Nature

Będków Valley

Będkowska Valley is one of the longest and most scenic valleys in the Dolinki Krakowskie Landscape Park. It is about 7 km long, with the Będkówka stream along its floor. Limestone rocks, caves, a karst spring and Szum waterfall create a classic Jura landscape. It is popular with climbers and suitable for a nature walk.

Trail through the Będkowska Gate and Sokolica

The Landscape Parks authority’s route is about 7 km and takes roughly 2.5 hours. It starts at the fire station in Będkowice; the yellow trail leads through Będkowicki Gorge and Będkowska Gate. The blue trail passes Sokolica, Brandysówka, Szum waterfall and Brandysowa Clearing before reaching the Będkówka spring. It is moderate, with woodland and dirt sections, so asphalt does not guarantee full stroller access.

Sokolica, crags and Szum waterfall

Sokolica is the valley’s most distinctive rock and a major Jura climbing area. Its summit preserves ramparts and traces of an early-medieval stronghold, once called Grodzisko. Szum waterfall is a natural step on the Będkówka stream about 4 m high, also known as the Broad Waterfall. Łabajowa and Nietoperzowa caves lie higher up the valley.

Practical information

Entry to the valley is free and trails are open year-round. Use the car parks by the fire station or cemetery in Będkowice; Brandysówka parking is private for its guests. Nietoperzowa Cave is seasonal and guided only: the route is about 300 m, the tour takes 30–40 minutes and the temperature is 7–8°C. Prices: PLN 25 adult, PLN 17 reduced, PLN 5 parking. Check cave hours and trail conditions before travel.