Mountains & Dragons - a Family Holiday in Poland & Slovakia (EXFBP)

Duration: 8 days (may vary)
Areas: Poland, Slovakia
Tour types: Family Adventures, History & Culture, Walking & Trekking

Description

Mountains & Gorges
The historic spa town of Szczawnica provides our base in the mountains on the edge of Pieniny National Park, where the fresh air and famed mineral waters are sure to invigorate us. We focus on the outdoors; gentle rafting down the spectacular Dunajec gorge, ascending the higher ridges by chairlift for views and hikes, and cycling along the river valleys. At an evening campfire we plan to enjoy traditional hearty Polish fare in the company of local folk musicians.

Salt Mine & the “Dragon's Lair”!
According to legend, the celebrated medieval city of Krakow was named for Krak, who killed the dragon living in a cave beneath the Wawel castle. We'll discover the atmospheric streets of the old quarter, visit the imposing cathedral and castle and then descend 135 steps into the lair of the very dragon himself. Today a sculpture of him still spits fire on the banks of the Vistula! A very unusual and not-to-be-missed attraction is the salt mine at Wieliczka. On the UNESCO world heritage list, we'll explore the fascinating labyrinth of tunnels, home to a multitude of sparkling salt chambers and carvings, hewn over hundreds of years by miners turned artists.

Tour itinerary

Day 1

Join Krakow; drive Szczawnica in Pieniny mountains.

Day 2

Rafting on Dunajec river, afternoon free.

Day 3

Cable car to Palenica for views, walks and optional toboggan run; evening campfire with music.

Day 4

Cycle along the “Pieniny Way”; optional hike Sokolica viewpoint.

Day 5

Drive Krakow, visit Wieliczka salt mine en route.

Day 6

Walking tour of historic centre, Wawel castle and “Dragon's Lair”; afternoon free, optional visit to Aquapark.

Day 7

Free day, optional Auschwitz visit, cycling along Vistula.

Day 8

End Krakow.