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Szczeliniec Wielki

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Szczeliniec Wielki is the magnificent geological crown jewel of the Stołowe Mountains, utterly fascinating visitors as a striking table mountain rising abruptly from the densely forested surroundings. Millions of years of relentless water and wind erosion have intricately transformed the sandstone into a highly surreal rock labyrinth consisting of incredibly deep crevices, narrow gorges, and grotesque stone formations. Many of these imposing natural monuments closely resemble animals or mythical figures, bearing highly evocative names like 'Monkey', 'Camel', or 'Mammoth', which strongly capture the imagination of every visitor. A completely historic pathway consisting of nearly 700 carved stone steps guides hikers up to the expansive summit plateau, heavily immersing them in this entirely mysterious world of boulders. In certain deep sections of the labyrinth, such as the deeply shaded gorge known as 'Hell', snow frequently remains well into the late summer due to the highly specific microclimate.

Location: Poland
Top sights: Botanica - Ninja Water Park · Szczeliniec Wielki · Szczeliniec Mały
Nearby: Kudowa-Zdrój (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-2	1	7	12	16	18	18	13	7	3	-2
Rain mm	56	46	51	43	78	85	92	83	67	56	52	54

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Located adjacent to Karłów village, which serves as the primary base and is easily reached by car. The ascent begins directly from the center via a historic stone staircase.

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Best season

Visiting between late spring and autumn guarantees safe access to the entire dramatic rock labyrinth. During winter, deep fissures accumulate thick ice and are officially closed.

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Terrain & paths

The approach requires a steep climb up stairs, followed by an engaging maze of tight rock corridors. Visitors must frequently duck, squeeze, and navigate highly uneven stone.

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What to bring

Comfortable athletic clothing and sturdy trekking shoes are essential for safely managing slippery steps. A compact backpack is recommended, as bulky bags get wedged in crevices.

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Parking

Multiple extensive paid parking areas are conveniently located right in the center of Karłów village. Arriving before the mid-morning rush is highly advisable during warm summers.

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Safety

Sandstone surfaces and historic steps become extraordinarily slippery after rain or morning dew. The route follows a strict one-way system to avoid highly dangerous bottlenecks.

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Time needed

Completing the entire loop, including the stair ascent and exploring the labyrinth, generally takes two to three hours. Expect unexpected delays in narrow spots during peak traffic.

Geography

Coordinates

50.48530, 16.33920

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Stołowe Mountains<1 km · SWExplore →

Stołowe Mountains National Park4 km · SExplore →

Broumov Walls8 km · NWExplore →

Kudowa-Zdrój9 km · SWExplore →

Duszniki-Zdrój10 km · SExplore →

Hronov10 km · WExplore →

Broumov Highlands12 km · NExplore →

Náchod15 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Szczeliniec Wielki (5)

Botanica - Ninja Water Park 🎡 recreation

Botanica Ninja Water Park, an inflatable obstacle course on the lake at the foot of Szczeliniec Wielki.

🕒 Mo-Su 13:00-18:00

Szczeliniec Wielki 🌿 nature

The highest peak of the Table Mountains, offering a wide panoramic view.

Szczeliniec Mały 📍 landmark

A prominent mountain peak in the Table Mountains National Park.

Skalniak📍 landmark

A mountain in the Table Mountains known for its rock formations.

Ochota Magdaleńska 🌿 nature

An observation point offering a wide view over the surrounding mountains.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How to get to the top?

Via a staircase with 665 stone steps starting from the village of Karłów.

Is there a fee for the rock labyrinth?

Yes, you must purchase a ticket for the protected area featuring the rock formations.

Are there dining options?

Yes, there is a historic mountain hut right at the top that serves food.

Which rocks are famous?

Particularly famous are the 'She-Ape' and the 'Hell' labyrinth.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, traversing the narrow rock crevices is usually great fun for children.

Szczeliniec Wielki: where is it located?

Szczeliniec Wielki is located in Poland.

Szczeliniec Wielki: what is there to see?

Highlights include Botanica - Ninja Water Park, Szczeliniec Wielki, Szczeliniec Mały.

Szczeliniec Wielki: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Szczeliniec Wielki: why is it worth visiting?

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →

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