Bike ride along the Wisła River in Cracow to Tyniec Abbey

We went on a bike ride along the river towards Tyniec Abbey with my friend Greg. It was a beautiful day for a ride. We borrowed bikes from a rental shop on Basztowa Street outside the Main Square. The shop is called " Cruising Cracow" and is owned by a Polish- Canadian. His co-worker whom we met when we returned the bikes is from Austin TX (where we live). 

We rented their city bikes, basic 3 speed bikes, since our bike path was mostly flat and paved. It cost a maximum of 40 złoty for 1 day (or less if you get back earlier - based on hourly rate).

On the way to the Tyniec Abbey we rode on the left side of the river. On the way back we rode on the opposite side of the river. The paved path follows the river for much of the time. Sometimes you move away from the river and ride along meadows and woods. Some of the paths are dirt. It was great having Greg along because he knew the way. It is not clearly marked where to ride.

As we rode towards Tyniec we stopped at a kayaking training course/competition site. The water for the course is diverted from the main Wisła river. There are various moveable barriers in the water to change the amount of white water. Also there are the gates to paddle through (the hanging poles). Here is a picture of a kayaker.

Our final destination was the Benedictine Abbey called Tyniec. Here is the outside and the inside.

The outside courtyard is lovely and from there are nice views of the Wisła River below. 

On the ride back there were nice views of Przegorzały, the building on the hill that contains the institute of Polish language and culture studies for foreigners of Jagiellonian University. There is also a restaurant with a spectacular outdoor terrace and view of the Wisła. Here is a photo from a distance.

Great views of Bielany monastery from the path were nice to see.

As we approached Cracow the view of Wawel Castle was great. 

It was a great ride. I would encourage all to do it.