This weekend getaway took us deep into the heart of Poland’s forgotten oil empire. Traveling by electric car, we set out not for fuel—but to explore its legacy. Our destination: the Ignacy Łukasiewicz Museum, located at the site of the world’s oldest oil and gas mine. The exhibits were surprisingly immersive, detailing how Poland once led the way in petroleum innovation. Łukasiewicz, the father of the kerosene lamp, pioneered oil refining here in the 19th century. The scent of crude oil still lingers in the air—a nostalgic trace of industrial history.

On the way, we made a spontaneous stop at Kamieniec Castle. Modest in size but rich in charm, it’s guarded by a local family of geese perched on a roadside slope. Their honking patrol was more effective than any alarm system. The castle’s stone silhouette against the rolling hills added a fairytale touch to our journey.

Next, we climbed to the Grzywacka Mountain View Tower, following a Via Crucis trail that winds its way to the summit. At the top stands a quiet chapel, and I couldn’t help but imagine a candlelit procession on a snowy evening—lanterns flickering, silence broken only by footsteps and prayer. The panoramic views from the tower were breathtaking, rewarding every step of the ascent.

We once again attempted to visit the Jan Szafrański Educational and Museum Center in Magurski Park Narodowy, but arrived too late. It’s becoming a tradition to miss it—third time’s the charm, or maybe tenth. We’ll be back. The park itself, established in 1995, protects a unique ecological corridor between the Western and Eastern Carpathians. Over 90% of its area is forested, with rare species like the narrow-leaved gentian and bear garlic thriving in its quiet valleys.

Later, we discovered a newly built viewing tower on Łysula, complete with a slide spiraling down from the top. Even I couldn’t resist the thrill—though my sons raced up and down like mountain goats. The road we chose to reach it turned out to be a muddy off-road adventure. Our car got a proper coat of dirt, but the laughter and adrenaline made it all worthwhile.

This trip blended industrial heritage, spiritual landscapes, and playful detours. Magurski Park Narodowy continues to surprise us—with its history, its silence, and its promise of return.

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