Szczerbina nad Igłami is a modest but atmospheric notch set right in the main ridge of the Tatra Mountains, sitting exactly on the Polish-Slovak border. It's a spot for experienced mountaineers who appreciate the wild, remote corners of the range far from marked tourist trails.

The notch separates Cienka Igła from the north-western summit of Mięguszowiecki Szczyt Pośredni, forming one of the more distinctive fragments of the Mięguszowieckie Peaks ridge. The surroundings feel raw and truly alpine - steep walls, jagged towers, and views stretching to both sides of the border give a genuine sense of standing on the rooftop of the Tatras. On the Polish side, a chimney descends from here, forming the highest section of Rynna Komarnickich, a feature valued by climbers seeking technical challenge. In winter this terrain is accessible only to experienced alpinists with proper gear, while in summer it still demands good fitness and a head for heights.

How to reach the viewpoint

• Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich or the Slovak side of Dolina Mięguszowiecka — approach entirely off marked trails, mountaineering experience required, difficult
• Traverse of the Mięguszowieckie Peaks ridge — for advanced mountaineers only, high-mountain terrain, demanding route

Practical information

• Not accessible to ordinary hikers - experienced mountaineers only
• Located exactly on the Polish-Slovak border

The name Szczerbina nad Igłami was only introduced into Polish mountaineering literature in 2003 by Władysław Cywiński, while the first ascent was made much earlier, on 5 August 1930, by Helena Dębińska and Justyn Wojsznis - a fascinating example of a place long known to climbers before it ever received its name.