The sea eyes
Lakes scoured by ice in the glacial period, scattered up the valley at different heights.
Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Zenkis — CC0
A small mountain lake in the Gąsienicowa valley in the High Tatras, at about 1,690 metres. These lakes — locally called sea eyes — formed in hollows scoured by ice in the glacial period, and they are scattered through this valley at different heights. Kurtkowiec is one of them, its bed rocky and its water clear enough to see the bottom. What surrounds it is the view: a high meadow above the treeline, ringed by bare rock peaks. No trees and no buildings — a pure mountain landscape resembling nothing else in Poland. Getting there is a long walk: about three hours up from Kuźnice by way of the Przełęcz między Kopami, or the cable car to Kasprowy Wierch and then a descent and walk. Allow five to eight hours for the whole day. This is a genuine mountain route above the treeline: no shade and no shelter, the weather turns fast, and snow can lie in shaded hollows into early summer. Park entry is ticketed and staying on marked paths is compulsory.
Lakes scoured by ice in the glacial period, scattered up the valley at different heights.
A high meadow ringed by bare peaks — like nothing else in Poland.
The lake has a rocky bed and water transparent enough to see it.
The Gąsienicowa valley, High Tatras
Not for the marked paths in summer — the routes are clear, colour-marked and well walked. But it is entirely different in winter or with lying snow: then you need equipment and experience, or a guide. Check the path's condition at the park office before setting out.
The Małej Łąki or Kościeliska valleys: both are relatively level valley walks of about three hours that never climb above the treeline. They give you mountains, forest and streams without a full day of ascent. Suitable with children or for anyone unused to mountain walking.
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