Chochołów Valley

The Chochołowska Valley is the largest and longest valley in the Polish Tatra Mountains, located on the western edge of the Western Tatras, covering an area of over 35 km². After World War II, between 1951 and 1953, a new PTTK mountain shelter was built on the site of the burned-down refuge, which became an important tourist hub. The valley was a favorite place of Karol Wojtyła, and in 1983, as Pope John Paul II, he met there with Lech Wałęsa. The Chochołowska Valley is known for its cultural pastoral traditions, legends of bandits, as well as commando training sessions and numerous historical events, including partisan battles during World War II. Geologically, the valley is divided into a lower part, composed mainly of sedimentary rocks, and a southern part, where crystalline rocks dominate. The valley features many picturesque clearings, with the most important being the Chochołowska Clearing, attracting tourists all year round. In the valley, visitors can admire a diversity of flora and fauna, including rare plant species and wild animals such as deer and bears. An interesting fact is that the Chochołowska Valley was also a site of mining and metallurgy activities dating back to the 16th century, which enriched its history. Despite its natural beauty, the valley is subject to forestry and pastoral management, which protects it from overgrowth. The hiking trails running through the valley offer diverse trekking opportunities, attracting both hikers and skiers. Various forms of transportation are available to reach the Chochołowska Clearing, including a tourist train and highlander horse-drawn carriages. All of this makes the Chochołowska Valley not only an accessible tourist destination but also a place where modern cultural life and history intertwine with the magnificent landscapes of the Tatra Mountains.