Krzemieniec is a place marked on maps as an inconspicuous point, but in reality it hides extraordinary energy and symbolism. It is here that the borders of three countries - Poland, Slovakia and Ukraine - meet, forming the so-called tri-junction of borders. Located at an altitude of 1221 meters above sea level, in the Bieszczady range, Krzemieniec is not only a geographical curiosity, but also a place of deep historical significance.

The history of the place goes back far into the past. Before 1939, it was the meeting point of the borders of Poland, Czechoslovakia and Romania. After World War II, when the borders shifted, it became a tri-junction of Poland, Czechoslovakia and the USSR. Only after the breakup of Czechoslovakia in 1993 and the collapse of the Soviet Union did Krzemieniec gain its current status.

Getting to Krzemieniec requires some effort, which makes the place even more special. The most popular route is the one leading from Ustrzyki Gorne via Velka Rawka. The route winds through picturesque highlands, offering spectacular views of the three countries along the way. The hike itself becomes a form of meditation, with each step bringing you closer not only to a geographical point, but also to inner peace.

At the top of Krzemieniec is a distinctive obelisk with the coats of arms of the three countries, which was erected in 2000. Surrounding it is a panorama that will take your breath away - the boundless Bieszczady mountains on the Polish side, the gentle hills of Slovakia and the Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains. It's a place where you can literally stand with one foot in three countries at once.

According to local legends, Krzemieniec was a meeting place for witches and magicians from three countries, who performed their mysterious rituals right here, at the meeting point of the borders. It is also said that whoever spends a night on Krzemieniec during the full moon will gain the power to see the future. Although these are merely folk tales, they add an extra mystical dimension to the place.

It is worth noting that Krzemieniec is a place best visited from late spring to early autumn. In winter, the trails are difficult to access and weather conditions can be dangerous. Regardless of the season, it is important to remember to properly prepare for a mountain hike and to respect nature and the national border.

Krzemieniec is not only a geographical curiosity, but above all a place to reflect on the history of a region that has changed its nationality many times. It is a symbol of how arbitrary man-made borders can be in the face of nature's power and continuity. Standing on the summit, looking at the three countries stretching out at your feet, it is easier to understand that what unites us is stronger than what divides us.

Chránená krajinná oblasť Východné Karpaty, or Eastern Carpathian Mountains Protected Landscape Area, is a vast area located on the Slovak side of the border that is a true paradise for lovers of wildlife and solitary hiking. Created to protect the unique Carpathian ecosystems, the area impresses with its biodiversity and almost untouched landscapes.

The history of the area's protection dates back to the 1970s, when the authorities of the then Czechoslovakia recognized the need to preserve the natural heritage of the Eastern Carpathians. The protected area was officially established in 1977, and the tradition of protecting the area continued after the breakup of Czechoslovakia in 1993. Interestingly, the area is part of a larger transboundary nature conservation system that also includes sites in Poland and Ukraine.

The Eastern Carpathians are a place where nature still rules. The dense beech and fir forests that cover much of the area are home to many rare plant and animal species. Here you can find wolves, lynx and even brown bears that roam freely on both sides of the border, unaware of the political divide.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the area are the so-called 'pralas' - fragments of forests that have never been subjected to forest management and have retained their original character. Wandering through these old-growth forests, you can feel as if you are traveling back in time, to an era when man had not yet interfered so much with natural ecosystems.

Among the locals, stories circulate about 'Forest People' - mysterious beings who were said to inhabit the deepest backwoods of the Carpathian forests. According to legends, they were guardians of nature who could communicate with animals and plants. Although today these stories are taken with a pinch of salt, they reflect the deep respect local people had for the nature around them.

In addition to the forests, the area is also famous for its picturesque mountain meadows, known as the Polonnas. These vast grassy expanses, located above the upper forest boundary, offer incredible views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. In the spring and summer, the palms turn into colorful carpets of flowers, creating a spectacle that lingers in the memory.

Worth mentioning is the unique cultural phenomenon of Wallachian shepherding, practiced in these mountains for centuries. Although it is less common today than it once was, you can still come across traditional shepherd's huts and flocks of sheep grazing in the mountain meadows. This centuries-old tradition has not only shaped the cultural landscape of the region, but also contributed to the development of a specific cuisine, with such specialties as bryndza and oscypek.

For those seeking solitude and quiet, the Chránená krajinná oblasť Východné Karpaty offers a network of hiking trails of varying difficulty. From easy trails, accessible to everyone, to challenging trails for experienced hikers. Importantly, even during the peak hiking season, it is possible to find places where the sound of the wind in the treetops and the singing of birds will be your only companion.

The Little Carpathian Mountains Protected Landscape Area, located in the western part of Slovakia, not far from the Polish border, is a fascinating example of the harmonious coexistence of nature and culture. In contrast to the wild and harsh Eastern Carpathians, the Lesser Carpathians offer a gentler, friendlier landscape that has been shaped by man over the centuries, but still retains its natural charm and biodiversity.

The history of the area is extremely rich. The Little Carpathians were inhabited as early as prehistoric times, as evidenced by numerous archaeological finds. In the Middle Ages, the region became an important center of winemaking, and the tradition of viticulture has survived to this day, giving the landscape the distinctive appearance of terraced vineyards climbing up the hillsides.

Protection of the area began formally in 1976, when the Little Carpathian Mountains Protected Landscape Area was established. The main goal was to preserve a unique ecosystem that combines natural and cultural elements. After the breakup of Czechoslovakia in 1993, the area remained under the protection of Slovak authorities, who continue their efforts to preserve its unique character.

The Little Carpathian Mountains are primarily vast deciduous forests, mainly beech and oak, which in autumn turn into a feast of colors - from gold to red to deep brown. Between the forests stretch meadows and pastures, as well as the aforementioned vineyards. This mosaic of habitats is conducive to biodiversity - many species of birds, mammals can be found here, as well as rare plants, including endemic species of orchids.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the area are the numerous karst caves that hide in the limestone hills. Some of them are open to tourists, while others remain wild and unexplored. According to local legends, these caves were once home to 'underground creatures' who guarded hidden treasures. While these are obviously just stories, they add an extra mystical dimension to the place.

Wandering along the trails of the Lesser Carpathians, one can come across numerous traces of history - from the ruins of medieval castles, to the remains of ancient settlements, to old stone roadside crosses. Each of these sites has its own history and legends, which are passed down from generation to generation by local people.

Of particular interest are the tales of the 'White Lady of the Lesser Carpathians' - the ghost of a woman who, according to legend, appears in the ruins of castles during the full moon. Some say she is the ghost of a noblewoman unhappily in love, others that she is the protector of these mountains, who shows herself to those who stray on the trail. Whatever the version, the legend reflects a deep connection between people and the landscape they inhabit.

In addition to its natural and historical qualities, the Lesser Carpathians are also famous for their wine-making traditions. The Myjava region, where part of the protected area is located, is known for producing high-quality wines. Local wineries, often run by families for generations, offer not only tastings, but also the opportunity to learn about traditional methods of viticulture and wine production.

For those seeking solitude and places for contemplation, the Lesser Carpathians offer numerous secluded corners - whether on hilltops with panoramic views or in secluded valleys where the only sound is the sound of streams and birdsong. It's the perfect place to stop, breathe and find inner peace.

Unlike many other protected areas, the Little Carpathians are relatively easy to access year-round. The mild climate makes it possible to hike here even in the winter, though of course one should always exercise caution and prepare accordingly. Spring and autumn are especially recommended due to moderate temperatures and nature's spectacular colors.