Going Up by Cable Car

Up and down Mount Szyndzielnia by cable car

For as long as I can remember I have always liked taking trips into the mountains. The kind of silence which you won’t find anywhere else, the contact with nature and the views that take your breath away – yes, that’s definitely my thing! This time I thought I might try something different than simply following mountain trails up on foot. Was I impressed? Yes, yes, and thrice yes!

A FEW WORDS OF INTRODUCTION

The cable car to Mount Szyndzielnia was the first investment of its kind in Poland. It began operating in 1953 and has since assured passengers of a gamut of emotions as well as luxury and comfort in getting to the summit. It underwent comprehensive modernisation between 2016 and 2017.

Mount Szyndzielnia, 1026 metres high, belongs to the Silesian Beskids. It is undoubtedly one of the jewels of Bielsko-Biała and an object of immense pride, more about which I’m about to tell you.

GETTING THERE

To start your trip, you merely have to show up at the ZIAD car park at 220 Armii Krajowej Ave and walk to the cable car station. Alternatively, a city bus will also get you there. There are more services during the summer season. Whichever way you choose to travel, the journey from anywhere in Bielsko-Biała will not take long and it will be 100% worth it.

WE’RE THERE

It’s worth mentioning what facilities the cable cars themselves offer. There are 34 of them, one of which is for VIPs, silver in colour, and called „Salonka” (the Palace Car). Every car is equipped with special holders for cycles and all are wheelchair and child buggy friendly. There are also special ticket deals for devotees of downhill cycling madness. I must admit that I was impressed. It’s not often that organisers actually think of everything. Let’s hope that this will set a good example for many other similar investments in the country!

Fine, it was time to test my mettle and do what I came to do. To be honest, I was a bit nervous at first. Admittedly it’s no roller-coaster but, with my fear of heights, just looking out from a four storey building can be a bit of a challenge. Egged on by friends, and ready to overcome my own weakness, I got in.

Despite a slightly stressful moment when we moved off, I’d already forgotten what I had been scared of less than twenty seconds earlier. As the cars travel gently upwards you can enjoy the expansive panorama of Bielsko-Biała, the passing treetops beneath your feet, the slopes of Kołowrot, Dębowiec and Cuberniok and, in the last phase of the ride, a view of the disused Sahara ski lift. Have I mentioned that I love being in the mountains? This six-minute ride reminded me why and how much.

THE ATTRACTIONS

Having reached your destination, apart from a lot of attractions to choose from, there are a number of trails across Szyndzielnia, so make sure you plan your trip well before leaving your house or hotel. Don’t miss out on the 18-metre high viewing tower next to the summit cable car station. Relish the fantastic views and try and capture them in your memory. Make sure you visit Szyndzielnia’s refuge, whether this is your final destination or just a place for a break. It’s one of the oldest mountain hostels in the Silesian Beskids and is an excellent place for a rest, to catch your breath or to have a bite to eat and recharge your batteries ahead of the rest of your trip. Backpack ready? Have fun!