PTTK Leskowiec Shelter

The PTTK Leskowiec Shelter, located in the Andrychów Beskids at an altitude of 890 meters above sea level, is an important tourist landmark, designed by activists of the Wadowice branch of the Polish Tatra Society in 1932. The structure was quickly built by carpenter Jan Bargiel and opened on September 3, 1933. Initially a modest wooden cabin, it underwent various changes; as early as 1934, due to increased tourist interest, a large dining room was added. The architectural value of the shelter lies in its simplicity and harmonious integration into the surroundings, giving it a distinctive mountain style. The managers of the facility changed over the years, with Władysław Midowicz as the first, followed by others such as Jan Rzycki and Wiesław Szafrański. The shelter survived World War II, despite attempts to destroy it, and after the war, it was returned to the Polish Tatra Society (PTT), which ensured its continued operation. In the 1950s, tourist traffic declined, affecting the condition of the facility, but in the second half of the 20th century, numerous modernizations took place. In 2002, the shelter underwent a major renovation, and in 2012, solar collectors were installed on the roof. The shelter offers 32 overnight accommodations in multi-bed rooms, a buffet, and full board. Its surroundings feature numerous hiking trails and a ski lift, making it an attractive destination for tourists. Interestingly, the facility is associated with the figure of John Paul II, which further enhances its cultural significance. In 2002, on the 70th anniversary of the shelter, a plaque dedicated to the builder Czesław Panczakiewicz was unveiled, highlighting the lasting impact of this place on the history of tourism in the region.