The Robber's Leap

Zbójnicki Skok, also known as Janosik’s Leap, is a fascinating spot in the Pieniny Gorge where the Dunajec River narrows to just 12 meters. This natural constriction of the river is surrounded by spectacular limestone rocks of Łysina and Klasztorna Góra, making it attractive both to tourists and raftsmen who ferry visitors on traditional wooden rafts. Due to the surrounding wilderness and the inaccessibility of this location from the Pieniny Trail, Zbójnicki Skok becomes a mysterious and magical place, full of legends. One popular tale claims that Janosik, while fleeing from the hajduks (royal guards), leaped across the Dunajec, leaving an imprint of his traditional leather shoes (kierpce) on the left bank. It is also worth mentioning that raftsmen demonstrate the depth of the water by throwing poles into the river, which disappear into the currents, highlighting the strength of the flow in this spot. Zbójnicki Skok combines rich cultural heritage, linked to legendary outlaws, with the beauty of nature, forming part of an important tourist trail in the region.