Cold Hollow Reserve

The Kraków-Częstochowa Jura is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the unique rock formations of the Jurassic landscape. Well-known to every tourist are spots on the map of the Kraków Jura, such as the Kobylańska Valley and Będkowska. Unfortunately, these places can be quite crowded on weekends, which is why it's worth discovering new locations not far from the Jurassic classics. If you dream of a stroll among rocky labyrinths, I invite you to visit the Zimny Dół Reserve.

Zimny Dół Nature Reserve

This small reserve is located about 25 km from Kraków, in the village of Czułów. Parking can be found along the main road just below the towering wall of Łysina. It's advisable to park a bit further away – sometimes while climbing the rock, fragments may break off. From the parking area to the entrance of the reserve, a few minutes' walk along an asphalt path awaits us, made more pleasant by the sight of the outcrops peeking through the trees. A teaching trail runs through the reserve in a loop, which can be started in any direction – the starting point is right by the information board (green trail). There is only one steep ascent along the entire route, but it is worth the effort to see the enormous rock walls covered in common ivy, which is hundreds of years old.

What awaits us on the trail?

In this one of the most beautiful spots in Małopolska, we can feel like we're in a labyrinth. The massive boulders, around which the trail winds, allow us to discover numerous passages, tunnels, caves, and overhangs. In some places, you may feel like you're in a true dead-end maze; fortunately, the trail is well marked, so nobody risks getting lost. An interesting feature of the reserve is the Spring in Zimny Dół – it is the only karst spring in the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland that flows directly from a cave. Remember to dress appropriately for a trip to the forest; hiking boots are a sensible choice, as we will be on a rugged path. If you prefer an easier route, a gentler red trail runs along the bottom of the valley.

A trip to the Zimny Dół Reserve should interest anyone looking to escape the bustle of the city, flee from the crowds, and "get lost" for a while among the rocks.

Author of the photos and text: Ewa Bandyk