Witches' Waterfall

Witches' Waterfall, also known as Ciężkowice Waterfall, is located in the picturesque Ciężkowice Gorge, also called Witches' Gorge, in the town of Ciężkowice in Lesser Poland. Situated in the mesoregion of the Ciężkowice Foothills, the waterfall is a popular tourist attraction that draws nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Access to the waterfall begins at the blue hiking trail leading from the Ciężkowice-Staszkówka road. At the entrance to the gorge, there is a parking lot and a camping area for tourists. The gorge is formed from Ciężkowice sandstone and features a stepped structure with two drops, reaching a total height of 14 meters. From the lower drop of the waterfall, only the lower sections are visible, while the upper part remains hidden. The water cascading over the drops has carved typical potholes into the rocks, adding to the appeal of this place. It is worth noting that during prolonged dry periods, the stream may dry up completely, but after heavy rainfall, the waterfall becomes particularly spectacular. In winter, it transforms into an icefall, providing an additional attraction for visitors. The name of the waterfall refers to local legends in which witches met with devils here to hold their sabbaths. This combination of history, legends, and natural beauty makes Witches' Waterfall an appealing destination for tourists and folklore enthusiasts alike.