Żerkowsko-Czeszewski Landscape Park

The Żerków-Czeszewo Landscape Park, established in 1994, is located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship and covers an area of 15,794.84 hectares. Situated in the floodplain of the Warta River, the park is distinguished by its unique terrain, including two hills: Łysa Góra and Góra Żerkowska. The park protects valuable ecosystems, including complexes of oak-hornbeam forests and riparian forests. Within the park, there are many significant architectural landmarks, such as the palace in Śmiełów, where Adam Mickiewicz stayed during the summer of 1831, and the 15th-century Gothic church in Dębno. In Miłosław, the 19th-century neo-Renaissance palace of the Mielżyński family has been preserved. The park also includes nature reserves such as Czeszewski Las and Dwunastak, as well as Natura 2000 areas. The flora of the Żerków-Czeszewo Landscape Park is exceptionally rich, with around 800 plant species, including rare orchids and other valuable varieties. The fauna is symbolized by the black stork, and approximately 150 bird species nest in the park. It is also home to numerous species of bats, amphibians, and fish, including the weatherfish. The area is further characterized by a wealth of invertebrate fauna, including rare snails. The park is a popular tourist destination, offering diverse cycling and hiking trails, as well as educational paths managed by the Jarocin Forest District. The Warta and Lutynia rivers provide opportunities for water-based tourism. The observation towers are also noteworthy, offering panoramic views of picturesque forest complexes and riparian woodlands along the Warta. The Żerków-Czeszewo Landscape Park is a unique place that combines cultural, natural, and historical richness, attracting nature and history enthusiasts alike.