especially if you are planning a visit outside the peak tourist season. Contacting Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem is easiest and best by phone, which is definitely the best way to get the most up-to-date information and, most importantly, to make a reservation. Remember that all necessary contact information and a detailed price list are always available directly with the hospitable hut keepers.

Price list and reservations

A detailed, current price list for overnight stays in individual rooms, as well as catering services, is available on site at the hut. We recommend, we even strongly encourage, booking places in advance, especially in the summer season during long weekends or winter holidays. Bacówka pod Bereśnik enjoys considerable popularity, and finding available spots for desired dates can be really difficult. The most convenient way to book is by phone. It’s the final stretch that separates you before heading into these beautiful mountains!

Tourist reviews of Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem – what do others say?

Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem generally enjoys positive opinions among tourists who have visited it, which is evident from their comments. It is often praised, unsurprisingly, for its unique atmosphere, great location with beautiful views, and for simply *being there*.

Many hikers emphasise that it is a place with a true mountain atmosphere, where you can feel free, almost like at home, away from the city hustle and bustle. The history associated with the figure of Edward Moskała also adds a certain, specific charm and significance to this place.

Share your experience

If you’ve already had the opportunity to visit Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem, and we believe many of you have, we cordially invite you to share your impressions and observations. Was the yellow trail from Szczawnica via Bryjarka pleasant and satisfying for you? Perhaps you discovered some other interesting hiking trails in the area that you would recommend to others? Your opinions and practical tips are very, very valuable for others planning a trip to the Bacówka. You can sign the commemorative guest book at the hut if you’re there, or simply leave a comment under this article.

I myself always enjoy reading comments from others before setting off, it really can save a trip, *or suggest a new idea!* Do you have your favourite trails in the area?

Useful tips for future guests

Based on the experiences of many tourists, we can give you some really useful tips that will make planning and the trip itself easier for you. When planning a hike, always, absolutely always check the weather forecast and adjust your equipment accordingly. Although the most popular route from Szczawnica is relatively easy and pleasant, the mountains can surprise you, and at the least expected moment. So remember to wear appropriate footwear, preferably trekking boots, and layered clothing. Also, remember to leave information about your planned route with someone close before leaving home.

If you’re heading into the mountains with children, the route via Bryjarka can be a good choice, although it requires some effort from them (our Junior followed bravely!) – *just remember about*… well, about those motivating views stretching from Bryjarka onto Szczawnica in the Grajcarek Valley, the Small Pieniny, and the Tatras, which is an additional, strong motivation! Don’t forget your camera either, because the panorama of the Tatras and Pieniny you’ll see is truly unforgettable, *even postcard-perfect*.

The hut’s surroundings: nature and landscape

The location of Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem in the heart of the Beskid Sądecki, specifically in the Radziejowa Range, guarantees that you will find beautiful, picturesque mountain landscapes there. It’s a region somewhat less crowded than the most popular Tatras or the Proper Pieniny, which for many is a huge plus, allowing you to fully enjoy the peace, quiet, and closeness to nature at its best.

Beskid Sądecki: the beauty of mountain landscapes

The Beskid Sądecki itself offers very diverse landscapes – from gentle, undulating hills, through densely forested peaks like Bereśnik, to steeper and more demanding ascents. It’s an ideal place for a hike for everyone, regardless of fitness level. Picturesque valleys, murmuring streams like the Sopotnicki Stream with Zaskalnik Waterfall, and vast clearings/meadows, flowery in summer, create this unique atmosphere. Bryjarka, although not high (only 679 m a.s.l.), is an excellent, even strategic viewpoint onto Szczawnica and the entire surrounding area, and its unusual geological structure of andesite adds to its character. It is in places like Bryjarka Peak that you can feel the true spirit of the mountains.

Panorama of the Tatras and Pieniny: breathtaking views!

One of the biggest, if not the biggest asset of Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem and its immediate surroundings, especially when seen from the peak of Bereśnik or the aforementioned scenic clearing, is the panorama that stretches from there. The views of the Tatras and Pieniny simply take your breath away and stay in your memory for a long time.

We can admire the majestic, snow-capped (sometimes) Tatras, including the jagged High Tatras and the extensive Belianske (White) Tatras, as well as the charming Pieniny with their characteristic limestone peaks. The views of the Pieniny range and the Beskid Sądecki often accompany us during hikes in this area, for example, during a descent from the trail, when they spread out before us like a living map.

Planning a trip to Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem

Good preparation is, as we know, the key to a successful mountain adventure, regardless of how long it’s intended to be. Here are a few additional tips on how best to plan your trip to Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem so that everything goes smoothly.

Choosing the right route and hiking time

The choice of route depends, of course, on your physical fitness and the time you currently have available – *but isn’t that what planning a mountain adventure is all about?* The yellow trail from Szczawnica is an ideal option for a few hours’ walk, a short trip to get a feel for the place. If you have more time, you can confidently plan a longer, multi-day hike in the Beskid Sądecki with an overnight stay at the Bacówka, continuing along the trail, for example, towards Dzwonkówka, Koziarz, or Przehyba. Signposts inform you how much further it is to the hut, which is very helpful in estimating the remaining distance and time.

Preparation for the trip: essential equipment

Regardless of which route you eventually choose, it’s worth it, even necessary, to remember essential mountain equipment. Comfortable trekking boots, well broken-in, are an absolute must.

You should carry a supply of water and provisions, especially if you’re planning a longer hike – energy quickly drains away in the mountains. Layered clothing will allow you to adapt to the frequently changing, unpredictable weather conditions. A torch, map, first-aid kit, and a charged mobile phone are also key pieces of equipment that must not be forgotten. Although the trails around the Bacówka are, admittedly, well marked, a traditional paper map can always be useful, *because you never know when electronics might fail*.

Final thoughts on Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem and the surrounding area

Bacówka PTTK pod Bereśnikiem, picturesquely located in the heart of the Beskid Sądecki in the Radziejowa Range, is a place that undoubtedly deserves the attention of anyone who loves the mountains and is looking for something more than just kilometres to cover. It’s an excellent idea for a short but incredibly interesting trip often starting in the spa town of Szczawnica, specifically from Dietla Square, leading through the charming Ulica Języki and further uphill, across the slopes of Bryjarka.

The hut, being the result of many years of initiative by Edward Moskała and the PTTK Pieniny Branch in Szczawnica, has been offering hospitality to hikers since 1989. It can be a great base camp for exploring both deeper into the Beskid Sądecki and the nearby Pieniny mountains. Importantly, from the area around the hut, and especially from nearby clearings, you’ll see an amazing panorama of the Tatras and Pieniny that can delight even experienced mountain enthusiasts.

The surroundings of the Bacówka tempt with additional attractions, such as the picturesque Zaskalnik Waterfall on the Sopotnicki Stream or the aforementioned Bereśnik Peak with a scenic clearing from which you can see really far. Here you can find hiking trails suited for practically everyone – from the easy, pleasant yellow trail via Bryjarka, which spa visitors from Szczawnica gladly frequent, to much longer and more demanding routes leading to Dzwonkówka or Przehyba.

The hut’s architecture, its rich history, and above all, the atmosphere prevailing there, make it a unique place, ideal for those who value the peace of the Beskids and Pieniny, that slightly slower pace of life. Regardless of whether you’re planning a short, one-day trip from the spa, or a longer hike with an overnight stay under a roof, Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem in honour of E. Moskała is a destination that will certainly delight you, *provided you give it a chance*.

Here you’ll meet hospitable hosts, and perhaps those mentioned, furry cats, and the available board games will make the time more pleasant after a full day on the trail. Just remember to book in advance, especially in season, and prepare properly for a mountain hike – it really is the key to a successful adventure. Setting off from Dietla Square in Szczawnica, where incidentally there are car parks and the historic Mineral Water Pump Room, you have before you a route full of beautiful views and unforgettable experiences.

From the Way of the Cross on Bryjarka, through that solitary farmstead on Ulica Języki, all the way to the hut itself and further into the mountains – it’s an adventure truly worth experiencing. Bryjarka, often visited by pilgrims and spa guests from Szczawnica Spa, is also a place where a characteristic metal cross stands, erected by Józef Górecki after a previous wooden structure was broken by a storm; it’s a quiet testimony to history and local faith. You’ll see how beautifully Bacówka pod Bereśnikiem harmonizes with Zaskalnik Waterfall and the entire surroundings of the Beskid Sądecki and Pieniny. You’ll return to Szczawnica full of impressions, perhaps stopping for a moment at the Mineral Water Pump Room or Cafe Helenki, and at the end of the trip, looking up from below, once again admiring the views of the Pieniny and Beskid Sądecki ranges, *because that’s where it all started*.