Our cycling adventure begins with the Velo Dunajec route, which is part of the larger VeloDunajec project. It is one of the most beautiful and best-prepared bike paths in Poland, stretching along the picturesque Dunajec River valley.

The Velo Dunajec route starts in Zakopane and ends in Wietrzychowice, offering cyclists as much as 233.7 km of unforgettable experience. However, it's worth noting that you can choose shorter sections, ideal for one-day family trips.

One of the most beautiful sections is the one leading from Nowy Targ to Szczawnica. The route is well marked and mostly leads away from busy roads, ensuring the safety of even the youngest cyclists. Along the way, numerous attractions await, such as picturesque views of the Tatra Mountains, the Gorce Mountains and the Pieniny Mountains.

For families with children, we especially recommend the section between Nowy Targ and Czorsztyn. This part of the route is relatively flat and runs along the shore of Lake Czorsztyńskie, offering great views of the castles in Czorsztyn and Niedzica. Along the way you will find many resting places where you can take a picnic and enjoy the beautiful views.

It is worth remembering that along the Velo Dunajec route there are numerous refreshment centers and bicycle rentals, making it easier to plan your trip. For those who want to spend more time in the area, we recommend staying overnight in one of the numerous agritourism farms or guesthouses along the route.

Remember to be properly prepared for the tour. It's a good idea to bring a helmet, spare tube, pump and a supply of water and snacks. For the youngest cyclists, we also recommend taking extra clothes for a change, as the weather in the mountains can be changeable.

The Velo Dunajec route is accessible all year round, but the best time for cycling is from April to October. During the summer season, it's a good idea to set out early in the morning to avoid crowding on the route and to take advantage of the more pleasant temperatures.

Another route that will delight any cycling enthusiast is the Dunajec Gorge Hiking and Biking Path, connecting Szczawnica with the Red Monastery. This scenic route, about 12 km one way, leads through some of the most beautiful corners of the Pieniny National Park.

The trail begins in Szczawnica, at 11 Pienińska Street, and can be easily reached by car or bus from nearby towns. There is a parking lot where you can leave your car (parking fee is about 20 PLN per day, as of 2024).

The route is relatively easy and accessible to cyclists of all skill levels. Most of the way runs along the bank of the Dunajec River, offering breathtaking views of the steep limestone cliffs of the Pieniny Mountains. Along the way, you'll pass the region's signature rafts, which have floated down the Dunajec River for centuries.

It is worth remembering that there are two short, but rather steep climbs along the route, on which it is recommended to dismount the bike. They are properly marked, so there is no fear of being surprised by a difficult section. For the safety of the youngest cyclists, it is worth paying special attention to these sections of the route.

Along the way, many attractions await us. One of them is the Pienińska Road - a route along the Dunajec River gorge, which offers unforgettable views of the most beautiful peaks of the Pieniny Mountains. It is an ideal place for a short stop and taking souvenir photos.

For those who want to learn more about the nature and geology of the region, we recommend taking the Dunajec Gorge Nature Trail. It is located on the Slovak side of the border, in the village of Červený Kláštor. This is a great opportunity to combine active recreation with nature education.

When you reach Červený Kláštor, it is worth making a longer stop. Here you can visit the historic monastery complex, and relax in one of the local restaurants, serving traditional Slovak dishes.

For families with children, we recommend planning a full-day excursion. Be sure to bring provisions for a picnic, which can be arranged at one of the numerous shelters along the route. Also remember to bring enough water, sunscreen and headgear, especially on hot days.

The route can be covered in both directions by bicycle, but to make the trip more interesting, consider returning by traditional Dunajec rafting. This is an additional attraction that will allow us to look at the Pieniny Mountains from a completely different perspective.

Let's remember that the route leads through the Pieniny National Park, so it is important to follow the rules of nature conservation. Let's not stray from the designated paths and take all trash with us.

For families with children who are looking for easier biking routes, the Szczawnica area offers many attractive options. One of them is the route leading to the Zaskalnik Waterfall, located just 2.5 kilometers from the center of Szczawnica.

The route to the Zaskalnik waterfall is ideal for a short family trip. It leads along an asphalt road, making it accessible even to the youngest cyclists. When you get there, not only a picturesque waterfall awaits, but also a children's playground and a picnic area. This is a great opportunity to combine active recreation with fun and relaxation surrounded by beautiful nature.

Another attractive route for families is a trip to the PTTK Orlica Shelter in Szczawnica. The hostel is located at 520 meters above sea level and offers beautiful views of the Pieniny Mountains and Beskid Sądecki. The route to the hostel is a bit more challenging, but still accessible to families with school-age children.

PTTK Orlica shelter is not only a viewpoint, but also a place where you can relax and enjoy traditional mountain food. We especially recommend trying the Russian or blueberry dumplings, which, according to guests, are among the best in the area. For children there is a special menu and a small playground with swings.

For more advanced cyclists who want to feel the real mountain climate, we recommend the route leading through the Homole Gorge. This is a picturesque trail about 800 meters long, which impresses with its steep limestone walls and lush vegetation. Although the route through the gorge itself is pedestrian, you can reach it by bicycle from Jaworki, and then leave your unicycles at the parking lot and explore the gorge on foot.

When planning bicycle tours in the Szczawnica area, it is worth remembering to prepare properly. Always check the weather forecast before the trip and take waterproof jackets with you, as the weather in the mountains can be changeable. For the safety of the youngest, let's not forget bicycle helmets and reflectors.

For those who don't have their own bicycles or don't want to transport them, there are many rental companies in Szczawnica offering bicycles for adults and children. Consider renting electric bicycles, which will make mountain climbs easier, especially for less skilled cyclists.

In summary, the Dunajec Valley and the Szczawnica area are a true paradise for bicycle enthusiasts. Whether you are an advanced cyclist or a family with children looking for quiet routes, there is something for everyone. Picturesque landscapes, clean air and an abundance of attractions make cycling trips in this region memorable for a long time. We encourage you to discover the beauty of the Pieniny Mountains on two wheels and enjoy active recreation surrounded by magnificent nature!