Short characteristics

This is a relatively undemanding MTB track with 1100m of the total elevation gain over the distance of almost 80km. However, it is long and we recommend it rather to the experienced cyclists. You pass numerous monuments of really high-class architecture on the way (e.g. Swidnica, Cisy Castle, Bolkow Castle, Jawor). The entire track stretches between three railway stations, thanks to which those travelling by train can divide the route into 2 sections – it is best to start in Swidnica.

Swidnica – Swiebodzice

You start with a longer uphill stretch on a comfortable asphalt road (230m of elevation gain over 13km). Then, you gradually enter the Sowie Mountains where you can enjoy great panoramas. You pass the iconic villages of Bystrzyca Gorna, Lubachow and Modliszow. And this is where the MTB ride finally begins. You follow steep dirt roads, sometimes the steepness exceeds more than 14% of the slope on the uphill and downhill stretches (the latter dominate) almost all the way to Swiebodzice. On the Modliszow-Pogorzała section, there are quite a few stunning views followed by a mountain forest and an obligatory – in our opinion – break at the Daisy Lake. You finish the ride with a dynamic descent to Swiebodzice.

Little Green Lake (Daisy)

This charming, flooded excavation of limestone is now a nature reserve.

Swiebodzice – Jawor

The first 24km to Bolkow are quite calm as you follow asphalt roads and the slopes are generally up to 5% (maximum 8%) steep. It is worth taking a break along the way by the beautiful lake in Dobromierz. From Bolkow on the nature of the terrain changes a bit as the Kaczawa Foothills begin. There is an uphill stretch (150m of elevation gain over about 3km), initially on an asphalt road. In Gorzanowice you enter the off-road section to Lipa that should satisfy the MTB enthusiasts. Further on, there is a comfortable asphalt road again and there are two very interesting nature reserves on the way: Lipa and Siedmica gorges. It is quite a demanding stretch. Between the gorges you pass the Orchid Hill (Storczykowe Wzgorze) with very interesting plants. Once you have passed Siedmica, you leave the lazy asphalt and from Jakuszowa on you rush off-road towards Jawor. It is worth turning on the way to see the Rataj Mountain with the Mysliborz Organs. A bike path takes you back to the town.

The route runs through selected sites of the European Reformation Route, which is included in the list of European Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe, more information at: www.reformationroutes.eu