The highest peak of the Sudetes and Karkonosze Mountains, the highest peak in the Czech Republic, and once a "sacred mountain" in the Giant Mountains. No wonder it holds many secrets!

Śnieżka - What to See at the Summit

Let's start with the breathtaking views that undoubtedly unfold from here... unfortunately, most of the time, the views are obstructed by crowds of tourists. To fully enjoy them, it is better to descend from the small peak using one of the many trails.

On the Polish side, the most characteristic feature is the silhouette of the "cosmic" meteorological observatory, known as the "flying saucers." Seen from below, it looks as if a UFO has landed on top of Śnieżka... but it is thanks to this observatory that we can always accurately recognize the Queen while gazing at the panorama of the Karkonosze Mountains. In the 2021 season, the building was closed (apparently, there used to be a restaurant, an observation deck, and a meteorological exhibition here).

The second building at the summit is... the branch of the Czech post office. The building was built on the site of the former Czech mountain shelter. Today, besides souvenir shops and a few tables (where you can seek shelter from the wind and cold), there is an observation deck: not very high, but it elevates us above the crowd to a height of 1610 meters above sea level (entrance fee required).

The smallest, inconspicuous wooden building at the summit is the historic St. Lawrence Chapel (free admission). The chapel dates back to the late 17th century, which means that tourists have been coming here for over 350 years! For a while, it served as a shelter, and its furnishings were then transferred to St. Anne's Chapel near Dobry Źródle. Since the mid-19th century, it has returned to its original role because a large Prussian shelter for 300 people was built nearby. In the 1960s, the famous "flying saucer" observatory was built on its site.

Śnieżka Summit - Practical Information

It is almost always windy on Śnieżka, and the temperature is always much lower than in the valleys - remember to bring something warmer to wear after reaching the summit.

There is a small refreshment point in the building of the upper station of the Czech gondola lift, where you can also use a paid toilet.

You can climb Śnieżka with dogs (except for the route through Dolina Łomniczki).

Śnieżka - Fun Facts about the Highest Peak of the Karkonosze and Sudetes

• Considered somewhat neglected by Poles, it is definitely number 1 for our neighbors - the highest and most important peak in the Czech Republic. It also enjoyed great popularity among Germans 100, 200, and even 300 or 400 years ago as a must-visit point in the "Giant Mountains." Explorers who came here as early as the 16th century, using the measurement methods of that time, "measured" Śnieżka's height at almost 6,000 meters above sea level (5,880 meters above sea level).
• Why is the Polish peak of Śnieżka at 1,602 meters above sea level, while the Czech peak is at 1,603 meters above sea level? We always measure the height of a mountain from sea level. Poles measure from the level of the Baltic Sea, while Czechs measure from the level of the Mediterranean Sea, and the difference in the levels of these seas is exactly 1 meter!
• According to local legends, there was a cave in its slopes - the dwelling of Karkonosz, the mysterious Spirit of the Mountains and their fearless, sometimes helpful, and sometimes capricious guardian.
• Did you know that postcards with scenic views were created on Śnieżka? Over 150 years ago, the highest post office was established in the Prussian shelter (which is still operational), from which the first picture postcard (of course, featuring the view of Śnieżka) was sent.
• A hundred years ago, rare algae grew on Śnieżka that emitted a violet scent when rubbed. Apparently, the entire summit smelled like violets! Unfortunately, tourists took stones with reddish algae as souvenirs, caused artificial avalanches to enhance the scent... and these organisms disappeared from Śnieżka (they still exist in other parts of the Karkonosze).

How to Get to Śnieżka?

You can either hike or take a ride up.

There are many options to reach Śnieżka. There are numerous trails and even two cable cars that lead to the summit. The choice is not easy... We have described our experiences for you in this article:

All roads and trails to Śnieżka summit

All roads lead to Śnieżka! How to climb Śnieżka? Being in the Karkonosze Mountains means being in the shadow of Śnieżka - the queen who ...

share

Author: Marfusza
Publish Date: 2021-08-10