What to see in the Kłodzko Valley - a guide to the most important attractions

The Kłodzko Valley is one of Poland's most diverse tourist regions. Located in the southern Lower Silesian Voivodeship, it is surrounded by a ring of Sudetes mountain ranges: the Table Mountains, the Bystrzyckie Mountains, the Orlickie Mountains, the Złote Mountains, the Bialskie Mountains, and the Śnieżnik Massif. Within a relatively small area, you'll find rock labyrinths, healing mineral waters, medieval towns, caves, and former mines. Here's a look at some of the best places to start.

Table Mountains – Szczeliniec and Errant Rocks

The region's flagship is the Table Mountains National Park. Szczeliniec Wielki is the highest peak in the range (919 m above sea level); historic stone stairs lead to the summit, and at the top, a labyrinth of corridors and viewing terraces await. A few kilometers further on lie the Errant Rocks —a network of narrow crevices between sandstone blocks, explored by a one-way trail.

Spas and water pump rooms

The Kłodzko Valley is famous for its spas. Kudowa-Zdrój , Polanica-Zdrój , Duszniki-Zdrój , and Lądek-Zdrój boast historic spa parks and pump rooms where you can sample mineral waters. These are perfect places for a leisurely stroll along the promenade and a rest between mountain hikes.

Kłodzko Fortress and towns

Kłodzko is dominated by the mighty Kłodzko Fortress , one of the best-preserved modern defense systems in this part of Europe. Bystrzyca Kłodzka, with its preserved medieval urban layout, is also worth a visit.

Underground and the Śnieżnik Massif

Underground enthusiasts should visit the Bear Cave in Kletno—the longest accessible cave in the Sudetes, located in the Śnieżnik Massif, culminating in Śnieżnik itself (1,425 m above sea level). In nearby Złoty Stok, you can visit a former gold mine with underground routes.

Międzygórze and Czermna

In Międzygórze, you'll find the Wilczki Waterfall and the Fairy Tale Garden—a forest park of figures crafted from natural materials. Czermna, near Kudowa, boasts the extraordinary Skull Chapel , whose interior is lined with human bones.

How to plan your stay

The region is most conveniently explored from a base in one of the spa towns or in Kłodzko. Attractions are located close to each other, so even a multi-day stay can combine mountains, caves, and resorts. Hiking and cycling trails reign supreme in summer, while winter offers skiing on the slopes of Zieleniec and Czarna Góra, as well as thermal pools.