Lower Silesia: Poland’s hidden gem for your next adventure
Anyone wishing to experience the authentic, mystical and, at the same time, historically incredibly rich side of Poland should turn their attention to the region of Lower Silesia (Dolny Śląsk). Here, you can enjoy a relaxing holiday that soothes the soul in one of Poland’s most beautiful regions.
The region’s absolute showpiece is Książ Castle (Zamek Książ) near Wałbrzych. The complex stands up well in comparison with Europe’s most famous castles. The majestic castle is perched on a steep rock and surrounded by dense forests. Here, you can discover magnificent halls or explore the mysterious underground tunnels of the ‘Project Giant’ from the Second World War.
Another highlight is the Peace Churches in Świdnica (Schweidnitz) and Jawor (Jauer). These huge half-timbered churches, built entirely of wood without a single nail, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.n einzigen Nagel erbauten Fachwerkkirchen gehören zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe.
For those who need a break from sightseeing, the region offers fantastic natural landscapes right on its doorstep. The legendary Karkonosze Mountains, with their highest peak, Śnieżka, are perfect for hiking. In the mystical Table Mountains (Góry Stołowe), you can lose yourself in stone labyrinths such as the ‘Wild Holes’ (Błędne Skały). Those seeking pure relaxation should visit one of the elegant spa towns such as Polanica-Zdrój or Kudowa-Zdrój and unwind in the thermal baths there.
Lower Silesia is also a region for food lovers. The area offers a fascinating blend of hearty Silesian tradition, such as the famous ‘Silesian Heaven’ (Śląskie Niebo), and modern agricultural concepts. Away from the classic restaurants in the towns, you’ll find cosy mountain inns, local cheese dairies and even Lower Silesian vineyards.
Lower Silesia remains an undiscovered gem for the majority of holidaymakers. Here, you won’t encounter hordes of tourists, but can instead enjoy your own personal break.
Exciting ideas for day trips in Lower Silesia
The Peace Church "To the Holy Spirit" in Jawor (Jauer), Lower Silesia, is without a doubt one of the largest and most fascinating wooden churches in Europe. When you approach it, it doesn't look like a classic church building at first glance; if it weren't for an inconspicuous church tower pointing out the sacred function…
Tips for an accommodation
Travel Informations
How to get there
By plane
Wrocław Airport (WRO) is the gateway to the region. It is served by direct flights from Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich and other European cities.
By car
By far the best option for exploring this vast region at your own pace. The well-developed A4 motorway takes you directly from the German border (Görlitz/Zgorzelec) into the heart of Lower Silesia.
By train
Very easily accessible from the DACH region. You first travel to Wrocław. From there, state-of-the-art trains operated by the regional railway company Koleje Dolnośląskie (KD) run into the region.
Travelling in Lower Silesia
By car
A car is the number one way to get around on holiday in Lower Silesia. Many of the remote castles, castle ruins and car parks for hikers in the mountains are difficult to reach by public transport.
By regional trains (Koleje Dolnośląskie)
The yellow and white trains are extremely modern, run on time, have Wi-Fi and connect Wrocław with the main tourist centres in the mountains (such as Jelenia Góra or Szklarska Poręba).
Many accommodation providers offer a pick-up service from the station.
By bike
Lower Silesia is investing heavily in cycle paths. The Barycz Valley (Dolina Baryczy) in the north of the region is completely flat and an absolute paradise for long, leisurely cycle rides past hundreds of ponds.
In other areas, an e-bike is recommended due to the gradients.
Best time to visit
Lower Silesia is a year-round destination.
Spring (March – May)
• Average temperature: 10°C to 18°C (during the day)
• Rainy days per month: approx. 8 to 10 days
Snow may still lie in the high mountains as late as April.
Summer (June – August)
It is pleasantly warm, and often very hot in the lower-lying regions. In the mountains, short, intense summer thunderstorms can often occur on hot afternoons.
• Average temperature: 22°C to 26°C (during the day; in the mountains approx. 18°C – 22°C)
• Rainy days per month: approx. 9 to 12 days (mostly short thunderstorms)
Autumn (September – November)
The weather is often stable and visibility from the mountain peaks is extremely clear.
• Average temperature: 10°C to 16°C (September/October), significantly cooler from November onwards
• Rainy days per month: approx. 7 to 9 days (the driest time in the mountains)
Winter (December – February)
The season for winter sports! Places such as Karpacz (Krummhübel) and Szklarska Poręba (Schreiberhau) have downhill and cross-country skiing centres. The spa towns are now at their busiest for wellness holidaymakers.
• Average temperature: -3°C to 3°C (often persistent frost in the mountains)
• Rainy/snowy days per month: approx. 10 to 13 days