Arkada, also known as Most or Brama, is a small rock shelter in the Kościeliska Valley that will delight anyone who enjoys discovering the lesser-known corners of the Western Tatras. It is a short but striking tunnel that pierces straight through the rock - a natural stone archway.
The cave is located on the eastern slope of the Kraków Gorge, on the steep hillside descending from Upłazkowa Turnia. Inside, a simple, spacious tunnel climbs steeply upward, with a small 3-meter step near the upper opening adding a bit of excitement to the crossing. The walls are dry, without the typical dripstone formations, but covered with vegetation, giving the place a distinctly wild, natural character. The surrounding Kraków Gorge is an attraction in itself - rocky walls, shade from trees in summer, and a raw, wintry landscape make the area captivating throughout the year.
How to get thereKeep in mind that Arkada lies within the Tatra National Park, so visiting should be done with respect for nature and the area's protection rules. Interestingly, the first accurate plan and description of the cave were only made in 1977, although locals likely knew of it as early as the 1950s.