Trail of the Eagles' Nests by Car - Comprehensive Guide 2024

When planning a trip from Częstochowa to Krakow, consider travelling along the Eagles' Nests Trail - one of the most beautiful tourist routes in Poland. Although it was originally designed as a cycling route of the Eagles' Nests, today it is an excellent route to explore by car, offering unforgettable views and access to fascinating monuments.

The Trail of the Eagles' Nests - basic information

The route leads through the picturesque areas of the Kraków-Częstochowa Jurassic Highland, linking two historic towns. The route runs through the Silesian and Lesser Poland Voivodeships, presenting the richest cultural and natural areas of the region. The concept of the route was developed in the 1950s by Professor Stanisław Leszczycki, who created a route which still delights visitors with its variety of attractions and beautiful landscape.

Characteristic limestone monadnocks, medieval fortresses and mysterious caves create the unique atmosphere of this place. The trail leads visitors to the most picturesque corners of the region, where history intertwines with nature in a fascinating way.

The most important castles and fortresses along the route

Olsztyn Castle

The castle ruins in Olsztyn are one of the most characteristic points on the map of the Silesian section of the trail. This medieval fortress, towering over the surroundings, was erected in the times of Casimir the Great. Today, its majestic ruins are a reminder of the magnificent times when it guarded the border of the Polish Kingdom.

Castle complex Mirów-Bobolice

In the heart of the Jura is a unique complex of two castles - Mirów and Bobolice. The castle in Mirów, although partly in ruins, is currently undergoing extensive restoration work. The stronghold in Bobolice, on the other hand, has been painstakingly restored and is an example of what Jurassic castles might have looked like in their heyday.

Ogrodzieniec Castle

Located on the highest hill of the Kraków-Częstochowa Jurassic (515 m above sea level), Ogrodzieniec Castle is a true pearl of defensive architecture. This largest stronghold in Jura impresses with its monumental architecture and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Natural treasures of the trail

When travelling in the footsteps of medieval fortresses, it is impossible to miss the natural attractions of the region. Okiennik Wielki - a majestic rock formation - is one of the most characteristic points on the route. The limestone monadnocks, shaped thousands of years ago, form fantastic shapes, attracting not only tourists but also climbers.

The Tenczyński Landscape Park offers picturesque hiking trails and resting places where you can admire the wealth of local flora and fauna. It is particularly worth stopping off near Paczółtowice, where some of the most beautiful rock formations are to be found.

Route planning by car

Visiting the Eagles' Nest Trail by car is best spread over 3-4 days. On the first day, it is worth starting from Jasna Góra, then heading towards the Olsztyn Castle and the picturesque Złoty Potok. The region is famous not only for its historical monuments, but also for its clear springs and a trout-production plant founded by Zygmunt Krasiński.

We can devote the second day to exploring the central part of the trail. The route leads through Morsko, where there are spectacular rock formations, then through the restored castle of Bobolice, to the mysterious castle ruins in Mirów. The surroundings of Zawiercie provide an excellent base for this stage of the journey.

On the third day, a visit to the southern part of the trail awaits, with such gems as Rabsztyn, Tenczyn Castle and picturesque Krzeszowice. It is in this part of the trail that you will find the famous Pond of the Americas - a resting place appreciated by locals and tourists alike.

Accommodation and tourist facilities

When travelling along the Trail of the Eagles' Nests, it is worth stopping in one of the picturesque villages. Podlesice offers an excellent base for exploring the central part of the trail. Zawiercie, as a larger town, provides a wider choice of accommodation and restaurants. Złoty Potok delights with its tranquillity and proximity to nature, and the palace located there remembers the times when it hosted Zygmunt Krasiński.

Practical tips for motorists

The signposting of the Eagles' Nests Trail was originally designed for hiking and cycling. The main trail is marked in red, but when travelling by car, it is advisable to use up-to-date maps and navigation applications. The cycling and walking paths do not always coincide with the routes accessible by car.

It is worth remembering to refuel in larger towns such as Zawiercie or Kromołów, where the availability of petrol stations is greater. There are numerous car parks along the route, especially at the main tourist attractions, but they can be crowded in high season.

Connection to other attractions in the region

The Eagles' Nests Trail can be perfectly combined with a visit to other attractions in the region. From Częstochowa, it is worth starting with a visit to Jasna Góra and then heading south along the Jurassic route. On the way, you can deviate from the route to see the monuments of the Wooden Architecture Route or visit charming villages such as Bydlin or Ostrężnik.

Comfortable travel with professional support

To fully enjoy the charms of the Trail of the Eagles' Nests, consider renting a comfortable car. Slawa Rent offers a wide selection of reliable vehicles ideally suited to the needs of tourists. Our vehicles are regularly serviced and prepared for the demanding Jurassic routes.

Why use our services? We not only offer comfortable vehicles, but also professional advice on route planning and travel safety. Contact usand we will help you plan an unforgettable adventure on the Trail of the Eagles' Nests!

Practical guide to the route

Time travel planning

The optimum time to explore the entire trail is 4-5 days. This will allow you to move calmly between the attractions and get to know the region thoroughly. The route leads through the most picturesque corners of Jura, offering not only historical monuments, but also beautiful landscapes and natural attractions.

Recommended breakdown by day

Day 1: Northern part of the route

• 9:00-10:30: Start of the route in Częstochowa
• 11:00-13:00: Sightseeing tour of the Olsztyn area
• 13:30-15:00: Lunch break in Zlatý Potok
• 15:30-17:00: Exploration of the Podlesice area
• 17:30: Accommodation and dinner

Day 2: Central part of the route

• 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Surroundings of the Sea and rock formations
• 11:30-13:30: Bobolice Region
• 14:00-15:00: Lunch at a local restaurant
• 15:30-17:00: Mirów and surroundings
• 17:30: Arrival to Zawiercie for overnight stay

Day 3: Southern part

• 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: The vicinity of Podzamcze
• 11:30-13:30: Rabštín region
• 14:00-15:00: Lunch break in Olkusz
• 15:30-17:00: Krzeszowice area
• 17:30: Transfer to accommodation

Best viewpoints

1. Podlesice area:

• Panorama of the entire area
• Perfect conditions for sunset photography
• Easy access and parking for cars

2. Birów Mountain:

• View of the Prądnik Valley
• Parking under a hill
• Convenient viewing platform

3. Hill in Paczółtowice:

• Panorama of Tenczyñski Landscape Park
• Picnic areas
• Easy access by car

Accommodation and catering facilities

Accommodation in various standards

Cost-effective options:

• PTTK (Polish Tourist Country-Lovers' Hostel) (from 50 zł/person)
• Private accommodation in Podlesice (80-120 zł/night)
• Campsites at the main attractions

Medium standard:

• Guesthouses in Zlatý Potok (PLN 150-250 per night)
• Hotels in Zawiercie (200-300 PLN/night)
• Agritourism farms (130-180 zł/night)

Comfortable accommodation:

• Boutique hotels in Kromołów (from 400 zł/night)
• Exclusive guesthouses near Bobolice
• Flats in restored manor houses

Where to eat along the route

Breakfasts:

• Local bakeries opening at 6:00 a.m.
• Cafes at major tourist sites
• Hotel restaurants (if overnight stay with breakfast)

Lunches and dinners:

• Karczma "Pod Skałami" in Podlesice
• Restaurant "Jurajska" in Zawiercie
• "Old Mill" in Zloty Potok

Local specialities:

• Paternity trout
• Jura Regional product
• Liquors and meads

Practical aspects of travel

Refuelling and servicing

Petrol stations are located in the main towns:

• Zawiercie (several 24-hour stations)
• Olkusz (full service and car washes)
• Krzeszowice (stations along main roads)

Car parks and parking spaces

Larger car parks at major attractions:

• Parking under the Olsztyn Castle (paid, monitored)
• Parking in Kromołów (free of charge)
• Parking at the Pond of the Americas (payable in high season)

Alternative routes and diversions

In case of renovations or heavy traffic:

• Road through Bydlin (scenic alternative route)
• Diversions via Ostrężnik (additional natural attractions)
• Route through Tenczyn (less tourist traffic)

Natural attractions

Rock formations

The most interesting limestone formations:

• Okiennik Wielki (climbing possibility)
• Podlesice Rocks (walking trails)
• Group of rocks in Morsk (viewpoints)

Caves accessible to tourists

1. Deep Cave:

• Illuminated route
• On-site guide
• Parking at the entrance

2. Dark Cave:

• Easy access
• Torch tours
• Interesting dripstone decoration

Local attractions outside the main monuments

Leisure activities

Rope climbing centre in Zloty Potok

• Routes of varying difficulty
• Equipment included in the ticket price
• Parking directly at the park
• On-site instructors

Rock climbing

• Climbing areas in Podlesice
• Equipment rentals in Morsk
• Courses for beginners
• Routes of varying difficulty

Local events and festivals

Spring season

• Jurassic Cultural Festival
• May Day at the Rocks
• Historical picnics

Summer season

• Kromołów Music Festival
• Jurassic Fair
• Theatre nights under the stars

Route planning in different seasons

Spring (April-May)

• Less tourist traffic
• Flowering Jurassic meadows
• Pleasant temperature for sightseeing
• Possible precipitation

Summer (June-August)

• Full tourist season
• All attractions available
• High temperatures
• More congestion in car parks

Autumn (September-October)

• The picturesque colours of nature
• Perfect weather for hiking
• Fewer tourists
• Lower accommodation prices

Winter (November-March)

• Limited access to certain attractions
• Picturesque winter landscapes
• Need to check road conditions
• Less accessible tourism services

Sightseeing with children

Family-friendly attractions

1. Experience Park in Zawiercie

• Interactive exhibits
• Playground
• Picnic area
• Family parking

2. Mini Zoo in Zloty Potok

• Contact with animals
• Educational workshops
• Nature trail
• Resting places

Picnic areas

Official stopping points

• American pond (tables, benches, canopy)
• Polana pod Morskim (barbecue area)
• Peach (recreation area)

Wild places

• Glades in the Tenczynski Landscape Park
• Areas near limestone rocks
• Forest picnic areas

Local cuisine and regional products

Where to buy local products

1. Markets:

• Olkusz Market Square (Wednesdays and Saturdays)
• Market in Zawiercie (Tuesdays and Fridays)
• Krzeszowice bazaar (weekends)

2. Agro-tourism farms:

• Goat cheeses from Paczółtowice
• Honeys from the apiary in Bydlin
• Cured meats from the farm in Podlesice

Restaurants with local cuisine

1. The northern part of the route:

• "Jurajska Chatka" - traditional dishes
• "Under the Rocks" - game and fish
• "Golden Trout" - fish specialities

2. Central part:

• "Spichlerz" - regional cuisine
• "Karczma Jurajska" - game dishes
• "Under the Lime Tree" - homemade baked goods

3. Southern part:

• "Dworek" - exquisite Polish cuisine
• "The Old Forge" - dishes from the oven
• "The Mill" - regional dishes

Transport and logistics

Service stations and roadside assistance

1. 24-hour workshops:

• Zawiercie - 15 Główna St.
• Olkusz - 8 Mechaników St.
• Krzeszowice - ul. Krakowska 22

2. Roadside assistance:

• 24-hour towing
• Mobile tyre service
• Ad hoc technical assistance

Parking facilities at the main attractions

1. Secure car parks:

• 24/7 monitoring
• Vehicle insurance
• Toilets and information points

2. Unguarded car parks:

• By hiking trails
• At viewpoints
• At picnic sites

Useful contacts

Services and support:

• Emergency service: 999
• Police: 997
• Fire brigade: 998

Tourist information:

• Point in Zawiercie
• Information centre in Olkusz
• Tourist office in Krzeszowice

Hiring a car for the journey

When planning an expedition along the Trail of the Eagles' Nests, it is worth considering renting a suitable car. Slawa Rent offers vehicles ideally suited to the Jurassic routes. In our fleet you will find cars:

• With raised suspension
• Comfortable for the whole family
• Economical to operate
• Fully insured
• Regularly serviced

Contact usand we will help you choose the perfect vehicle for your Jurassic adventure!