近隣の村
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Local villages give the visitor an opportunity to move away from the touristy traps of bigger towns and provide a window into the daily life of the local community.
The scenic landscape around Krakow makes up a route which is commonly referred to as the Land of Eagles’ Nests. This route takes you through a number of villages containing ravines, old churches and the ruins of fortresses -- also known as eagles’ nests! Some other noteworthy villages include:
Bielany
Located 7km from Krakow centre, Bielany may still be considered part of Krakow’s Zwierzyniec district. Esteemed for its impressive 17th century Baroque Cameldolese Monastery, this little village is home to a strict order of Cameldolite monks. Visitors to the church are restricted and women can only visit on 12 specific days during the year. Bielany is also home to the Tyniecko-Bielanski Landscape Park, where one can go rafting and canoeing.
Jerzmanowi
Situated 22km north-west of Krakow, Jerzmanowi is a small village containing two churches. But it is not the churches that bring tourists to this village. In fact, Jerzmanowi is perfectly located within a short distance from Ojcow National Park. Hiking and biking routes meander through nearby valleys and consequently the village presents itself as a great resting point for the outdoors adventurer. Wonderful rock formations, caves and grottos can be explored and appreciated in this area – the most popular being Jaskinia Nietoperzowa or the Bats Cave.
Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
Approximately 35km from Krakow, Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is an important pilgrimage centre. Containing a basilica, a Franciscan monastery and several avenues that are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, pilgrims flock to this village twice a year to follow the Cavalry route – once for the infamous Passion play during holy week and then during summer for the Festival of the Assumption. Precious religious artefacts to be found in Kalwaria include Jesus Christ’s Tomb, The House of Mary and the miraculous picture of the Virgin Mary and Child which is housed in the Zebrzydowska chapel.
Ojcow
Nestled in the heart of Ojcow National Park, this village contains the eagle’s nest of a 14th century castle including the Gothic gate, remnants of the chapel and an octagonal tower. Within the village itself guests are welcome to visit the natural museum and the wooden chapel “Na Wodzie”. Besides the natural splendour of the park itself, one can also explore the nearby Pieskowa Skala Castle, Blessed Salomea’s Hermitage, King Lokietek Cave and Dark Cave.