Runek (1080 m a.s.l.) is a pleasant summit in the Beskid Sądecki range in southern Poland, sitting on the main ridge of the Jaworzyna Krynicka Range. It may not be the most dramatic peak in the region, but its charm lies in the journey — forested ridges, open meadows, and a genuine sense of wilderness make it a rewarding destination for anyone exploring the Beskidy mountains.

The summit itself is covered in forest and offers no open views, but that is only half the story. The south-western ridge descending from Runek is dotted with beautiful clearings — Polana Gwiaździsta, Polana nad Wierchomlą, and the wetland meadows of Długie and Wyżne Młaki. These are former Lemko pastures, now peacefully overgrown and deeply atmospheric, especially in early autumn when mist fills the valleys below. Two nature reserves lie close to the summit: one on the northern ridge near Łosie, and another on the neighbouring hill of Lembarczek.

• Krynica-Zdrój — trail via Przełęcz Krzyżowa, Bukowinki, Popowa and Czubakowska — 8.6 km, 570 m ascent, approx. 2 hrs 40 min., moderate
• Rytro — red trail (Main Beskid Trail) via PTTK Refuge on Hala Łabowska — moderate

• Bacówka PTTK nad Wierchomlą shepherd's hut on the south-western ridge serves as a useful rest stop and base
• Runek sits at the junction of three villages: Wierchomla Wielka, Łosie and Szczawnik
• The summit is part of the Main Beskid Trail (Główny Szlak Beskidzki), making it easy to combine with a longer ridge traverse towards Jaworzyna Krynicka

The name 'Runek' has Wallachian origins, derived from the Romanian word runc — meaning a clearing made by burning forest. It is a quiet reminder of the Wallachian shepherds who shaped these hills and their culture as far back as the 16th century.