Paradise in Bieszczady Mountains

About this route

The route runs almost entirely through the forests of the Bieszczady Mountains. The journey begins in the picturesque village Rajskie, which is located in a place where the San river gives rise to Lake Solina. This small village is called by many “paradise valley”. Although the route is quite demanding, its name, which can be translated to “paradise” is no coincidence. The views along the route composite all the effort put into riding. The difficulty of this route is caused by ascent over 1000 m. Initially, the route goes along the regional road no. 894, before the road, turns into a forest gravel path.

Distance

33 km

Ascent

588 m

Time

4h 30m

Surface type

Asphalt: 11%

Gravel: 80%

Others: 9%

Bicycle type

MTB , Gravel , Trekking

Route markings

Average

Loop

Yes

Family friendly

Attractions

Map inconsistent with digital accessibility resulting from the act

Practical advices

A route with a moderate level of difficulty will allow you to test your fitness. Remember that the terrain has a huge impact on how many kilometres you can cover. Trails on flat roads are less strenuous than those on hills or mountain roads.

Planning a group trip? Match the route to the fitness of the weakest participant.

A helmet and light clothing made of breathable materials will be essential for safety and comfort on the route. Other than that, only put on the essentials. Heavy luggage will make your ride more difficult. Also, think about what you will carry the necessary items in. We suggest a backpack or panniers for your bike.

Be prepared for possible breakdowns on the route. It is a good idea to carry the most important tools for a quick fix, such as inner tubes or patches, a pump or a multi-tool. Make sure you have enough water and food, as well as navigation equipment.

Is it looking like a warm and sunny day? Remember sunscreen and sunglasses. If you are planning sightseeing or other activities along the route, a bike lock will also be very useful. Before you leave, carefully examine your route for the trip. Consider whether your skills and equipment are adequate for the level of difficulty of the route.

Bieszczady

#rowerowaprzygoda

To feel the spirit of the Bieszczady, you simply have to go there!

Audiodeskrypcja tekstowa

The film takes us on an exhilarating bike journey through the wild landscapes of the Bieszczady region, uncovering not only the beauty of nature but also the fascinating culture and heritage of this land. The rhythmic music accompanying the film adds energy, while the passionate cyclists become our guides in this extraordinary biking adventure. Along the route, the cyclists visit diverse places that take our breath away, such as the Church in Komańcza, the narrow-gauge railway in Cisna, the Sine Wiry, the Church in Łopienka, the bridge over the San River near Sine Wiry, the surroundings of Baligród, and the Krywe Nature Reserve. It's a bike journey filled with passion and excitement, allowing us to explore the Bieszczady region.

Route details

Rajskie - Pass under Otryt - Pass under Hulskie - Sękowiec - Nature Reserve „Krywe" - Rajskie

Start

1
Rajskie
0 km
Rajskie
The route starts in the area of the intersection of a suburban paved road with regional road no. 894. Then following the Small Bieszczady Bypass towards Czarna. Rajskie is a village near Lake Solina, a water reservoir with the largest capacity in Poland (472 million m³).
2
Pass under Otryt
3.2 km
Pass under Otryt
To get to the pass, you have to conquer along an uphill ride. Although very demanding, the views you will get to see will compensate for the hardship. Otryt is a mountain range in western Bieszczady. Its highest peak is Trohaniec. The pass under Otryt is located at an altitude of 550 m.a.s.l. Once you are on the pass, turn right. To get to the next point, follow the blue bike trail for about 7 km to the crossing with the shed. Then turn left and head towards the village of Hulskie.
3
Pass under Hulskie
12.6 km
Pass under Hulskie
The pass is located near the nature reserve “Hulskie im. Stefana Myczkowskiego”, which is the habitat of large mammals, predators and birds. Bears, wolves, lynxes and eagles all live here. The reserve area protects nearly 200 ha of mountain and sub-mountain forests on the slopes of Otryt. Hornbeam stands of forest and a mountainous complex of Carpathian beech forests are protected here. The reserve was established in 1983 and offers free admission. Hulskie is a non-existent village between Zatwarnica and Krywe. The height of the pass is 785 m.a.s.l. Continue the route along the blue bike trail.
4
Sękowiec
18.5 km
Sękowiec
From Sękowiec you can enjoy wonderful views of Bieszczady’s highland. You can find a place for a short rest here. The small village was incorporated into Zatwarnica in 2002. Follow the signs of the blue bike trail toward the village of Krywe.
5
Nature Reserve “Krywe”
27.2 km
Nature Reserve “Krywe”
Nature reserve “Krywe” has been created in 1991 and it is the largest in the Polish part of the Bieszczady mountains. It is a picturesque area where the San meanders between exposed slopes of the hills. You may see snakes and lizards here, and if you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a rare species of Aesculapian snake. You will also find an observation point here. Follow the gravel road to regional road no. 894, where your journey began.
6
Rajskie
33.4 km
Rajskie
At the end of the route, there will be a few ascends and descends waiting. Rajskie offers many accommodations and agrotourism. It is a great place to stay for a few days and discover Bieszczady better.