Eagle Nests Cycling Trail in the Jura

The Eagle Nests Cycling Trail is a red-marked bike route of 190 km running through the entire Kraków-Częstochowa Upland — from Częstochowa, in front of the Jasna Góra monastery, all the way to Kraków.

A route of castle chains

The trail takes its name from the Eagle Nests — castles built on rocks by kings and knights. Cyclists pass the most important of them: Olsztyn, Mirów and Bobolice, Ogrodzieniec in Podzamcze, Rabsztyn and Pieskowa Skała. Ogrodzieniec Castle, the upland's largest ruin, lies at the route's midpoint.

Difficulty and landscape

The route uses gravel roads, forest paths and asphalt through towns. The upland's relief makes the elevation add up quickly — plan 2–3 days with overnight stops in Olkusz, Podzamcze or Częstochowa. Less experienced riders can ride selected sections as day loops.

Practical information

Starting in Częstochowa is easy thanks to the large railway junction; the finish in Kraków sits near the line to Zakopane. The best months are May–June and September. Carry spare water — on forest sections shops can be scarce.