Beskid Makowski — sometimes called the Middle Beskids — is one of southern Poland's best-kept secrets. Less dramatic than the Tatras, less crowded than Babia Góra, it rewards those who seek rolling ridgelines, pastoral valleys, and sweeping views without the tourist queues.

The region is shaped by Magura sandstone, sculpted over millions of years into gently undulating ridges and broad river valleys. Spruce and beech forests cloak the higher summits, while the valleys below are dotted with villages, orchards, and meadows that feel frozen in a slower, greener time. Hikers can expect well-marked trails ranging from easy valley walks to more demanding ridge traverses that open up views stretching all the way to the Tatras and Babia Góra on clear days.

• Mędralowa (1,169 m) — the highest peak in the region, with a breathtaking panorama of the Tatras and Babia Góra
• Lubomir (902 m) — highest point of the Lubomir-Łysina range, formerly a meteorological station, superb open views
• Koskowa Góra (866 m) — a central ridge hub where several trail colours converge
• PTTK Mountain Hut on Kudłacze — the only mountain hut in the entire region, perfect for longer hiking plans

• Best season: June–September for hiking; September–October for golden autumn colours and dry weather
• Base towns: Maków Podhalański, Sucha Beskidzka, Myślenice, Jordanów
• Trail difficulty: mostly easy to moderate — family-friendly and great for beginner hikers
• Getting there: by car from Kraków approx. 50–70 km via Myślenice or Wadowice; regular buses and minibuses from Kraków to Maków Podhalański and Sucha Beskidzka

Good to know: the average annual rainfall here is around 800 mm, with the driest month being October — making autumn an unexpectedly ideal window for hiking in the region.