Łopień

Łopień, a mountain massif in the Beskid Wyspowy range, boasts rich geological, natural, and cultural values. Composed of Carpathian flysch, it abounds in landslides and rock outcrops, with the most notable being Czartorysk and smaller outcrops at the Widny Zrąbek viewpoint. Besides its natural formations, this massif harbors the largest number of caves in the Beskid Wyspowy range, with the Jaskinia Zbójecka (Robbers' Cave) at the forefront—known for its labyrinthine passages and as a habitat for the lesser horseshoe bat. Legendary tales associated with Łopień enrich local mythology, including stories about drowning suicides in the Jeziorki ponds and gold-collecting "nibydziady" (a kind of folk phantom). These folk tales testify to the rich culture and historical narratives tied to this region. In terms of tourism, Łopień offers several hiking trails and the educational path "Przełom Czarnej Rzeki" (Black River Gorge), while the Jaworze and Myconiówka clearings serve as excellent camping spots. Some clearings that were once used for pastoral activities have also been preserved. The nature around Łopień is diverse; the protected peat bog "Bagnami Łopieńskimi" and rich fir forests along the massif's ridge highlight its ecological value. Interestingly, the forests are home to rare animal species, including various types of bats, deer, and wolves. Łopień is also a site of historical hideouts used by Jews during World War II. This wealth of natural and cultural aspects makes Łopień an attractive destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts.