Krynica-Zdroj is a charming town nestled in southern Poland’s Carpathian Mountain range, called “the pearl of Polish spas.” During the summer season, Krynica-Zdroj bustles as people from all over Europe visit in order to “take the waters.” This process is some feat as Krynica-Zdroj boasts a minimum of seven different types of natural mineral water, extracted from various local springs and drawn off in either the main Pump House, or (for exclusive waters) in certain hotels. Even in Mid-November, the Pump House plies a brisk trade as people purchase liquid vitality for less than $.50 per cup.
The Pump House is a visual feast for those enamored by the modernist styles. Creamy marble wall tile, dark grey granite backsplashes, pewter lettering, and massive square copper basins contrast with aggressively high ceilings and fantastically abstract art walls. There is a theater on the upper promenade and vendors selling honey, cosmetics, cakes, massagers, and jewelry. But, as one might expect, all this pomp and circumstance is here simply to accompany the water.
Each type of water has a distinctive flavor, from citrusy and tart (Słotwinka), to rusty and brackish (Zuber), to sulphurous and murky (Zdroj Jana). There are also water blends available, mixed fresh at the Pump House tap, or bottled and shipped to stores throughout Poland. Although the tradition originated more than 150 years ago, it is still considered fashionable to stroll the town while sipping water from a ceramic cup, purchased at one of the Pump House shops.
Krynica-Zdroj is three hours by bus from Krakow, close enough to easily make a day trip of this enchanting village. The town features exquisite neoclassical architecture contrasted against rustic folk buildings. Sample the waters, enjoy the scenery, and have a therapeutic mud bath at one of the hotels. Visit the museum of well-loved local artist Nikifor. There are walking trails to enjoy mountain vistas, museums, artists, musicians, and restaurants offering your choice of delightful local food, as well as more worldly cuisine. There are also vendors who sell hats, gloves and sweaters at great prices, which is nice when the mountain air cools at night. The people are warm and friendly, and (more importantly) helpful and tolerant of tourists who have no Polish vocabulary. Krynica-Zdroj truly has something to offer anyone, and you may come to think of this town as a pearl, too.
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