Nature

Murcki Forest in Katowice

Contrary to the stereotype of Katowice as a city of nothing but chimneys, a fragment of mixed forest with natural features is protected within its limits — the Murcki Forest reserve, established in 1953 and enlarged in 1989 to 102.56 ha. It lies right next to the Katowice–Bielsko-Biała expressway, yet it shelters nature invisible from a car window.

Remnants of the Silesian Wilderness

The most precious features are the 150–220-year-old beech stands, remnants of the ancient Silesian Wilderness, and monumental oaks. The undergrowth holds orchids, lily of the valley and guelder rose, plus the rare asarabacca and sweet woodruff; among the fungi appear protected species such as the stinkhorn and the giant polypore. The wealth of birds and amphibians makes the reserve a good spot for spring observations.

Ochojec and the Valley of Three Ponds

Within the Murcki Forests, in the valley of the Ślepotka stream in the Ochojec district, the floristic Ochojec reserve was singled out in 1982 to protect relic mountain plant colonies. Another face of the same complex is the Valley of Three Ponds, a popular recreation area for bathing, water sports or simply walking.

In practice

The reserve is accessible around the clock, all year round, reached via Murckowska Street. Nearby you can also plan a visit to Nikiszowiec — the historic workers' district of Katowice — or the castle in Pszczyna.