Dunajec

The Dunajec is a mountain river in southern Poland that flows through the Tatra and Pieniny ranges before joining the Vistula. The water forms several gorges with steep limestone walls and crosses forested valleys and open plains on its way north.

The river served for centuries as a trade route between valleys and was an important corridor for timber transport from the mountains. In 1915, a battle took place here when German troops broke through the Russian defensive line.

Local raftsmen guide their long wooden rafts through the gorge wearing traditional mountain costumes. Visitors hear old songs and stories passed down through generations during the journey.

Wooden rafts run daily from spring through autumn through the gorge, and the ride takes about two to three hours on calm water. Warm clothing makes sense in shady spots, as the steep rock walls shelter the river from direct sun.

The gorge winds through the rocks in seven large curves, forming a natural corridor with walls up to 300 meters (984 feet) high. At some points, fossil traces of ancient sea creatures are visible in the limestone.

Location: Lesser Poland Voivodeship

Elevation above the sea: 172 m

GPS coordinates: 49.21666,19.76601

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:47