A forest and lake reserve Łężczok

This unique nature reserve was founded in 1957 to protect diverse bog forest and Cistercian fish ponds. The fauna of Łężczok includes 249 species of birds, several hundred of invertebrates, more than 46 species of mammals. Of course, that is not all. Among the animals there are also protected species like Roman snail (helix pomatia), common toad (Bufo bufo), green toad (Bufo viridis), fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina), common spade foot (Pelobates fuscus), European crested newt ( Triturus cristatus) , and common newt (Triturus vulgaris), common tree frog (Hyla arborea), grass snake, sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), hedgehog, shrew, squirrel, weasel, and various and numerous species of birds. Many animals belong to endangered species or may soon become ones (according to the criteria established by IUNCN). The flora of Łężczok is represented by more than 400 vascular plants, including 70 species of trees, and 54 species of spore plants, and about 30 species of protected plants like: glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common periwinkle (Vinca minor), round leaf sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis), common bladderwort (Utricularia vulgaris ).

This unique flora and fauna can thrive in Łężczok thanks to its favourable bio geographical factors. Łężczok is located on a bird migration route.

The territory of reserve is covered by numerous and very old trees including a 400-year-old oak ( Quercys robur ). The oak, so-called Sobieski oak, is one of the three oldest trees growing in Cistercian Landscape Compositions of Rudy Wielkie.

Apart from that, the visitors can stroll along the Polish Hussars’Alley, and its red trail and admire old oaks and beeches (some of them were planted by Jan III Sobieski). The trail is 158 kilometres long.

Lężczok is situated only a few kilometres from Raciborz. To get there the tourist should go straight down the road number 919 to Gliwice, pass Markowice and turn left. It is necessary to leave the car in front of the entrance. It is also advisable to visit Łężczok on foot or by bicycle. Please, do not forget to take your camera.