"Poland's forgotten spiritual heart" Bieszczady by cheekykev

Bieszczady was once located in the historical region of Galicia - a bustling part of Franz Jozef's crumbling Austro-Hungarian empire. During those times it had a rich culture - created by a melting pot of peoples using a multitude of languages and practising a variety of religions in relative harmony. By the time the Second World War began, the region was already in decline. The tragedy that followed ended up creating a region now famous for its wild emptiness - a region in which the traveller can't help becoming a detective on the trail of forgotten peoples and races.

Wielka Rafka

There's some great walking in Bieszczady. you can choose from tracks that will leave you without tired muscles at the end of the day, or you can take on more challenging treks. Whichever, you will find yourself charmed by the scenery and stunned by the views. Whilst walking its also worth keeping an eye out for the traces of the peoples who have now disappeared - the apple trees and rose bushes gone wild - the garden flowers without gardens - the abandoned cemetries.

Cerkiew in Bystre

The region was once populated by a diverse colelction of peoples - foremeost amongst them the Jews, the Bojks and the Lemks. All around you can find evidence of these lost cultures. To get the most from your explorations do a bit of reserach first (the Internet has all the info. you need) and arm yourself with a decent guidebook.

• Pros:Bieszczady is great in any season bar winter for walking
• Cons:If you're looking for luxury hotel style travel avoid Bieszczady
• In a nutshell:One of the most magical areas I've ever been to