San and Vistula Valley
Down the San Valley near Leżajsk
XML, 34.17kB
About this route
A very easy scenic route. It showcases the beautiful views of the San River valley, which, although largely adapted for agricultural needs, can still reveal its wild side in dense forests. You will also encounter architectural gems and monuments related to the local population's struggle for freedom.
Practical advices
Although this route is not demanding, it is worth preparing for it properly, so that nothing surprises you at any point. Start with the most important thing, which is your helmet. A good helmet is essential for your safety. Take care also of proper lighting, both front and rear. In addition to bike lights, equip your bike with reflectors so that you are highly visible on the road.
What else is worth taking with you on a trip? Make sure to pack a sweatshirt or a rail jacket in your backpack, in case the weather changes. It is also a good idea to bring snacks to give you energy during the trip. Protein bars or energy mousses work well.
If you plan to take visit the attractions along the route, you will need to leave your bike behind in some places. To make sure it is still there after the tour, be sure to bring a bike safety device such as a U-Lock or any bicycle lock.
Dolina Sanu i Wisły
Audiodeskrypcja tekstowa
Route details
Leżajsk – Ożanna – Kuryłówka – LeżajskStart
- 1Leżajsk0 kmLeżajsk
It is an interesting urban case that the market square in Leżajsk, the historical centre of the town, is located on the southern edge of the town. It is beautifully preserved – Art Nouveau townhouses in the frontage, which are neighboured by only one modernist monstrosity built during the People's Republic of Poland, and an eclectic town hall are a delight to the eye and evoke memories of the good times under the rule of Emperor Franz Joseph. Exit the market square heading towards Przemyśl on Jarosławska Street and turn onto Burmistrzów Zawilskich Street. After 500 metres, turn right onto Zmulska Street, and then left onto kpt. Kuczka Street. Shortly after leaving the town, you will pass straight through the village of Wierzawice. After 3 km of travelling through the agriculturally utilised San River valley, you will cross the river and enter Rzuchów. Turn left and stick to this road, which will lead you through fields and then a forest to Ożanna.
- 2Ożanna10.5 kmOżanna
Do you want to relax or sunbathe by the reservoir? Ożanna is a quiet and peaceful place, so you can afford to do that, especially since today's route is quite short. Having left the forest, turn left and then again left, following the signpost to Leżajsk. A short stretch through the forest and hectares of fields, and you are in Tarnawiec. Interestingly, this village was founded in 1786 and was a German village. Until 1939, it was named after the native place of the relocated people – Dornbach. The name was changed in March 1939, a change that was confirmed after World War II. You will exit Tarnawiec heading straight to Kuryłówka.
- 3Kuryłówka15 kmKuryłówka
This is an interesting place because in 1946, soldiers from the Polish independence underground, from the National Military Organisation, fought here on May 7, 1945 – a day before the end of World War II – a battle with NKVD units. The village defenders repelled three Soviet assaults, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy of 37 men, with their own losses of 5 killed and 5 wounded. For this resistance, Kuryłówka paid a bloody pacification. This battle is commemorated on one of the plaques at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Warsaw. A monument is located near the Church of St. Joseph. Heading west from Kuryłówka, you will reach regional road no. 877. Turn left onto it, following the sign to Leżajsk. Through fields and a bridge over the San River, you will enter Leżajsk, a part called Old Town. Follow the main road. You will pass a school and a beautiful classicist church of St. Andrew Bobola. The proportionality and beauty of its structure, the composition of its portico supported by 4 Doric columns, the intricacy of its architrave and the richness of its interior in terms of furnishings and polychrome are impressive, as is the dome built on a massive drum. Heading south on the chosen road, you will cross railway tracks, and keeping to the left, you will navigate a roundabout. Along the way, you will also notice the Museum of Leżajsk Land, a very interesting place. Soon, you will be back in the market square.
- 4Leżajsk23.1 kmLeżajsk
Your trip ends near your starting point. Did you know there is also a beautiful Baroque defensive complex with the church of the Bernardine Fathers to visit here? You will surely want to explore it!