Bieszczady Mountains: A Complete Travel Guide for Nature Lovers

The Bieszczady Mountains in Poland have long captured the imagination – they smell of freedom, adventure and the promise of an encounter with nature. The lush greenery and vibrant plant life of the area create a stunning natural backdrop that enchants visitors. It is impossible to capture the full richness of these mountains in a single chapter of a guidebook. That is why it is worth discovering them step by step and finding your own unique paths with a rental car from Kaizen Rent.

This area stands out as a distinct and appealing region, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Although not so long ago they were referred to as the last wild corner of Poland, today it is increasingly difficult to find absolute solitude here. However, this does not diminish their charm. On the contrary – the variety of attractions means that there is something for everyone here: from mountain hikes in the pastures, through canoeing and cycling trips, to atmospheric evenings with music in wooden taverns. In addition, visitors can enjoy supplementary activities such as water sports at Lake Solina or discovering street art memorials in local villages, which further enrich the experience. The Bieszczady Mountains are a place where tradition intertwines with modernity, and the picturesque landscapes tempt not only hikers, but also photographers, artists and anyone looking for a moment of respite. Many visitors fall in love with the tranquil ambiance of the Bieszczady Mountains in Poland, returning again and again. Spending days hiking the trails or simply relaxing in the peaceful surroundings is a cherished experience for many.

Let us try to give you a glimpse of these beautiful places in Poland.

The Bieszczady Mountains are not only famous for their mountain pastures – although the view from Połonina Wetlińska or Połonina Caryńska will remain in your memory for a long time. They also offer dozens of less frequented trails that lead through forests fragrant with resin, hidden valleys and old villages where time seems to have stood still. A hike to Tarnica – the highest peak in the Bieszczady Mountains in Poland – gives you a sense of satisfaction and the feeling that you are standing on the roof of this land.

Traveling around the Bieszczady by car also has its charm – winding mountain roads reveal breathtaking panoramas, and each turn may lead you to a forgotten chapel, a wooden Orthodox church or a picturesque village lost among the hills. A car gives you the freedom to discover these less obvious places, where silence and authenticity still reign.

Where exactly are the Bieszczady Mountains and how do you get there?

The Bieszczady Mountains are a mountain range located in the south-eastern corner of Poland, where the country borders Slovakia and Ukraine. They are easy to find on a map – just look at the lower right corner of Poland's outline, which resembles a pillow in shape. It is here, in the vicinity of Cisna, Smerek, and Wetlina, that the real Bieszczady Mountains begin. A little further north, the Sanocko-Turczańskie Mountains stretch out, but in practice, it is said that anyone who passes Sanok and continues south-east crosses the ‘gateway to the Bieszczady Mountains’. For nature lovers and hikers, the Bieszczady are truly a must-see mountain in Poland, offering breathtaking landscapes, serene trails, and a sense of untouched wilderness.

By car to the land of mountain pastures – a trip to south-eastern Poland

If you're wondering how best to get there, the answer is simple: with a car from Kaizen Rent car rental. This gives you the freedom to travel and explore lesser-known places. The most convenient option is to rent a car in a larger city such as Krakow – the journey takes around 5–6 hours and passes through Rzeszów and Sanok. From Rzeszów, you can reach the Bieszczady Mountains in around 3 hours if you drive through Lesko. Although the journey may seem long, every minute spent on the road will be rewarded with breathtaking views. You can also add additional driver at any time – simply let us know, and we will issue the permit. It only costs PLN 19.99 per day.

Where to rent a car? Kaizen Rent – always at your service!

If you are planning a trip to the Bieszczady Mountains in Poland have a driving licence and identity card, you have ready mobility thanks to the network of convenient Kaizen Rent locations – in Krakow, Rzeszów, and at nearby airports. This makes it much easier to start your journey on your own terms!

• car rental Kraków – downtown branch ine the centre city: ul. Radzikowskiego 5a, 31-305 Krakow

• car rental Krakow Airport – Balice Airport: ul. Kapitana Mieczysława Medweckiego 1, 32-083 Krakow Balice

• car rental Rzeszów – branch in the city: ul. Baczyńskiego 9, 35-210 Rzeszów

• car rental Rzeszów Airport – Jasionka Airport (M&G): Jasionka 942, 36-002 Jasionka

This means that regardless of whether you are departing from Krakow or Rzeszów, or arriving by plane, you have access to a car perfectly suited to your needs. Simply pick up the car, and begin your adventure — and the road to the Bieszczady Mountains will become part of a journey full of freedom and beautiful views. For travelers looking to explore the region, checking out top things to do in Rzeszów can enrich your trip even before you reach the mountains, offering a mix of cultural sights, local cuisine, and charming streets to wander.

How to book a car with Kaizen Rent?

For your convenience, Kaizen Rent offers four simple and quick ways to book a car in good price. This allows you to choose the method that suits you best – whether you value personal contact or prefer to do things online.

1. On-site – directly at one of our branches in Krakow, Rzeszów or at airports (Balice, Jasionka).

2. By phone – by calling our 24-hour hotline: +48 76 727 99 99

3. Online – via the website: www.kaizenrent.pl/en/

4. By email – by sending a message to: [email protected]

Reservations take only a moment, and you can rest assured that your vehicle will be waiting for you exactly when and where you need it.

Kaizen Rent's short-term car rental service will provide you with a vehicle to suit your needs, from compact cars and luxury vehicles to nine-seater vans. We also offer additional services for your comfort, such as the option to add an additional driver. We understand that Bieszczady has a lot to offer and that travelling alone can be demanding. That's why you can add an additional driver to your booking for a small fee. With our Comfort package (SCDW), you can also enjoy a low deposit starting from just 1 PLN.

To rent a car, just bring your passport, driving licence (or international driving licence valid in Poland), and a credit or debit card.

The climate of the Bieszczady Mountains in Poland: weather, adventure and the changing moods of the mountains

The Bieszczady Mountains have a moderate climate, but the mountains give it an unpredictable character. Summer in Poland here is usually short and moderately warm – temperatures in the valleys reach 25°C, while it is much cooler in the mountain pastures. Autumn is a blaze of golden and red colours, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C. In winter, the mountains in the National Park are covered with a thick layer of snow, and the frost attracts skiers, and winter hiking enthusiasts. Spring, on the other hand, comes later than in other parts of the country, often not until May.

The weather in the Bieszczady Mountains can be as capricious as a teenager's mood – it can change in the blink of an eye. In the morning, the sun encourages you to go for a walk, but at the top of the mountain, you are surprised by wind, fog and heavy rain. That is why it is always a good idea to have a fleece and spare T-shirts in your backpack, even if it is 30°C in the valley.

Some tourists dream of blue skies, but are met with cold and thick fog. And that is the true face of these mountains.

At such moments, you will also appreciate the convenience of travelling in a Kaizen Rent rental car. A sudden downpour does not have to result in you getting soaked because you can quickly take shelter in your car and continue on to the next attraction.

The most famous trails lead to places that every mountain lover should see at least once in their lifetime:

• Tarnica (1346 m above sea level) – the highest peak in the Polish Bieszczady Mountains. On a clear day, the summit offers a panoramic view that encompasses not only the entire Bieszczady Mountains, but also the mountain ranges of Slovakia and Ukraine.

• Połonina Wetlińska – one of the most recognisable places in the Bieszczady Mountains. Here you will find the iconic Chatkę Puchatka, a legendary mountain hut, and magnificent panoramas of mountain ridges.

• Połonina Caryńska – particularly beautiful in fall, when the beech forests at its foot shimmer with red and gold. The expansive views from the ridge are breathtaking at any time of the year.

• Bukowe Berdo – a suggestion for those who seek peace and quiet and less frequented routes. The wild character of this range makes many tourists consider it one of the most charming places in the entire Bieszczady Mountains.

Entrance to the park is ticketed – a standard ticket costs 9 PLN, and a reduced ticket costs 4,50 PLN. The proceeds from ticket sales are allocated to nature conservation, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the pristine beauty of these mountains. It is a truly modest price to pay for the opportunity to experience such exceptional natural surroundings.

Here are the top places to enjoy the Bieszczady night sky: panoramic viewpoints, scenic mountain passes, legendary shelters, and an astrotourism farm offering professional astronomy shows and stargazing. All locations are easily accessible via marked routes.

• Wyżna Pass,

• Otryt – Chata Socjologa,

• Wetlińska Meadow – Chatka Puchatka,

• Przysłup Caryński – Koliba Shelter,

• Dwernik – Gwiezdne Dolistowie

Hiking trails and attractions in the Bieszczady mountains – what to see all year round

The Bieszczady Mountains in Poland are not only mountains and mountain pastures, but also a multitude of attractions that delight tourists all year round. Whether you are looking for wild nature, iconic trails or places steeped in history and art, this region has something for everyone. Below, we present the most interesting trails and attractions that are worth visiting during your trip to the Bieszczady Mountains.

Połonina Caryńska – autumn in all its glory

It looks most beautiful in autumn, when the beech forests at the foot of the mountain pasture shimmer with red, orange and gold.

Połonina Wetlińska – the summer symbol of the Bieszczady Mountains

The most famous mountain glade, perfect for a summer car trip. Access from Brzegi Górne or Wyżniańska Przełęcz allows for easy access to the trail leading to the ridge. From the car park, you can walk and admire the wide panoramas and visit the iconic Winnie the Pooh Cottage – a symbol of freedom in the Bieszczady Mountains.

Tarnica – a year-round classic

The highest peak of the Polish Bieszczady Mountains (1346 m above sea level) is a must-see on any road trip. Wołosate is easily accessible by car, and from there it takes 2–3 hours to reach the summit on foot. In winter, the climb can be challenging, but in good weather, the panoramic views stretch all the way to the Tatra Mountains.

Bukowe Berdo – silence and wilderness

A less frequented trail, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Access by car to Muczne allows you to start your hike comfortably, and the entire ridge takes 4–5 hours to traverse. Bukowe Berdo is one of the most picturesque ranges in the Bieszczady Mountains and offers unforgettable views.

The San Valley – a majestic river

Driving along the San Valley is straightforward and offers beautiful scenery. The starting points of trails leading through picturesque landscapes and the remains of old villages can be quickly reached. It’s the perfect way for a relaxing family walk in nature without the need for long treks.

The sources of the San – a trip to the ‘Bieszczady Bag’

This is one of the most remote spots in Poland, right on the border with Ukraine. When you rent a car, it’s easy to start your adventure on the trail to the river’s source—passing through open landscapes and the remains of old villages. It’s the perfect mix of history and adventure.

Krywe Reserve—with its picturesque ruined Orthodox church—is a fantastic place for cycling

A great place for a bike trip along the San River. The former village of Krywe hides the ruins of an Orthodox church and traces of the past, and the road leads through the beautiful areas of the river valley.

Korbania – view of Lake Solina

Starting in the village of Bukowiec, you can easily take a short hiking trail—just about an hour uphill. At the top, you’ll find an observation tower with beautiful views of Lake Solina and nearby mountain meadows. It’s a great spot for a family outing and a relaxing break.

Podkarpackie Wooden Architecture Trail

Travelling by car to the various points along the route allows you to conveniently visit the wooden Orthodox churches and Catholic churches scattered throughout the region. Each building has its own unique history and style, and such a road trip allows you to explore the cultural diversity of the Bieszczady Mountains in comfort.

Open-air museum in Zyndranowa – the history of the Lemkos

This small but charming museum celebrates Lemko culture. You can explore traditional huts and an Orthodox church, as well as everyday items that offer a glimpse into the life of this unique community.

The Bieszczady Forest Railway is a real journey through time and space, ideal for nature lovers, families with children and anyone who wants to experience the atmosphere of the old Bieszczady Mountains in Poland. Formerly used to transport timber, today it serves a tourist function, offering picturesque rides through mountain forests and valleys.

The railway route runs from Majdan to Balnica or Przysłup, and along the way, tourists can admire beautiful views, as well as animals and vegetation characteristic of this region. It can be very crowded during the summer season – in 2024, it carried as many as 168,000 passengers!

Thanks to the Bieszczady Forest Railway, you can not only take a break from hiking, but also experience the history and unique charm of the Bieszczady Mountains in comfort.

The Great Bieszczady Loop – a road trip with scenic viewpoints

For those who enjoy comfortable sightseeing in the Bieszczady Mountains, the Great Bieszczady Loop is the perfect solution. This car route, easily explored with a rental car from Kaizen Rent, allows you to discover the most beautiful corners of the region, stopping at viewpoints and attractions along the way.

During the trip, you can admire panoramic views of mountain pastures, river valleys, and picturesque villages without the need for long hikes. The route passes through Cisna, Wetlina, Solina, and many other charming spots, with numerous viewpoints offering short stops and perfect photo opportunities.

Some of the highlights along the loop include:

• Rozsypaniec – a viewpoint offering sweeping views of Połonina Wetlińska and surrounding valleys, accessible with a short walk from the parking lot at Przełęcz Wyżniańska.

• Przełęcz Wyżniańska and Brzegi Górne – easy-to-reach viewpoints from the roadside, ideal for panoramic shots of the vast Bieszczady forests and meadows.

• Czerenina – a small hill with a striking view of Lake Solina and the nearby mountain ridges, perfect for a quick stop or photo session.

• Mała and Duża Rawka – viewpoints offering wide perspectives of the entire Bieszczady range, accessible from nearby parking areas, suitable even for families.

• Smolnik – combines history and nature, with a wooden Orthodox church and a viewpoint over the San Valley, creating a memorable stop on the route.

The Great Bieszczady Loop is the perfect way for time-limited visitors or those who prefer sightseeing from the comfort of a vehicle to explore the region. Thanks to a rental car from Kaizen Rent, the trip becomes independent and flexible – you can stop wherever and whenever you want, making the most of your Bieszczady adventure.

The surprising Bieszczady Mountains – interesting facts you may not have known

The Bieszczady Mountains are associated with wild nature, mountain pastures and tranquillity that is so difficult to find elsewhere. But these mountains also hide extraordinary stories and facts that can surprise even experienced travellers. From the world's first oil mine, through royal bison, to the darkest night sky in Europe – the Bieszczady Mountains have many secrets to discover.

The oldest oil mine in the world is still in operation today.

Not far from the Bieszczady Mountains, in Bóbrka, the world's first oil mine was opened in 1854. Today, it houses the Ignacy Łukasiewicz Museum of Oil and Gas Industry, a place where you can see the beginnings of the global oil industry.

One of the largest herds of bison

The Bieszczady Mountains are home to the second largest herd of these majestic animals in Europe. In 2020, there were 668 individuals. Bison were brought here as late as 1963, and today they have become a symbol of the region.

The southernmost point of Poland

It is at the top of Opołonek (1,028 m above sea level) that the southernmost point of our country is located. A destination for true lovers of geography and border hiking.

The Bieszczady Mountains are all about lush greenery—endless beech, fir, and mixed forests. Located in the western part of Poland are a unique region where nature, history, and adventure come together. Tourists from around the world are drawn to the breathtaking hiking trails, deep valleys, wild forests, and rich flora and wildlife.

From the highest peak of Tarnica in the highest part of the mountains to the peaceful shores of Lake Solina, the Bieszczady offer unforgettable experiences for all tourists. Along the paths you can admire traditional villages, wooden Orthodox churches, and fascinating traces of Polish and regional history.

Keep in mind local public holidays when planning, as they affect city services and tourism activity. With the right preparation, tourists can move forward confidently, explore the western and eastern parts of the region, and enjoy every photo opportunity along the way.

In short, the Bieszczady Mountains are not just a Polish treasure but a worldwide destination for tourism—a place where hiking, wildlife, flora, culture, and history combine in harmony. Plan carefully, choose a car at a good price and select the option to rent a car with full protection. The deposit is lowered to 1 zloty. Check the rental company conditions as well as the validity of your driving license, passport or ID document, and embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the heart of the Bieszczady Mountains.