Old Morava – Between History and Nature. A Complete Guide to Żwieść Kłodzka with a World-Class Reservoir

Stara Morawa is an extraordinary village located in the heart of the Kłodzko Valley between the twin towns of Stronie Śląskie and Kletno. Formerly known by its German name Alt Mohrau, this picturesque location attracts tourists from all over the world, not so much for its buildings or architecture, but primarily for its greatest treasure – the Stara Morawa Reservoir, one of the most beautifully situated water reservoirs in Poland. The history of Stara Morawa dates back to medieval times, when it was established as a forest settlement on the edge of the forests stretching in the valleys of the Morawka River. Today, this place is an ideal destination for families looking for active recreation, landscape photography enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of cities and immerse themselves in pure nature.

History of Stara Morawa – From Medieval Forest Settlement to Modern Family Resort

The history of Stara Morawa has deep roots in the medieval Kłodzko Land. The village most likely originated as a forest settlement, and the first reliable mentions of its existence come from 1364. However, researchers of the region’s history suggest that the village may have been mentioned even earlier – in a document issued on February 14, 1346 in Prague by Prince John of Luxembourg, based on which the fiefdom of Karpień estates was granted along with the village of Morawa.

Etymology of the Name and Language of the Landscape

The name of the village refers directly to the name of the Morawka River, which flows through its area. The German etymology of the river’s name comes from the Indo-European word Marahwa, where moor means “swamp” and ahwa – “standing water.” This is a very accurate description, as the Morawka River actually originates from marshy mountain areas. The name Marahwa eventually transformed into the colloquial March, which is the equivalent of the Slavic word Morava. According to the linguist Klemenz, this name may have arrived in the Kłodzko Land from northern Moravia, making the history of Stara Morawa part of a larger, pan-Slavic story of settlement and migration of peoples.

Medieval and Early Modern Period

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Stara Morawa was a center of economic life connected with nearby iron smelting. In a document from 1588 or 1605, the village is mentioned in the context of an ironworks operating here, belonging to the Karpień state. This ironworks processed ore from deposits in the nearby Białe Mountains. This type of economic activity was characteristic of the entire Kłodzko Land, where mineral resources attractedenterprising people since medieval times.

Transformation of Ownership and Development of Buildings

In 1684, Stara Morawa was acquired by the Althanns – a magnate family with extensive latifundia in Silesia. Later, the Wallis family became the owners of the estate, and during their time – specifically in the second half of the 18th century – the village began to develop intensively. In 1786, Stara Morawa became part of the famous “Stronie Key” (territorial estates belonging to the Stronie line), undergoing further ownership changes along with the other villages of this complex. Each change of owner brought new investments, expansion of buildings, and modernization of infrastructure.

The German Era and Transformation into a Modern Spa

From the mid-19th century to 1945, Stara Morawa functioned under the name Alt Mohrau within the German province of Silesia. During this period, the village experienced dynamic tourist development, especially thanks to the already well-known reputation of the entire Stronie Śląskie area as a place full of natural charms. The Germans invested in infrastructure, building roads and recreational facilities, treating Stara Morawa as part of a larger tourist system of the Kłodzko Land.

Return to Poland and Contemporary Identity

A turning point for the village came in 1945, when the entire Kłodzko Land was administratively annexed to Poland. In 1946 – and formally by a regulation of the Ministers of September 9, 1947 – the Polish name Stara Morawa was restored to the village, replacing the German Alt Mohrau . From that moment on, the village has consistently developed as a Polish tourist and recreational center, and the local community has worked to restore awareness of its Polish historical heritage.

Stara Morawa Reservoir – One of the Most Beautiful Artificial

Reservoirs in Poland

If the history of Stara Morawa is its body, then the Stara Morawa Reservoir is its heart. This magnificent artificial water reservoir is the main tourist attraction of the village and one of the most visited places for families with children in the Kłodzko Land.

Technical Parameters and Hydrological Significance

The Stara Morawa Reservoir is one of the highest artificial water reservoirs in Poland, located at an altitude of approximately 525 meters above sea level. The reservoir was created in 2007 with European funds, representing an innovative solution for both recreational purposes and the retention function – storing water in case of torrential rains. The reservoir’s area is 5.5 hectares, making it an ideal size – large enough to provide various attractions, yet small enough to be fully encompassed by the eye from the hills surrounding the reservoir.​

The reservoir is located between two important towns in the region – Stronie Śląskie and Kletno, making it an excellent starting point for trips to both directions.​

Recreational Infrastructure – A Complex on an International Scale

The complex by the reservoir is extremely well-equipped and is one of the most modern tourist installations in the entire Kłodzko Land. It has everything you need for a full day of fun and relaxation.

Guarded Swimming Area with Sandy Beach:

The main attraction is a modern, guarded swimming area with a natural sandy beach located on the south-western shore of the reservoir. The beach is perfectly prepared for everyone, from the youngest paddlers to advanced swimmers. During the summer season (usually from June 15 to August 31), lifeguards are on duty, and admission to the beach is symbolic and very inexpensive. Outside the summer season, admission to the entire reservoir area is free, making it a great place for walks throughout the year.​

Pier and Observation Tower – A Unique Attraction:

One of the most distinctive structures in the reservoir area is the pier with an observation tower. The observation tower standing on the pier is – according to many tourist guides – the only one of its kind in Lower Silesia, and certainly the most beautiful from the point of view of views. From the top of the tower, there is a panoramic view of the entire water surface of the reservoir and the surrounding mountain slopes. On clear days, from the tower you can see the outlines of the Śnieżnik Massif, the Białe Mountains, and the Złote Mountains – all three main mountain ranges of the Kłodzko Land.​

Water Equipment Rental:

There is a modern marina with water equipment rental on the reservoir area, available especially in the summer season. Tourists have at their disposal:​

• Kayaks and two-person kayaks – ideal for couples and families

• Water bikes (pedalos) – great fun for the youngest and older people

• Boats – for romantic rides on the reservoir

• Rafts – for larger groups

All equipment is safe and regularly serviced, and the workshop staff instructs each renter to ensure comfort and safety.

Sports and Play Zones:

The complex is equipped with two professional fields for team games – basketball and volleyball – equipped with a grandstand for the audience. It is an ideal place for groups of friends or teams who want to play a match together in beautiful natural conditions. Next to the fields there is also an outdoor chess area and a table tennis table – perfect for those who prefer mental entertainment.

Children’s Playground:

A special playground with a climbing wall has been prepared for the youngest children. The recreational zone for young children also includes a paddling pool – a shallow tank with warm water, where even three-month-old babies can safely splash.

Fishing Zone:

In a remote part of the reservoir, there is a special fishing zone, ideal for fishing enthusiasts. The reservoir is rich in pike, perch and carp – species very popular among Polish anglers.

Wake Up Park – Extreme Water Attractions:

The complex has a Wake Up Park, full of advanced water attractions for adrenaline and extreme sports enthusiasts. The park offers equipment rental for wakeboarding and other disciplines that require skill and courage.

Camping and Camping Site – Accommodation Close to Nature

In the south-western part of the reservoir complex there is a well-equipped camping and camping site. People who want to spend the night in the bosom of nature can pitch their tents in a safe, marked area with access to an open tourist kitchen and a sanitary and hygiene unit. It is an ideal solution for families who value camping, as well as for school youth organizing summer camps.

Gastronomy in the Reservoir Area

In the reservoir area, especially in the summer season, there are several small gastronomy points offering ice cream, waffles, drinks and snacks. You can buy traditional Polish pancakes, sweet desserts, coffees, teas and refreshing drinks here – all in a great atmosphere by the water.

Practical Information and Conditions of Access

Location and Access:

The reservoir is located at ul. Sportowa, Stara Morawa. The nearest larger town is Stronie Śląskie (about 3 km), from which there is a well-marked road. From Wrocław to Stara Morawa it is about a 2-2.5 hour drive by car (approx. 180 km).

Opening hoursOtwarcie:

• Summer season (June 15 – August 31): Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (possible extensions until 8:00 PM on particularly hot days)

• Off-season: Area available year-round – parking and casual entry to the park are free

Entrance Fees:

• In the summer season: Symbolic entrance fee to the beach (usually 5–10 PLN for adults, free for children)

• Off-season: Free access to the area

Parking:

A convenient parking lot is available in the reservoir area. It can be crowded in high season between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on sunny weekends, so it’s worth arriving early or outside of peak hours.

Hiking Trails and Active Recreation around Stara Morawa

Stara Morawa] is an ideal starting point for lovers of trekking, mountain climbing and landscape photography. The mountains surrounding the reservoir offer excellent tourist routes with varying levels of difficulty.

Walking Trails

The yellow tourist trail leads from the reservoir towards the famous Bear Cave in Kletno – this passage takes about 1–1.5 hours and leads past the “Łaskawy Kamień” lime kiln. The blue trail from Stronie Śląskie to the reservoir takes about 45 minutes and is accessible to everyone, including children. From the reservoir, you can also turn towards the Śnieżnik Massif – these are trails for more advanced tourists.

Bike Trails

In the vicinity of the reservoir, a network of modern singletrack cycling routes – “Pętle Rudka” – dedicated to mountain bikes has been created. Well-paved bicycle paths surrounding the reservoir and leading to nearby villages are available for less advanced cyclists.

Attractions in the Neighbourhood

From the reservoir in Stara Morawa, it is worth visiting several additional places:

• Bear Cave in Kletno – the largest cave in Poland, located just a few kilometers from the reservoir

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Museum of the Earth in Kletno – exhibition of minerals, fossils and the geological history of the region

• Uranium Mine in Kletno – historic mine open to tourists

• Czarna Góra (Black Mountain) – scenic peak with a panorama of the entire Kłodzko Valley

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Summer (June–August)

The summer season is when the reservoir complex is in full swing. The bathing area is open, lifeguards are on duty, all catering points are open, and the water equipment rental is fully operational. This is an ideal time for families with children, although it can be crowded on weekends and the parking lot can be full.

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn landscapes in the Kłodzko Valley are extraordinary – the colors of falling leaves, fewer tourists, and the ideal temperature for trekking. The reservoir remains accessible, although the bathing area closes seasonally (usually August 31).

Spring (March–May)

Spring is a time of nature’s rebirth. Daffodils and snowdrops bloom in the nearby forests, the mountains are snowy, and birds return. A great time for nature photography.

Winter (December–February)

Winter in the Kłodzko Valley is a time of frost, snow and beautiful landscapes. The reservoir freezes over, creating opportunities for skaters and winter walkers. Nearby ski slopes (Kamienica, Czarna Góra) are in full operation.

Practical Information – Summary