What is the Land of Extinct Volcanoes and what shaped its unique landscape?

The Land of Extinct Volcanoes is an apt, albeit unofficial, name for the Kaczawskie Mountains and Foothills in Lower Silesia. Millions of years ago, lava flowed here, and today we walk on the cones of former volcanoes, admire basalt organs and search for semi-precious stones. In March 2024, this area, unique in Europe, became a UNESCO Global Geopark. For me, it is a mine of inspiration and proof that time travel is possible – you just need to know where to set foot.

Between Legnica and Jelenia Góra, the earth tells its fiery story. The landscape differs from the rest of the Sudetes – gentle hills are interrupted by conical elevations, i.e. characteristic volcanic plugs, which are abundant in Lower Silesia. This is not just a trip across the map, but a journey into the depths of the Earth, allowing us to understand the forces that shaped our planet. Let’s discover this lunar corner of Poland together.

What is geotourism in the Kaczawskie Mountains and Foothills region?

Geotourism is travelling to learn about geological heritage, and the Land of Extinct Volcanoes is the perfect place for it. It is a conscious exploration of rock formations, quarries and traces of the region’s volcanic past. Instead of just sightseeing, you try to read the history written in stone.

In practice, your trip can turn into an expedition. Instead of just climbing peaks, you learn to recognise rocks, learn about the history of basalt columns and find out why you can find agates here. It is an activity combined with an intellectual adventure. Places such as the Sudeten Educational Farm in Dobków or educational trails draw even laymen into this world. This is the essence of travelling in my style – experiencing, not just ticking off points.

How did volcanic activity during the Permian period influence the present-day appearance of Lower Silesia?

The idyllic landscape of the region is the result of turbulent processes 270 million years ago, during the Permian period. Hot magma broke through to the surface, forming volcanoes. The spilling lava built up layers, and the lava that solidified in volcanic chimneys formed hard plugs called necks.

Over millions of years, erosion – wind, water and ice – destroyed the soft sedimentary rocks, exposing the hard volcanic cores. That is why today we admire steep, solitary hills such as Ostrzyca and Grodziec. These are the hearts of ancient volcanoes that have stood the test of time. When walking here, you are simultaneously treading on the bottom of an ancient sea and the slopes of prehistoric volcanoes. This perspective changes the way you perceive the landscape.

What basalt formations, such as the Wielisławskie Organs, can be admired in the Kaczawskie Foothills?

The most spectacular volcanic formation is the columnar joint, i.e. rock columns. They are formed when hot lava cools down, shrinks and cracks into regular, usually hexagonal or pentagonal columns, resembling giant organs. The most famous example is not basalt, but rhyolite – the Wielisławskie Organs on the slope of Wielisławka. Their reddish hue and monumental, fan-shaped form make a stunning impression, especially when you realise that you are looking at the interior of a volcano.

But that’s not all. You will also find other fascinating forms in the region:

• Basalt rose in the Wilcza Góra reserve: A unique formation where columns radiate out from a common centre, resembling a stone flower.
• Czartowska Skała: Another hill that is a volcanic neck, with exposed vertical basalt columns.
• Małe Organy Myśliborskie: A lesser-known but equally charming formation hidden in the Myśliborski Gorge, ideal for a peaceful walk.

Each of these places tells of the power of nature and shows that geology can be fascinating and photogenic.

What can you see in the Wilcza Góra nature reserve near Złotoryja?

Wilcza Góra looks like the set of a science fiction film. It is a partially reclaimed basalt quarry that has exposed a cross-section of a volcanic vent, revealing its interior. When you enter the reserve, you feel like you are on another planet – you are surrounded by steep, black walls with perfectly formed basalt columns.

The main attraction is the “basalt rose” – a geological phenomenon on a global scale, where the columns spread out in a star shape, creating a stone flower pattern. An educational trail has been marked out here to two viewing points. From one, you can see a panorama of the Karkonosze Mountains, and from the other, you can see the still-operating part of the mine, although mining is limited and takes place outside the reserve. It is a thought-provoking contrast between protected nature and human interference. A place that stays in your memory.

What are the biggest attractions and most important places in the Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark?

The Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark is a treasure trove where everyone will find something for themselves. The tourist attractions of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes attract geology enthusiasts, families with children and fans of single-track cycling. As a fan of the region, I have prepared a list of my gems, rather than a dry list from a guidebook that only lists the attractions of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes. These are places that will allow you to feel the magic of the volcanic land: from castles on cones, through gold mines, to UNESCO sites. Fasten your seatbelts, we’re off!

How to climb Ostrzyca Proboszczowicka and why is it called the “Silesian Fuji”?

A short but intense trail leads to Ostrzyca, the highest peak of the Kaczawskie Foothills (501 m above sea level). After a gentle path through the forest, the final ascent of over 400 stone steps awaits – it can be tough! However, the climb is worth the effort. The view from the basalt rock field at the summit is panoramic and breathtaking.

And why “Silesian Fujiyama”? It owes its nickname to its perfectly conical shape, reminiscent of a Japanese volcano. It rises alone above the flat terrain, dominating the landscape. It is a classic volcanic neck. For me, climbing Ostrzyca is a ritual: a moment of meditation at the top, the wind in my hair and the feeling of standing on the top of a prehistoric world. It is the perfect place to feel the power of nature and take great photos.

What events and knight tournaments take place at Grodziec Castle?

Grodziec Castle, located on top of an extinct volcano, is not a ruin, but a vibrant centre of medieval culture. Throughout the year, especially in summer, events are held here that take you back to the times of knights. One of the most important events is the Silesian Knight Tournament with sword fights, horse shows and archery competitions.

In addition, the following events are organised here:

• Agrotourism Wine and Honey Festival: an event combining history with tasting local products.
• Medieval fairs: an opportunity to buy handicrafts and try old-fashioned dishes.
• Nights at the castle: themed tours with ghosts and legends in the background, which is an amazing adventure, especially for older children.

Always check the event calendar on the castle’s website before your visit. Participating in such an event is a completely different dimension when it comes to visiting Grodziec Castle – instead of looking at the walls, you become part of history.

Is it worth visiting Czartowska Skała during a trip to the Kaczawskie Mountains?

Definitely yes! For me, Czartowska Skała is the essence of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes. A lesser-known and less crowded alternative to Ostrzyca, it offers an equally beautiful experience. It is a volcanic peak, which takes 15-20 minutes to climb – an ideal destination for a short stop or a sunset trip.

The summit offers a panoramic view of the Kaczawskie Mountains and the Foothills, which can compete with what other observation towers in the Kaczawskie Foothills have to offer. Ostrzyca is clearly visible from here, and in good weather, even the Karkonosze Mountains with Śnieżka. There is something magical and wild about this place. The lack of crowds allows you to appreciate the silence, space and landscape. If you are looking for a moment of respite from the hustle and bustle, Czartowska Skała is the perfect choice.

What tourist attractions are worth visiting in Złotoryja, the capital of Polish gold?

Złotoryja is a town that grew on gold. A walk through its streets takes you back to the times of medieval prospectors. It is not only a base for trips to the Kaczawskie Mountains, but also an attraction in itself, a key point on the map for anyone interested in the Kaczawskie Foothills and what is worth seeing. I recommend spending at least half a day here to feel the unique atmosphere of the town.

My personal “must see” list in Złotoryja:

1. The Gold Museum: a fascinating place, which I will tell you about in detail in a moment.
2. The “Aurelia” Gold Mine: the only gold mine in Poland open to visitors. Walking through the 100-metre tunnel is an amazing experience!
3. Market Square and Kowalska Tower: the heart of the city with beautiful tenement houses and a defensive tower from which you can see the entire area.
4. Gold panning on the Kaczawa River: you can try your hand at it and feel like a real treasure hunter. It’s great fun, especially for children.

What does the exhibition at the Gold Museum in Złotoryja include?

The exhibition at the Gold Museum in Złotoryja is a hit, far from boring displays. It is a journey through the history of the Lower Silesian “gold rush”, from the Middle Ages to the present day. The interactive elements and the richness of the collections are impressive.

Inside the museum, you will find:

• The history of gold mining: maps, documents and tools used by former miners.
• The “Polish Gold” exhibition: presenting gold in various forms, from nuggets to jewellery.
• A gigantic collection of minerals: a real treasure for geology enthusiasts. Here you will see not only local agates, but also specimens from all over the world.
• A reconstruction of an old adit: you can experience what working underground was like.

A visit to this museum is not only a history lesson, but also a great introduction to further exploration of the geological secrets of the region.

Why is the Church of Peace in Jawor a UNESCO World Heritage Site and what else is worth seeing there?

The Church of Peace in Jawor is more impressive in real life than in photos. It is on the UNESCO list as the largest wooden Baroque temple in Europe and a testimony to the pursuit of religious freedom after the Thirty Years’ War. In accordance with the emperor’s decision, it was built outside the city walls from perishable materials (wood, straw, clay), without a tower, and within a year.

The effect is beyond human comprehension. From the outside, it is a modest half-timbered building, but the interior is stunning. Four floors of galleries covered with biblical paintings, an altar, a pulpit – all made of wood with incredible craftsmanship. It is a must-see. After visiting the church, take a stroll around the market square in Jawor with its beautiful town hall and theatre. It is the perfect end to your trip.

Why is Dobków considered the most interesting themed village in the Land of Extinct Volcanoes?

Dobków is a phenomenon and the heart of the Geopark. The village has focused on its geological identity, turning it into a tourist attraction. There is no single museum here – the whole village is a living museum telling the story of the Earth. It is an example of how the passion of the inhabitants and wise management create a place with soul.

The magic of Dobków is created by:

• Sudecka Zagroda Edukacyjna (Sudeten Educational Farm): a modern Earth science centre where you can learn about volcanic processes, earthquakes and the secrets of minerals through play. It is a paradise for children and adults alike.
• Workshops and galleries: galleries with agates and handicraft workshops are scattered throughout the village, and the ceramic workshops organised here in the Land of Extinct Volcanoes attract artistic souls from all over Poland.
• Villa Greta: an iconic place with fantastic local cuisine and a family atmosphere, which has become the centre of tourist life in the region.

Dobków proves that tourism does not have to be mass tourism. It is a place that promotes the idea of slow travel, closeness to nature and authentic experiences, which fits perfectly with the philosophy of my blog.

How to actively explore the Land of Extinct Volcanoes? Practical tips and ideas

The Land of Extinct Volcanoes is a dream destination for active people. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling or treasure hunting with a geological hammer, the region offers plenty of opportunities. I encourage you to get off the beaten track and experience this place with all your senses. Here are my tried and tested ways to actively explore the volcanic land and its secrets.

What is the route and length of the Yellow Trail of Extinct Volcanoes?

The Yellow Trail of Extinct Volcanoes is the main hiking route in the region. It is about 97 km long and leads from Legnickie Pole to Złotoryja (or vice versa), passing through the most important geological and historical attractions. It is a suggestion for a few days of trekking for experienced hikers.

However, you do not have to cover the entire route. I usually choose the most interesting sections for one-day trips, e.g. through Ostrzyca, Grodziec, Czartowska Skała or the Wilcza Góra reserve. The well-marked trail shows the best of the region: volcanic cones, gorges and charming villages. It is a great way to systematically explore this land.

Where in the Land of Extinct Volcanoes can you find agates on your own?

Searching for agates in Kaczawy is one of my favourite activities here – treasure hunting for adults! The Land of Extinct Volcanoes is the largest deposit of these minerals in Poland. The best places to search are the ploughed fields around Lubiechowa, Sokołowiec and Nowy Kościół. Millions of years ago, volcanic gas bombs created empty spaces there, which filled with silica solutions, forming agates.

Insider tip: the best time to search is in spring, just after ploughing or after heavy rainfall. The water washes the soil off the stones and makes the characteristic striped patterns of agates more visible. All you need is a little patience, a keen eye and comfortable shoes. Finding your own agate is incredibly satisfying and the best souvenir from your trip!

Where can you find maps of singletrack cycling routes in the Kaczawski region?

The Kaczawa region is becoming popular among mountain biking enthusiasts, and the network of trails, including singletracks, is growing rapidly. The best source of information about maps is the website of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark and the Kaczawa Association, where you can often download GPX files.

It is also worth visiting tourist information points, e.g. at the Sudeten Educational Farm in Dobków, where paper maps are available. Popular apps for cyclists, such as Trailforks and Komoot, also feature numerous routes in the region, along with user comments.

Below are a few examples of areas with cycling routes:

Area	Nature of the routes	Level of difficulty
Ostrzyca area	Natural forest paths, ascents and descents	Medium
Bóbr Valley	Picturesque routes along the river, minor elevation changes	Easy / Medium
Kaczawskie Mountains (e.g. around Skopiec)	More technically demanding routes, rocky sections, leading, for example, to the area where Mount Okole and the viewpoint at its summit are located.	Medium / Difficult

How long is the educational trail in the Myśliborski Gorge?

Walking the entire loop of the Myśliborski Gorge nature trail takes 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace, making it ideal for a relaxing walk, also for families with children. It is a place where you can experience the beauty of nature without much effort.

The trail leads through a picturesque gorge along the Jawornik stream. Along the way, there are 12 educational boards that tell about the geology of this place (you can see the Małe Organy Myśliborskie here) and the unique flora and fauna. It is a perfect example of combining education with recreation. The gorge is particularly beautiful in spring, when the forest undergrowth is in bloom, and in autumn, when the forest is ablaze with colour.

Where in the Kaczawskie Foothills can you see the best-preserved half-timbered houses?

The best-preserved half-timbered houses, examples of traditional folk architecture, can be found in the so-called “Krainie w kratę” (Chequered Land). Clusters of these buildings can be admired in the vicinity of Świerzawa and in smaller villages such as Gościradz and Stara Kraśnica. A half-timbered house is a unique structure, combining features of Slavic and Germanic architecture, where the wooden frame of the upper floor rests on special posts (half-timbers), and the ground floor is brick.

Walking around these villages, one gets the impression that time has stood still. Many of the houses have been beautifully restored and are still inhabited, and some are used for agritourism. Looking for these architectural gems is a great idea for a trip, allowing you to discover the cultural heritage of the region, which is just as fascinating as its geology.

What unique plant species can be found in the nature reserves of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes?

The volcanic soil, rich in specific minerals, has created ideal conditions for many rare and protected plant species. Nature reserves such as “Ostrzyca Proboszczowicka” and “Wąwóz Myśliborski” are true botanical oases. In spring, the slopes of the volcanoes are covered with colourful carpets of flowers.

During your hikes, you may come across:

• Open pasque flower: a purple, fluffy flower, one of the symbols of spring in the region.
• Golden-headed lily: a majestic plant with characteristic turban-shaped flowers.
• Various species of polypody: rare ferns growing on basalt scree slopes.
• Various species of orchids: including the white helleborine and the broad-leaved helleborine.

Observing these plants is a form of meditation for me and proof of the extraordinary biodiversity of this place. Remember, however, that all these species are protected – admire them, photograph them, but never pick them!

How to plan the perfect trip with children to the Land of Extinct Volcanoes?

The Land of Extinct Volcanoes is a dream destination for a family adventure. Forget about boredom and whining – this region is a natural playground that teaches through experience. Instead of talking about geology, you can show it to your children. Instead of talking about knights, you can meet them at the castle. The local attractions perfectly satisfy the need for discovery, and planning is pure pleasure. Here are my tried and tested ideas for a successful family trip and the best attractions for the whole family in the Kaczawskie Mountains region.

What are the best attractions for children in the Land of Extinct Volcanoes?

The best attractions for children are those that combine learning with fun and allow them to get dirty! Based on my experience, I have created a list of absolute hits that are guaranteed to put a smile on every child’s face:

• Sudecka Zagroda Edukacyjna in Dobków: An interactive Earth science centre. Here, children can cause an earthquake, build a volcano and touch real minerals. The number one hit!
• Agate hunting: Equip your children with shovels and buckets, and the fields around Lubiechowa will turn into the world’s largest sandbox with treasures.
• Gold panning in Złotoryja: Every child dreams of finding gold. In Złotoryja, this dream can come true, even if only in the form of a few shiny specks.
• Grodziec Castle: What child doesn’t love castles? Mysterious chambers, towers to conquer and stories of knights will spark the imagination of every little explorer.
• Aurelia Gold Mine: An adventure in a real underground tunnel is something that children will remember for years to come. Put on your helmets and let’s go!

What workshops for children does the Sudecka Zagroda Edukacyjna in Dobków offer?

Sudecka Zagroda Edukacyjna is not only an exhibition, but above all a place for fantastic workshops. The offer is wide and adapted to different age groups, making learning about the Earth an adventure. Children are not passive listeners here, but active participants in experiments.

Examples of workshops your children can take part in:

• Geology workshops: identifying minerals and rocks, learning how to polish agates.
• Volcanic workshops: building volcano models and conducting controlled “eruptions” using baking soda and vinegar.
• Seismology workshops: learning about earthquakes on a special platform that simulates tremors.
• Creative workshops: painting on stones, creating jewellery from minerals.

It is worth checking the current offer and schedule on the Zagroda website, as thematic and seasonal workshops are also often organised.

Where can you take part in ceramics workshops in the vicinity of Bolesławiec and Dobków?

The area around the Land of Extinct Volcanoes is also a ceramics centre, with the famous town of Bolesławiec at its forefront. This is a great opportunity to combine a geological adventure with an artistic one. Participating in ceramics workshops is a fantastic souvenir and fun for the whole family.

Places where you can find such workshops:

1. Bolesławiec: Many manufacturers in Bolesławiec itself offer workshops on traditional ceramic decoration using the stamping method. It is a classic of its kind.
2. Dobków and the surrounding area: In the village itself and its vicinity, there are smaller, intimate ceramic workshops, often run by local artists. This is an opportunity to create something unique.
3. Agritourism: Some farms, such as Villa Greta, organise pottery workshops for their guests, which is a great way to spend an afternoon creatively.

Where and when does the gold panning championship take place in Złotoryja?

The International Open Polish Gold Panning Championships are held regularly in Złotoryja, usually at the turn of May and June. This event attracts enthusiasts from all over the world and turns the town into a real El Dorado. The competition on the Kaczawa River is accompanied by a large festival with concerts and a fair.

Even if you don’t take part in the competition, it’s worth coming to experience the atmosphere. You can observe the techniques of the masters, and in special zones, everyone, especially children, can try their hand at gold panning under the supervision of instructors. It’s a wonderful, living lesson in the history and traditions of the region.

Where to find the best family-friendly agritourism in the region?

The Kaczawskie Mountains and Foothills region abounds in atmospheric agritourism farms, ideal as a base for families. They offer not only accommodation, but often whole packages of experiences: local cuisine, playgrounds, contact with animals and workshops.

To find the best ones, I recommend:

• Browse “slow travel” portals: Places such as Slowhop.co.uk specialise in finding unique, atmospheric accommodation.
• Check the Kaczawskie Association website: They often promote certified and verified facilities in the region.
• Ask for recommendations: Sudecka Zagroda Edukacyjna (Sudeten Educational Farm) and tourist information points often have a list of recommended, family-friendly places.

Personally, I can recommend Villa Greta in Dobków, which is a model of true agritourism. Delicious food, a huge garden with a playground and a great atmosphere make children feel like they are in paradise, while parents can relax.

What else is worth knowing about the Land of Extinct Volcanoes Geopark?

We have almost reached the end of our journey, but the Land of Extinct Volcanoes still has a few tricks up its sleeve. Understanding its significance, learning how to explore it more deeply and tasting local specialities are the icing on the cake of any trip. These additional elements make the journey a complete experience. I will share a few more pieces of information that will help you see this region from a broader perspective.

What does the inclusion of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes on the UNESCO Global Geoparks list mean for the region?

The inclusion of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes on the UNESCO Global Geoparks list in March 2024 is a huge honour, a kind of “geological Nobel Prize”. It means that the unique geological heritage of this area has been recognised internationally. It is not just a label, but a commitment and an opportunity. For the region, it means greater interest from tourists looking for authentic places. UNESCO status also facilitates the acquisition of funds for nature conservation, sustainable tourism development and education. It is a guarantee that the development of the region will go hand in hand with care for its most precious treasure – the heritage of the Earth.

How to obtain the Explorer’s Passport of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes and what are its benefits?

The Explorer’s Passport to the Land of Extinct Volcanoes is an initiative that turns sightseeing into a field game. It is a small booklet that can be purchased at tourist information points, agritourism farms or the Sudeten Educational Farm. The passport contains a list of several dozen attractions – from volcanoes to museums and galleries.

The rule is simple: you visit a place and collect a stamp. After collecting a certain number of stamps, you can apply for a certificate and the title of Explorer of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes, and sometimes for small gifts. It is a great motivator, especially for children, to discover lesser-known corners of the region, as well as a wonderful, tangible souvenir from your trip.

What local food products are worth trying in the Kaczawskie Foothills?

Travelling is also about flavours, and the Kaczawskie Foothills have a lot to offer. The local cuisine is based on natural, local products. During your visit, be sure to try:

• Goat and cow cheeses: from small, artisan cheese dairies, e.g. from “Koza Łąka”.
• Kaczawskie honey: from apiaries located in ecologically clean areas; multi-flower honey from these meadows has a unique flavour.
• Local craft beers: more and more small breweries drawing on local traditions are being established in the region.
• Sourdough bread: baked in traditional ovens, available at many agritourism farms.
• Fruit juices and preserves: from local orchards, without added sugar or preservatives.

Searching for these flavours is another way to get to know the region – this time from the kitchen.

Why is the Land of Extinct Volcanoes one of the most interesting attractions in Lower Silesia?

The Land of Extinct Volcanoes is unique because it features the best-preserved volcanoes in Poland, and Lower Silesia is their true heartland, offering a unique combination of geology, history and a relaxed atmosphere. The region has not been overrun by mass tourism, so you can still feel the thrill of discovery here. In a small area, you can climb a volcano, visit a castle, find agate, learn the secrets of the UNESCO Church of Peace and enjoy a delicious lunch at an agritourism farm. It is a land of contrasts: raw basalt rocks neighbour green meadows, and the turbulent past of the Earth forms the backdrop for rural life. For me, this is the essence of travel – a place that inspires, teaches and allows you to slow down. It’s not just an attraction, it’s an experience.