Dunajec River rafting

Dunajec rafting is a 12-kilometer cruise on wooden rafts. The route leads through the picturesque gorge of the Dunajec River under Three Crowns Summit and Sokolica. Rafts are piloted by experienced raftsmen dressed in regional costumes, who along the way talk about mountains passed by and cite anecdotes from the history of the region and their work.

The beginnings of rafting at the gorge of the Dunajec date back to the second half of the 19th century. It was invented by the then owner of the Szczawnica health resort, Józef Szalay. Initially, it was organized occasionally and was an attraction of the season in the resort. Sailing on rafts was accompanied by an orchestra, cannon shots, and a picnic.

Currently, the rafting is run from April to October. It is organized by the Association of Pieniny Raftsmen. Rafts, clasped of narrow boats, piloted by two dressed in regional costumes raftsmen take about 12 people. The route leads from Kąty, district of Sromowce Wyżne, to Szczawnica or optionally to Krościenka. The cruise takes about two and a half hours, depending on the state of the water. Almost the entire route leads through the narrow gorge of the Dunajec. Vertical limestone rocks rise above the water. The river meanders between them and shows other, surprising views all the time. Rafting is one of the most popular attractions of the whole region. Efforts are being made to enter the Dunajec Gorge on the UNESCO List.