Have you ever thought about leaving everything behind and going into the wild? If it is so, there are five good reasons to choose the Bieszczady mountains! Even if you only come and stay for a few days...
1. Environment and wildlife
The Bieszczady trails are captivating not only because of the amazing views from the mountain meadows and summits, but also for the abundance of fauna and flora. If you venture deep into the natural beech forest, you can spot over 900 species of plants, and 500 species of mosses and lichens. The Bieszczady Mountains are also a sanctuary for large animals - wisent, lynx, wolf and bear. Besides watching animals living in the wild, you can visit the wisent enclosure in Muczne, where you can observe several animals. The Bieszczady Mountains are also a haven for birds, colourful insects and rare species of amphibians.
2. Local cuisine
Traditional Bieszczady-style food is undoubtedly unique. It is simple and tasty. The cuisine of the ethnic groups of Lemko and Bojko are based on potatoes, cabbage, groats, bread and dairy products. Typical local dishes also include grilled and fried trout, smoked goat or sheep cheese, hreczanyki, wareniki, fuczki, and pancakes made according to local recipes, as well as wholemeal dumplings with buckwheat groats and creamy bryndza cheese- you will easily find these on the menu in numerous restaurants and inns.
3. Local people
The region is also known for the unique people who moved here years ago from large cities, to make their home in the mountains. Many books and songs have been written about these ‘Bieszczady cowboys’. Today, you can meet these legendary men and women and hear their captivating stories. Indeed, it is the conversations with the local people that make a visit to the Bieszczady Mountains a truly unforgettable experience.
4. Tranquillity
Although it seems a cliché statement, time really passes much more slowly in the Bieszczady Mountains. The day seems to have no end and the night is quiet, with a sky filled with a multitude of stars. So every now and then it is a good idea to leave all problems behind and go to the Bieszczady Mountains. If only for a short break.
5. The Starry-Sky Park
In the Bieszczady Mountains you can admire the Milky Way with the naked eye! You do not need any special equipment. To get an even better view of the planets and stars you can use a telescope or binoculars. You can also receive help during the observations from instructors with expertise in astronomy. You should remember to have warm clothes, as the observations of the sky are conducted outdoors, obviously. It is also a good idea to book accommodation – there are lots of options in the Bieszczady Mountains so everyone will find a place which is perfect for them.