The best cycling routes around Oświęcim

Aqueduct in Czanec (Młynówka Czaniecka over Domaczka)A brilliant historic hydrotechnical node and a unique collision-free crossing of two watercourses. Above, in an artificial concrete channel (aqueduct), flows the Młynówka Czaniecka – a canal dug in the 19th century by the Żywiec Habsburgs to supply the nearby American mill and later the paper mill. Below, under the concrete bridge, flows the natural bed of the mountain stream Domaczka. The whole system works without pumps, relying solely on gravity and the laws of physics. A great technical point on the route and a rare example of old, reliable water engineering.

The Castle in Oświęcim is a medieval defensive stronghold located on a hill on the right bank of the Soła River. Currently, the site is home to the Museum of the Castle in Oświęcim, which presents the rich history of the city, the former Duchy of Oświęcim, and valuable historical and archaeological collections. It was here that a great diplomatic turning point occurred: in 1454, the last Piast duke of this region, Jan IV, bowed to the might of Poland and ceded the castle and his entire duchy as a fief to King Casimir Jagiellon. Three years later (in 1457), he completely sold these lands to him. The castle ceased to be a Silesian borderland and became Polish royal property for centuries. It is worth taking a look at the mighty, 13th-century Gothic tower, which remembers those events and that agreement! The history of the castle in Oświęcim dates back to the 11th century, when there was an early medieval agricultural settlement on the hill above the Soła. After it burned down, a fortified castellany stronghold was erected here. The first official documentary mention of it dates from 1179. It was then that King Casimir the Just transferred these lands to the Duke of Opole, Mieszko Plątonogi. Early Gothic tower – dates from the end of the 13th century, it is a defensive building type (bergfried) and is one of the oldest preserved brick structures in Lesser Poland. Royal history – the castle hosted prominent historical figures, including the future Queen of Poland, Bona Sforza. Underground tunnels – there are two corridors under the castle, including an air-raid shelter built by the Germans during World War II. Address: ul. Zamkowa 1, 32-600 Oświęcim Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (the museum is closed on Mondays).

Uzdrowisko Goczałkowice-Zdrój is a small and picturesque spa town located in the Silesian Voivodeship, in the Pszczyna County. Its history dates back to 1856, when rich brine springs were discovered during salt exploration. Today, it is one of the most important rheumatological and rehabilitation centers in southern Poland. Spa Park: covers an area of about 7 hectares. It includes walking paths, ponds, a brine graduation tower, a sundial (where a person's shadow is the pointer), and the historic Old Drinking Hall of Medicinal Waters “Maria Quelle”.

The entrance to this gravel road from the main street (ul. Zatorska) is blocked. You need to enter from ul. Wspólna - turn off at the first bend and go behind the buildings.

It seems that this path has been impassable for some time. Yesterday I tried to ride it, but at the beginning there are barriers and a sign "private road".

Next to the stairs leading to the dam, there is a small path that you can ride up. Watch out for the curb at the beginning of the stairs :)

Surface: Natural, dirt-and-gravel path running along embankments and dikes. In places, it can be muddy or overgrown with grass after rainfall. Gravel / MTB / trekking tires will work best. Number and names of reservoirs: Officially, it is a complex of 9 ponds (Krzemieńczyk Duży, Adam Duży, Średni, Górny, Zimowy, Letni, Malinowski, and the Kościelecki I and II, divided by a dike). In the terrain, considering small hydrological cutoffs, up to 10 can be counted. Nature and protection: Natura 2000 protected area (Dolina Dolnej Soły) and a natural-landscape complex. Breeding ground for rare birds, including the white-winged tern. Beautiful views of the water surfaces and reed beds can be seen from the dikes. Route connection: The complex borders the Soła river embankments to the west and smoothly transitions into the Grojeckie Ponds area to the south. It offers an excellent, car-free connection between the southern districts of Oświęcim and Zaborze and Grojec.

Stawy Adofińskie An exceptionally picturesque, flat gravel section leading through the dikes of a historic complex of 9-10 carp ponds in the Soła Valley. A refuge for wild birds, ideal for a peaceful ride on a trekking or gravel bike, or for a hike away from car traffic.