Wielka Polana is a long, broad ridge-top elevation in the northern part of the Silesian Beskids, tucked within the Błatnia Range. It's a great pick for hikers who want a peaceful trail away from the crowds, with a distinct atmosphere of the old Beskid pastoral highlands.

The name itself — meaning 'Great Meadow' — hints at its past: the ridge and southern slopes of Wielka Polana were once covered with extensive meadows and clearings, actively used as grazing pastures and hay meadows. Today most of that open land has been reclaimed by forest, so the hike leads mainly through woodland, with the quiet, understated charm typical of the less-visited corners of the Silesian Beskids. At Wielka Polana the ridge splits into two arms — one heading north-west towards Bucznik, the other north-east towards Ostry — making it a natural landmark for longer ridge traverses. In autumn and spring, the surrounding forest and remnants of the old meadows create a scenic, intimate setting perfect for an unhurried walk.

• Jaworze — local trail, time depends on chosen route, difficulty: easy to moderate
• Ridge route from the direction of Przykra — for those planning a longer trek across the Błatnia Range

• The summit lies within the village of Jaworze, Bielsko County, Silesian Voivodeship
• Former pastoral land, now mostly forested — no wide open meadow views from the summit itself

Worth remembering: the name Wielka Polana is a living trace of the old Beskid farming way of life — a reminder of times when these slopes buzzed with shepherd activity, now replaced by a quiet, forested landscape.