Nestled between the Karkonosze and Jizera mountains, Szklarska Poręba is a picturesque town and ski resort in south-west Poland. It was established by German colonists in the 14th century and later became home to an artists’ colony. Today, Szklarska Poręba attracts hikers, cyclings and skiers exploring Karkonosze National Park.
Things to do in Szklarska Poręba
Families can visit Esplanada Amusement Park, which is home to an alpine roller coaster, a miniature golf course and electric cars. Kids can challenge themselves on the obstacle course of the Inflatable Garden or play in the two-level Labyrinth before enjoying a ride on the rodeo simulator. In the winter months, the Esplanada Amusement Park boasts an ice skating rink.
Sprawling south of Szklarska Poręba is Karkonosze National Park, which (together with neighbouring Krkonoše National Park) is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It encompasses part of the Sudeten Mountains and 40 hectares of peat bogs that have been recognised by Ramsar as wetlands of international significance. More than 110 kilometres of walking trails wind their way through the park and offer sightings of wild mouflon sheep.
One of Karkonosze National Park’s most prominent peaks is Szrenica, which is a popular destination for skiing in the winter months. The mountain summit is accessible via a chair lift or can be reached along the 443-kilometre-long Główny Szlak Sudecki hiking trail. Szrenica also marks one end of the Polish–Czech Friendship Trail, which connects to the Okraj mountain pass.
Getting around Szklarska Poręba
Szklarska Poręba is around 20 minutes’ drive from Jelenia Góra and just under two hours from Wrocław Nicolaus Copernicus Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Szklarska Poręba railway station and buses travel through the town. The centre of Szklarska Poręba can easily be explored on foot.