Geological Curiosities of the Kaczawskie Mountains

Geologically, the Kaczawskie Mountains are exceptionally interesting, as the occurrence of large areas of limestone (in the vicinity of Wojcieszow) is associated with karst phenomena. On the other hand, outcrop rocks (basalts) determine the unique character of these mountains in terms of shape. In addition, all other varieties of rocks – shale, porphyry, melaphyrite and sandstone – are also found here. The entire Kaczawskie Foothills are built up by Tertiary basalts. These mountains form an ungainly but very extensive complex (310 km²) with a picturesque landscape. On the slopes there are often interesting rock formations, and the peaks are formed into cones. In addition, these low mountains are characterized by extensive and charming foothills, stretching north to Zlotorya. In that area there is the particularly interesting Wilcza Góra (373 meters above sea level) with the only basalt rose in this part of Europe.

Tourist attractions of the Kaczawskie Mountains

The Kaczawskie Mountains are an attractive place for long walks, and for bicycle trips. A dense network of low-traffic roads and a large number of forest paths await cyclists. The main tourist destinations are Wojcieszow and Dziwiszow, near Jelenia Gora, where there is a micro-station for winter sports. It offers wide, lighted and snow-covered ski slopes. In addition, the mountains are an ideal vantage point for viewing the Karkonosze embankment and the Jizera Mountains.

Recommended Places in the Kaczawskie Mountains

Particularly recommended places include all the highest peaks, as well as the lagoon Lake Pilchowice in the Beaver Valley. Worth seeing is Borowy Jar, along with the Pearl of the West hostel located on Lake Modry in the extremely picturesque Beaver Gorge (north of Jelenia Gora). Also noteworthy is the Star Cave in Wojcieszow and the local quarry, no longer in use, from which you can enter two more caves.

Most Interesting Hills and Reserves

In the foothills it is worth going to: Ostrzyca (501 meters above sea level) with its basalt gołoborze, Wilcza Góra (364 meters above sea level) and “Wielisławskie Organs” – a reserve on Mt. Wielisławka (375 meters above sea level).

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