Modyń (1029 m a.s.l.) is one of the highest peaks in the Beskid Wyspowy — a densely forested mountain that, viewed from the west, resembles the arched back of a whale rising from a sea of trees. Since 2021, a 27-metre wooden observation tower crowns its summit, turning this once-quiet peak into one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the Polish Carpathians. Come here for sweeping panoramas stretching from the Tatra Mountains all the way to the Gorce, Pieniny and Beskid Sądecki ranges.
The mountain is almost entirely blanketed in beech forest — steep and wild on the northern slopes, gentler to the south. Before the tower was built, views were hard to come by, but today you can enjoy a full 360-degree panorama from the top. The trail from Zbludza already rewards hikers with fine Tatra views before the path even enters the forest. In autumn the beech woodland turns a spectacular gold and red, making Modyń a favourite for a colourful seasonal hike. On the southern slopes you can also find a small cave — the Cave on Modyń Mountain — a fun detour for curious explorers.
How to reach the summitLong ago the peak was nicknamed 'Patrija' after a wooden triangulation tower that once rose above the treetops — local people called such towers 'patryjie'. A storm brought it down in the 1980s, but the new observation tower of 2021 has given Modyń back its sky-high reputation.