A haven for nature lovers, most travelers come to Pieniny National Park to enjoy adventures on the Dunajec River—such as kayaking or riding on a traditional wooden raft. These activities showcase spectacular views of the Pieniny Mountains, ancient castles, and nearby meadows. Tours typically begin in Krakow, and both small-group and private options are available. Other popular choices include guided hiking tours and cycling tours down the Pieninska Road bike path.
The park has endemic species of plants as well as rare animals, birds, and insects, such as bobcats, lynxes, brown bears, peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and Apollo butterflies.
A highlight for architecture fans is the medieval Red Monastery in Cerveny Klastor on the Slovakian side of the park.
It may be one of Poland’s smallest national parks, but there are still 21 miles (34 kilometers) of trails to discover.
Situated in the heart of the Pieniny Mountains at Poland's southernmost point, Pieniny National Park shares a border with Slovakia. Traveling from Krakow, you can reach the park in about two hours. You can also take a train or bus from Krakow to Nowy Targ and get a taxi or bus to one of the park’s entrance points.
The park is at its best during the warmer seasons of the year, such as summer and early fall. Rafting season runs between mid-April and October, but if you want to avoid the biggest crowds, then it's best to skip July and August and come in June or September instead.
If you don’t fancy hiking, then a river rafting trip down the Dunajec River Gorge is one of the best ways to see the local scenery—but don’t worry, it's not like adrenaline-fueled white-water rafting. This traditional mode of transport has been operating for over 150 years, and the rafting marina is located at Sromowce Wyżne-Kąty, with parking facilities close by. From here, you can set off on a raft with a raft guide to take care of the steering and navigating.
