Prinz-Heinrich-Baude

Prinz-Heinrich-Baude is a mountain lodge in the Karkonosze Mountains at roughly 1415 meters elevation, positioned near the lake Wielki Staw. The three-story stone building offers views across the Jelenia Góra Valley and contains multiple rooms with various support facilities.

Gustav Elsner initiated construction of this mountain lodge in 1888, with the facility opening in 1889 to serve mountain travelers. The building was expanded decades later and became an important stop for visitors exploring the surrounding peaks.

The lodge takes its name from Prussian Prince Henry, who visited the region during the 19th century. Visitors walking through can still sense the historical connection to this royal patronage in how the building is designed and furnished.

Reaching this lodge requires hiking through mountain trails that begin from valley towns below. Visitors should bring proper hiking gear and layered clothing since weather conditions can change quickly at this high elevation.

Aviation pioneers conducted early flight experiments near the lodge in the late 1920s, using the mountain slopes for their glider tests. These daring attempts at the edge of aerospace history took place far from major cities, in this remote corner of the mountains.

Location: Powiat karkonoski

Inception: 1888

Official opening: 1889

Elevation above the sea: 1,415 m

GPS coordinates: 50.75560,15.69102

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:25