Karkonosze

The Karkonosze Mountains are a picturesque mountain range located in the Western Sudetes, stretching approximately 40 km from the Szklarska Pass to the Lubawska Pass. They border the Jelenia Góra Valley to the north, and their highest peak is Śnieżka, reaching 1,603 meters above sea level. On both sides of the Polish-Czech border, the Karkonosze are protected as national parks: the Karkonosze National Park and the Krkonošský národní park. Despite their relatively low elevation, the climate of the Karkonosze is harsh, characteristic of high mountains, with heavy precipitation, especially snow. The region is rich in rivers, waterfalls, and glacial lakes, with the most famous being the Kamieńczyk Waterfall and the Śnieżne Stawy. The Karkonosze are also an area of significant geological importance, composed of granites and metamorphic rocks. The region's high biodiversity includes over 15,000 species of invertebrates and about 320 species of vertebrates, though some species, such as bears and wildcats, have experienced dramatic declines. Since the 17th century, the area has attracted miners and shepherds, and tourism developed later, particularly after the construction of railway lines in the 19th century. The introduction of a network of hiking trails and the construction of mountain shelters have enriched the offerings for tourists. The Karkonosze are also a historical site, with remnants of mining and metallurgical activities, and their name has roots in various cultures, including Greek, German, and Slavic. The region features many unique rock formations, known as skałki, and glacial cirques, which are the result of glacial activity during the Pleistocene. An interesting phenomenon is the "sea of clouds," which occurs in summer when warm air rises over the Jelenia Góra Valley. It is also worth mentioning the unique peat bogs, which are habitats for specific plant species. The tourist attractions of the Karkonosze include not only beautiful landscapes but also health resorts and historical sites such as Chojnik Castle. Although the local culture has been largely transformed by tourism, it still retains unique elements that testify to the rich history and ethnography of the Karkonosze.