Nestled in the High Tatras along the Polish-Slovak border, Rysy stands as the highest peak in Poland. This majestic mountain is renowned not only for its striking height but also for its geographical significance, straddling the boundary between two nations.
Rysy boasts three distinct summits, with the central peak reaching an impressive 2,503 meters above sea level, all of which is situated within Slovak territory. However, the northern summit, which marks the border, is the highest point in Poland, standing at 2,499 meters. This summit offers breathtaking views and a significant sense of accomplishment for climbers who reach it.
Rysy: Poland’s Majestic Peak with Stunning Elevation and Rugged Terrain
One of the mountain’s most remarkable features is its substantial relative height, rising over 1,100 meters above the surface of the Morskie Oko lake, a stunning body of water in the Tatra National Park. The striking elevation and rugged terrain of Rysy make it a prominent and challenging destination for hikers and mountaineers.
The name “Rysy” is derived from the jagged, rib-like ridges that characterize the mountain range, a feature that has been noted by Polish mountaineers since at least the early 20th century. The term itself reflects the sharp, carved contours of the surrounding peaks, including Niżnie Rysy, Żabi Szczyt Wyżni, and Żabi Mnich.