ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF THE COMMUNE

The Piwniczna-Zdrój commune has rich natural values with healing properties, mineral water springs, microclimate and location in two ranges of Beskid Sądecki - Jaworzyna Krynicka (from the east) and Radziejowa from the west. The area of Piwniczna-Zdrój is undoubtedly distinguished in this respect by its high attractiveness compared to other spa towns in the country and in Europe. Piwniczna is a junction of many tourist routes, hence numerous possibilities for walks and trips. The forest areas are specially prepared for recreation purposes. There are also properly marked out and marked bicycle routes of various difficulty levels. Mountain horse tourism, mountain canoeing and the somewhat elite - but more and more fashionable - so-called "extreme sports". The winter period in Piwniczna-Zdrój is primarily skiing tourism. It is related to the topography, as well as the longer duration of snow cover. There are two ski stations in Wierchomla and Sucha Dolina with numerous ski lifts and slopes.

In accordance with the provisions of the Commune Development Strategy for 2013-2020, shortages in the tourist infrastructure mean that the potential of the Piwniczna-Zdrój Commune is not fully used. Most tourists visiting the commune are residents of the Małopolskie, Mazowieckie and Łódzkie voivodships. The smallest number of tourists and patients come from further provinces: Podlaskie, Zachodniopomorskie, Warmińsko-Mazurskie, Opolskie and Lubuskie. A campaign promoting the attractions of the commune could be a good promotional tool. The low number of foreign tourists in the total number of people visiting the city and commune, for whom a special offer can be prepared, is also puzzling. Foreign tourists are focused on high-quality services provided in high-standard facilities, ensuring comprehensive services provided by competent personnel. The spa offer should complement the tourist offer and be interesting for patients and tourists.