Krynica, previously known as Krzenycze, existed already before 1547. Its development as a health resort began in the 17th century with the discovery of medicinal mineral springs. The development of the spa is due to Józef Dietl, who introduced mud baths here in 1856. The location of Krynica, the railway line to Muszyna and later to the city itself, and the construction of new spa facilities, such as Nowe Łazienki Mineralne, contributed to its popularity. In the interwar period, Krynica became a center for winter sports, hosting the European Luge Championships and the World Ice Hockey Championships in 1931.
Although its development was interrupted by World War II, after the war the health resort was expanded, adding new sanatoriums, a natural medicine center and a concert hall. Krynica has become the largest health resort in Poland. The local KTH hockey club, founded in 1928, organized international EIHC tournaments, and in 1931 the World Championships were held here. Krynica-Zdrój is also the cradle of Polish luge. There has been a luge section here since 1909, and the World Luge Championships were held here in 1958 and 1962.
Today, various sports are practiced in Krynica, including: mountain biking, curling, boxing, alpine skiing and Nordic walking. Krynica-Zdrój, located approximately 600 m above sea level, in the Beskid Sądecki Mountains, is known for its favorable climatic conditions, confirmed by meteorological observations that began in 1867.
When considering the tourist attractions of Krynica-Zdrój, it is impossible to ignore its rich offer. This pearl of the Polish spa landscape, often referred to as the "Pearl of Polish Spas", delights not only with its mountain charm, but also with a multitude of attractions that attract tourists from all over the country and abroad. Here you can find both vibrant, historic spa facilities, as well as modern sports facilities, wonderful tourist trails, and places of extraordinary importance for Polish culture. Below we present the most important of them, which should certainly be on the list of everyone who visits Krynica.