PTTK Shelter in the Valley of the Five Polish Ponds

The PTTK Mountain Hut in the Valley of the Five Polish Ponds, situated at an altitude of 1,671 meters above sea level, is the highest-located mountain shelter in Poland. It was built between 1947 and 1953, and its architecture, designed by renowned architects, blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. The hut offers 67 overnight accommodations in 2-, 4-, 7-, 8-, and 10-person rooms, as well as a stylish inn that serves meals for most of the day and is famous for its traditional apple pie. The history of the shelter dates back to 1876, when the first, rather uncomfortable, Ludwik Zejszner Hut was established. In the following years, due to the growing popularity of tourism, more comfortable facilities were built, leading to the current hut, which opened in March 1956. The shelter attracts visitors not only with its picturesque location by the Przedni Staw (Front Pond) but also with its rich offerings, including a ski equipment rental and access to mountain-themed games, books, and films. An important aspect of its operations is its cooperation with the mountain school and TOPR (Tatra Volunteer Search and Rescue). Despite the challenges of transporting supplies, the hut is renowned for its hospitality and homely atmosphere. It also has its own electrical power system based on a turbogenerator that uses water from the Wielki Staw (Great Pond), enabling the implementation of more eco-friendly heating methods. Numerous sports camps and events have been held here, and the shelter has become a meeting place for mountain enthusiasts. An interesting fact is that in 2010, a new biological wastewater treatment plant was built, and subsequent renovations significantly improved the energy efficiency of the facility. The hut and its long-standing tradition of hospitality continue to attract tourists eager to enjoy the charms of the Tatra Mountains and their unique atmosphere.