Approximate driving time with sightseeingThis is a great idea for a short bike ride along a green hiking trail from Podzamcze to Lipowica Reservoir. The route goes along roads with little traffic and also dirt paths between fields. The main attraction is the ride around the reservoir, partly on a dedicated bike path, and then afterwards you can either return the same way or opt for the asphalt roads going through the villages of Lipowica, Przymiarki and Starochęciny.
Podzamcze (0.0 km) → car park by Lipowica Reservoir (3.6 km) → car park by Lipowica Reservoir (5.3 km) → Podzamcze (8.9 km)
- Lenght: 8.9 km
- Time: 2 hours (4 hours with sightseeing)
- Type: Touring, cross, MTB
- Elevation: 60 m
- 53% unpaved roads, 27% asphalt roads, 20% gravel roads
- Easy route
Getting there and starting out
As the starting point, we recommend the large free car park at the Leonardo da Vinci Science Centre in Podzamcze.
Technical description
Head south using the local roads that run alongside the expressway. After about 500 m, you will join the green hiking trail that leads to Lipowica Reservoir. Before reaching the reservoir, you will pass under a bridge over the Czarna Nida river. On the other side of the S7 road, there is an abandoned quarry on Leśna Góra. Pass it on the left and continue along a dirt path between meadows and fields, heading towards Lipowica. You will reach a roundabout with a small car park nearby, which is where the ride around the reservoir begins. First, we would suggest heading to the left and the convenient asphalt path that will take you to the pier. There are also two viewing platforms a little further along. If you have time, you could take a quick detour to the Czarna Nida and Bobrza rivers. These charming meandering rivers with a sandy bottom are ideal if you fancy a quick dip, which can be great fun, especially on hot days. The asphalt path ends after the second viewing platform. The next stretch entails a short ride along a dirt path, but fortunately it is easy to make out and follow. When you see the wooden shelters used by local fishermen, that means you’re reaching the end of the loop. From the car park, return via the same route or choose the local asphalt roads that go through the villages of Lipowica, Przymiarki and Starochęciny.
Attractions along the way:
Regional Science and Technology Centre in Podzamcze
The whole centre consists of a palace-park complex as well as the Leonardo da Vinci Science Centre. The most valuable historical monument here is the restored manor house of the Chęciny starostes, which is a Baroque building built between 1602 and 1617 by Jan Branicki. The historical buildings of the manor house have been adapted for use as a hotel, restaurant and conference centre. Next to the manor is a modern museum building, which presents interactive temporary exhibitions on science and technology. The grounds of the garden contain experimental equipment that you can try out, while there are also walking paths stretching all around the beautifully renovated park.
Podzamcze 45, tel. +48 609 290 121, www.cndavinci.pl
Lipowica Reservoir
Revitalised in 2021, the reservoir can be enjoyed by cyclists, pedestrians, fishermen, and anyone seeking a short break amidst nature. The facilities include a shared pedestrian/bike path with educational notice boards, a pier, viewing platforms, shelters, benches, fishing booths, toilets and car parks. Swimming is prohibited, however.
