SURROUNDINGS
Szydłów town
Szydłów, known as the Polish Carcassonne, is a charming town in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, famous for its well-preserved medieval defensive walls. The town’s center features a 14th-century castle, now housing a museum showcasing the region’s history. Visitors can also explore the Church of St. Władysław, one of the oldest in Poland, and a 16th-century synagogue, a testament to the rich Jewish heritage of the area. Szydłów is renowned for the annual Plum Festival, which hosts numerous cultural and culinary events. The town also offers picturesque walking and cycling trails that lead through the scenic landscapes of surrounding hills and forests.
Golejów village
Golejów is a picturesque village in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, known for its beautiful forests and clear lakes. The main attraction is Lake Golejowskie, an ideal spot for swimming, fishing, and water sports. The surrounding area boasts many hiking and biking trails that meander through the lush woodland. The village is also a popular destination for mushroom picking and wildlife observation. Nearby, visitors can explore the ruins of a medieval castle, which appeal to history and architecture enthusiasts.
Chańcza Lake
Zalew Chańcza is an artificial lake located in the heart of the Świętokrzyskie region, a popular spot for recreation and relaxation. Surrounded by forests and meadows, the lake offers excellent conditions for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The shores of the reservoir feature numerous beaches, swimming areas, and food stalls, making it an ideal place for family outings. The area also offers cycling and walking trails that traverse picturesque landscapes. Zalew Chańcza is a favorite spot for anglers, rich in various fish species.
Krzyżtopór Castle
Krzyżtopór Castle is an impressive ruin of a former defensive residence in Ujazd, attracting tourists with its monumental architecture and mysterious history. Built in the 17th century, the castle was once one of the largest of its kind in Europe. Notable features include numerous towers, courtyards, and an underground tunnel system. Visitors can admire the preserved sections of the structure, including massive walls and decorative architectural details. The site also frequently serves as a venue for cultural events and historical reenactments.
Pacanów town
Pacanów is a small town best known for the character Koziołek Matołek, the protagonist of popular children’s books by Kornel Makuszyński. The main attraction is the European Fairy Tale Center, offering interactive exhibits, workshops, and theater performances for children. Pacanów also hosts annual festivals and outdoor events that attract families. The town features a historic 17th-century Church of St. Martin and offers numerous walking and biking routes.
Rytwiany village
Rytwiany is a village famous for the picturesque Golden Forest Hermitage monastery complex, founded in the 17th century by the Camaldolese monks. The monastery, surrounded by beautiful forests, offers visitors a chance to experience contemplation and rest in peace and quiet. Tourists can explore the historic church, monk cells, and a museum that showcases the history of the order and the region. Rytwiany is also a popular destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts, with many trails leading through the surrounding forests and fields.
Leśne Zacisze in Lisów
Leśne Zacisze in Lisów is a picturesque spot, perfect for those seeking tranquility and closeness to nature. Nestled among dense forests, it offers numerous walking and biking trails that lead through scenic landscapes. The area is also popular for mushroom picking and wildlife observation. Leśne Zacisze features camping and picnic areas, making it an ideal place for weekend getaways.
Jaskinia Raj (Paradise Cave)
Jaskinia Raj, located near Chęciny, is one of the most beautiful karst caves in Poland. The cave’s interior dazzles with its wealth of speleothems, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Visitors can marvel at these natural wonders during guided tours that lead through illuminated corridors and chambers. Jaskinia Raj is also a site of great archaeological importance, with numerous findings from the Paleolithic era.
Chęciny
Chęciny is a charming town that draws tourists primarily with the ruins of a royal castle perched on a hill overlooking the town. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding area and the opportunity to explore its preserved sections. In the town center, visitors can see the Church of St. Bartholomew, the Renaissance Franciscan monastery, and historic townhouses. Chęciny is also a good base for exploring nearby attractions, such as Jaskinia Raj or nature reserves.
Tokarnia
Tokarnia, located in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, is best known for its Ethnographic Park, where visitors can see traditional rural architecture from the Kielce region. The open-air museum showcases various buildings, such as cottages, mills, forges, and churches, relocated from different parts of the region. Tourists can learn about life in the countryside during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Ethnographic Park also hosts numerous cultural events, craft workshops, and folk festivals.
Święty Krzyż (saint cross)
Święty Krzyż, also known as Łysa Góra, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Poland. At the mountain’s summit stands a sanctuary that attracts pilgrims from all over the country. Visitors can explore the basilica and the Benedictine monastery, as well as the Nature Museum of the Świętokrzyski National Park. Święty Krzyż also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, visible from the observation platform. This place is a popular tourist destination due to the numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through the scenic area.
