The Sleeping Knight
Giewont is the iconic outline of Zakopane — from the town the massif resembles a knight lying on his back. On the main summit stands an iron cross more than twenty metres high, put up in 1901. A legend attaches to the mountain of a sleeping army that will wake in the hour of trial.
The climb
- A demanding route — the popular ways run through the Strążyska Valley and Hala Kondratowa among others
- Chains — the final summit stretches are secured with chains; queues are common
- Storm risk — the iron cross and the ridge are very dangerous in a storm
- Set off early — be at the top before midday and come down before the afternoon storms
In practice
Giewont lies in the Tatra National Park (a day ticket). It is a demanding mountain route — sturdy boots, protection from the weather and following the forecast are essential; if storms are warned of, postpone the climb. Anyone who does not want to go up has the classic view from the town and from Gubałówka.
How to get there and practical info
- Height
- 1894 m a.s.l.
- National park ticket
- A day ticket for the national park
- Difficulty
- Demanding (chains below the summit)
- Time needed
- A whole day (there and back)
- Hazard
- Postpone the climb in a storm
- Without climbing
- The classic view from the town or from Gubałówka
When to go
Snow and ice below the summit into early summer — take care.
The height of the season — queues on the chains, so set off early; storm risk.
September — the best visibility, more settled weather and fewer people.
A winter ascent for experienced, properly equipped walkers only.
Other sights in Zakopane
Straight-line distances from „Giewont" — calculated from real coordinates. By road it is often further.
Where to stay nearby
Places from our list that have Giewont within walking distance or a short drive.
