Rzeszów - Grybów
The place
This trail links Rzeszów in the east with Grybów in the west through the Beskid Niski, the lowest range of the Carpathians on the Polish side of the border. Over roughly 200 km across 10–12 stages, the route passes through picturesque Lemko villages with wooden Orthodox churches, the beech forests of Magura National Park, and quiet Carpathian river valleys. It is a themed trail linking the Polish-Lemko cultural heritage route.
Why go
Wooden Orthodox and Greek Catholic churches. Magura National Park. Lemko cottages and farmsteads. The Bieszczady mountains in the distance. The San and Wisłok river valleys.
A bit of history
The Beskid Niski was inhabited by the Lemkos (a Carpathian Rusyn subgroup) for centuries before most of them were resettled in 1947 as part of Operation Vistula. The wooden Orthodox churches and empty villages bear witness to this tragic chapter of history.
Getting there
Rzeszów: airport and rail hub. Grybów: train from Nowy Sącz (30 min) or Kraków (2h).
Recommended gear
Waterproof trekking boots. Rain jacket. Map of the Beskid Niski (1:50,000).
Best season
May–October. Spring brings nature's awakening. Autumn brings golden beech forests.