Siedlce Desert

The Siedlecka Desert is a small desert covering an area of 25 hectares, located in the village of Siedlec on the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland, in the Częstochowa County. Until the 1960s, the area was used for sand extraction, but it is now forested with pine trees, giving it a unique character. Within the desert lies a small pond called "Oaza," surrounded by marsh vegetation, creating a natural habitat for numerous species of fauna and flora. The desert is a popular tourist attraction and a place where motorsport enthusiasts can test their skills in specific conditions. The area also hosts desert runs, such as the 1st National Desert Run "Pustynna10" and the 1st Polish Desert Running Championships, held on August 8, 2009, and 2010, respectively. The vegetation features typical desert species, such as grey hair-grass, sandy everlasting (a protected plant), and annual pearlwort. At the highest point of the dune, there is an information board with a panoramic view. The place is steeped in legends; according to one of them, the devil burned the ground while chasing Pan Twardowski, who was escaping on a rooster. Near the Siedlecka Desert, visitors can also find the inactive Warszawski Quarry, which serves as an additional attraction.