Niedźwiedź is a rural commune in Poland, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, within the Limanowa County. It is a significant area from both a natural and cultural perspective. The seat of the commune is the village of Niedźwiedź, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich biodiversity, making it an attractive destination for tourists. Covering an area of 74.44 km², the commune is not only abundant in forested areas (55% of its territory) but also features substantial agricultural land (38%). Thanks to its natural assets, Niedźwiedź serves as a holiday commune, attracting enthusiasts of active recreation and nature lovers. The presence of the fire salamander within the commune is a testament to its ecological diversity.
From a demographic standpoint, as of June 30, 2004, the commune was home to 6,723 residents. It comprises the following administrative villages: Konina, Niedźwiedź, Podobin, and Poręba Wielka, each preserving the local character and traditions of their inhabitants. It is worth noting that the Niedźwiedź commune is directly adjacent to other communes, such as Kamienica, Mszana Dolna (a town), Nowy Targ, and Rabka-Zdrój, which contributes to its rich cultural and recreational offerings.
Historically, the commune was part of the Nowy Sącz Voivodeship from 1975 to 1998, which influenced the development of its local infrastructure and community. In the years following Poland's administrative reforms, Niedźwiedź gained prominence as a tourist region. Interestingly, despite its relatively small size, the commune accounts for 7.82% of the total area of Limanowa County, highlighting its regional significance. In 2014, the age structure of the commune's population reflected a diverse demographic pyramid, indicating both demographic variety and social potential. Thus, Niedźwiedź is a place that combines rich natural assets with cultural and social values, offering unique experiences to both residents and visitors.