Wielka Racza

Wielka Racza, towering at an altitude of 1,236 meters above sea level, is the highest peak of the Żywiec Beskids and the Kysuce Beskids. The origin of its name remains unclear; there are numerous hypotheses, including connections to the village of Rajcza and legends about wine consumed after the resolution of border disputes. It is worth noting that in the local Żywiec dialect, "rajczula" means a sheep pen, and Alexey Siemionov suggests that the name may derive from the Old Polish word "racz," meaning knight. Wielka Racza is fully forested, but at its summit, there is a grassy clearing offering spectacular views, including of the distinctive peaks of Malá Fatra. A viewing platform, established in 1997 through Polish-Slovak cooperation, and a PTTK mountain shelter are located there. The area also features the Snow Paradise Veľká Rača ski resort. The history of Wielka Racza dates back to the 14th century, with mentions of pastoralism and bloody battles over the territory. During World War II, it served as an observation point for the German gendarmerie, and after the war, access to the summit and the shelter was restricted by communist authorities. The slopes of Wielka Racza are home to rich flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and animals, and part of the area is the Veľká Rača Nature Reserve, established in 1976. The natural clearing at the summit is not a result of human activity but a natural formation, making this location even more intriguing for tourists and naturalists.