A bathing spot in the centre of the Jura
The reservoir in Pilica lies in the Silesian Voivodeship, in the Zawiercie district, in the southern part of the town. It is fed by the waters of the Pilica river, which has its source in this very area. The lake is not large, but it has won considerable popularity among the inhabitants of the Jura and among tourists visiting the nearby strongholds.
In summer it is above all a place for swimming and relaxing by the water, while in winter the reservoir becomes a refuge for waterfowl — watching them from the bank can then be just as rewarding as summer sunbathing.
What to do
The greatest asset of the reservoir is its very clean water, so in season there is no shortage of swimmers, with lifeguards watching over safety. The lake is surrounded by a well kept green recreational area where it is easy to find a spot for a blanket or a short rest in the shade.
The calm surface also suits anglers and walkers who make their way around the shore. It is a good place for a break while exploring the area.
The surroundings
Pilica and its neighbourhood form one of the more interesting parts of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland. The town itself holds the imposing Padniewski Palace, also known as the Raczyński Palace, and a few kilometres away rise the ruins of the castle in Smoleń, one of the Jura strongholds. Close by runs the Trail of the Eagles' Nests, the most important hiking route of this region, linking successive medieval castles.
Who it suits
The place works well for families with children and for travellers touring the Jura who want to combine active sightseeing with a rest by the water. The area is freely accessible, dogs are allowed, and reaching the shore poses no difficulty.