Szczyrk is known as Poland's premier ski resort town, centred on Szczyrk Mountain Resort across the Skrzyczne and Klimczok peaks in the Beskid Śląski mountains. Beyond winter sports, it's also a popular four-season destination for hiking, mountain biking and mountain spa breaks.
Discover Authentic Szczyrk: A Local Travel Guide by Mercure
Tucked into the Beskid Śląski mountains, Mercure Szczyrk Resort sits right at the foot of the slopes our guests come here to chase — and after a day on the mountain, we're just as happy pointing them toward a quiet forest trail or a wellness pool instead. Szczyrk has grown from a sleepy mountain village into Poland's most popular ski town without losing its alpine charm. Here's our local take on how to make the most of it, whatever the season.
Our map pins local favourites such as the Na Górce sanctuary and the Żylica riverside path, alongside Mercure Szczyrk Resort.
Top 5 Things to Do in Szczyrk
Ride up Mount Skrzyczne
At 1,257 metres, Skrzyczne is the highest peak in the Beskid Śląski range, reachable by cable car or chairlift with sweeping views over the surrounding mountains.
Ski Szczyrk Mountain Resort
Poland's largest and most modern ski complex spans two connected mountains, Skrzyczne and Klimczok, with extensive groomed slopes, snowmaking and a lively après-ski scene.
Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady on the Hill
Known locally as “Na Górce,” this hilltop sanctuary overlooks the town and makes for a peaceful stop away from the slopes.
Walk the Żylica Riverside Path
Known as “Freya's Walk,” this gentle riverside trail follows the Żylica river through town, ideal for an easy stroll in any season.
Unwind at a mountain wellness spa
After a day outdoors, Szczyrk's hotels and spas specialise in pools, saunas and treatments designed around the alpine setting — a local tradition as much as the skiing itself.
Explore Szczyrk's Best Local Spots with Our Interactive Map
What's on the map in Szczyrk
We've mapped local spots around Szczyrk, in the heart of the Beskids.
Mountains & heritage
Sanctuary of Our Lady 'Na Górce'
Perched above Szczyrk on the site of a Marian apparition, a sanctuary that draws pilgrims and walkers alike. Behind the church, a small fountain makes a quiet place to pause.
Szczyrk · Sanctuary · Perfect for a peaceful visit
Żylica riverside path
An easy, scenic walk along the Żylica river through Szczyrk, with benches and seasonal colours. No hiking boots required.
Szczyrk · Riverside walk · Great for an easy stroll
Skrzyczne
At 1,257 metres, the highest peak of the Silesian Beskids. Walk, bike or take the chairlift.
Szczyrk · Mountain · Made for views
Bukowina shepherd's hut
A wooden hut in Żabnica where oscypek and bundz cheese are smoked daily, with sheep and alpacas outside. Taste it warm.
Żabnica · Farm · Perfect for cheese lovers
Apilandia
An interactive beekeeping centre created by honey producer Lyson. Buzzing with ideas.
Beekeeping centre · Great for families
Koniaków Lace Centre
The home of Koniaków lace, famous far beyond Poland – watch the lacemakers at work.
Koniaków · Craft centre · Ideal for crafts
OKO Animation Centre
In Bielsko-Biała, birthplace of the cartoons Bolek and Lolek and Reksio. Childhood, animated.
Bielsko-Biała · Museum · Perfect for families
At the resort
Flame Steakhouse
At our Mercure Szczyrk Resort, steaks from Polish cuts to Argentinian classics and Wagyu, cooked over an open cherry-wood fire.
Mercure Szczyrk Resort · Steakhouse · Made for dinner
Luna Bar
Open from 1pm, with a terrace facing Skrzyczne. After 6pm, Luna Bar becomes the resort's social hub, with DJs, live jazz and artist nights.
Mercure Szczyrk Resort · Bar · Perfect for evenings
Mercure Art Gallery
Our resort gallery shows painter Peter Smola, whose studio is in nearby Buczkowice – with 'Meet the Artist' evenings at Luna Bar.
Mercure Szczyrk Resort · Art gallery · Great for local art
FAQ
Szczyrk itself is a small, walkable mountain town, with the main ski lifts and slopes accessible on foot or by a short local shuttle from most hotels. For trips further into the Beskid Śląski region, a car is the most convenient option, though regional buses connect Szczyrk to nearby towns like Bielsko-Biała.
December through March is peak season for skiing and snowboarding, when the slopes are at their best. Late spring through early autumn offers a quieter, greener side of the resort, ideal for hiking, mountain biking and relaxing at lower rates.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady 'Na Górce' above the town and the easy Żylica riverside path.
Yes. The Żylica riverside path is flat and family-friendly.
From the terrace of Luna Bar at Mercure Szczyrk Resort.
Where to Sleep in Szczyrk
See Mercure hotels in Szczyrk, all within reach of these picks.