Jura Krakowsko Częstochowska. Castles, rocks, caves and other attractions of the Jura

The Kraków-Częstochowa Upland is a wonderful and extremely attractive tourist region, stretching in southern Poland. From Częstochowa and Mstów in the north, through Ogrodzieniec to Kraków in the south. It is a beautiful land with a very varied landscape, with characteristic white outliers. It is rich in architectural monuments, especially castles and their ruins, but also valuable in terms of nature and extremely attractive for family recreation.

It will also delight lovers of extreme sports, as rock climbing routes await here. Balloon and blimp flights are also becoming more and more popular. For me, Jura is a special and sentimental place, because I have been visiting it since I was a child. First with my parents, then at numerous internships during my studies, and finally with my own family. Close to my heart, it is the best tourist region in Poland for me!

Accommodation in the Jura

We did not sleep in too many places on the Jura, because we are close here, but I can recommend something from my own experience. In Olsztyn, near Częstochowa, I highly recommend the "Pod Aniołami" Guest Rooms. It is a very friendly and quiet place with a view of the Olsztyn castle. 

We also highly recommend Chochołowy Dwórin Jerzmanowice. It's a delicious restaurant and hotel. It is located on the old road from Silesia to Krakow, number 94, and you would not even have guessed that within reach of the hotel fence there is a last resort with a beautiful and extensive view of the surrounding area. It is also unexpected that a short walk from here you will reach the highest outpost in the entire southern part of the Jura. This is Grodzisko, or Rock 502, with a height of 513 m above sea level (measurements from the beginning of the 20th century indicated a height of 502, hence the name of the rock, but newer measurements from the 1990s XX marked the height of 513 m above sea level). The hotel restaurant is worth a visit, because the dishes are delicious and they change a bit with the onset of subsequent seasons. On Sundays, free workshops and games for children are organized here so that parents can eat peacefully.

In the vicinity, it is also worth going to Glamping to Jura Glamp in Wola Kalinowska. And what is this glamping? It is a combination of "glamour" and "camping", which gives a luxurious camping. This option is conquering Europe and is for people who want to relax in nature, but in comfortable conditions. Jura Glamp is located in the open field, with a wonderful view of the green Ojców National Park, and at the same time we felt pampered because we had a comfortable, artistic house, a great terrace for ourselves and an igloo. An unusual dome where you can spend a pleasant evening, drink coffee in the rain or even sleep under the stars. It's really nice and unique here. The chalets are year-round and come with a fully equipped kitchenette and a bathroom. They have the soul of the four artists they talk about. We hosted the Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani.

Top 20 Jury Attractions

Here you will find a wide selection of accommodations. By booking your stay on Booking.com through our link, you support the development of our blog — and we thank you in advance! It helps us reach many interesting places that we later love to show you and share our experiences and information with you.

In terms of the number of attractions, Jura is amazing! It is impossible to count them all, and they are close to each other. The castles of the Eagle's Nests Trail are located every dozen kilometers. These are the most important monuments of the Jury. In addition to wandering among the ruins, the region offers other, different ways for tourist activity. Everyone can indulge in their favorite activity among the wealth of rocks, caves, cycling routes or kayaking.

We know this region very well, we have visited it many times, so our guide to the attractions of the Jury is written on the basis of rich, own experiences. Discover the best attractions of the Kraków Częstochowa Jura! Below the text you will find a map with marked tourist attractions of the highlands!

1. Ogrodzieniec Castle

The Ogrodzieniec Castle is a real pearl of the Jury. It rises in her heart, on the highest Jurassic hill, Janowski Mountain. According to the latest research, it has a height of 516 m above sea level. There is no other castle in the Jura that would make a greater impression on tourists and attract so many visitors. It is also the largest building in the Highlands. 

It dates back to the times of Casimir the Great, but the best of his times is the 16th century, when the Boner family was the owner. One of the largest families in Poland! The Ogrodzieniec Castle is beautifully integrated into massive outcrops, and the castle itself is built with lime, eggs and carrion. 

The castle is available to tourists for a fee throughout the year. In summer, there are a lot of outdoor events here. Around the castle, on the other hand, the Rock Town of Podzamcze delights. We've visited this place countless times and it doesn't get boring!
Address: Ogrodzieniec Castle, ul. Zamkowa 28, Podzamcze

2. Tenczyn Castle in Rudno

Tenczyn Castle is a beautiful ruin rising on an extinct volcano. One of the biggest on the Jura! They make a great impression against the background of a picturesque scenery full of greenery. It is worth climbing a low hill in front of the castle to admire this panorama. 

From the Middle Ages to the 17th century, the castle was the family nest of the Tęczyński family, powerful and significant almost on an equal footing with the king! Therefore, the Tenczyn Castle, called the Little Wawel, was magnificent. Until recently, only parts of the residential walls and towers stood here, threatening collapse and catastrophe. In 2010, even a fragment of the wall collapsed. After this event, protection and reconstruction works began. The castle is available to visitors for a fee. It is worth taking a look here, and near the castle there is also a museum of mineralsof the Treasure of This Earth.
Address: Tenczyn Castle, Zamkowa Street, Rudno

3. Mountain of Choirs with the Deep Cave

Zborów Mountain is my favorite rock in the Jura. It is a powerful massif, the most interesting and popular fragment of the Kroczyce Rocks. It is protected in the form of a nature reserve. It is a magical place that in itself creates a wonderful scenery, and by the way it is an ideal vantage point! 

You can reach it quickly from the free parking lot at the Heritage Centre in Podlesice, just walk a bit along the road towards Kroczyce and after a while at the information boards turn left onto the red Eagle's Nest Trail, which leads to the rocks. The landscape reserve here consists of two limestone hills - Mount Zborów (Berkowa Góra, 462 m above sea level) and Mount Kołoczek. 

On site, you can indulge in rocky activities - climbing and more. We climbed here in Młynarz, and we walked on the rope bridge in Sadek - an old, collapsed cave. You can climb to the top of Mount Zborow without any equipment. On nice evenings, you will meet young couples doing wedding sessions here. You can also visit the Deep Cave for a fee, available during the tourist season.
Address: Góra Zborów, Jury Centre for Natural and Cultural Heritage, Podlesice 83, Kroczyce

4. Ojców National Park

This smallest national park in Poland is a real gem of the Jurassic and the whole Małopolska region. It is a wonderful place where white limestone rocks with amazing shapes stick out every step of the way. Delightful against the blue sky and juicy greenery. The most famous is the club of Hercules, the most popular last in the Jura, associated even by children. 

Opn outposts hide caves, two of which are open to tourists - the Dark Cave and the Elbow Cave. And Prądnik writhes among the rocks, among the wild flowers. Overhead, there are historic guesthouses. Be sure to visit this place and see if it will make such a big impression on you. Be sure to also try the Ojcowski Trout near Jonaszówka. Entrance to the Park is free, but there are paid parking lots, more expensive under the Father's castle and cheaper, but further, Złota Góra.
Address: Ojcowski Park Narodowy, Ojców 9, Sułoszowa

5. Błędowska Desert

The Błędów Desert, or the Polish Sahara, is a unique Jurassic attraction! Nowhere else in Europe are there such extensive inland areas with loose sands. They are particularly visible in Chechle, on Dąbrówka, which is an ideal vantage point. You can enter the desert without restrictions in Klucze, where a beautiful viewing platform, the Rose of the Winds, named after its characteristic shape, was created. In this village, there is also Czubatka with a vantage point overlooking the Desert from the top of the hill. 

Be sure to visit the Błędowska Desert. It is a natural treasure of this land, rarely found anywhere else in Poland! Interestingly, only 100 years ago you could observe the phenomenon of a fatamorgan here!
Address: Pustynia Błędowska
Róża Wiatrów, ul. Bolesławska, Klucze
Czubatka, ul. Górna, Klucze
Dąbrówka, ul. Pustynna, Chechło

6. Rabsztyn Castle with the best coffee in the Jura

Rabsztyn Castle, located 4 km from Olkusz, is a wonderfully revitalized ruins of a medieval stronghold. It has been open to tourists since 2021. Admission to the delicious cafe in the cellars of the former palace is free, further sightseeing is already paid. 

It includes the oldest massive tower of the upper castle with a viewpoint, an exhibition in the pavilion in the basement of the lower castle and a courtyard where sun loungers are waiting on warm days. 

It was once a large complex, the Gothic upper castle later expanded to include a middle, lower and Renaissance palace from the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. And what does the name Rabsztyn mean? It is from the German Rabstein, which gives us the Raven Rock after translation. The ruins of the castle on Krucza Skala appeared in the Italian film "Karol - The Man Who Became Pope" directed by G. Battiato. The ruins are available in the tourist zone.
Address: Rabsztyn Castle - MOK Olkusz, Eagle's Nest Trail, Rabsztyn

7. The Great Shutter

Okiennik Wielki is the most popular last resort in the northern Silesian part of the Jura. It rises on the border of the villages of Piaseczno and Skarżyc. It is also called Duży or Skarżycki. It is also one of the most beautiful Jurassic rocks. A distinctive feature is a huge hole with a length of 7 meters and a diameter of 5 meters. 

This hole is almost at the top of the outcrop, creating an amazing view. It is the remains of an old cave. It owes its current shape to the weathering of the rocks, which has caused only the hardest fragments to survive to this day. The Great Shutter is one of the symbols of the Jury!
Address: Okiennik Wielki, ul. Okiennik, Skarżyce (Zawiercie district)

8. Biakło Mountain

Biakło is the so-called Little Giewont or Jurassic Giewont. Why? Because its shape resembles the Tatra Giewont! Mount Biakło rises in the northern part of the Jura, in Olsztyn near Częstochowa, at an altitude of 340 m above sea level. Still other names for this hill are Brodło or a rock with a cross. 

You can easily and quickly get here from the nearby parking lot. Without much trouble and equipment, you will climb to the top of Biakło to admire the beautiful panorama. In winter, it's a great place for sledding and apples.
Address: Góra Biakło, Kuhna Street, Olsztyn

9. Będkowska Valley

The Będkowska Valley is one of the most beautiful and popular Krakow Valleys, which is a must-visit. I recommend a different day of the week than Sunday, preferably during the week, because its fame is already wide and it is crowded at the weekend. It is an ideal place for a walk in a very picturesque scenery. Even for families with small children, because the main road leading through the Będkowska Valley is asphalt. 

For several years, it has been possible to enter the heart of the Valley by car, free parking is available at Brandysówka. So you have to watch out for running kids, because there are plenty of cars on summer weekends. It took a bit of the charm away from this lovely place. In addition to the tasty Brandysówka, it is worth seeing the Szum waterfall, the climbing rock with the funny name of the Elephant's Ass and the magnificent Sokolica. Also a climbing wall that stands 90 meters high above the Valley! Sideways from the left, it is quite easy to enter it without equipment.
Address: Będkowska Valley, Brandysówka, Pod Sokolicą Street, Będkowice

10. Bolechowice Valley

When visiting the Cracow Valleys, do not miss the Bolechowicka Valley. It is located between Karniowice and Bolechowice, just a dozen or so kilometers from Krakow. It is one of the shortest valleys here, but it is full of charm. It is 1.5 km long, and the magnificent Bolechowice Gate leads to it - the most impressive rock gate in the Jura. 

It is built by two limestone rocks with a height of 30 meters. The western pillar is called the Pillar of the Penitents, and the eastern pillar is called the Pillar of Abazy. Both are eagerly used by climbers. It is a cult place for mountaineers, many famous Polish mountaineers trained here.
Address: Bolechowice Valley, yellow trail of the Jurassic Valley, Bolechowice

11. Pilcz Castle in Smoleń with the highest viewpoint in the region

In Smoleń, located at the border of the provinces, at the top of a forested hill, which is a nature reserve "Smoleń", you will find the ruins of the medievalcastle of Pilecki (Toporczyk). The ruins were already in very poor condition and threatened to collapse, but revitalization has made them well-preserved today in the form of a permanent ruin and available for tourists for a fee. 

Wooden stairs lead to the tower, where you can climb the highest viewpoint in the Jura with a metal structure. The Armoury was built on the walls of the castle. Slightly to the south stretches the picturesque Water Valley.
Address: Pilcza Castle, Zamkowa Mountain, Smoleń

12. Underground Olkusz

Underground Olkusz is the discovery of 2021. This museum is amazing: multimedia, modern and full of knowledge. The underground Olkusz consists of two separate routes available under one ticket - in the basements of the former Olkusz town hall and in the basements of the former starosty. 

The museum allows you to make a fantastic journey back in time to the past of this silver city. Until its inception, the operation of Olkusz mines, where silver, zinc and lead were mined, and until other important moments in the history of Olkusz. The whole is available without age restrictions and for people with disabilities. Let yourself be carried away by history and go on an extremely interesting journey. Meet the Underground Olkusz, because it's worth it, we've already visited him twice.
Address: Underground Olkusz, Rynek 4, Olkusz

13. Old Mill in Żarki

The Old Mill of the Museum of Old Crafts in Żarki is a great, very family and thriving attraction, which in itself is also a Tourist Information and an organizer of trips to attractive Żarki. The museum is located in a restored, historic mill, located on the Route of Technical Monuments. 

We have already visited the Old Mill several times and we always like it. All the more so because one of the rooms presents a different, temporary exhibition each time. There is no shortage of multimedia, but also the presentation of old crafts that are already beginning to disappear. Take your children to the Old Mill, they will certainly like it, because there are numerous curiosities and the opportunity to try old tools.
Address: Museum of Old Crafts - Stary Młyn, ul. Ofiar Katynia 5, Żarki

14. Bat Cave

The Bat Cave in Jerzmanowice is a popular, private cave, accessible to tourists only with a guide. It is illuminated and marked. It is located in the southern part of the Jura, in the village of Jerzmanowice, in the upper part of the Będkowska Valley, about 1 km from route No. 94. The tour takes place for a fee, from April to October, and additionally at the Cave there is a lapidarium with the Jurassic rocks and the Monkey Grove - zip line descents and rock climbing. 

And did you know that in the Bat Cave there were scenes for the filming of Sienkiewicz's famous novel - "Fire and Sword"? It was here that the scenes with Horpyna were played out, and then the cave became the scenery of Czarty Jar.
Address: Bat Cave in Jerzmanowice, ul. Nietoperzowa 88, Jerzmanowice

15. Park Reserve in Złoty Potok

Established in 1957, the Park Reserve protects the most picturesque part of the Wiercica valley with its famous springs, various rock forms and caves. It is here that you will see the Twardowski Gate, known even to children from textbooks, or the mysterious Devil's Bridges. 

These sources, on the other hand, are karst deposits - Sigismund's Springs flowing from 10 crevices and a spring located a little further away, called by the poet Krasiński the Elizabeth's Source in honor of his prematurely deceased daughter. The Park Reserve is beautiful, especially in autumn. It is also worth taking a look at the American Pond, where beautiful views as well as delicious trout and ice cream await you.
Address: Park Reserve, Kościuszki Street, Złoty Potok

16. Rzędkowice Rocks

Rzędkowice Rocks are a beautiful range of white Jurassic outcrops, with a characteristic, straight rock palm. The rocks stretch for about 1 km, near the village of Rzędkowice, near Kroczyce and Podlesice, in the heart of the Jura. Like other rocks on the Upland, they are made of rocky limestone. The most resistant, which is why they stand high above the ground. 

Rzędkowice Rocks are single rocks, which are called: Wysoka, Baszta, Turnia Lechwora, Zegarowa, Leśna, Okiennik Rzędkowicki or Pęknięta. The High is the hand mentioned at the beginning. That's its shape. There is a free car park nearby.
Address: Skały Rzędkowickie, ul. Jurajska, Rzędkowice

17. Alpacarnia in Poczesna

Under Częstochowa, in the small town of Poczesna, on the main road, an Alpacarnia was created. It is an interesting attraction for children in the form of a mini zoo, where cute and very soft alpacas walk freely. In addition, there are several pens with camels, donkeys and other animals. 

The children really like it here, but also their parents, because a café with tasty coffee and delicious desserts has been created here. On warm Sundays, it is crowded here, so it is best to plan a visit on another day of the week.
Address: Alpakarnia Cafe Poczesna, ul. Sadowa 1, Nowa Wieś

18. Eagle's Nest Trail

The Eagle's Nest Trail is the most popular and longest trail in the Jura! Marked in red, it runs from Częstochowa to Krakow or vice versa. This main route of the region leads to the most interesting corners and facilities. Particularly noteworthy are the eagle nests, i.e. gothic, fortified buildings, perched on rock massifs. 

The length of this route is quite large, because it is over 163 km long! Wandering through it or moving by car, you will discover the most important attractions of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland! There is also a 190 km long bicycle version of the trail.
 Address: Eagle's Nest Trail, beginning at the Old Market Square in Częstochowa

19. Kirkut in Żarki

The Jewish cemetery in Żarki is the largest Jewish cemetery in the Jura, which hides over 1,000 matzevot! It is located a little behind the center of Żarek, on the so-called Kierków. It has been preserved in quite good condition, although it is unfenced and available free of charge to everyone. It is beautifully integrated into the terrain, with matzevot protruding like Jurassic rocks. The Żarków Jewish cemetery was founded in 1821, as the third cemetery in this city and is a trace of a large once Jewish community in this city.
Address: Jewish cemetery, Polna Street, Żarki

20. Sanctuary in Czerna

The sanctuary in Czerna is a climatic and somewhat mysterious place. It is located near Krzeszowice, in tiny Czerna lying in the picturesque Eliaszówka Valley. In fact, it is a Baroque hermitage of the Discalced Carmelites. Founded in 1629 by Agnieszka Firlejowa née Tęczyńska, buried in the local Sanctuary. Already in 1640, the church of St. Prophet Elijah was consecrated here. This is today's Sanctuary of MB Scapular and St. Rafał Kalinowski. It hides a miraculous image of Our Lady of the Scapular from the 18th century, modeled on the image of Our Lady of the Snows.

A grotto with a statue of the prophet Elijah was built in the church square, and there is a spring in front of the grotto. St. Joseph's Avenue stretches here - a place of walks and meditation, and the Way of the Cross was created on the monastery paths to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the foundation of the monastery.
Address: Barefoot Carmelite Monastery in Czerna, Shrine of M.B. Scapular and St. Father Rafał Kalinowski, Czerna 79, Krzeszowice

Jury Experience Map

Below you will find an extensive map with selected attractions of the Jury. We divided them into different categories such as castles, rocks, etc. There is also an important and numerous group "Other attractions" 😉 In addition, we have marked places where we recommend eating and where you can sleep. I will write about it later in the article.  

Castles in the Jura

The most characteristic elements of the Jurassic landscape are strongholds.Mostly built in the fourteenth century by King Casimir the Great for the defense of border areas. Currently, Jurassic strongholds remain mostly in ruins. Mainly due to the Swedish Deluge. They are preserved in the form of a permanent ruin and are open to tourists.

Castles in the Kraków Częstochowa Upland, from the north towards the south.

• Olsztyn Castle 
• Ostrężnik Castle
• Mirów Castle
• Bobolice Castle 
• Bąkowiec Castle in Morsk
• Siewierz Castle 
• Castle Ogrodzieniec in Podzamcze
• Pilcz Castle in Smolen
• Bydlin Castle
• Rabsztyn Castle
• Pieskowa Skała Castle
• Castle of the Fathers
• Korzkiew Castle
• Wawel Royal Castle

Rocks on the Jura

The Krakow-Częstochowa Upland is also characterized by white, protruding rock outcrops. Limestone rocks have been washed out here for years, their more resistant fragments have survived (hence the name ostańce) in the field as objects with interesting shapes, often called by the population. In many places in the Jura, these outcrops individually or as groups of rocks become a place of climbing and other rock activities. Popular climbing centers include, for example, Zborów Mountain, Rzędkowice Rocks, the Rock Town of Podzamcze and rocks in the Kraków Valley, e.g. the Będkowska Valley with the popular Elephant's Ass or the Bolechowice Valley with the famous climbing Bolechowice Gate. The most famous outliers in the Jura are:

• The Great Shutter in Skarżyce
• Hercules' club
• Cracow Gate in Ojców
• Bolechowice Gate in Bolechowice
• Góra Zborów
• Mirowskie Skałki

Jura caves

Less visible, but no less numerous and attractive are the caves and grottos in the Kraków Częstochowa Upland, passionately explored by cavers and speleologists. Their largest clusters are located in the vicinity of Ojców and in the Sokolie Góry near Olsztyn. Only a few caves on the Jura are available to explore, the rest are better avoided because they are often difficult to explore and require specialized equipment. Some entrances are already dangerous - vertical and deep. Interesting caves in the Jura are:

Caves accessible to tourists with a guide

• Łokietek Cave in Ojców - a very popular cave in Ojców National Park, open to tourists, once housed Łokietek himself, hence the name. It is open only during the season, from April to October, and is located a bit off the beaten track, access by blue or black trail, available for a fee, the ticket is not cheap
• The Dark Cave in Ojców - is unique in that it is visited with a candle, as it used to be, there is no electric lighting, only open during the season, it is located in the central part of the OPN-U and the Prądnik Valley, above the asphalt road, the entrance is located quite high, behind the rock Gloves. As it is favoured by bats, it closes in October and even in September, as soon as the first individuals start preparing for hibernation, it is available for a fee
• Głęboka Cave in Podlesice - located in the massif of the popular Zborów Mountain, for several years tourists can visit it, and tickets are bought at the nearby Heritage Center in Podlesice (in the parking lot), open only in the season, because bats hibernate in it after the season, mainly small horseshoes
• Bat Cave in Jerzmanowice - located in the area of the Krakowskie Valley, it is a private cave, but open to tourists, there were scenes with Horpyna for the film "Fire and Sword"
• Wierzchowska Górna Cave in Wierzchów - has the longest tourist route among the caves in the Jura, and even in the whole of Poland, available for a fee throughout the year, in the season every day, in winter only on weekends

Caves not open for sightseeing

• Ostrężnica Cave - lies at the foot of the Ostrężnik hill, south of the Park Reserve in Złoty Potok, close to here to the Ostrężnik castle, the cave is 90 meters long, it is not available to everyone for free, it has a characteristic entrance, shape resembling human lungs
• Mammoth Cave in Wierzchów - located near Wierzchowska, is currently famous for very difficult climbing routes leading through the grotto ceiling, it is not available but it is available to everyone free of charge
• Cave in Biśnik - located in the Water Valley near Smoleńsk, it is not available but it is available to everyone free of charge
• Pod Sokolą Górą Cave - also known as Pochyła Cave, is located in the Sokolie Góry Mountains in Olsztyn. It is an exceptionally cold cave due to its morphology. As the Arctic microclimate has been created here, relict beetle species have been preserved in the facility
• Olsztyn Cave - once considered one of the most beautiful caves in Poland, with a beautiful and rich dripstone robe, but the exploitation of calcite led to its devastation. Today, the cave bears no resemblance to an ancient natural wonder
• Coral Cave - also located in the Sokole Góry reserve, it is a dangerous cave with a vertical opening and the same development, only for speleologists, but with unique infiltrations
• Studnisko Cave - is located in the Sokolie Góry Mountains and is even deeper than Coral Cave, with a depth of 75.5 m (it is the deepest cave in the Krakow-Wieluńska Upland). This is a very dangerous cave where accidents have already occurred

Jura trails

Countless hiking trails, both hiking, cycling and horseback riding, were created in the Jura. Some lead through the entire area of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland, others are marked out locally. The longest and most popular trails are:

• Red Eagle's Nest Trail - length163.9 km
• Blue Route of Jurassic Strongholds - length 154 km
• Red Eagle's Nest Cycling Trail - length 188.3 km
• Orange Trans-Jurassic Horse Trail - 204 km long
• Yellow Jurassic Valley Trail
• Yellow Zamonite Trail

Cities in the Jura

The Jura is famous for its pearls, such as castles and outcasts, but also for several interesting cities that are really worth visiting on the Jurassic trail. The most interesting cities in the Jura are:

• Kraków with Wawel Castle
• Częstochowa with Jasna Góra
• Żarki with a thriving and family-run Old Mill, famous barns, a market and Jewish monuments
• Olkusz with interesting monuments and the fantastic Underground Olkusz
• Sławków with Austeria, the former inn
• Pilica with interesting monuments and a restored town hall
• Fathers with many attractions, the Prądnik Valley is especially valuable and popular here
• Krzeszowice with palaces and an interesting church

Sanctuaries in the Jura

The Jura hides real pearls of sacred architecture, attracting pilgrims from all over Poland , and often from abroad. It is worth getting to know them and, of course, visit:

• Jasna Góra in Częstochowa
• Sanctuary in Święta Anna (Aleksandrówka)
• Sanctuary on Przeprośna Górka in Mstów
• Sanctuary of MB Leśniowska in Żarki
• Sanctuary of MB Śnieżna in Pilica
• Sanctuary in Skarżyce
• Sanctuary in Czerna

Unusual tourist attractions in the Jura

Jura continues to surprise tourists, every year new, interesting tourist attractions are created that attract entire families, often with small children. Experiences include:

• The Romanesque church in Siewierz - one of the oldest churches in Poland, dates back to the 12th century and bears the invocation of St. John the Baptist
• Time Machine in Żarki - an unusual museum in its form, because in addition to an interesting presentation of the Middle Ages and other historical periods, it also offers interesting workshops, e.g. writing with a pen, handicrafts and outdoor games such as archery, a very interesting place worth visiting, I heartily recommend
• JuRajskie Ptaki parrot house in Żarki - an interesting family place where you have direct contact with colorful, exotic birds. Parrots in various species, sit on the shoulders, hands and even on the head. Some can be given a kiss! 
• Deskal Andrejkowa in Ojców - at one of the historic guest houses, a deskal was created in 2024, the work of a famous artist from the Podkarpacie region
• Northern Jura Geopark - an extremely geologically attractive area, stretching from Mstów in the north to Żarki in the south
• Gaziki in Żarki - in the Przystań Leśniów restaurant, near the sanctuary in Leśniów, you can book a swab ride in the surrounding areas by phone, it's great fun that evokes adrenaline
• Hokus Pokuss in Żarki - in the center of Żarki there is a sweets factory where children will make their colorful lollipops and candy, a very child-friendly place
• Exhibition of Jurassic Fossils and Minerals in Żarki - the exhibition is located on the church square at the Shrine of Our Lady in Leśniów - Żarek district, you will see interesting specimens from Poland and around the world
• Lipa Babka in Żarki - near the Jurassic kuesta and the ruins of the church in Żarki, there is an old, aged linden tree, called Granny. It is over 500 years old and actually only half a trunk, but every year it releases fresh leaves and you can see that the will to live is strong in it
• Stronghold on Birów Mountain - in Podzamcze near Ogrodzieniec, a historical hilltop stronghold was reconstructed, where you can learn about the realities of early medieval life
• Ogrodzieniec Park in Podzamcze - located at the foot of the Ogrodzieniec Castle, at 33 Zamkowa Street. It is a large complex of amusement parks, the first was the Miniature Park - Ogrodzieniec with miniatures of castles from all over the Jura, and in 2014 it was additionally expanded with the Physical Experience Park, Amusement Park, Luge Track and House of Legends and Fears
• AdrenalinePark in Podzamcze - an interesting rope park in Podzamcze, in the forest near the castle, you can experience some adrenaline here
• Cross-country skiing trails in Podzamcze - another interesting attraction of Podzamcze, around the Ogrodzieniec Castle in the Rock City of Podzamcze, 12 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails for skiers were routed. Properly prepared trails can be used for free, in addition, ski competitions are organized on these trails. The entrance to the route is located in Podzamcze, from ul. Zamkowa, od. ul. Dąbrowskiego and from Hotel Poziom 511 and from ul. Jurajska 17 - Centrum Turystyki Aktywnej (Żelazko)
• The tomb of Tzadik in Lelów - Lelów is one of the most important Hasidic centers in Poland (Hasidim are Orthodox Jews). Here once lived the famous tzaddik David Bidermann - Lelower, whose grave is now visited by Jews from around the world. The grave of Cadyk is located almost in the center of the village, not in any cemetery, but in a specially prepared building, in Lelów every year there is the Feast of Ciulim and Czulent - popular one-pot dishes, Jewish and Polish
• Olsztyn Nativity Scene - a wonderful moving crib made of linden wood, famous throughout the Jura. You will see it in a weldable building, a tiny, colorfully painted cottage near the market square in Olsztyn. This is the cottage of Jan Wewiór - a local storyteller sculptor, who is, of course, the author of the nativity scene. The Nativity scene has been created for nearly 20 years and has 800 figurines, there is traditionally the Holy Family, but besides this, Pope John Paul II, the author of Jan Wewiór, who picks his figurines, ordinary families and watches over almost every figure of the Angels, for which Olsztyn is famous
• Lake Olkusz - created after the Olkusz mines ceased their activities

Juromania - Festival of the Jury and the Eagle's Nest Trail

Since 2018, every September, a great festival called Juromania has been organized in the Jurassic. Then the whole Jura is covered with a real mania of sightseeing. Numerous outdoor events take place in dozens of places, which attract many tourists. In addition, Jurassic facilities can be visited with various benefits, or additional attractions, or at the price of reduced tickets, or even completely free of charge. Juromania takes place for 3 days, from Friday to Sunday, from morning to night. The main events take place in castles, but not only. There are knightly shows, historical reconstructions, quests, rallies, concerts and other interesting events.

Balloonade at Ogrodzieniec Castle

Since 2022, a Balloonade has been organized in Podzamcze at the castle, during which not only balloons, but also helicopters and motor gliders fly into the air. In addition, there are interesting shows and concerts in the courtyard. During the second Balloonade, we had the great pleasure of flying in a balloon over the fortress. It's a fantastic experience and an extraordinary adventure that will remain in our memories forever!It's a beautiful feeling to make your dreams come true. 

Report from our balloon flight over the Ogrodzieniec Castle!

Suggestions for pedestrian routes

Several different routes for you as a proposal to spend time actively in the Jura.

1. Walking route in Ojców National Park

A suggestion for the route for the whole day, although the walk itself will take about 3-4 hours. In total, it has about 8 kilometers, of which 2 kilometers lead through a mountain trail (it can be omitted and then the route is available for families with small children in wheelchairs and for people with disabilities). The time for visiting several facilities, taking photos, resting, etc. should be added to the time of the transition. We leave the car in the parking lot under the castle in Ojców. The car park is paid (PLN 12 in 2020), and on non-working days it may be full, so it is better to go early in the morning. If it is full, there is a parking lot in Złota Góra, but unfortunately it is an additional 1.5 km of walk. The castle can be seen from the parking lot, so that's where we'll start. It is worth visiting the castle, if not for the exhibitions inside the buildings, then certainly for the view from the viewing platform. The tour of the castle should take about 30 minutes. After visiting the castle, we go towards the Opn Museum, where we can see a nature exhibition. Next, we go straight, along the red Eagle's Nest Trail (not the main road), where we can admire the historic guest houses of this old spa. We come to the restaurant Trout Ojcowski, where we can taste the famous smoked or grilled trout - the more so because we have a long way to go 🙂 After a meal, it is worth climbing the rock Jonaszówka (the black trail of the Elbow Grotto, a fragment inaccessible to prams), from where there is a beautiful view of the village and the ruins of the castle.

We go to the main road, the green trail, along the way we pass the Maiden Rocks and the Needle of Deotyme. We walk along the trail and turn towards the Dark Cave. The trail leads quite steeply uphill, but it is very well maintained (it is not adapted to strollers with children). This is how we get to the Dark Cave. Visiting the Dark Cave is an additional adrenaline rush, because there is no lighting here - we visit it with candles in hand 🙂 The entrance to the cave is every 40 minutes, and the visit cannot be arranged and booked in advance, so you have to take this into account when planning your visit. Beyond the Dark Cave, we continue along the green Trail of the Dark Cave to climb the Trench Mountain. On the way, we pass a few viewpoints on the rock Glove and the beautiful Prądnik Valley - here you can relax for a while. At the very top of the Trench there is another beautiful viewpoint - here you can probably see the winding ribbon of Prądnik. We descend from above, passing the hillfort and other caves. All along the green trail. This is how we get to the red Eagle's Nest Trail and return to the right, but this is not the end of the attraction for today. Nearby there is a super café Nezapominajka with a beautiful view and equally delicious sweets. The trail leads us to the Source of Love - because loving never too much 🙂 Next, the mandatory passage through the Krakow Gate and we return to the red trail - a moment by the main road, and then to the left by the forest. Behind the ponds, we cross the bridge so as not to return the same way to the parking lot under the castle.

2. Walking loop route at Mount Zborów

We leave the car in the free parking lot at the Jury Centre for Natural and Cultural Heritage. We cross the street and see the first attraction - the lapidarium, which is an exhibition of rocks. 
We go further north. We can turn right behind the lapidary for a moment to visit the Deep Cave. The tour itself will take about 40 minutes (tickets are purchased at the Center, guided tours).
We return to the route. Through the forest behind the cave, we follow the path to Mount Zborów. On the way, we pass Sadek (nice rocks) and reach Młynarz, Świnka and other rocks.
We reach the red and green trails and follow them. The summit of Mount Zborow is on the right. Of course, we climb it carefully, because the views from here are beautiful.
We return near the Grand Canyon and at the Lower Tower we follow the red Eagle's Nest Trail to the main road. We take it back to the parking lot.
The whole route is about 3 kilometers and an hour of walking, unless you take a lot of photos. Behind the Głęboka cave, you can also choose a slightly longer variant for the Kołoczek Hill. Then the route will be about 700 meters longer.
You can start the loop the other way, then you will get to the Church Mountain much faster.

Suggestions for cycling routes in the Jura

The Kraków-Częstochowa Upland is a very interesting region for cycling escapades. The Eagles' Nests Cycling Trail and many other cycling trails were created here, which allow you to visit almost every corner of this rocky land. We have traveled around the Jura many times by bike, and I described the route suggestions in a separate article: 

Our cycling routes in the Jura

Where to eat in the Jura?

We have already eaten at many restaurants in the Jura, because, as I wrote, we have been here many times. In Olsztyn, we recommend delicious casseroles with interesting flavors on the market, hamburgers have surprised us very positively in the Pod Kolumnami Restaurant in Pilica, while in Żarki, in the Harbor of Forests, you can eat a really delicious trout or pork loin, there is also local sourdough and tasty dumplings. It is also very tasty and atmospheric in the Old Baths in Żarki. Jurassic Trout are also recommended in Złoty Potok, in the historic Raczyński Trout House or at the American Pond at Ms. Lidza's. And the delicious Ojcowski Trout is waiting in Ojcowski National Park, under the Jonaszówka lookout point. It is delicious, accompanied by silage and homemade bread.

From local products, you should also recommend Poręba roasts or delicious sweet bread - dark buckwheat flour tartlets. You will buy this one from Mrs. Jadzia Plesińska during the fair on Wednesday or Saturday in the Żarec barns.

In Olkusz, there is a Batoraka restaurant on the market, you will have a traditional dinner here, but it was the dessert that made the biggest impression on us, I have never got such a huge cheesecake in any café or restaurant. Of course, it was delicious. A café in the nearby Rabsztyn Castle, in the basements of the former palace, or under a cloud, on the terrace with a view of the castle, has also recently welcomed you for a delicious cup of coffee.

And in the Krakow valleys? It's also tasty, you'll eat well in Brandysówka, in the Będkowska Valley. We ate sweet here, the pancakes were great, and the apple pie was great. I also highly recommend Chochołowy Dwór with delicious food. We know this place from several visits and I can recommend this cuisine with a clear conscience - ribs, vege dishes, their own preserves, everything is great.

Jura Krakowsko Częstochowska - Polish Tourist Brand

Jura Krakowsko Częstochowska is currently a Polish Tourist Brand. It is an important and valuable tourist region in Poland. It's my horse! The region closest to the place of residence and the heart. We know him quite well, but there is always a hunger for further sightseeing and getting to know him. We visit some attractions of the area again and again and they will always surprise us again. 

Over the last 20 years, the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland has changed very much. Many new attractions have been created here, and a lot of historical ones have gained a nicer face. The infrastructure in the form of trails, paths, picnic shelters, as well as information boards has also significantly improved. In many places, there are organized car parks, often free of charge. I strongly encourage you to get to know this picturesque land dotted with Gothic castles.

Our video about Jura

Jura is our favorite region in Poland. No wonder we often come here and record films. Here's our latest year-round video:  4 seasons of the Jury

Rent a car

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What's worth seeing in the area?

You don't have to travel far to find more interesting places. Within a radius of 100 kilometers, there are many attractions waiting for you that will certainly enrich your stay Your trip with additional memories.

• Eagle's Nest Trail, distance: 0  km
• Błędowska Desert, distance: 13.1  km
• Bobolice Castle, distance: 18.3  km
• Gródek Park in Jaworzno, distance: 30.3  km
• Krakowskie valleys, distance: 33.9  km
• Ojców National Park, distance: 34.6  km
• Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry, distance: 49.9  km
• Kazimierz in Kraków, distance: 52.6  km
• Kapias Gardens in Goczałkowice Zdrój, distance: 70.7  km
• Pławniowice Palace, distance: 76.6  km