Welcome to the Trail of the Eagle’s Nests, Southern Poland’s crown jewel for adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers alike.
Stretching 170 kilometers between Kraków and Częstochowa, this iconic route invites you to step back in time while soaking in the wild beauty of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland. It’s a road less traveled, yet bursting with stories, vistas, and experiences that linger in your memory long after you’ve left.
From Dreams to Reality: The Birth of the Trail
The Trail’s roots stretch back to 1927, when the idea of connecting Poland’s historic castles was first proposed. Decades later, in 1950, the dream became a reality thanks to the efforts of Kazimierz Sosnowski, a trailblazing explorer. He marked out a path linking the region’s most stunning medieval fortresses, many perched dramatically atop cliffs like eagle’s nests—hence the evocative name.
Originally built to protect the Kingdom of Poland from southern invaders, these fortifications still guard treasures of architecture and history, now open to anyone eager to explore their stone walls and sweeping views.
A Trail of Wonders
The adventure begins at the Royal Castle on Wawel Hill in Kraków, a city where every cobblestone hums with stories of Poland’s royal past. Heading north, the trail unveils its treasures one by one.
Ojców National Park, a fairytale land of jagged rock formations, caves, and whispering forests, is a must-visit. Here, King Władysław Łokietek famously hid in a cave during his exile—a piece of history you can walk into.
The Pieskowa Skała Castle, a renaissance gem perched above the Ojców Valley, dazzles with its elegance, while the Ogrodzieniec Castle, a dramatic ruin made famous in The Witcher series, dominates the horizon with its sheer scale.
And don’t miss the Błędowska Desert, Poland’s only desert, an unexpected swath of sandy dunes left behind by the Ice Age and shaped by centuries of mining.
Nature Meets Adventure
The Trail of the Eagle’s Nests isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a playground for adventurers.
Climbers will revel in the limestone cliffs, which offer routes for all skill levels.
Cyclists can take advantage of nearly 200 kilometers of cycling paths, winding through forests, meadows, and quaint villages.
will find everything from gentle walks to challenging ascents, all rewarding with stunning vistas and peaceful moments in nature.
Looking for unique accommodations? Spend the night in a castle-turned-hotel, like the one in Korzkiew, where modern luxury meets medieval charm.
A Culinary and Cultural Feast
No trip to Southern Poland is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Along the trail, cozy eateries serve up hearty Polish dishes like pierogi, żurek (sour rye soup), and fresh trout straight from mountain streams.
And for history buffs, medieval reenactors, or LARPers, medieval tournaments held in castles with knights and dames, jousts and medieval-style trade fairs are must-see.
In 2012, the Trail of the Eagle’s Nests was awarded the Golden Certificate by the Polish Tourist Organization, cementing its status as one of the country’s top tourist attractions.
Ready to Explore?
Whether you’re planning a multi-day trek or a series of day trips, the Trail of the Eagle’s Nests offers endless flexibility. Marked paths make navigation easy, and every section promises something unique—steep climbs, hidden caves, or sweeping panoramas.
So, pack your hiking boots, charge your camera, and prepare to be enchanted. The Trail of the Eagle’s Nests isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey into the heart of Poland’s natural beauty and historical soul. Your adventure awaits!
