Roztoczański National Park modernizes for visitors

Roztoczański National Park will gain modern educational infrastructure thanks to funding from the FEnIKS program. The park not only protects nature but also plays an important educational role, strengthening the bond between humans and the natural world. The new investment in the nature and education center is intended for both local residents and tourists. What exactly does the project include?

Ecology and education in the heart of the forest

The funding agreement for the project New horizons of education in Roztoczański National Park was signed yesterday by Robert Gajda, Deputy President of the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOŚiGW), and Tadeusz Grabowski, Director of the Park. The total cost of the venture is estimated at over PLN 50 million, with 70 percent covered by the European Funds for Infrastructure, Climate, Environment 2021–2027 (FEnIKS), under action 01.05 Protection of nature and development of green infrastructure, type: Development of capacities and improvement of management in protected areas – Educational bases in national parks.

The planned actions include a comprehensive modernization of the oldest museum-educational center in Poland. The facility will become not only more attractive to visitors but also environmentally friendly, thanks to the use of energy-saving technologies.

In addition, the project includes the creation of two educational paths – the first, multisensory, will allow visitors to experience nature with all their senses. The second is a treetop walkway, offering a bird’s-eye view, an underground tunnel, and a walk along the crest of a dune. A new observation tower is planned on Polak Hill, offering an impressive panorama of Roztoczański National Park.

Natural treasures of Roztocze still underappreciated

Roztoczański National Park was established 50 years ago to protect the remnants of the primeval forest. Over 95 percent of the park is covered by forest, dominated by beech and fir trees. Among the most interesting ecosystems are xerothermic grasslands and wetlands surrounding the Wieprz River and its tributaries. It is worth noting that this upland region contains some of the largest underground water resources in Poland.

The park includes five strict protection zones, which together cover 12 percent of the total area. The largest of them – Jarugi – is a network of charming ravines and gorges, rich in valuable spring habitats. Among the most precious representatives of Roztocze flora are coralroot bittercress (Dentaria bulbifera), northern twinflower (Linnaea borealis), as well as carnivorous sundews (mainly round-leaved sundew) and slender sedge found in peat bogs. Botanical diversity is further enhanced by elements typical of warmer habitats, such as lesser quaking-grass and germander, along with steppe species like the Siberian bellflower.

Zoology enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either. Roztoczański National Park is home to the rare beetle Eurythyrea austriaca, the only native turtle species in Poland, and the unique turquoise slowworm. Overhead, one may spot the lesser spotted eagle or the black stork, while in the thickets hides the shy capercaillie – a species endangered in Poland.

Why is it worth visiting Roztoczański National Park?

Although the ambitious development plans for public spaces in Roztoczański National Park are still awaiting implementation, it’s already worth spending a weekend there. Among the top local attractions is the Polish primitive horse breeding center – a preservation site for this ancient breed descended from the wild European tarpan, which roamed Polish forests as late as the 18th century. In addition to the small, hardy horses, the center is also home to rare livestock breeds, such as white-backed cattle and Uhrusk sheep – maintained under genetic resource conservation programs.

Fans of hiking can explore the scenic Echo Ponds, where a beautiful bathing area awaits. After a refreshing swim, it’s worth climbing Bukowa Góra, offering postcard-perfect views of Roztocze. This area includes a strict protection zone with 50-meter-high firs and typical mountain vegetation. For the grand finale, visit Zwierzyniec – a historic town founded by the Grand Crown Hetman Jan Zamoyski, who was fond of Roztocze. And it’s easy to see why.