Hiking to Chojnik Castle with Your Dog

Chojnik Castle, sits majestically atop a hill and invites adventurers seeking both history and stunning views. And what better companion to share this journey with than your loyal furry friend? Prepare your hiking boots, leash up your dog, and explore this amazing trail together! We took our kids as well 🙂

The Trail Details

• Trail Name: Sobieszów – Chojnik Castle
• Location: Jelenia Góra, Lower Silesian, Poland
• Length: Approximately 3 km (there and back)
• Estimated Time: Half a day with the time spent on the castle itself

The Adventure Begins

1. Starting Point Park your car in Sobieszów. There’re few parkings spots, where you can leave your car for the whole day for 10 zł. Start your hike following red path. Then you can change it to black or continue on red. The black path is is more rocky, so you may consider choosing this path based on your and your dog and kids abilities. We started off with black path and finished with red.

2. Enormous Boulders The part with the huge stones might me more interesting than the forest path, so embrace the variety! The enormous boulders seems also as a perfect way to explore hidden nooks.

3. Entrance Fees Remember that there’s an entrance fee to Karkonoski National Park. It’s worth for the breathtaking views and the chance to explore Chojnik Castle. It’s a separate admission than the one to the castle.

4. Castle Views As you approach the castle, the reward awaits. The ruins of Chojnik Castle stand proudly, and the panoramic view from the top is amazing.

Tips for Hiking to Chojnik Castle with Your Dog

1. Leash Up: Keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and maintain safety.
2. Water Breaks: Bring water for both of you. There are no doggy water fountains on the trail!
3. Paw Protection: Check your dog’s paws for any cuts or discomfort.

A Bit of History

Chojnik Castle was built in the 14th century on the initiative of Bolko II, Duke of Świdnica and Jawor from the Piast dynasty. It served as a border fortification of the duchy. Its location was difficult-to-access, that’s why the defensive qualities. In addition, on the south side, the building is protected by a 150-metre-high cliff. Initially, the construction of the castle was wooden, but it was changed to brick already in the Middle Ages. Over the years, the castle was extended and modernised several times. In the 16th century, the building came into the hands of the mighty German Schaffgotsch family, to whom it owed its Renaissance redevelopment. Over time, the fortress was abandoned by its owners in favour of the neighbouring castle in the nearby town of Cieplice. Its fate was sealed by a lightning bolt which struck the castle in 1675 and started a fire. Thus, the once magnificent fortress became a picturesque ruin, which we can still admire today.

A Local Legend

According to legend, a castellan once lived here with his daughter Kunegunda. The castellan insisted one day that he would go around the castle on horseback, despite the fact there’s been a high cliff . The father, full of bravado, fell off a steep cliff, and the distraught daughter decided that she would only marry the daredevil who succeeded in the art of making a full circuit of the castle. Many daredevils died in this way, until finally a knight appeared in the castle courtyard who enthralled Kunegunda to such an extent that she was willing to waive the strict conditions. However, the knight insisted that he would also take up the challenge. He quickly jumped on his horse and rode it around the castle. On his return to the overjoyed girl, however, he threw in only briefly that he had not done it for her, but for all the young knights who had lost their lives because of her whim. The upset Kunegunda threw herself into the abyss and the story ended.

Your dog will love it

Chojnik Castle with your dog will be an unforgettable experience! As you explore, imagine your dog as a castle guard, patrolling the stone walls. The view from the castle tower—priceless!

Remember, every paw print on the trail is a memory made. So, leash up, take in the fresh air, and let your dog lead the way. Happy hiking!

Staying a night?

The two closest cities are Szklarska Poręba and Jelenia Góra. So stay there a night and find even more attractions. Both offer a wide range of accommodation, from the cheaper options to those for more demanding. There’re hotels with spa like Hotel Grey Spa or Happy Valley Resort. Family friendly apartments like Willa Słoneczna Róża pokoje ze śniadaniami and most of of Pet Friendly accommodation.