Velo Dunajec

VeloDunajec is one of the most beautiful cycling routes in Poland, connecting the Podhale region with the Poprad Valley and running along the scenic course of the Dunajec River. The full route is about 230 km long and leads from Zakopane to Wietrzychowice, offering unforgettable views of the Tatra Mountains, the Pieniny, the Beskid Sądecki, and the Foothills. It’s a unique adventure for every cyclist – from recreational family trips to multi-day pannier tours. The route passes through popular resorts, spa towns, and villages rich in history, providing not only scenic but also cultural experiences.

key information about the route

Length: 233 km
Difficulty level: moderate – some sections require good physical condition
Elevation: varied – most significant on the Zakopane–Nowy Targ section
Surface: mainly asphalt, some gravel sections
Route type: mostly separated from car traffic, with exceptions in small towns

route signage – quality and continuity

Podhale and Pieniny

On the Zakopane–Szczawnica stretch, the route is well signposted with VeloDunajec logos. Signs are visible and placed regularly, especially where the route intersects with other bike trails like the Around the Tatras Trail or Velo Czorsztyn.

Poprad Valley and the Tarnów area

On the later sections – especially near Stary Sącz, Nowy Sącz, and Wietrzychowice – signage can be less clear. It's worth using a GPS map or app, particularly when deviating from main bike paths.

best direction and season to ride

The most commonly chosen direction is south to north – from Zakopane to Wietrzychowice. This allows you to tackle the most mountainous part first, while still fresh, and then follow the river downstream.

The cycling season on VeloDunajec runs from May to October. Spring and early summer are when the river is at its highest and nature is in full bloom. In summer, the route is busier, especially around the Pieniny and spa areas, while autumn offers peaceful rides and golden landscapes.

main stages and highlights along the route

Stage 1: Zakopane – Nowy Targ (approx. 35 km)

Starting at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, the route leads through charming Podhale villages and the White Dunajec Valley. This section requires good fitness, but the views make it worthwhile. In Nowy Targ, take a break at the market square or one of the local cafés.

Stage 2: Nowy Targ – Niedzica – Szczawnica (approx. 50 km)

This is one of the most spectacular parts of the route, passing by Lake Czorsztyńskie (with an option to shorten the ride via Velo Czorsztyn) and through the Dunajec Gorge. Here, you can combine cycling with visits to castles, a traditional rafting trip, or a rest stop in the spa town of Szczawnica.

Stage 3: Szczawnica – Stary Sącz – Nowy Sącz (approx. 60 km)

This section leads through picturesque valleys and farmland. In Stary Sącz, visit the charming old town and the Poor Clares Monastery. In Nowy Sącz, explore the market square, castle, and various urban attractions.

Stage 4: Nowy Sącz – Zakliczyn – Wietrzychowice (approx. 80 km)

The final stretch is a peaceful ride through the Foothills and the Dunajec Valley. It passes through small towns with interesting wooden architecture. The last segment runs along flood embankments, offering wide panoramic views of the river valley.

what to see along the way?

The castle in Niedzica and the ruins of the castle in Czorsztyn
Dunajec River rafting – a classic Pieniny attraction
Stary Sącz – Poor Clares Monastery and historic market square
Nowy Sącz – royal castle and Museum of the Lachy Sądeckie
Wooden churches and Orthodox churches in Małopolska – part of the Wooden Architecture Route

accommodation along the route

VeloDunajec passes through many tourist towns, so accommodation options are abundant:

Hotels and guesthouses in Zakopane, Szczawnica, Nowy Sącz
Agritourism stays and cottages in the Dunajec Valley – perfect for family trips
Mountain shelters and hostels – for more independent cyclists
Facilities certified by VeloMałopolska – offering cyclist-friendly amenities (laundry, storage, repair tools)

getting there and back – transport options

Getting to Zakopane:

Regional and long-distance trains from Kraków and Warsaw
Minibuses and buses from Kraków – frequent services with bicycle transport options

Returning from Wietrzychowice:

Train or bus from nearby Tarnów
It's recommended to check bike transport availability in advance – space may be limited

what might be challenging?

The biggest challenge may be the elevation around Zakopane and the total length of the route. Less experienced riders should consider splitting the trip into shorter segments and booking accommodations in advance. In some places, signage may be less visible, so GPS navigation is helpful. During the summer season, especially on holidays and long weekends, popular sections – especially in the Pieniny area – can get crowded.