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Józefów
The Świder Reserve covers the valleys of the Świder and its tributary the Mienia within Otwock, Józefów and the communes of Wiązowna, Kołbiel and Siennica. It is a ribbon-shaped water reserve in Mazovia, a dozen kilometres from the edge of Warsaw. It protects a freely meandering river along with its riverside riparian vegetation.
The Świder runs through a distinctly incised valley, passing sharp bends, undercut banks and small rapids where the current speeds up. At low water sandy bars emerge, and fallen trunks in the channel reveal the presence of beavers. Alder carr and riparian woods line the banks, loud with birds in spring.
The blue Vistula Beaver Trail crosses the reserve; walking is allowed only on the marked route, and leaving it damages protected habitats. In summer the municipal beach on the Świder in Otwock is a popular destination. A walk through the valley takes about two hours.
