PTTK Mountain Hut on Rycerzowa

The PTTK Bacówka on Rycerzowa is a charming mountain tourist shelter located in the Beskid Żywiecki range, on the Hala Rycerzowa meadow, within the Żywiec Landscape Park, in the municipality of Ujsoły. This place has a rich history dating back to 1939, when the construction of a shelter was planned, but the outbreak of World War II halted these plans. The current building, designed by Stanisław Karpiel, was built in 1975 as the first of the so-called "bacówkas" created by the Polish Tourist and Sightseeing Society on the initiative of Edward Moskała. The shelter is built of wood on a stone foundation, with a characteristic steep roof covered with wood shingles. Its location offers panoramic views of mountain massifs such as Lipowska, Rysianka, Pilsko, Babia Góra, as well as the surrounding Tatra Mountains and Slovakia. Along with the construction of the shelter, necessary infrastructure was created, including an access road and a sewage treatment plant. In 2012, the shelter underwent a renovation during which the roof covering was replaced and the facade was refurbished. The Bacówka is highly regarded among tourists, ranking high in mountain shelter rankings, as confirmed by its second place in 2009 and seventh place in 2011 in a poll organized by the n.p.m. magazine. Architecturally, the shelter stands out with its traditional, stylish decor, offering 34 sleeping places in rooms of various sizes under favorable conditions, as well as the possibility of sleeping on one's own mattresses. It provides access to a kitchen, dining room, and showers with hot water, as well as a buffet. An additional attraction is the possibility of pitching a tent near the shelter. Despite the lack of electricity, the Bacówka is equipped with central heating and a fireplace, ensuring a comfortable stay. Nearby, there are nature reserves and hiking trails leading to the Kisuce Village Open-Air Museum in Vychylovka. The shelter organizes various thematic events, such as "Noc Kupały" (Kupala Night) or the Open Stage of Amateur Song, contributing to the cultural life of the region. It is an excellent place for mountain and nature lovers, combining tourist attractions with rich history and tradition.