Szczyrk is nestled in the north-eastern part of the Beskid Slaski Mountains, 15 km to the south of Bielsko-Biala and 17 km from Zywiec. The town lies at an altitude of 460-600 m, in the valley of the Zylica River. From the north it is enclosed by Mt Klimczok and from the south by Mt Skrzyczne and Mt Malinow (1095 m). Covering an area of 39 km2, Szczyrk has a population of 5,500 inhabitants.

The climate here is transitional between the humid sea climate of western Europe and the dry climate of eastern Europe. Its principal features are its clean mountain air, high sunshine levels and good air humidity, making it beneficial for those recovering from respiratory system problems and heart disease.

The genesis of the name Szczyrk is shrouded in mystery, and it is not certain when the first settlers appeared in the Zylica Valley. What we do know, however, is that around the 15th century Szczyrk became an international settlement with the arrival of nomads from the Balkans, settling there alongside Polish deserters and convicts. Other early settlers originated from countries such as Germany, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia. The first population census was taken in 1630. Many of Szczyrk’s prese... ( plus >>)