Pieniny for Families with Children – Active Recreation in the Heart of Nature

Recommended Hiking Trails for Families

The Pieniny Mountains offer many routes perfect for family hikes – they are short, interesting, safe, and lead through breathtaking landscapes. Many of them can be done even with younger children or with an all-terrain stroller. Here are some tried-and-tested trails we especially recommend for families:

1. Szczawnica – Homole Gorge

This is one of the most beautiful and easiest routes in the Pieniny Mountains, ideal for a walk with children. The trail leads through a picturesque gorge with high limestone walls, following the Kamionka stream. Along the way, children will love the wooden footbridges, small bridges, and interestingly shaped rocks. The route is not demanding, and at the end, you can rest in a meadow or continue towards the Dubantowska Valley and the famous Stone Book.

2. Three Crowns (Trzy Korony) – from Krościenko via Szopka Pass

This is one of the most iconic trails in the Pieniny Mountains. Although it gets a bit steeper towards the end, most of the hike is pleasant and not too tiring. Climbing to the viewing platform on Trzy Korony (982 m above sea level) is a real adventure for kids – especially as the summit offers a breathtaking view of the Dunajec River, the Tatra Mountains, and the surrounding area. The round trip takes about 2.5–3 hours, so it’s worth bringing snacks and water.

3. Sokolica – from Krościenko or Szczawnica

This is a great option for families with slightly older children, although the trail is shorter and less demanding than the one to Trzy Korony. Along the way, you can cross the Dunajec River on a traditional wooden raft or by a small boat operated by local raftsmen – an adventure in itself! At the top, you'll find the famous lone pine tree growing on the cliff edge and a fantastic view of the Dunajec Gorge. The entire hike takes around 2–2.5 hours at a relaxed pace.

4. Walk along the Dunajec River – Hiking beside the river

For families with younger children or a stroller, we recommend a walk along the Dunajec River on the pedestrian and bike path running through the river gorge. The trail is almost flat, very scenic, and lets you enjoy the best of the Pieniny landscape without any climbing. You can start, for example, in Szczawnica and walk all the way to the Red Monastery (Czerwony Klasztor) on the Slovak side – at your own pace, with breaks for picnics or playtime.

Attractions for Kids Beyond the Hiking Trails

The Pieniny region offers more than just mountain hikes – there are many attractions here that will delight children of all ages, even those who aren’t fond of long walks. These are perfect alternatives for rainy days, moments of rest after mountain trips, or just a fun way to diversify your family holiday.

1. Dunajec River Rafting – on rafts or pontoons

This is one of the most iconic attractions of the Pieniny Mountains – a traditional wooden raft trip with local raftsmen or a pontoon ride through the picturesque Dunajec Gorge. The views are spectacular, and the whole adventure – especially on the raft – is both exciting and educational. Older kids will love the stories told by the raftsmen, while younger ones will enjoy spotting cormorants, ducks, or fish in the water.

2. Rope Park in Szczawnica

For energetic kids who love physical challenges, the rope park near the lower station of the Palenica chairlift is a great option. The routes are adapted to the age and height of participants – there’s something here for preschoolers as well as older children. An extra attraction could be a zip line ride or a climb to the viewing tower.

3. Castles in Czorsztyn and Niedzica

Castle tours are always a hit with kids. The Czorsztyn Castle – now a picturesque ruin – sparks the imagination and offers a glimpse into the past. On the other side of the lake, you’ll find the better-preserved Niedzica Castle, where you can explore medieval interiors, dungeons, and the famous treasury with the legendary Inca testament. For the youngest visitors, it’s an exciting journey into the world of knights and princesses.

4. Boat Cruise on Lake Czorsztyńskie

If the kids are tired of walking, consider a boat cruise on Lake Czorsztyńskie. It’s a calm, relaxing attraction with beautiful views of the mountains and castles. Cruises run between the docks near the castles, so you can easily combine it with sightseeing. Kids will love being on a boat, and adults will appreciate the moment to unwind.

5. Pieniny Museum in Szczawnica

A perfect idea for bad weather or an evening visit. The museum presents the history of the region, the culture of the Pieniny highlanders, rafting traditions, and the unique nature of the Pieniny Mountains. The exhibits are accessible and interesting even for younger children – many of them are interactive, making learning through play easy and fun.

See also:

• Family-Friendly Kashubia – 10 Places Kids Will Love (and Parents Too!)
• Tatry - family holidays in the mountains
• 10 Best Attractions in Kraków for Families with Children – A Joyful Holiday in the City
• A family trip to the mountains – what to pack in your backpack for a one-day hike?
• Climbing Camps 2025 – Unforgettable Adventures for Rock and Mountain Enthusiasts
• Camps for Children and Youth in Niedzica – Summer Adventure in the Mountains