Strzecha Akademicka, Mountain hut in Karpacz, Poland.
Strzecha Akademicka is a mountain hut located at 1,258 meters (4,127 feet) on the western side of the Złotówka clearing in the Giant Mountains. It provides 140 beds for overnight stays and operates a restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine year-round.
The site originated as a shepherd's shelter dating back to the first third of the 17th century, while the current building was reconstructed in 1907 following a destructive fire. That fire prompted a complete rebuilding with updated construction methods.
The name comes from Krakow university students who acquired the property after World War II and made it a hub for academic mountaineering traditions. Today it remains a gathering place where visitors connect with this student-driven mountain culture.
The shelter sits at a junction of multiple hiking routes and remains accessible under various weather conditions throughout the year. It is wise to book overnight stays in advance, particularly during peak seasons when many trails converge at this location.
In winter months, a nearby ski lift serves the Złotówka slope just steps away from the shelter building itself. This direct proximity to skiing and snowboarding opportunities makes the location particularly appealing for snow sports enthusiasts.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
