The Nysa Kłodzka Valley is the spine and aorta of the Kłodzko Land. It is a river that sculpts the landscape, gives life to unique ecosystems and tells the history of the region, meandering through its most important cities and most beautiful corners. Its course is a fascinating journey – from a wild, crystal-clear stream beating in the heart of the Śnieżnik Massif, through spectacular mountain gorges, to wide, quiet pools at the mouth of the Oder.
As the hosts of “Gołąbek”, living just a few kilometers from its sources, we feel a deep bond with this river. We want to take you on a journey along this path, creating the most complete guide ever created. We will discover the secrets of its ecosystem, learn about fauna and flora, point out the best kayaking routes and visit historic towns whose fates are inextricably intertwined with the river.
The Beginning of Everything: Virgin Springs of Nysa Kłodzka
Every great river has a humble beginning. Nysa Kłodzka is born at an altitude of approximately 1,010 m above sea level, on the slopes of Trójmorski Wierch in the Śnieżnik Massif. This is an absolutely magical place, being the confluence of three seas: the Baltic, the North and the Black. The small, crystal clear stream that flows here is the beginning of a 182 km long river. In its highest parts, it is a wild mountain stream flowing through dense forests of the lower montane, and its water is so clean that it is a home for the most demanding species.
Mountain Run – Land of Trout and Clean Water
From its sources to Kłodzko, Nysa Kłodzka retains its mountainous, rapid character. It flows through picturesque, deeply incised valleys, passing historic towns such as Międzylesie with a huge castle and Bystrzyca Kłodzka with a perfectly preserved medieval urban layout.
Ecosystem Upper Valley
This section of the river is a biodiversity hotspot. The rocky bottom, well-oxygenated, cold water and natural, forested shores create ideal conditions for a unique ecosystem. It is here that you can feel the true, unspoilt nature of the Sudetes.
Fauna and Flora: What Hides in the Water and on the Shores?
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Fauna: The headwaters are the kingdom of brown trout andgreyling, fish that are bioindicators – their presence proves the highest purity of waters. On the shores you can meet the span – an unusual bird that can dive and walk on the bottom in search of food. With a bit of luck, you may spot traces of activity of an otteror the majestic silhouette of a black stork.
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Flora: The banks are covered with riparian forests with alder and willow. There are many protected species in the forest floor, and in spring the valley is covered with carpets of flowers.
The Bardzki Gorge – The Most Beautiful Water Trail of the Sudetes
Between Kłodzko and Bardo, Nysa Kłodzka does the impossible – instead of taking an easier route, it breaks through the hard structures of the Bardzkie Mountains, creating a breathtaking, 15 km deep canyon calledBard Gorge. The river meandering among steep, forested slopes creates one of the most beautiful landscapes in Poland.
Kayak Trails: Practical Guide to Kayaking
The Bardzki Gorge is a mecca for water tourism enthusiasts.
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Difficulty: The route is very easy and safe, ideal for beginners and families with children. The current is calm and the only “difficulty” is admiring the views.
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Organizers: There are many companies organizing rafting and kayaking trips in Bardo and surrounding towns. They provide all equipment and transportation back to the launch site.
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Duration: The rafting trip on the most popular section from Ławica to Bardo takes about 2.5 – 3.5 hours.
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What will you see? Unforgettable panoramas of the Bardzkie Mountains, lush nature and the feeling of being completely cut off from civilization.
Historical Towns on the River: From Kłodzko to Nysa
Nysa Kłodzka has been the axis of settlement for centuries, and important historical cities have grown on its banks.
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Kłodzko: The historic capital of the region, with the mighty Kłodzko Fortress dominating the city and the iconic Gothic stone bridge over the Młynówka (Neisse Canal), which is a miniature of the Bridge Charles in Prague.
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Bardo: A charming town located in the heart of Przełom, known for the Marian Sanctuary and Góra Kalwaria with chapels.
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Nysa: Called the “Rome of Silesia” due to the wealth of religious monuments. The river played a key role in the city’s fortification system.
Lowland Run and the Great Lakes: The Kingdom of the Birds
Behind Nysa, the river leaves the mountains and becomes a typical lowland river with a slow current. It is here that two huge dam reservoirs were created –Jezioro OtmuchowskieandJezioro Nyskie (also called Głębinowski). They are not only an important element of the flood protection system, but also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and ornithologists. This area is a bird sanctuary of European importance, where you can observe thousands of geese, ducks, cormorants and waders. The Nysa Kłodzka ends its journey by entering the Oder north of Brzeg.
“Gołąbek” – Perfect Base for Discovering the Sources of Nysa Kłodzka
If you want to get to know Nysa Kłodzka in its most original, wild and pure form, you have to start from the beginning. “Gołąbek” in Stronie Śląskie, located just a dozen or so kilometers from the sources of the river, is an ideal place for this. Our location is an ideal base for trips to the Śnieżnik Massif trails, including Trójmorski Wierch. After a day spent hiking in the mountains following the traces of the river’s birth, here you will find peace and comfort to plan further exploration of its extraordinary valley.
