Przedni Staw Polski — or simply 'Przedni Staw' — is the easternmost lake in the stunning Valley of Five Polish Lakes (Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich), and it is one of those rare alpine spots that genuinely takes your breath away. Its green-yellow water boasts exceptional clarity of up to 16.5 m, and right on its shore stands the highest-altitude mountain hut in the Polish Tatras. Whether you are a day-tripper or a multi-day trekker, this lake deserves a place on your must-see list.

Sitting at 1668 m above sea level, the lake is cradled by the rounded roche moutonnée hills of Wyżnia Kopa (1722 m) and Niżnia Kopa (1711 m) to the north and east, while the slopes of Opalony Wierch descend toward it from the southeast. In summer the scenery is lush and vibrant; in autumn golden hues sweep across the valley; in winter the frozen lake becomes a stark, otherworldly landscape. The atmosphere here is one of true mountain solitude — just wind, water, and sky.

• Palenica Białczańska (road to Morskie Oko) — green trail to the junction, then black trail to the hut; total approx. 2 hrs uphill, difficulty: moderate
• Morskie Oko — red trail via Rówień nad Kępą, Świstówka Roztocka and Świstowa Czuba; approx. 2 hrs, difficulty: moderate
• From the hut to Zawrat Pass — red trail; approx. 1 hr 40 min uphill, difficulty: demanding

• The lake lies within Tatra National Park — leaving marked trails and entering the water is prohibited.
• The mountain hut on the lakeshore (built 1948–1953) offers accommodation and meals — book ahead in high season.
• Accessible year-round, but winter and early spring visits require proper equipment such as crampons and an ice axe.

Here is a fascinating footnote: the lake was fish-free for virtually its entire natural history. Trout were illegally introduced in the 1960s and dramatically disrupted the ecosystem. Intensive fishing operations carried out between 2021 and 2023 reduced fish numbers enough to restore the water's extraordinary clarity — now at a record 16.5 m.