Bieszczady Winter Travel: My Guided Tour Through Poland’s Wild East

For me, a dreamy winter in the Polish mountains is pretty much—flora, fauna, and sauna!

From the warm, fuzzy vibes of cosy mountain cabins to the ultimate thrill of ski slopes, winter in Poland arrives bearing something for everyone. One of the most magical destinations? Bieszczady in winter—a remote, soulful corner of the country that blends outdoor adventure with quiet beauty. Packed with an array of snowy trails, stunning spa and wellness retreats, hearty Polish food, mulled wine, lights, and much more, Poland exemplifies winter holidays in Europe.

Because of the diverse topography, mountains in south Poland present different levels of challenge. If you fancy a raw and untamed winter adventure in Poland–wild and secluded, let me introduce Poland’s Wild East—Bieszczady. Located in Podkarpackie Voivodeship, this sparsely populated region is home to Poland’s most untouched nature.

From Karpacz winter sports to skiing in Zakopane, unwinding in Poland’s best winter spa retreats, or enjoying sleigh rides through the Polish mountains, winter in Poland offers something special for everyone.

Bieszczady is the land of European Bison (Żubr), wolves, and Eurasian lynx, offering stunning nature retreats and endless activities. Its pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity exceed every tourist’s expectations.

My 2025 as a private tour guide in Poland kicked-off with a 5-day winter adventure in Bieszczady.

From staying at Hotel Arłamów (a luxury spa in Poland) to embarking on a wildlife safari in Bieszczady National Park, hiking to Połonina Wetlińska, horseback riding at a local farm, and catching a bird’s-eye view of Poland’s largest dam- Solina, our week-long adventure was packed with the best of winter in Poland.

Suggested read: Poland’s Bucketlist Experiences: Top Guided Tours Revealed

5 days of surreal Polish winter experiences on a private guided tour in Bieszczady

We arrived in Bieszczady to 15 cm of fresh snowfall! Sitting on the outskirts of Bieszczady, Hotel Arłamów is a hidden gem of Ustrzyki Dolne in the Polish Subcarpathian region. Bieszczady is a straight 3+ hour drive from Kraków (the top tourist destination in Poland).

Protip: Looking for a 2-3 day mountain getaway from Krakow which isn’t as crowded as Zakopane? Consider Bieszczady!

Navigating through the Bieszczady winter wonderland landscapes, shrouded in an endless white blanket, was a mesmerising experience. Starting from the iconic Hotel Arłamów—ranked among Poland’s top luxury hotels for events—we indulged in its premium hospitality. Those cosy room views, a pink sunrise over the snow-clad forest, and deer and mountain goats complete the perfect winter frame! We couldn’t have asked for more!

Podkarpackie Voivodeship and Bieszczady Winter Travel – All you need to know

Podkarpackie is one of Poland’s least urbanized and most scenic areas, with 60% forest cover. Located in southeastern Poland, bordering Ukraine and Slovakia, the Podkarpackie region (translating to “Under the Carpathian Mountains!”) covers 17,800 sqkm.

Bieszczady exemplifies unique winter experiences in Poland, making every winter trip special. Whether navigating snowy roads, indulging in cool activities, or staying in the iconic Hotel Arłamów, Bieszczady is for those with discerning taste! It is one of Poland’s best-kept secrets!

If you’re looking to experience Carpathian wilderness or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, don’t miss these top experiences in Bieszczady–Poland’s eastern frontier.

Top winter activities in Bieszczady you can’t miss!

1. A dreamy stay at Hotel Arłamów
2. A nature and wildlife safari in Jabłonki
3. A hike to Połonina Wetlinska
4. Exploring the Orthodox wooden churches trail (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
5. Visiting the Bison Farm in Muczne
   
6. A day trip to Łańcut Castle and Przemyśl
7. A visit to the Sanok Open Air Museum
8. A craft beer and regional Polish food at Siekierezada
9. A tour of Ursa Major Brewery. (Mostly closed during winter)

Breaking it down day-by-day–your Guide to Winter Adventures in Poland’s Bieszczady

Day 1: Przemyśl & Jabłonki day trip

Half-day trip to Przemyśl

A less-popular yet charming city of Poland, Przemyśl sits on the historic crossroads of Polish, Ukrainian, and Austro-Hungarian influences. A day trip to Przemyśl from Bieszczady is ideal for every admirer of stunning Baroque architecture and historical gems, starting with the Przemyśl Fortress—one of Europe’s largest fortress complexes during World War I.

Today, Przemyśl Fortress ruins and underground tunnels attract history enthusiasts.

Looking for more tourist attractions in Przemyśl? Also known as Poland’s Gateway to the East, Przemyśl is Poland’s unofficial bell-making capital, and the Museum of Bells and Pipes (housed in a historic clock tower) offers a fun deep dive into the city’s centuries-old craftsmanship, Tatar Mound (Kopiec Tatarski) for a panoramic view of Przemyśl.

Protip: Include a trip to Łańcut Castle complex to make it a full-day trip. A popular pick for those travelling to Bieszczady National Park in winter

1-hour drive to the Northwest of Przemyśl, Łańcut Castle complex is an exquisite cluster of historical buildings located in Łańcut, Subcarpathian Voivodeship, Poland. Historically the residence of the Pilecki, Lubomirski and Potocki families, the complex includes several buildings and is surrounded by a park. Keep at least 3-4 hours handy for this trip while planning your Bieszczady mountain adventures.

Horseback riding and nature safari in Jabłonki

The nature and wildlife safari in Jabłonki was my favourite part of our wild trip to Bieszczady National Park in winter. As a gateway to the region’s untamed wilderness, Jabłonki offers a rare experience of its rich biodiversity. Set to experience the best of Bieszczady mountain adventures, we found a regional forest ranger for our unique four-hour private guided tour in Bieszczady National Park.

A one-hour horseback ride on a local farm, followed by a 4×4 safari through stunning landscapes, ensured we soaked up the best of the Carpathian Mountains. Though we weren’t lucky enough to spot wildlife, fresh tracks and feeding spots gave us a glimpse into their exotic world.

And when the ride broke down in the middle of nowhere? It turned out to be a spontaneous hike in Bieszczady! 😉 Unlike the tourist-heavy trails in the Tatry mountains, Bieszczady remains wild and untouched. Perfect for those craving a deeper connection with nature on their Poland winter holidays.

Siekierezada Bar in Bieszczady

After an action-packed day on Bieszczady’s off-the-beaten-path, we crashed into Siekierezada, the legendary bar in Cisna. Had to unwind over some craft beer and a hearty meal! With its axe-themed decor, rustic interiors, and delicious regional craft beer paired with hot pierogi, Siekierezada bar aptly captures the rebellious essence of Bieszczady. We feasted on steak and pierogi, washing it down with smoky dark lagers and bold ales from the regional brewery.

Winter, typically the low season in remote villages in Poland, makes spots like Siekierezada even more like a hidden gem. The bar gets its name from the prose of Edward Stachura, a cult figure in Polish literature. Its walls covered in axes, antlers, and cryptic scribbles bear the stories of drifters, woodcutters, and lost souls who found (or lost) themselves in the Bieszczady wilderness.

Day 2: Wooden Orthodox Church in Równia, Bison Farm in Muczne, and Połonina Wetlińska hike

Wooden Orthodox Church in Równia

For beginners, churches are a major tourist attraction in Poland. As a prominent Roman Catholic country in Central-Eastern Europe, Poland’s churches are among the most ornate works of art, with the most historic ones dating back centuries, designed in the classic Gothic style made entirely of brick.

We hired a local outdoor guide in Bieszczady for the day and began another day with a scenic (yet tricky) drive through the Polish winter wonderland.

Our first stop of the day was a UNESCO-listed wooden church with intricate carvings. This architectural marvel near Ustrzyki Dolne is called the Church of the Protection of the Mother of God (Bogurodzica) in Równia. The church reflects the rich multicultural heritage of the region, set in an atmospheric spot in the lap of nature.

Bieszczady is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Wooden Orthodox Churches. Why Orthodox? Because of its direct influence from Eastern Europe.

Created in 1743 in the Boyko style, the church in Równia belongs to the well-known group of Subcarpathian wooden churches. It functioned as a Greek Catholic church until the 1960s and survived the fire that destroyed the church in Smolnik nad Sanem (set on fire by Tatars).

Over the years, the Równia church was used as a warehouse and fell into disrepair, although some of its furnishings were preserved. Since 1969, the wooden church in Równia has served as a Roman Catholic church and is among Poland’s most beautiful churches.

Interested in discovering the Eastern Orthodox Churches Trail? I highly recommend these!

• Saint Onuphrius church in Posada Rybotycka – the oldest preserved brick Orthodox church in Poland.
• Church in Ulucz – erected in 1659, one of the oldest wooden Eastern Orthodox churches in Poland
• Church in Hoszów – built in 1938, modelled on the Hutsul Orthodox churches in the so-called Ukrainian national style
• St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Smolnik – 1791 built (in 2013 listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Bison Farm tour in Muczne

Open-air and unticketed attraction, the Bison Farm in Muczne is among the few bison farms in Poland. An unmanned farm in the nature-abundant region of Muczne, it has viewing decks to get up close with the mascot animal of Poland—the majestic European bison, aka Żubr.

The Bison farm is a quick 15-minute detour en route to the popular Bieszczady hiking trail, Połonina Wetlińska. Unlucky in the morning, we took a bold chance and returned at sunset to spot the bison family already coming back to the farm. These gentle beasts are among the most sought-after Bieszczady National Park attractions. Bison farms were part of Poland’s efforts to reintroduce bison to the wild after their near extinction in the 20th century.

Fun fact: the bison in Muczne were relocated from Białowieża and other parts of Europe. 

The open-air charcoal-making facility nearby is worth a stop. It reveals traditional methods of charcoal production, known as the “charcoal kiln” method, once used to create fuel for blacksmithing. This dying craft played a key role in shaping the local economy in the early 20th century.

Hike to Połonina Wetlińska in Bieszczady National Park

If you fancy winter hiking in Poland, Połonina Wetlińska is for you! It is a Bieszczady winter travel essential adorned with mountain meadows and unparalleled views. No prizes for guessing—Połonina Wetlińska is among the most visited places in the Bieszczady Mountains. A moderate yet steep hike begins from Przeł. Wyżna parking, with views gradually getting better.

The Połonina Wetlińska hike is famous for its alpine-style meadows (połoniny), shaped by centuries of shepherding. Stretching over 8 km at an altitude of 1,230 meters above sea level, it’s one of the most iconic ridges in the Bieszczady Mountains. The 10 km hike (round trip) from the parking takes about 4 hours with sufficient breaks.

Just before the summit, the recently renovated Chatka Puchatka (mountain shelter) is a perfect spot for a quick bite and a restroom break. This warm and cosy hut offers small exhibits on local wildlife, beverages, warm meals, postcards, magnets, and souvenirs for collectors. Originally built in the 1960s as a military observation post, it now serves hikers and stargazers with basic facilities—except overnight stays.

Ranked as the best winter hike in Bieszczady, this trail is part of the Bieszczady National Park, where grazing is now limited to preserve biodiversity. Despite its gentle slopes, Połonina Wetlińska experiences harsh winds and rapid weather shifts. It’s also part of the Dark Sky Park, offering incredible stargazing away from city lights.

Parking at Przeł. Wyżna costs 40 PLN, plus an additional ticket to enter Bieszczady National Park. We got lucky with this one due to extreme weather conditions. 😉

Optionally, if you decide on a hike to Tarnica, Wołosate – is the place to begin the climb. It’s also around a 10km hike (both ways) taking about 4 hours.

Day 3: Solina Lake & Dam, a ride in Kolej Linowa Solina

Solina Lake and Dam: A true engineering marvel

Standing at 81.8 meters tall and 664 meters wide, Solina Dam is the tallest dam in Poland. The largest artificial reservoir in the country, Solina Lake (Jezioro Solińskie) was created in 1968 following the construction of the Solina Dam, built between 1961 and 1968 by damming the San and Solinka rivers. This impressive project was designed to control flooding, generate hydroelectric power, and boost tourism in the Bieszczady region.

Solina Lake covers an area of approximately 22 km², with a shoreline extending over 150 km.

During summer in Poland, Solina Lake becomes a popular destination for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and swimming.

Since options here are limited when planning for Bieszczady winter travel, it’s ideal to ride the Solina Cable Car (Kolej Linowa Solina) operated by PKL. The 10-minute ride ends at the viewing tower overlooking the dam and rugged mountains, offering sublime 360-degree views of the breathtaking landscape. The viewing tower, with a lookout point and a café (also with a view), truly makes it worth the ride. Ticket prices for the cable car ride and viewing tower entry are separate. A round-trip ticket includes access to the viewpoint and is more affordable when purchased directly at the cable car station.

Together with Bieszczady, Solina accounts for highlights of the Podkarpackie region, putting it alongside the best winter destinations in Poland. Solina is packed with natural beauty, architectural wonder, and historical interest.

* Ursa Major Brewery is a must-visit when you plan on visiting Solina. Check their timings and hours—they don’t offer tours during winter.*

Hotel Arłamów: All you need to know

We reserved the remaining 2 days for some exclusive facilities and activities at Hotel Arłamów. An oasis of luxury and tranquillity in the middle of nowhere in Ustrzyki Dolne! Given its elusive location, discreet existence, and premier tag, Hotel Arłamów is a compelling place to stay in the Carpathians!

Whether you’re looking for the best MICE destinations in Eastern Europe or top venues for conferences in Poland, Hotel Arłamów offers the finest.

A retreat embodying the true essence of the Carpathian Mountains, Arłamów isn’t just one of the MICE venues in Poland.

What makes it special?

• Besides stunning views of wild nature and the cleanest air in Poland, Hotel Arłamów offers outdoor/indoor thermal baths, a spa, a sauna, and much more
  (skiing, golf, horseback riding, shooting, archery, swimming, indoor wall climbing)
• The large conference halls overlooking pristine forests, meeting rooms, and restaurants, make Arłamów a top luxury hotel in Poland for events.
• Nearby Arłamów Forest, known for its population of wild boars and lynxes
• A private landing strip and a chapel originally built for VIP guests
• It’s a perfect base for Bieszczady wilderness experiences.

Bieszczady winter travel: Dos and Don’ts

Dos:

• The Bieszczady Mountains are perfect for wildlife excursions, outdoor activities, and unique hiking trails for all seasons. Hire a tour guide (yes, that’s me!) who knows all the hidden scenic spots.
• Be informed– summer is the best time to visit the Bieszczady Mountains. Winter in Bieszczady is not for everyone unless you’re prepared for extreme driving conditions, dark days, and significant cold. Even in summer, mountain weather can shift rapidly, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
• Keep a safe distance from animals, and never feed them.
• Cash is king, especially when travelling to remote mountain towns in Poland. Keep a few hundred zlotys handy for local shops, remote accommodations, or any unforeseen emergency! Not all places in the remote region accept cards.
• Keep the tyre chain (łańcuch) as a backup! We did and used it too. While it’s not needed often, the confidence of having it makes your trip smooth.

Don’ts:

• The Bieszczady’s pristine beauty is only maintained when we leave no trace behind.
• While winter hikes in Bieszczady are absolutely tempting. Always check the difficulty level and the national park website for the latest updates or any closure of trails. Be honest with yourself about your fitness, and don’t undermine the importance of Bieszczady hiking guides.
• Expect phone signal drops in remote nature. Keep a paper map handy, download the offline navigation as backup, or hire a local Polish guide! You will have a stress-free experience.
• The Bieszczady mountains are home to unique local communities. Be mindful of local traditions and the environment.

Things to pack for Bieszczady winter travel

• Sturdy yet comfortable hiking boots are essential for uneven mountain terrain. I highly recommend pairing it up with spikes AKA raczki (crucial for ice), hiking poles, and a couple of extra woollen socks.
• Weather in the Bieszczady National Park can be unpredictable, so a lightweight, breathable jacket and warm layers are a must.
• Bring high-energy snacks (protein bars, nuts) and a water bottle with a filter, especially if you’re out on long hikes. It’s easy to refill filter water bottles with regular tap water, plus it also limits plastic wastage. Add a thermos with hot tea, and you’re set for the day 🙂
• Sunscreen and insect repellent – if you’re travelling to Bieszczady in summer.
• Pack your camera gear and binoculars! The Bieszczady is home to Poland’s most stunning landscapes and wildlife. Moreover, night photographers and astrophotography enthusiasts must know that the National Park area is among the best places to capture dark sky in Poland.
• A portable power bank is a lifesaver.
• Be prepared with a first-aid kit.

As a tour guide in Poland, I recommend Bieszczady among the best winter destinations in Poland! Until you’ve been in the remote Carpathian Mountains, you haven’t experienced the most tempting winter activities in Poland. Whether you are seeking the ideal MICE retreats in Poland or would like to join my private guided tour, please send me an email!

FAQs

• What makes Bieszczady a top destination for winter in Poland?
  With its pristine snow-covered landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a range of winter activities, Bieszczady is a must-visit for those seeking unique winter destinations in Poland.
• What is the best time to visit Bieszczady?
  Late spring to early autumn offers pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes, making it ideal for most outdoor activities in Bieszczady.
• What wildlife can I expect to see in Bieszczady?
  Bieszczady is home to European bison, wolves, bobcats, and different bird species.
• Are the hiking trails in Bieszczady suitable for beginners?
  Bieszczady hiking trails have different difficulty levels, but some can be challenging. It’s advisable to research and choose trails that match your fitness level.
• How can I experience local culture in Bieszczady?
  Visiting traditional UNESCO wooden Orthodox churches and museums like the Sanok Open Air Museum can provide deep insights into local culture.
• Is it necessary to hire a guide to explore Bieszczady?
  While not mandatory, hiring a local guide can significantly enhance your experience, especially for wildlife spotting, hiking, and understanding the region’s history.
• Why choose Hotel Arłamów for MICE events?
  Hotel Arłamów offers state-of-the-art conference facilities, luxury accommodation, and a serene environment, positioning it as a leading MICE venue in Poland.
• What unique winter activities can tourists enjoy during corporate events at Hotel Arłamów?
  Guests can engage in activities like snowshoeing, skiing, and guided wildlife tours, enhancing their winter experience in Poland.