9 THINGS YOU MUST DO IN WINTER IN PODKARPACIE

1. EXPLORE THE WINTER BIESZCZADY

Looking for something beyond the stereotypical snowy mountain panoramas? Winter mountain tourism isn't just about venturing into high peaks. Rest assured, the views from the summits of the Bieszczady Mountains make every climb worthwhile. Bloggers from Biegun Wschodni describe it as, "It’s like a fairy tale. Even better." The stunning, breathtakingly photogenic landscapes are arguably at their best during winter, when the air is crisp and freezing. Must-see winter spots in the Bieszczady Mountains include Połonina Caryńska, Połonina Wetlińska, Smerek, and the Rawki peaks.

If the challenges of winter hiking aren’t quite your style, you can still take in the breathtaking landscapes from more accessible locations. Visit the viewpoint near Lutowiska, the parking area at Przełęcz Wyżniańska, or climb the observation tower in Muczne for equally stunning vistas. Everyone should add this to their bucket list: “Gaze upon the snowy Bieszczady Mountains and capture a winter photo of the Podkarpackie peaks.” During this time of year, the Bieszczady Mountains also exude a uniquely reflective atmosphere. Imagine walking through snow-packed trails carved out like tunnels, under frost-covered tree canopies, with sunlight gleaming off the surrounding whiteness at every turn. It’s an adventure for the resilient, but the moments spent in this serene winter stillness will remain etched in your memory for months to come.

For those who prefer to skip the hassle of planning, several local travel agencies are ready to assist. Pawuk, Bieszczader, and Dzikie Bieszczady offer a range of exciting winter packages. If you dream of a sled dog ride, snow trekking, or a snowshoeing expedition, don’t hesitate to reach out to these Bieszczady-based agencies. They’ll help you make your winter adventure unforgettable.

2. HIT THE SLOPES IN PODKARPACIE

Looking for ski slopes with fewer crowds and shorter lift lines? Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? The slopes in Podkarpacie offer the same high-quality sporting thrills as those in more prominent mountain resorts. Winter sports enthusiasts are bound to fall in love with this region. Podkarpacie's skiing and snowboarding offerings are extensive and diverse. How about a slope within city limits? Head to Przemyśl, where you'll also find an ice rink for even more winter fun. Other top-notch, snow-covered ski slopes in Podkarpacie include Arłamów (with its own ice rink), Chyrowa, Lesko, and the newly opened Centrum Turystyki Aktywnej i Sportu BIESZCZAD.ski in Wańkowa, home to the longest cable car in the Bieszczady Mountains. The sunlit, sparkling snowy slopes of the Bieszczady are the perfect setting for a white winter adventure. In the Bieszczady region, Podkarpacie’s "ski capital" Ustrzyki Dolne boasts two excellent ski resorts: Gromadzyń and Laworta. Before heading out, you can check current conditions on Ustrzyki's slopes via live webcams.

For a detailed list of the best ski spots in Podkarpacie, check out the resources available here.

3. GLIDE THROUGH PODKARPACIE ON CROSS-COUNTRY SKIS

For trekking enthusiasts equipped with cross-country skis, Podkarpacie offers a variety of scenic trails. You can explore routes in Wetlina, Ustrzyki Dolne, Czarnorzeki, or the areas surrounding Muczne. Many of these ski trails wind through charming, forested landscapes within nature parks, making the journey as picturesque as it is invigorating. The forested trails near Muczne are particularly suited for a skiing adventure, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered trees and crisp, refreshing air. The Bieszczady Ski Trails Association maintains routes ranging from 1.8 to 6.5 km, with the trusty snow groomer "Romek" ensuring excellent conditions for skiers every year.

For a complete guide to cross-country ski routes in Podkarpacie, you can find more information here.

4. SNAP PHOTOS OF ICEFALLS

One of the most fascinating and rare winter attractions in Poland is the sight of picturesque and dramatic icefalls—a breathtaking natural phenomenon. In Podkarpacie, the icefalls of Rudawka Rymanowska stand out as a dazzling marvel of nature. These frozen waterfalls and streams showcase the incredible artistry of the natural world. They also present an exciting challenge for mountain climbing enthusiasts, as the frozen cascades provide a unique surface for climbing. In the Rudawka Rymanowska area, located in the upper Wisłok Valley, you'll find two main icefall walls. The first icefall is about 700 meters from the Wall of Olza, while the second is around 400 meters further. To reach this Arctic-like gem in Podkarpacie and capture stunning photos, head to Provincial Road 889, which runs between Sieniawa and Bukowsko. Turn off at Pastwiska toward Puławy and follow the road until you reach Rudawka Rymanowska. From there, take a shortcut via a dirt path starting just behind the Institute of Animal Production Experimental Facility in Odrzechowa to reach the icefalls. Don’t forget your camera—these frozen wonders are a photographer’s dream!

5. FIND PERSPECTIVE ON THE WOODEN ARCHITECTURE ROUTE

The winter atmosphere provides the perfect setting for exploring the Wooden Architecture Route. The unique, historic wooden churches, standing in their bright, raw surroundings, offer an excellent opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal. Here, you can focus on your spirituality, contemplate the past and the future, while standing face to face with beauty, history, and tradition. You’ll also be enchanted by the distinctive interiors of the wooden landmarks scattered across Podkarpacie. The region is home to many churches and wooden historic buildings, including those in the Bieszczady Mountains, Beskid Niski, and Roztocze. These sites are perfect for slowing down and gaining some perspective from the hustle and bustle of modern life. If you visit Ulucz, a village near Sanok, and hike up Dębnik Hill (344 m above sea level), you’ll not only have a great chance to stay fit in winter, but you’ll also be able to admire one of the oldest wooden churches in Poland—the Ulucz Church. You can also experience moments of contemplation in other historic temples, such as in Radruż, Haczów, and Blizne.

6. RIDE IN A SLEIGH

If you love winter, horses, and the gentle bite of frost on your cheeks, you simply must embark on a winter adventure on horseback. One such opportunity awaits at Siedlisko Janczar in Pstrągowa, not far from the capital of Podkarpacie. Horses are also an integral part of the region’s sleigh rides, a charming and thrilling winter activity. Sleighs racing through the white, glittering fields and forests, lit by the flicker of torches, offer an unforgettable experience—perfect for both adults and children. A sleigh ride through the beautiful landscapes of the Bieszczady Mountains is pure fun and adventure.

In the Bieszczady, unforgettable experiences like these can be organized by travel agencies such as Bieszczader, Pawuk, and Dzikie Bieszczady. The itinerary of these trips often includes something for both the body and the spirit. You’ll get a taste of regional Podkarpackie proziaki (traditional bread), admire the beauty of local churches, and warm up by the campfire. During such a trip, you’ll truly feel the magic of the winter Bieszczady.

7. INDULGE YOUR SENSES IN A SPA

For those seeking luxury relaxation, Podkarpacie’s spa hotels offer a range of treatments and massages that will soothe your senses. You can enjoy such experiences at places like Hotel SPA Dwór Kombornia**** in Kombornia, Blue Diamond Hotel&SPA**** in Trzebownisko, Hotel Sokół**** in Łańcut, Hotel Grand**** in Rzeszów, Pałac Polanka**** in Krosno, Hotel Zamkowy**** in Baranów Sandomierski, and Hotel Arłamów****. The latter, located in the legendary resort of Arłamów, once a retreat for dignitaries, is a luxurious complex set in a green corner of the northern Bieszczady Mountains, far from the hustle and bustle. Winter relaxation and rejuvenation make an excellent gift for yourself and your loved ones, especially as a perfect New Year’s getaway. These high-class hotels offer special holiday and New Year’s Eve packages, ideal for those who want to escape the demands of daily life and enjoy comfort, not only for the soul but for the body too, while experiencing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Podkarpacie.

8. TASTE THE FLAVORS OF PODKARPACKIE CUISINE

The unique regional cuisine of Podkarpacie is a great reason to visit this area, especially during the winter months. Rich in aromatic mushrooms, game, potato dishes, goat cheeses, and oven-baked proziaki (traditional bread), Podkarpackie cuisine is a perfect blend of traditional and modern styles. You can enjoy these dishes in high-end restaurants or cozy inns, where live music rooted in local folklore sometimes accompanies your meal. Some of these atmospheric and lively places include Zagroda Magija in Orelec, Zajazd pod Caryńską, and Kresowa Osada in Basznia Dolna. You can also try renowned dishes at prestigious restaurants like Dubiecko Castle, Krasiczyn Castle, and Dwór Kombornia.

The latter also invites guests to the Salon Win Karpackich, where you can taste and purchase regional wines made from grapes grown in Podkarpacie's vineyards. A good bottle of wine is not only a perfect complement to dinner but also an excellent gift idea. For those seeking to indulge their taste buds further with healthful herbal tinctures, craft beers, or delicious wines, visiting at least one of the cozy, intimate spots on The Trail of Historical Recipes is a must.

9. VISIT UNIQUE MUSEUMS

Winter is a great time for urban tourism, perfect for walks through museum and historic interiors. The Podkarpacie region is home to a wealth of monuments, including churches, castles, and palaces along on The Carpathian Trail of Historical Houses and Gardens, as well as unique museums found nowhere else in Poland. Notable ones include the Museum of Bedtime Cartoons in Rzeszów, the Open-Air Museum in Sanok, the Glass Heritage Centre in Krosno, the Bieszczady School of Crafts, and the Museum of Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka. These exceptional exhibits, interactive tours, workshops, and unique architecture will captivate your imagination and creativity. There’s no shortage of inspiring places to visit in Podkarpacie!