Our February monthly topic is focused on the presentation of one of the exceptional places in our regions which we would like to share with the readers. The first place which immediately came to my mind after finding out the subject of the monthly article was one of my favourite places where I love spending my summer holidays. In this report, I am going to talk about Bieszczady Mountains, one of the Polish mountain ranges which are located in the south of Poland.

The highest peak of the Polish part of this range is called Tarnica with the height of 1346m[i]. It is a truly remarkable place where nature can be observed in an undisturbed state. Therefore, the part of the Bieszcady Mountains is under protection by the Bieszczady National Park.

Bieszczady are home to many endangered species, such as lynx, bear, Polish primitive horse[ii]. In addition, the largest European snake, Aesculapian snake, lives there[iii]. It is all thank to the beechen backwoods conserved in the region of Bieszczady.

Taking into account the mountainous environment and the richness of nature, Bieszczady is a perfect place for hiking during the summer, as well as skiing during the winter. There are loads of tracks which you can explore during your walking trips. You can either walk through the mountain pastures, which consists of the one of the most significant elements of Bieszczady environment[iv]. Or you can walk through the dense woods and observe bosky tracks. The first one allows you to take advantage of the beautiful views of the whole region and enjoy a pleasant breeze over your back after a tough journey up the hill. Trips along the mountain pastures belongs to my favourites, especially because you have the possibility to walk through the highest points of this mountain range.

Apart from taking tours in the mountains, it is also possible to take advantage of an artificial lake – the Lake Solina, which is also sometimes called the Bieszczady Sea[v]. It was created in 1968 after the construction of the Solina Dam[vi]. Its construction was decided many years ago after a severe flood that devastated the region. On the one hand, many villages had to be drowned to allow the formation of the artificial lake[vii]. Moreover, many beautiful architectural achievements in the form of buildings of orthodox church had to be disassembled. On the other hand, hydro power station could be constructed and the risk of flood was reduced[viii]. In addition, it allowed a development of tourism.

The dam also transform into a please where the biggest Eco-mural, by P.Truściński is created[ix].  No paint is used, only water under pressure was applied to clean some parts of the wall of the dam to create a picture[x].

Another interesting aspect of the region is the Sobień preserve area, where every unusual fauna and flora can be found. While the general climate is not warm, in this region, animals typical for warmer regions can be found, so called xerothermic fauna and flora, such as Sirio carpaticu[xi]. In addition, Cicadetta montana which is endangered in many parts of the world can be sometimes noticed there[xii].