Żar Mountain is one of those places that’s perfect for a short mountain getaway. Located in the Beskid Mały range, it offers an easy trail, beautiful views, and a few interesting attractions at the summit. Our spontaneous family trip provided plenty of memorable moments, even with less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Parking and Starting the Hike
We drove to the site and parked near the lower station of the funicular railway. The cost for all-day parking is 20 PLN, and finding a spot was straightforward. After a brief discussion, we decided to hike to the top, planning to take the railway down as a fun treat for the kids.
Hiking to the Summit
The trail toŻar Mountain is not complicated but does require basic fitness. The path steadily ascends, and in winter, it can be slippery and muddy, which we experienced firsthand. Melting snow created puddles and mud, especially in areas where heavy machinery had passed. Despite this, turning back occasionally to admire the scenery revealed stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hike to the summit took us about an hour. While not overly strenuous, it can be a bit of a workout depending on your pace.
Attractions at the Summit
The summit of Żar Mountain, at 761 meters above sea level, is known for its breathtaking views. Unfortunately, on this day, fog limited visibility, though we caught glimpses of the expansive panoramas during brief clearings. At the top, you’ll also find the upper reservoir of the Porąbka-Żar pumped-storage power plant, which has been operational since 1979. This impressive structure is a remarkable feat of engineering and plays an important role in Poland’s energy sector.
There’s a restaurant at the summit where you can rest, grab a hot meal, or enjoy a coffee. Restrooms are also available, which is always a welcome convenience. For adventure enthusiasts, Żar Mountain is one of the most popular spots in Poland for paragliding launches.
Returning via the Funicular Railway
For our descent, we chose to take the funicular railway, which turned out to be a fantastic choice, especially for the kids, who loved the ride. Tickets can be purchased at the machine near the lower station or online, where they’re slightly cheaper. The railway runs every 20 minutes, making it a convenient option for the return trip. Next to the ticket counter, there’s also a PTTK stamp for mountain enthusiasts collecting hiking mementos.
Summary
A trip to Żar Mountain is an excellent way to spend an active day with your family. The trail isn’t too demanding, and the time spent in the fresh mountain air is a rewarding experience. This destination is perfect for a relaxing walk surrounded by nature or for more extreme activities like paragliding. Even though the weather wasn’t ideal that day, we returned happy and full of energy, ready for more mountain adventures in the future.
Żar Mountain – The Scenic Jewel of the Beskid Mały Mountains
Żar Mountain, standing at 761 meters above sea level, is a highly popular tourist destination in the Beskid Mały range. Located near the village of Międzybrodzie Żywieckie, it attracts both hiking enthusiasts and fans of aerial sports.
Tourist Attractions
One of the mountain’s biggest draws is the funicular railway, which provides a quick and comfortable ride to the summit. For those who enjoy physical activity, there are easy hiking trails leading to the top. At the summit, visitors can explore several unique attractions, including the upper reservoir of the Porąbka-Żar pumped-storage power plant—one of the most impressive facilities of its kind in Poland.
The Żar Mountain Glider School, established in the interwar period, is another highlight and still operates at the foot of the mountain. Żar Mountain is also a haven for paragliders, as the favorable wind conditions make it one of the most popular launch points in the country.
Views and Nature
The summit of Żar Mountain offers breathtaking panoramas, including views of Lake Międzybrodzkie, the Żywiec Basin, and the Beskid Żywiecki and Beskid Śląski mountain ranges. On a clear day, it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Convenience and Infrastructure
At the top, visitors will find a restaurant, restrooms, and viewing platforms that enhance the experience of this remarkable location. The funicular railway runs regularly, and there is a parking lot near the lower station with the option to purchase tickets online.
Żar Mountain combines natural beauty, unique infrastructure, and rich history. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, the thrill of paragliding, or simply want to admire stunning views, Żar Mountain is sure to meet your expectations. It’s a perfect destination for any season!