Landscape parks

Kraków Valleys Landscape Park

The Kraków Valleys Landscape Park is a protected area west and north-west of Kraków, between Kraków, Trzebinia and Olkusz. It protects more than 23,000 hectares of Jurassic landscape across parts of nine municipalities. It is not one trail or entrance, but a network of limestone valleys, ravines, outcrops, caves and springs. It suits hiking, cycling and climbing.

Valleys and rock formations

Popular areas include Bolechowice Valley with the Bolechowice Gate, Kobylany Valley, Będkowska Valley, Kluczwody Valley, Szklarka Valley, Racławka Valley and Eliaszówka Valley. In Będkowska Valley, Sokolica rises more than 100 metres above the valley floor and is open to climbing. Szum Waterfall and Będkowska Gate suit a shorter walk. Some valleys are reserves; climbing is restricted.

Caves and trails

Marked PTTK trails cross the park, including the yellow Jurassic Valleys Trail and blue Jurassic Fortresses Trail. Walk one valley or connect several into a full-day route. Wierzchowska Górna Cave and Nietoperzowa Cave are separate, ticketed attractions with their own rules; not every cave on a map is open. Cycling routes are also signposted, and selected cliffs offer climbing routes.

Practical information

Trail and valley access is free, but parking, caves and services may charge separately. There is no single address or main car park: choose a starting point for your valley and follow local signs. Paths can be slippery and ravines muddy after rain; most routes are unsuitable for strollers. In reserves, follow restrictions and climb only where permitted.