Directly from Zieleniec there is a trail to Orlica, which is the highest peak of the Orlické Mountains. It is worth going there, because the trip is not particularly demanding, and it can provide a lot of impressions. The observation tower and the ruins of the former hostel are just some of the attractions that await tourists here. See what Orlica is in.
Orlica and its history
A small but picturesque peak rises above the popular tourist resort Zieleniec. It is the Orlica measuring 1084 m above sea level. A mountain located on the border with the Czech Republic, the tip of which is located on the side of our south-western neighbors. Although it is inconspicuous, it boasts an extremely interesting history. Already in 1770, the first viewpoint was built on it, and before 1945, with the influx of tourists, the first infrastructure appeared. It was then that the hostel Orlica was built, led by Heinrich Rübartsch — a pioneer of skiing and mountain tourism in the Sudetenland. On his initiative, the first observation tower also appeared on the top. However, Orlica could not enjoy these attractions for a long time, because after the war they fell into disrepair and were burned. Today, only their ruins are found at the apex.
Orlica — trails
It is not necessary to have a good orientation in the field to climb the mountain that is Orlica. The trails that lead to it have a very simple course. The shortest of them, i.e. green, leads straight from the parking lot to Sołtysiej Kopa in Zieleniec. At the very beginning of the route, you can come across an interesting attraction in the form of a commemorative stone dedicated to Heinrich Rübartsch (founder of the first Orlica shelter). Further, the trail follows a gravel road with a gentle course for 2 km. The approach is not particularly demanding, so after a little more than an hour it reaches almost under the very top. Orlica is a heavily forested mountain, which is why there is an observation tower (already the fourth in turn) on it, from which you can admire the surrounding panorama.
Although Orlica belongs to the Crown of the Mountains of Poland, its tip is not on our side of the border, but on the Czech side. Therefore, if you want to get it, you need to walk from the observation tower a few dozen more meters. This short walk is enough to conquer Mount Orlica. The top of the hill is decorated with a monument commemorating the visit of American President John Quincy Adams (1800), Frederick Chopin (1826) and Emperor Joseph II (1779). You can take a souvenir photo with it, and then return along the green trail from Orlica to Zieleniec in about 40 minutes.
PTTK Orlica shelter?
Many people during their visit to Orlické Mountains wish to visit the PTTK Orlica hostel. Although it might seem that one does not exist (after all, we wrote that it burned), nothing more confusing. Today, however, under the term PTTK Orlica, there is another facility, located in Pieniny, on the banks of the Dunajec River and the island of Promontory. It has nothing to do with the building that was once on Orlica.
Orlica Zieleniec — practical information
If Orlica is in your tourist plans, Zieleniec is an ideal starting point for mountain excursions. When you have accommodation, there is no problem to go from anywhere in this tourist resort. As an alternative, you can choose a car and park in the free parking located at the entrance to the green trail. The passage time of the entire route takes from 1.5 to 2 hours and does not require you to have a very good condition (the distance is 4 km). So without worries, you can take the children and enjoy the fun time spent in the family circle. Admission to the observation tower is also free, just as visiting the ruins that once functioned as the Orlica shelter in Zieleniec. Attractions are available to tourists all year round, regardless of the weather.
Orlica — accommodation
The best place to sleep in case of conquering Orlica is, of course, Zieleniec. It is from it that the main trails run, with which you can get to the very top of this hill. However, the question remains, which hotel to choose? Vital & Spa Resort Szarotka provides a high standard of accommodation and plenty of facilities. Check out what rooms we offer for rent in Zieleniec and book your stay today.
You want to get Orlica? Accommodation in our resort will allow you to quickly reach the trail both on foot and by car. If you have questions or doubts, we will be happy to advise you which route to choose — after all, we are here to serve our guests.
