Have you ever heard of a place where the air smells of iodine almost like by the sea, the sun seems to peek out more often than in many other corners of Poland, and the landscapes at times resemble picturesque Tuscany? If it’s escaped your notice so far, it’s high time you headed to Roztocze with us. This geographically unique region stretches across the south-eastern fringes of our country, at the intersection of the Lubelskie and Podkarpackie voivodeships (provinces), reaching all the way to western Ukraine and Lviv. Have you ever wondered where Roztocze is on the map of Poland? Its location, visible on the map of Poland, makes it a fascinating borderland. Let’s check where Roztocze is; a map of the region will help us with planning. Let’s look at Roztocze on a map of attractions so we don’t miss anything.

Roztocze is a land that is genuinely captivating – with its nature, rich history and unique culture. Discovering its nooks and crannies is a real pleasure, and we’ll try and show you what we think is worth seeing there, what tourist attractions await those hungry for experiences, and why it’s worth spending not just a weekend here, but even longer. Besides, the Roztocze National Park and its immediate surroundings are just a taster of what this extraordinary, slightly mysterious land offers. Coming here, you have the chance to get to know places that, believe me, will stay in your memory for a long time. It’s worth knowing that Roztocze for a weekend is a great idea, and Roztocze for children offers loads of unforgettable adventures. Roztocze offers beautiful landscapes regardless of the season. Wondering what attractions with a dog are available in Roztocze? Many trails and places are dog-friendly.

Our last visit to Roztocze (and as it happened, we went there at the invitation of the Lubelskie Voivodeship, which was a cracking opportunity!), only confirmed our belief that it’s a truly ideal destination for a break, regardless of the time of year. We went to Roztocze then in a family group like that – with Mum and the kids, to discover its charms together and look for the answer to that key question: exactly, what is really worth seeing in Roztocze?

Roztocze – The Heart of the Polish East?

Roztocze is a land that, I’m not afraid to say it, deserves the title of a kind of heart of Poland, or at least its eastern part. We are here in an area with a truly exceptional topography, where gentle hills intertwine with charming valleys, and dense forests give way to picturesque fields and meadows. Besides, the name “Roztocze” itself originally meant “floodplains”, which beautifully refers to the numerous rivers and streams crossing this region, such as the Wieprz, Łada, Bukowa, or the famous Tanew. The Roztocze Valley is a broader concept, encompassing these charming areas.

It is this extraordinary diversity of landscape, combined with the richness of nature, that makes Roztocze sometimes compared to Italian Tuscany, although, frankly, it has its own absolutely unique character. Its location on the eastern edge of Poland, from Kraśnik all the way to Lviv, also gives it that specific, slightly borderland climate. Interestingly, there’s an exceptionally high concentration of iodine in the air here, which is rare inland, and which is said to have a beneficial effect on health – who knows, maybe it’s true? When checking forecasts, it’s worth looking at what the weather in the Lubelskie region of Roztocze will be like during our visit.

Roztocze is undoubtedly a region that has a lot to offer tourists looking for close contact with nature and wanting to spend time actively, but also… peacefully. You will find both peace and quiet here, as well as a whole lot of opportunities for activity and exploration. Besides, as a geographer friend of mine says: “Roztocze is a place where you just want to be”.

Roztocze: Three, or Perhaps Four Faces of This Land?

It’s commonly said that Roztocze is a land with three faces, although we, during our last trip, naturally focused mainly on its Lublin part, or more precisely on Western and Central Roztocze. Western Roztocze, located entirely within the Lubelskie voivodeship, is characterised by a landscape shaped mainly by loess, creating those famous picturesque gorges.

This is where… Szczebrzeszyn is located. Central Roztocze, stretching across the Lubelskie and Podkarpackie voivodeships, is built of sandstones, sands, and limestones, which results in more hilly terrain – you know, undulating. And it is in this part that you will find the heart of the region, namely the Roztocze National Park, as well as the Krasnobród Landscape Park.

Important cities like Biłgoraj and Zamość are located here, as well as those charming towns like Zwierzyniec and Krasnobród. Let’s look at the main cities of Roztocze and consider which cities in Roztocze are worth visiting, and which villages in Roztocze hide the most charms. Eastern Roztocze, divided between Poland and Ukraine, is probably distinguished by the most varied relief, with distinct remnant hills and the largest relative differences in altitude. On the Ukrainian side, there is even the highest peak of the entire Roztocze – Czartowa Skała, measuring 409.5 metres above sea level.

Although Eastern Roztocze remains, for now, in the realm of our… plans, the Tanew River Springs Reserve, already located in the Podkarpackie voivodeship, gave us a little taste of its beauty. Each of these “faces” of Roztocze offers a slightly different landscape and somewhat different, specific natural attractions. So, in fact, you could say it has more than three faces, because each place reveals something new.

Roztocze: Location Between Lublin and Lviv

Roztocze, this geographical formation, stretches in a narrow, but really long belt, measuring about 180 kilometres. Its Polish part runs from Kraśnik in the Lublin region, through the picturesque areas of the Lubelskie and Podkarpackie voivodeships, all the way to the border with Ukraine. On the other side of the border, the Roztocze range continues, reaching, as mentioned, all the way to Lviv.

Such a specific location makes this region a fascinating borderland of cultures, histories, and diverse landscapes. Although Lublin and Rzeszów, these larger nearby cities, are not strictly located directly in Roztocze, they are important landmarks and very often serve as “gates” to starting a journey into this region. Besides, the Roztocze National Park, which is kind of the heart of Central Roztocze, is about 100 km from Lublin, but only 30 km from Zamość – which makes it an easily accessible starting point for exploration.

This geographical location of Roztocze makes it a truly ideal place for trips that combine the beauty of Polish, wild (although perhaps that’s too strong a word, more like natural) nature with the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the border regions.

Roztocze’s Parks: The Green Lungs of the Region

These “green lungs of the region”, i.e. Roztocze’s parks, are probably the greatest, invaluable natural asset of this land. It is within their boundaries that you will find the most beautiful, breathtaking landscapes, unique rock formations, rivers with crystal-clear water (although, you know, not always perfectly clean, but visually!), and an extraordinary richness of flora and fauna. The Roztocze National Park and the Krasnobród Landscape Park cover the most naturally valuable areas of Central Roztocze, providing, at least in theory, protection for many rare species of plants and animals found here.

Walking along the numerous educational trails and tourist routes that are marked within the parks, you have the chance for that desired, close contact with nature and to admire this somewhat wild side of Roztocze. Before your visit, it’s worth gathering the most important information about the Roztocze National Park.

Roztocze National Park: Is It a Real Haven for the Polish Pony?

The Roztocze National Park, established in 1974, is a real gem of Central Roztocze and at the same time, pay attention, the most forested national park in all of Poland. It covers an area of 8,483 hectares and is home to an impressive number of animal species – they talk about 3630, which seems a large number. You already know what the symbol of the Roztocze National Park is – it’s the Polish pony, which is a descendant of that extinct breed of forest horse, the tarpan. Have you ever wondered what the logo of the Roztocze National Park depicts? It often refers precisely to the symbol of the Park.

Herds of Polish ponies live freely within the RPN area, and the easiest, or perhaps most reliable, way to spot them is in the Polish Pony Reserve in Florianka. This is where the Polish Pony Stable Breeding Centre is located, founded in 1996, whose purpose is, of course, to preserve the characteristic genetic traits of wild horses. The park is also the kingdom of many other animals, such as deer, elk (although these are reportedly rarer), roe deer, wild boar, and even wolves, lynxes, and badgers.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to see about 160 species, including the black stork, lesser spotted eagle, white-tailed eagle, or Ural owl. There are many nature and educational trails waiting for you in the Roztocze National Park, which (at least in theory) will allow you to discover its treasures. Just remember that in some places, like Bukowa Góra, special rules apply because it’s a strict nature reserve (established as early as 1934!). We owe the possibility of admiring these unique places to nature conservation organisations.

For example, you have:

• Educational trail to Bukowa Góra – starts from the RPN Educational and Museum Centre in Zwierzyniec. The RPN Museum in Zwierzyniec is a great place to start exploring. Bukowa Góra is a strict nature reserve, the first fully protected natural object in the Zamoyski Estate.
• Trail around the Dune to the Echo Ponds – also starts at the Educational and Museum Centre in Zwierzyniec and leads to the Echo Ponds, a complex of four water bodies. Apparently, you can use the bathing area there in season, and the Polish ponies… also hang out there.
• Knowledge trail to Biała Góra – starts somewhere near the Roztocze Scientific and Educational Centre or by the Zwierzyniec-Józefów road. It crosses the area of the Polish Pony Reserve. From Piaseczna Góra (which the trail branches off to from the Monument to Fallen Foresters) there is a view of Zwierzyniec.
• Nature and history trail to Wzgórze Polak – it’s two kilometres long, refers to the January Uprising, starts west of Zwierzyniec.
• Nature and history trail to Wojda – dedicated to the Zamość Uprising, starts at the Monument to the Zamość Uprising in Szewnia Dolna.

The landscapes in the Roztocze National Park are, frankly speaking, unique on a Polish scale, and even, who knows, European. The Park Directorate is located in a historic Swiss-style villa, which they call the Plenipotentiary’s Palace in Zwierzyniec. The RPN Director’s office in Zwierzyniec is located in this very building. And then there’s the Educational and Museum Centre in Zwierzyniec, which is kind of the official gate to visiting the RPN – there you’ll find an exhibition with dioramas, interactive boards, you can buy tickets and get necessary information about the trails. It’s worth knowing that online tickets to the Roztocze National Park are available and facilitate planning your visit.

Krasnobród Landscape Park: Is It Really the Green Heart of Roztocze?

The Krasnobród Landscape Park, quietly situated in Central Roztocze, is often referred to as the green heart of Roztocze. It encompasses the picturesque areas around the spa town of Krasnobród, protecting valuable forest communities, springs, river valleys, and those unique geological formations. Walking through its area, you can admire lush vegetation, including the firs and beeches characteristic of Roztocze.

The park plays an important role as an ecological corridor, connecting the protected areas of Roztocze with other forest complexes. You will find, of course, numerous tourist trails here that lead through the most charming corners, allowing you to discover the true beauty of the local nature. And even though it may not be as high-profile as the RPN, it has something special about it.

Roztocze’s Towns and Villages: Where History Meets Nature?

Roztocze is, after all, not just captivating nature, but also, and perhaps above all, charming towns and villages that tell, each in its own way, the rich history of the region. You know, each of them has its unique character and offers tourists interesting attractions, historical sites, and the opportunity to learn about local culture. These are places where tradition actually intertwines with modernity, creating such a, well, unique atmosphere.

When visiting Roztocze, you simply cannot, in my opinion, miss these extraordinary urban centres, which are, let’s face it, an important element of the cultural landscape of this land. Let’s look at the main cities of Roztocze and consider which cities in Roztocze are worth visiting, and which villages in Roztocze hide the most charms.

Zwierzyniec: Charming Town or Gateway to Roztocze?

Zwierzyniec is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful towns in all of Roztocze. It sits peacefully on the Wieprz river and is surrounded by dense forests. It’s a kind of natural gateway to Central Roztocze and the Roztocze National Park, and at the same time, importantly, a great accommodation base for exploring the entire region, even Western Roztocze. The town was founded, history tells us, as a summer residence of the famous Zamoyski family, and this place, as legend has it, was particularly favoured by Marysieńka herself. Built at the request of the Ordynat (head of the estate), it became the pearl of the region.

Walking around Zwierzyniec, you will notice many buildings that were built commissioned by this distinguished family, including historical objects of the Zamoyski Estate or the Plenipotentiary’s Palace, which currently, yes, houses the headquarters of the Roztocze National Park Directorate. The symbol of Zwierzyniec, however, is the baroque Church of St. John of Nepomuk, commonly known as the Church on the Island, founded by Tomasz and Teresa Zamoyski.

Interestingly, initially on this island there stood… a baroque theatre. It was only Tomasz Antoni Zamoyski, between 1741 and 1747, who decided to change the building’s purpose to a church, reportedly in gratitude for the safe birth of his son Klemens. Every year, on May 21st, a religious festival is held here in honour of the Saint, combined with a procession on the water (which must be an amazing sight!), and on a nearby stone, towns are listed that, according to legend, were saved after a locust plague in 1711 (Wólka, Ułów, Zielone, Łabunie, Szarowola, Czołomyja, Przeorsk). In Zwierzyniec, you will also find many places where you can buy local souvenirs.

Zwierzyniec also has a historic Zwierzyniec Brewery, which, impressively, has been operating continuously since 1806 and is, as you can easily guess, a popular tourist attraction. It’s worth taking a walk to Zwierzyniec Park, which is part of the former Zamoyski residence. We, frankly speaking, got a bit lost on the trail (typical!), headed into the forest behind the centre and… came out right at this picturesque Zwierzyniec Park. Sometimes the best discoveries are born by chance, aren’t they?

Szczebrzeszyn: Is It Just the Beetle and the Festival?

Szczebrzeszyn is a small town in the Lubelskie voivodeship, located, like Zwierzyniec, on the Wieprz river, which, well, was primarily made famous by Jan Brzechwa with his famous poem about a beetle that buzzes in the reeds there. Visiting this beetle has become here, let’s admit, a kind of tourist ritual. The beetle monument, cast by Professor Karol Badyna, proudly stands in the market square, and a second one… at the foot of Castle Hill.

Szczebrzeszyn was granted town rights by Casimir the Great himself and has a rich history, as evidenced by numerous historical sites, such as the Church of St. (although there seems to be a name missing here, is that intentional inaccuracy?), one of the oldest synagogues in Poland, or the historic Jewish cemetery – one of the oldest and largest in our country. The city is also famous for the Polish Language Capital Festival organised here, which takes place in August (as well as in Zamość). Although our visit took place in the rain, and the weather can be whimsical even outside of November, we felt the unique atmosphere of this place.

This literary event attracts, obviously, lovers of the Polish language from all over the country. Although, as I mentioned, we visited Szczebrzeszyn in the rain (which, let’s face it, spoils the fun a bit), we did greet the famous beetle and, yes, felt its unique atmosphere. Oh, it’s also worth popping into the Chrząszcz Bookstore and the Chrząszcza Restaurant; they are places with character, although perhaps not everyone will be thrilled by the rain.

Krasnobród: Spa Town or Chapel on the Water – Which Is More Important?

Krasnobród, often called the heart of Roztocze, is a charming, well, spa town, situated on the Wieprz river, within the Krasnobród Landscape Park. It’s a popular tourist and leisure centre that offers, let’s be frank, many attractions. The central point is a large reservoir, perfect for swimming and water sports.

It’s worth it, if you have the energy and inclination, to climb the observation tower, which was built in 2002. It stands on top of a quarry, from where, I assure you, there is a beautiful view of the surrounding area, including the Wieprz valley and the reservoir itself. Entry to the tower costs a symbolic fee. Interestingly, Józefów limestone was used for the construction of the tower. In Krasnobród, there is also the famous Chapel on the Water, also known as the Chapel of Apparitions. It was built in the place where, apparently, in 1640, the Mother of God appeared to Jakub Ruszczyk – a fascinating story, isn’t it?

Nearby, in the St. Roch valley, on Zagórze, there is the Chapel of St. Roch of Montpellier, funded by Marysieńka Sobieska. This happened during the plague epidemic, and Marysieńka placed in this chapel an image depicting St. Roch, who is the patron saint of those suffering from infectious diseases. This is a brief history of this place, because there’s a lot of it here.

Józefów: Cycling Capital of Roztocze… and More

Józefów is a small town, located kind of in the middle of Roztocze, famous, and perhaps rightly so, as its cycling capital. And this is all due to the, well, extensive network of cycling paths and routes; many trails intersect here. The town has a rich, though sometimes difficult, history – the Germans considered it the centre of the resistance movement in the 1940s.

Today, Józefów has, well, offers many tourist attractions. In the market square, for example, there’s a fountain decorated with sculptures of eight animals that supposedly inhabit the surrounding forests, including a deer, wolf, Polish pony, wild boar, fox, eagle, lynx, and capercaillie. At the main entrance to the quarry in Józefów stands the Stone observation tower/bastion, built from limestone extracted from the Babia Dolina quarry. From the terrace of this tower, which is 19 metres high, you can admire the panorama of the Puszcza Solska Landscape Park, which adjoins the southern borders of the town, and above all… the quarry itself. The Roztocze National Park is about 4 km to the north, so quite close too.

The tower in Józefów is part of the Central Roztocze Geotourism Trail, which adds an educational dimension to it. In Józefów, it’s also worth popping into the 19th-century Synagogue, built of limestone, which currently houses the municipal library. There is also a kirkut – a Jewish cemetery. And in the former sand pit, which might sound strange, a rather pleasant reservoir has been created.

Not far from Józefów, still within the municipality, is the village of Górecko Kościelne with a historic wooden church dedicated to St. Stanislaus the Bishop, built in 1768 (entirely from larch wood!). Near Górecko Kościelne, if you have time, you will also find a chapel under the oaks from the mid-19th century, and the Chapel on the Water of St. Stanislaus, built in the 20th century on the site of the… destroyed one. You could say that this chapel is sometimes called wooden, although its current form may differ from the original. Always something interesting to discover, isn’t there?

Zamość: Pearl of the Renaissance, But Is It Really Part of Roztocze?

While in the Roztocze area, you simply must, it is even mandatory, take a walk around Zamość, which is located just 30 km from Zwierzyniec. This is a city that, without a shadow of a doubt, captivates and is rightly called the pearl of the Renaissance. It obtained town rights thanks to Jan Zamoyski and was immediately planned, just think, as an ideal city – from scratch! Someone somewhere wrote that Zamość is located in the Zamoyski Dale, which is geographically true, but… it certainly borders very closely on Roztocze, you could say it’s its cultural předpole (foreland).

Zamość has also been hailed as the Padua of the North and the city of arcades, which, looking at the architecture, is quite apt. Its Old Town has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which itself attests to its exceptional historical and architectural value, doesn’t it? The centre is the impressive Grand Market Square, measuring 100 by 100 metres, designed by the brilliant architect Bernardo Morando at the request of Jan Zamoyski. The beautiful Zamość Town Hall dominates the market, with its characteristic stairs and a tower over 52 metres high. Next to it stand those colourful, beautifully decorated Armenian houses, which add an oriental flavour to the place.

Interestingly, the urban layout of the Old Town was inspired by the shape of the human body – the head was the Zamoyski Palace, the spine was Grodzka Street, the arms were the transverse streets, and the internal organs were meant to symbolise the Salt Market and the Water Market, located right next to the Grand Market Square – a fascinating vision, no doubt about it! Zamość also houses the oldest Polish pharmacy – the Rektorska Pharmacy, founded by Szymon Piechowicz in the Grand Market Square.

It’s also worth mentioning the Zamość Academy, which was the third university in Poland and started operating in 1595, as well as the remains of the Zamość Fortress, which recall the city’s turbulent history. A trip to Zamość will be a wonderful complement to a holiday in Roztocze, allowing you to immerse yourself in a completely different, Renaissance atmosphere of the city, after days spent amidst nature.

Roztocze’s Attractions: What to Do After You’ve Seen the Parks and Towns?

Roztocze is tempting, that’s a fact, not only with the beauty of nature and the charm of its towns, but also, importantly, with a multitude of attractions that allow for active leisure time and getting to know the region from different, sometimes surprising, perspectives. Regardless of whether you prefer to admire the landscapes from above (for those who like heights!), traverse rivers by kayak (if you’re not afraid of getting wet!), or explore the region on two wheels (for cycling enthusiasts!), Roztocze has, I am convinced, something for everyone. Here are a few suggestions for Roztocze’s attractions that are certainly, I think, worth seeing. Roztocze offers many attractions in winter, for those who like white madness or the peace of a snow-covered land.

Roztocze’s Observation Towers: Views That Take Your Breath Away (Or At Least Are Quite Decent)

Roztocze offers several places from which you can look at these picturesque landscapes from above. Besides the already mentioned towers in Józefów (that Bastion dominating the Babia Dolina quarry) and Krasnobród (its “twin” standing over the quarry), it’s also worth visiting the observation tower near the village of Susiec. This tower, which, in my opinion, slightly resembles a castle tower (although I don’t think it is!), was erected in 2013 on Grabowiecka Hill.

You’ll find it on the right side of the road leading from Susiec to Grabowica, well, about a 33-minute drive from Zwierzyniec. The tower offers a panorama of Central Roztocze, part of the Puszcza Solska forest, and the village of Susiec itself. There is also another observation tower, on Tartaczna Hill, on the outskirts of Zwierzyniec. Although it is unfortunately surrounded by trees on three sides, which limits the view mainly to the west – a small drawback, but it’s there.

There is also an observation tower on Biała Góra near Józefów, and there is yet another one, a 10-minute walk from the beach at the Echo Ponds – the latter is wooden and unassuming. So there’s plenty to choose from if you like looking at the world from above and admiring beautiful views.

Kayaking Trips: Discovering Roztocze From a… Wet Perspective

Roztocze is famous for its beautiful rivers, which are, well, perfect for kayaking trips. This is probably one of the best ways to discover the region from a different, shall we say, water perspective. The most popular rivers for kayaking are the Wieprz, Tanew, Łada, and Bukowa. Unfortunately, which is a significant hindrance for some, kayaking is forbidden within the Roztocze National Park boundaries.

We, to be honest, hired a kayak and set off on the Wieprz river, which is, you should know, a very popular activity, especially on weekends, when, yes, “kayak traffic jams” can form on the river (seriously!). The most frequently suggested trip is precisely on the Wieprz river, and the shortest and probably most popular section is Obrocz – Zwierzyniec. Covering this section by kayak usually takes a few hours.

Other routes on the Wieprz include: Rudka Reservoir – Zwierzyniec, Bagno – Turzyniec, Turzyniec – Żurawnica, Żurawnica – Brody, Brody – Szczebrzeszyn, as well as the longer Obrocz – Szczebrzeszyn. On the Tanew river, the Hutki – Guciów route is popular, I know this. People very often head to the Rudka reservoir, from where they set off on these trips. So if you like kayaking, Roztocze won’t disappoint you, if you’re ready for potential company from other kayakers during peak season. Hiring a kayak usually costs from several dozen to a hundred złoty.

Cycling Routes: Is Roztocze a Cyclist’s Paradise?

Oh yes, Roztocze is full of cycling paths! This is, without exaggeration, a real paradise for cyclists, offering a vast number, yes, a vast number of picturesque routes of varying difficulty – from easy ones to more demanding ones. What is striking is precisely the large number of cycling routes, which automatically makes Roztocze an ideal place for lovers of two wheels. For many, Roztocze by bike is the best way to spend time.

The Central Roztocze Cycling Trail runs through the region, which is, pay attention, as long as 192 km and leads through the, well, most interesting places, from Kraśnik, through Zwierzyniec, all the way to the border town of Hrebenne. A fragment of the famous Green Velo Eastern Cycling Trail also runs through Roztocze, which provides additional opportunities.

These routes often, which is very practical, run in close proximity to railway stops (for example in Józefów Roztoczański, Susiec, Maziły, Bełżec), which, admittedly, makes planning longer trips easier, because you can return by train. Both main routes lead through the Roztocze National Park, where you will find an additional range of internal cycling routes, such as the one to Florianka (Rybakówka – Florianka – Górecko Stare), which starts in Zwierzyniec at the Educational and Museum Centre, passes the Echo Ponds, and leads along the Florianiecki Gościniec directly to the destination.

You will find the most bicycle rentals in Zwierzyniec, but there is also a bicycle rental in Józefów, which is a good starting point for routes in that area. We too, let’s be honest, took our bikes, because we knew that this was the only way to fully enjoy the opportunities that this Roztocze land… for cycling offers. Well, unless you prefer walking, then you can do that on foot too!

Nature Reserves: Is Roztocze Just National Parks?

Roztocze hides many unique natural treasures, not only in parks, but also in its numerous reserves. These are places where nature remains, you could say, almost untouched, and we can admire its beauty in its, well, purest form. From impressive rock formations, through hidden springs, to rustling, though sometimes small, waterfalls – Roztocze’s reserves offer, in my opinion, unforgettable impressions.

Walking through these protected areas, you feel that closeness to nature and can truly appreciate its extraordinary diversity and strength.

Czartowe Pole Reserve: Are These Really Magical Gorges?

The Czartowe Pole Reserve, located within the Puszcza Solska Landscape Park, is a place that has, well, an extraordinary atmosphere and, what’s worth highlighting, a fascinating history. It is located about a 25-minute drive from Zwierzyniec, past the village of Hamernia, where, fortunately, there is a free forest car park – that’s a big plus! The reserve protects, which is its main purpose, the charming breakthrough of the Sopot river, which is a right tributary of the Tanew river.

It is said that the name comes from local folklore, according to which… only devils frolicked there – hence “Czartowe Pole” (Devil’s Field). The path through this reserve is divided, which is practical, into two parts – lower and upper. The lower walking path runs along the Sopot river, and I must admit, that there, well, the mosquitos were rampant (a small drawback, but still!), and the upper one leads along the ridge of the hill, which gives a different perspective. On the route, you can see the ruins of the old Zamoyski paper mill.

This paper mill, during the years of the Duchy of Warsaw and the Congress Kingdom of Poland, was a large establishment, producing, imagine, as much as 80% of the paper in the entire Lublin Governorate! The establishment cleverly used the power of the Sopot river current. The output was even marked with a special watermark, on which the Ordynat’s monogram or the Zamoyski coat of arms was placed. Unfortunately, two floods, in 1848 and 1870, and then a fire in 1883, put an end to the operation of this paper mill – a sad ending, but an interesting history. Within the Reserve area, somewhere there, there is also a historic forester’s lodge.

The black trail markers lead, well, actually through these magical loess gorges, which are also sometimes called Piekiełko – an interesting name, isn’t it? The path in Czartowe Pole is sometimes compared to the Szumy on the Tanew, although, frankly speaking, in our opinion, the Szumy have something more about them.

Nad Tanwią Reserve: Are the Szumy (Rapids) Really a Wonder of Nature?

The Nad Tanwią Reserve, located right next to the village of Rebizanty (where there is, importantly, a car park), in the area of the Puszcza Solska Landscape Park, is, yes, it is a real wonder of Roztocze nature! It is here that the Tanew river forms this picturesque breakthrough with, pay attention, 24 rocky steps, which create these small waterfalls, called szumy, szypoty, sopoty, and sometimes even porohy – how many names for one phenomenon!

The history of their formation dates back, imagine, to the Tertiary period, when as a result of tectonic movements during the folding of the Carpathians, the Roztocze area was uplifted, with the Sandomierz Basin simultaneously sinking. It is precisely at this place, which is fascinating from a geological point of view, that the geological boundary between Eastern and Western Europe runs.

An educational trail called the “Szumy Trail” leads through the Nad Tanwią Reserve along the bank of the Tanew river. And this trail, in our subjective feeling, surpasses the charm of walking along the Sopot river in Czartowe Pole. Although in Czartowe Pole you will find those nice wooden walkways and bridges strung over the Tanew, it is precisely the constant murmur of the water in the Nad Tanwią Reserve that is what, at least for us, is most memorable. It’s a sound you can’t forget.

Jeleń Waterfall: Roztocze’s Biggest Waterfall? A Whole 1.5 Metres!

Although Roztocze, let’s admit, is not usually associated with powerful waterfalls, it has its, yes, biggest one – the Jeleń Waterfall. It is located on the border of Central Roztocze and the Biłgoraj Plain, on the Jeleń stream, which flows from a small reservoir called “Morskie Oko” (Eye of the Sea) in Susiec and flows into the Tanew river.

The Jeleń stream, flowing in a narrow and winding valley, surrounded by steep slopes (which, interestingly, have features of a mountain valley!), encounters a wide rocky step. The stream’s waters fall from a height of… 1.52 metres (yes, precisely measured!) over a width of 9.2 metres, creating this extraordinary, given the conditions of Roztocze, waterfall. Access to it is, fortunately, easy – a blue trail leads there, starting from the car park in Susiec. A visit to the Jeleń Waterfall can, in my opinion, easily be added to the plan for visiting the Szumy Trail on the Tanew, because Rebizanty, where the car park at the Szumy reserve is located, is really close to Susiec. You can do it “while you’re there”.

Roztocze for Families with Children: Will the Little Ones Enjoy It Here Too?

Roztocze is, as I can confirm, an ideal place for a holiday with children. The region offers many attractions that, I’m sure, will interest the youngest explorers, allow them to spend active time in nature, and learn something new in an accessible, interesting way. From fascinating natural places, through interactive museums (although there are probably fewer of these, but they exist!), to places where you can meet animals – Roztocze for children is, in my opinion, a guarantee of a successful holiday and, most importantly, unforgettable adventures.

Babia Dolina Quarry: Is It a Playground for Little Geologists?

The Babia Dolina Quarry near Józefów is, yes, another excellent place to visit with children, and incidentally, frankly, a real gem of Roztocze! This most extensive quarry in Central Roztocze, from where, as we remember, limestone was extracted for the construction of the Józefów bastion, was once, pay attention, a place for Polish soldiers to train before going to Afghanistan – a strange combination, isn’t it?

Today, it is a place that, honestly, is fascinating. Children can freely “go wild” here (under adult supervision, of course!), surrounded by these mighty rocky walls, feel like little archaeologists or treasure hunters. You can wander freely here, look at these geological formations. Climbing the Bastion near the quarry is an additional attraction that allows you to look at this extraordinary area from above – which always impresses kids, and not only them!

Zagroda Guciów: Open-air Museum, Inn, Meteorites… and What Else?

In Guciów, in Roztocze, there is Zagroda Guciów – a place that, well, is extraordinary. It combines the function of an open-air museum, an ethnographic and natural history museum; there is also an inn serving, reportedly, delicious food, and even guest rooms – all in one! Visiting Zagroda with a guide, you will learn, which is nice, a lot about the life of foresters and their families in the interwar period (similar atmosphere is in the Forest Chamber in Florianka), and you will also get to know, which is always interesting, the fascinating history of the local inhabitants.

A special attraction that surprised us is the exhibition of meteorites, tektites, and impactites, which come from Poland, but also from all over the world. And in addition, a collection of petrified wood and belemnites. This is a place where science, although perhaps not at a university level, meets fun, and children can see with their own eyes, literally, a piece of the cosmos and learn what these mysterious fossils are. The inn at Zagroda Guciów, on the other hand, is a great place for lunch after visiting, because everyone knows that visiting is tiring!

Florianka: Meeting the Polish Ponies and History

Florianka is a former, well, forest, Ordynat settlement, located in the very Roztocze National Park. Its name, according to legend, derives from the fourteenth-century knight Florian Szary, who was, well, the progenitor of the Zamoyski family. And legend says that this knight was attacked by a bear precisely in Florianka, and his wounds were bandaged by his sister Janka, under a large oak, later called Oak Florian – he was, well, a witness to those events.

Today, Florianka is primarily a place where, as I mentioned, the Polish Pony Stable Breeding Centre is located, founded in 1996. Here, to the delight of children (and adults!), you can observe the Polish ponies. They are, frankly speaking, charming, but also quite trusting animals, which are, yes, descendants of the tarpan. In addition to ponies, you can also see Uhrus sheep at the Centre, which are a native variety of sheep.

Florianka also houses the Forest Chamber of the Roztocze National Park, which interestingly shows the life of foresters and their families in the interwar period – it’s a little step back into the past. In the forester’s nursery, the Zamoyski Estate once planted trees and shrubs, which can now be admired on the dendrological trail, covering, no less, several dozen specimens. The scenic trail, 1.2 km long, guarantees that, well, you will get to know the treasures of Florianka.

The most convenient option to reach Florianka is, in my opinion, by bike – a nice route leads there from Zwierzyniec (for example, Rybakówka – Florianka – Górecko Stare) as well as the Florianiecki Gościniec. This, I think, is a fantastic place to meet animals, but also to learn about the history of forestry in this region. It is worth visiting.

Where to Eat in Roztocze? Culinary Discoveries

After a whole day full of impressions, whether on the trails or in the towns, you’ll work up an appetite in Roztocze, that’s probably obvious, and the local cuisine has, well, a lot to offer. Roztocze is a region where you can try traditional dishes based on local products and recipes, often passed down from generation to generation. Asking our Followers (yes, we have them!), where it’s worth eating in Zwierzyniec and the surrounding area, we received, to our delight, many interesting recommendations.

Although we didn’t have the opportunity to visit all of them (unfortunately, time was pressing!), a few places, I admit, stuck in our memory.

Restaurants and Pubs: Where to Taste Roztocze Flavours?

In Roztocze, you will find, of course, many restaurants and pubs that serve, well, tasty food. In Zwierzyniec, for example, we recommend the Zwierzogródek burger joint, located near Kościelny Pond. There is also Karczma Młyn (Mill Inn), also by Kościelny Pond, where, reportedly, you can taste local specialities.

If you have an irresistible craving for delicious trout (and that’s probably a regional speciality!), it’s worth going to Bondyrz. That’s where the well-known Chata Rybaka (Fisherman’s Cottage) is located, and yes, the author of this text tried trout there, and it was… well, delicious! Karczma at Zagroda Guciów, on the other hand, is a great place for lunch after visiting, because everyone knows that visiting is tiring!

And if you simply fancy a local beer, I’ll send you, without hesitation, to the brewery in Zwierzyniec – that’s probably the obvious choice, isn’t it? It’s also worth mentioning the Mama restaurant in Jacnia, where apparently, we heard, you can even see paintings by Kora, who, as it turns out, was a huge enthusiast of Roztocze – interesting fact! These places are just a few examples – Roztocze Restaurants (or rather, simply, places to eat in Roztocze) offer a variety of flavours, from traditional dishes to, shall we say, modern interpretations. You will certainly find something for yourself here, unless you are very picky, then… it might be more difficult, but in most cases, it’s good!

Accommodation in Roztocze: Where Is the Best Place to Stay to Visit Everything?

When planning a trip to Roztocze, it’s worth, of course, considering the, well, appropriate place for accommodation. The region offers, which is pleasing, a wide selection of options that are, I hope, suited to different needs and, importantly, budgets. From hotels and guesthouses (for those who value standard), to agritourism (for those seeking contact with nature) and holiday cottages (for those who value independence), everyone will find here, I hope, an ideal place to relax after a day full of impressions. Among the accommodation options in Lublin Roztocze, you will find both cottages in the Lublin region and hotels in the Lublin region. Well, unless someone prefers to sleep in a tent, but we’re not writing about that here!

A particularly popular and, it must be admitted, convenient starting point for exploring Central and Western Roztocze is, without a doubt, Zwierzyniec. This town has, yes, a pretty good accommodation base, and its location right next to the gate of the Roztocze National Park makes it, yes, an ideal base for exploring Roztocze – everything is at hand.

Hotels, Guesthouses, Agritourism… What to Choose for Accommodation?

In Roztocze, as I mentioned, you will find truly diverse accommodation options. Hotels offer, you know, comfort and a certain standard, guesthouses often provide a more intimate, homely atmosphere, and agritourism allows for close contact with nature and, if you’re lucky, getting to know life in the countryside firsthand. We, this time, chose accommodation in agritourism, in the village of Lipowiec.

It turned out to be, to our delight, an excellent base for exploring the Zwierzyniec area, within a radius of 30 km, so quite convenient. The author, on another occasion, also stayed in Zamość, in the Ambasada apartment, which was also a good experience, but that was in the city. It’s worth, if you’re looking for something specific, checking the offer of Pagaj cottages in Zwierzyniec, which are located on the Wieprz river and offer accommodation in truly picturesque surroundings.

For people who value complete independence and privacy, holiday cottages are, of course, also available. When choosing accommodation in Roztocze, it’s worth, I advise, considering your planned attractions and choosing a base that will be, well, the most convenient logistically for you. Because you don’t want to waste time travelling, do you?

Roztocze: What Travel Plan Should You Choose?

Roztocze is a region that can be visited in, well, many ways, depending on how much time you have available and what your, well, preferences are. Regardless of whether you only have one day (a bit short, but doable!), a weekend, or are planning a longer holiday (that’s the best option!), Roztocze will certainly, I’m sure of it, enchant you. Roztocze for a weekend is an ideal option for those who want to get to know the most important attractions. Roztocze for longer sounds like a real adventure, allowing for full exploration.

Below we present a few suggestions for travel plans that, we hope, will allow you to fully utilise the time spent in this charming land.

Roztocze in One Day: Is It Even Possible?

If you have, well, only one day in Roztocze, you need to focus on, well, a few key attractions, preferably located close to each other, so as not to waste time travelling. You can start with the Roztocze National Park – take a short path to the Echo Ponds or, if you have a bit more energy, to Bukowa Góra. Then you can, quickly, go to Józefów, see the Babia Dolina quarry and climb the observation bastion – it’s all relatively close.

You can, for example, spend the afternoon at the Szumy on the Tanew, and end the day by climbing the observation tower in Susiec or visiting the brewery in Zwierzyniec (if you like beer!). This will be, you should know, an express tour of Roztocze. It will allow you to see the, well, most important points, although it will be, no need to hide it, quite intense and superficial. But it’s better than nothing, right? Roztocze, what can you see in such a short time? Just a taster!

Roztocze for a Weekend: What to See in Two Days?

A weekend in Roztocze is already, in my opinion, the perfect time to get to know its, well, most important attractions. You can dedicate the first day entirely to the Roztocze National Park – start by visiting the Educational and Museum Centre in Zwierzyniec (that’s an introduction), walk to the Echo Ponds (ponies!), and then take the trail to Bukowa Góra (for views and nature). In the afternoon, it’s worth visiting the town of Zwierzyniec itself – see the Church on the Island and pop into the brewery.

On the second day, you must visit the Szumy on the Tanew and, while you’re there, the Jeleń Waterfall. You can also, if you fancy it, visit the Czartowe Pole Reserve – these gorges are interesting! At the very end of the weekend, on your way back, it’s worth stopping by Krasnobród (reservoir, chapel on the water, tower – plenty to do!) or Józefów (quarry, bastion, fountain – all close together). Or, which is a great option, spend time visiting Zamość (that pearl of the Renaissance), which is, yes, a wonderful complement to a trip around the natural Roztocze. Wondering what’s worth seeing in Roztocze with a child over the weekend? RPN and Zagroda Guciów would be ideal.

Roztocze for Longer: Real Exploration of the Region

Roztocze for longer – that already sounds like a real adventure! This is an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the region and discover those less known, but, I assure you, equally fascinating places. Having more time, you can calmly explore all three parts of Roztocze – Western, Central, and, importantly, Eastern, which is often overlooked.

Focus on those numerous cycling routes, such as the Central Roztocze Cycling Trail or a fragment of the Green Velo, which, thanks to them, will take you to many, well, corners. Be sure to plan a kayaking trip on the Wieprz, Tanew, Łada, or Bukowa – it’s a completely different perspective! Visit all the most important nature reserves, not just the Szumy and Czartowe Pole, but also the Tanew River Springs Reserve, which is located near Złomy Ruski, and there, which is nice, there is the Kobyle Lake nature trail.

Get to know those smaller villages that have their unique atmosphere – for example, Narol, with the ruins of the Łosiów Palace (which you can reach from Zwierzyniec in just a few minutes), old Dziki with that interesting Orthodox church of St. Demetrius (45 min from Zwierzyniec), or Kniazie with those picturesque ruins of the Orthodox church of St. Paraskeva (56 min from Zwierzyniec) – yes, that’s where scenes for the famous film “Cold War” by Paweł Pawlikowski were filmed. Also discover, if you have time, the mysterious Belfont Enclave/Thicket near Kaczórka, where, according to legend, Marysieńka and Jan Sobieski used to meet, and later, interestingly, there was a children’s sanatorium. And don’t forget about other attractions, such as the Nowiny Quarry, where you can find… numerous shells, or the Petrified Wood Museum in Susiec.

Roztocze offers so much that, well, any longer stay will allow you to discover something new and, I am convinced, fascinating. You just need to have the time and willingness to explore!

Roztocze – A Return to Nature (And Home)

A trip to Roztocze is, I must emphasise, not just about visiting historical sites or discovering natural wonders. It is primarily a kind of, well, return to nature, to peace, to fresh air (that iodine-scented air!) and those beautiful, changing landscapes. Regardless of whether you choose active leisure on those numerous trails – cycling and kayaking, or prefer a quiet walk in the landscape parks and reserves, Roztocze will certainly allow you, I think, to escape from everyday life and, importantly, recharge your batteries. This is a land where time, it seems, flows a little slower, and we can fully appreciate the beauty of the world around us.

I sincerely hope that this, well, guide has inspired you to visit Roztocze and discover its extraordinary, sometimes hidden, charm. A lot of adventures, history, and those breathtaking views await you here. Roztocze is, in my opinion, Poland in a nutshell – beautiful, diverse, and, most importantly, full of surprises.