Lakes

Pilica Reservoir

A few minutes' walk from the market square in Pilica, in the central part of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland, spreads the Pilica reservoir — a small body of water that operates in summer as a swimming area guarded by WOPR lifeguards, and in winter becomes a refuge for waterfowl. The region's main trail runs through town, and travellers touring the Upland like to stop by the water.

Where the Vistula's longest left tributary begins

The reservoir is fed by the Pilica river — the longest left tributary of the Vistula, which starts its course just around the reservoir. The town itself, seat of a commune in Zawiercie county, took its name from the river. The water is clean and brisk, and on warm days the banks fill with sunbathers; in summer the safety of swimmers is watched over by WOPR lifeguards.

On the Trail of the Eagles' Nests

Along the lake runs the red-marked Trail of the Eagles' Nests — the main route of the Upland, linking the ruins of medieval strongholds. From the bank you can see the palace in Pilica; a few minutes further rise the ruins of the castle in Smoleń (about 3 km), and about 7 km from the reservoir stands the mighty castle Ogrodzieniec in Podzamcze. This makes the water a natural stopping point for hikers and cyclists exploring the region.

Practical information

The reservoir adjoins 17 Stycznia and Krakowska streets, part of the road from Lelów to Wolbrom. The swimming area operates in the summer season; outside it the banks serve walkers, and in winter birdwatchers and fans of quiet strolls by the water come here.