Promnice Hunting Lodge

On the edge of the Pszczyna Forest, on the south-western shore of Lake Paprocańskie in Kobiór near Tychy, stands the Promnice hunting lodge — a Neo-Gothic residence of the Dukes of Pszczyna, today a hotel with the Książęca restaurant. Despite the passing years it has kept its original form and the atmosphere of bygone eras: wooden ceilings and creaking stairs and floors have survived almost untouched.

The Hochberg residence

The lodge was built in 1861 by John Henry XI Hochberg — Duke of Pszczyna and Herzog von Pless, who held the office of Master of the Imperial Hunt. He erected it on the site of an old manor of the Promnice family, and the design came from the court architect of Pszczyna, Oliver Pavelt, in the style of English Neo-Gothic with German influences. The owners' joy did not last long: the lodge burned down six years later, but in 1868 it was rebuilt with new elements, taking the form preserved today.

A hotel by the lake

The former princely quarters have been adapted for a hotel (now the Noma Residence) and a restaurant. In summer you can sit at a table overlooking the lake, and after a meal take a walk along the shore of Lake Paprocańskie or head into the forest. Nearby lies Pszczyna with its historic castle (about 11.5 km) and the bison enclosure in Jankowice.

Practical information

The restaurant is open daily from 12:00 to 20:00. The lodge is located in the village of Kobiór in Pszczyna county; the drive from Tychy takes a quarter of an hour or so. Prices match the character of the place and are above average — it is worth reserving a table in advance.