Chotowa offers two clearly distinct nature trails: the approximately 3 km “Torfy” nature and forest education trail, which takes about two hours to walk, and the green hiking trail, which covers approximately 18 km and is listed as taking around 4.5 hours. Other highlights include the “Torfy” nature reserve, the Grota Najświętszej Marii Panny, and the reservoir amid pine and oak forests. The options range from wetland habitats and longer routes to a historic grotto and relaxation by the water.
Nature Reserve and Nature Trails
The “Torfy” nature reserve was established in 1987 and covers approximately 12 ha. It is located in Głowaczowa and Chotowa, in the municipality of Czarna, within the Dębica Forest District. The “Torfy” nature and forest education trail starts beside the Chapel of St. Hubert on the Chotowa–Grabiny route. It runs through the protected area and is approximately 3 km long; it takes about two hours to complete.
The seven stations cover the protection of the natural habitat of the round-leaved sundew, as well as numerous species and plant communities found in wetland areas. The trail thus focuses on habitats and plants. For a longer route through Chotowa, there is the green hiking trail through the municipalities of Czarna and Pilzno: it runs through Grabiny, the “Torfy” nature reserve, Chotowa, Machowa, the “Słotwina” nature reserve, and Podlesie Machowskie.
The approximate figures help distinguish the time required: about two hours for the education trail compared with around 4.5 hours for the green hiking trail. The distances also differ: approximately 3 km compared with about 18 km. The education trail focuses on wetland habitats and its seven stations; the green trail passes through two municipalities and a series of named places. Check current trail conditions before setting out.
Grota Najświętszej Marii Panny
The Grota Najświętszej Marii Panny in Chotowa was built in 1958. A spring beside the grotto was already known in the 19th century. The inscription “Pielgrzymie spocznij u stóp Marii, to matka Twoja” is carved into the stone. In essence, it means: “Pilgrim, rest at Mary’s feet; she is your mother.” The text makes the grotto’s religious significance explicit and adds a cultural dimension alongside the nature-focused themes of the education trail.
The Reservoir Between Forest and Water
The reservoir in Chotowa lies amid extensive pine and oak forests. A description published in 2022 places it on the grounds of the “GRAND” recreation and training center, halfway between Pilzno and Czarna. The reservoir is considered a place for relaxation by the water, enjoying nature, and spending time at the beach; water sports, fishing, and mushroom picking are also associated with it.
This makes it different from the trails: the reservoir offers water-based recreational activities alongside its forest setting, while the nature and forest education trail centers on its seven stations and wetland areas. If you plan to take part in any of these activities, check in advance which are currently available.
Discover more destinations: Pilzno, Parkosz, Podgrodzie, Grabiny, Brzeźnica, Góra Motyczna, Dębica, Pustków-Osiedle.
Go to the main travel overview: Dębica.
