Rabka-Zdrój is a tourist and recreational town, and above all a health resort on the border of Gorce, Beskid Wyspowy and Podhale. Since the mid-nineteenth century, it has been the most important health resort for children in Poland, but in recent years it has also been gaining importance as a starting point for trips to the surrounding mountains.
Although the history of the village dates back to the medieval times, its dynamic development did not begin until the 19th century. It was then that the local mineral waters were analyzed, and in 1864 the first bathing establishment was established here.
In addition to mineral waters, Rabka-Zdrój also has a specific microclimate that helps in the treatment of respiratory diseases and cardiological diseases. Already in the 19th century, it was found to be particularly helpful in medical treatments for children. To this day, the town is a well-known children's spa and has the title of the Children's City.
Due to the profile of medical activity, many attractions of Rabka-Zdrój have been created just for children. There are, among others one of the first Polish modern amusement parks, Rabkoland, and next to it the Museum of the Order of the Smile, the only decoration awarded by children. An interesting family offer is offered by the Highlanders and Zbójników Museum, where you can learn about the culture of the local population in an interactive way.
The central part of the spa is the revitalized Spa Park with a pump room and a graduation tower. The symbol of this part of Rabka is the Elephants Fountain. In turn, in front of the historic station building, turned into an exhibition hall and a cultural center, there is a monument to St. Nicholas, who also emphasizes the "children's" nature of the spa. The most important monument of Rabka is the wooden church of St. Mary Magdalene, which now houses the Ethnographic Museum of Władysław Orkan.
Situated between the Rabka mountains, it is an excellent base for hiking along the surrounding trails. The most common destination for excursions from this town is Luboń Wielki, a peak 1022 m above sea level, with a picturesque wooden shelter on a high foundation. From Rabka you can also set off in Gorka towards Turbacz or in the nearby Beskid Żywiecki.
