Bieszczady National Park is the third largest national park in Poland, located in Subcarpathian Voivodeship in the extreme southeast corner of the country, bordering Slovakia and Ukraine. The park was created in 1973. At the time it covered only 59.55 square kilometres (22.99 sq mi), but over the years it was enlarged four times. The last enlargements took place in 1996 (when the park incorporated the former villages of Bukowiec, Beniowa and Carynskie) and in 1999 (when the former villages of Dzwiniacz, Tarnawa and Sokoliki were added).
It occupies 292.02 square kilometres (112.75 sq mi), covering the highest areas of the Polish part of the Bieszczady Mountains. In 1992 the park and its surrounding areas became part of the UNESCO East Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, which has a total area of 2,132.11 square kilometres (823.21 sq mi) and includes parts in Slovakia and (since 1998) Ukraine.
Geography
Forests cover about 80% of Bieszczady National Park. The woods are mainly natural; in some cases it can be said that they have preserved their pristine character. The highest peak in the park, Tarnica, is 1,346 metres (4,416 ft) above sea level.
Fauna
Animal life is abundant with several species of endangered animals thriving in the area, among them bears, grey wolf, European wildcat, wild boar, beavers, European otter, and European lynx as well as deer, moose and European bison (over 500 live in the area). The park contains interesting bird species, including eagles and owls, and is home to the largest Polish population of Aesculapian snakes.
The park is sparsely populated (less than 1 person per km²), which means that animals can roam freely. The region is very popular among tourists, but there are not many facilities. Around 70% of the park is regarded as strict preserve, which means that the use of trails is restricted. The park's authorities promote walking trips.
Getting there
The quickest way to get from Warsaw to Bieszczady National Park is to drive which costs 180 zł - 280 zł and takes 6h 36m.
When to visit
There is something to do in every season. However, the best time is during spring, summer and autumn. The weather is better during these seasons and there are more acitvities. During winter the national park is quite desolate.
Map of Bieszczady National Park
Image gallery of Bieszczady National Park
Visitor/Information centres in Bieszczady National Park
Most national parks have an associated visitor centre to help visitors. They are usually open most of the year but some close in the off-season. You will often be able to find information on all the activities in the national park. A visit to the visitor centre is often recommended before venturing into the park.
Cabins & Shelters
This section lists some of the cabins and shelters for the national park. They can be great places to stay for the experience or as overnight stays on hikes.
Wildlife in Bieszczady National Park
These sections shows you some of the characteristic wildlife to the national park.
Bears in Bieszczady National Park
Bears in the park
This national park has bears and you need to take the necessary precautions. Read the article on bears and seek information from local park authorities.
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