Spisz Region

Located 2.5 km from Szczawnica and 1.5 km from the center of Lesnica, Chata Pieniny is one of the most recognizable tourist facilities in the Slovak Pieniny. Situated at the foot of Bystrzyk and at the entrance to the picturesque Leśnicki Potok Gorge, it combines the functions of a guesthouse, restaurant, and recreation center. It is a place where highland tradition, folk art, and modern infrastructure come together, creating a unique destination for visitors from both Poland and Slovakia.

Transformations

Chata Pieniny was built in 1976. Initially it served as a holiday resort, and after the political changes it came under the administration of the municipality of Leśnica and began operating as a tourist guesthouse. In 2015–2016 the facility underwent a thorough modernization, and the next stage of development was the installation of a solar system for heating water and the swimming pool in 2020. Thanks to these improvements, today it offers full accommodation, dining, and recreational facilities, making it one of the main starting points for exploring the Slovak Pieniny.

Open-Air Gallery

The surroundings of Chata Pieniny are not only gazebos and picnic spots, but also a kind of open-air art gallery. Among the sculptures, the monumental figure of Gašpar Gondek-Kasper stands out. According to local tradition, he is regarded as the founder of rafting on the Dunajec. Depicted in 19th-century traditional dress, holding a long raftsman’s pole, he symbolically guards the entrance to the guesthouse.

Another unique feature is a cycle of twelve sculptures known as the “Highlander Zodiac.” Each figure represents a different astrological sign, but stylized as a highlander character – a shepherd, a musician, or a raftsman. This original concept combines the universal symbolism of the stars with Pieniny woodcarving, creating an unusual and engaging path for visitors.

The author of these sculptures is Cyril (Cyro) Kocúrek, a folk artist from Kežmarok, renowned for blending traditional techniques with modern forms. Thanks to his work, the grounds of Chata Pieniny have gained a special atmosphere – not only as an accommodation and dining base, but also as a meeting place with local culture and art. The sculptures serve as an informal open-air museum, enlivening the space and emphasizing the regional identity of the Pieniny.

Recreation

Chata Pieniny offers extensive recreational facilities. Within the complex there is an indoor swimming pool and a sauna, available not only to guesthouse visitors but also to outside guests. Visitors can also enjoy a multifunctional sports field and a modern outdoor gym. Complementing the offer is a playground in the shape of a ship, a favorite attraction for the youngest visitors.

Gastronomy

The dining area of Chata Pieniny is among the largest in the region. The restaurant, together with its summer gardens and terraces, offers around 460 seats in total. Thanks to this capacity, the venue can accommodate both individual tourists and large organized groups, making it a popular spot for meetings, meals, and outdoor events in the Slovak Pieniny. The restaurant at Chata Pieniny specializes in traditional Slovak cuisine – from classic bryndzové halušky to regional meats and soups. The menu is complemented by seasonal dishes and meals inspired by local folklore.

Accommodation

Chata Pieniny offers accommodation consisting of 32 double rooms and one stylish highlander-style apartment. All rooms are equipped with central heating and queen-size beds. Family rooms and non-smoking rooms are also available.

The apartments and rooms feature modern bathrooms with showers, and some have been specially adapted for guests using wheelchairs. It is also possible to book a unit with a fully accessible bathroom. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property.