The best road cycling routes around Lędziny

Cd... To close the loop and return to the car, simply head north from the ponds along a flat, well-paved path running along the edge of the forest, which will lead us straight back to the starting point. The entire route is technically easy, safe for seniors, and passable for strollers equipped with larger, off-road wheels.

Visiting the tower is the perfect excuse for a varied, family-friendly walk in a closed loop of about 6 kilometers, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. It is best to start the trip from the free forest parking lot located on Słowackiego Street in Chełmek, from where a clearly marked path leads to the top of the hill. The first stage is a gentle ascent through a shaded beech forest to Skała Hill and the entrance to the "Kometa" observation deck. After enjoying the views, the route continues along an educational forest path in a southeasterly direction. The path descends into the valley and leads walkers directly to the revitalized Municipal Ponds in Chełmek. It is an excellent place to rest – a modern promenade with benches and piers runs around the water mirrors, and the renovated "Rybakówka" building and the historic pumping station with the "Skała i światło" art installation attract attention. Cont. below...

The "Kometa" Observation Tower named after Rittmeister Witold Pilecki in Chełmek is a modern, 36-meter steel structure that rises on the wooded Skała Hill (295 m above sea level). The name "Kometa" refers to the characteristic shape of the structure, and the patronage commemorates the historical escape route of the Rittmeister from the Auschwitz camp, which led through the local forests. The main attraction of the tower is a viewing terrace suspended at a height of 26 meters, secured with platforms. In favorable weather conditions and good air clarity, you can admire an impressive, panoramic view of the Oświęcim Valley, the Foothills, the Beskids, and even the distant peaks of the Tatra Mountains. The facility is managed by MOKSiR Chełmek and is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (and during the summer season, under favorable conditions, these hours may be extended to 7:30 PM).

📌 ATTRACTION: Observation Tower of Lt. Col. Witold Pilecki „Kometa” 📍 LOCATION: Chełmek, Skała Hill (295 m a.s.l.) 📐 HEIGHT: 36 meters (viewing platform at a height of 26 meters) ⏱️ VISIT TIME: Difficult to determine 💰 ENTRANCE: Free

The revitalized, historic heart of the city, officially known as Farski Square. It is the ideal place for a short rest during a bike or walking tour. The square's name comes from the former parish church (rectory), around which this charming market square was created. It is worth stopping here by the fountain, seeing the characteristic Bell Tower Gate, and the historic building of the current library. Around the square, you will find benches, shade from trees, and local shops where you can easily replenish your supplies for the rest of your route.

Passing by the train station in Chełm Śląski, it's worth taking a look at this extremely interesting water tower. The facility is located on the grounds of the former Woodworks of the Coal Industry. This historic place is still called "Szwelownia" by the locals today, because years ago, wooden railway sleepers (so-called "szwele") for Silesian mines were mass-produced here. Although the area of the former works and coal depot is currently unused, the characteristic silhouette of the water tower is a great landmark for cyclists and industrial architecture enthusiasts. The structure is best viewed from behind the fence on the access road side, making it an ideal drive-by stop on the route.

Tower built in 1956 to supply power to the nearby railway station. Its height is about 30m. The fenced area is reportedly abandoned.

Well-maintained cross with an inscription in German. An additional plaque dedicated to a person who tragically died at this spot.