History

Battle of Leuthen

The Battle of Leuthen, fought on December 5, 1757, marked a major triumph for Frederick the Great, as his smaller Prussian army defeated the larger Austrian forces through superior strategy and tactics during the Seven Years’ War in lower Silesia.

The Battle of Leuthen: A Masterstroke of Military Genius

Strategic Situation

The Austrian army, led by Prince Charles Alexander of Lorraine, had gained control of Silesia, with its capital Breslau falling into Austrian hands. Frederick's objective was clear: to recapture the economically vital province of Silesia. By December 2, Frederick had consolidated his forces, which included remnants of the "Silesian Army" under Prince August Wilhelm of Brunswick-Bevern, defeated at Breslau.

Maneuver to Battle

Frederick's army, totaling around 33,000 men, marched toward Leuthen, where the Austrian army, twice the size of Frederick's force, had established its position. The Austrians, confident in their superior numbers, extended their line over a front of nearly nine kilometers.

Soliders of the "Königlich Bayerisches Infanterie-Regiment Großherzog Ernst Ludwig von Hessen" — A historic infantry regiment of the Royal Bavarian Army

Battle Unfolds

The brilliance of Frederick's strategy was evident in his deployment. On the morning of December 5, the Prussian army, organized into two central infantry wings and two flanking cavalry wings, moved toward Borne. From a vantage point in Borne, Frederick observed the Austrian positions and recognized the potential of the Schleier- and Sophienhügel hills to shield his flanking maneuver.

Tactical Deployment

Frederick executed a daring tactical plan. He ordered a series of feints by his left wing to fix the Austrian forces in place while he stealthily maneuvered his right wing, comprising a significant portion of his infantry and cavalry, to strike the vulnerable southern flank of the Austrian line. This movement, hidden by terrain and executed with precision, caught the Austrians off guard.

Map of the region

The Assault

The Prussian right wing, under the cover of hills, moved south and then southwest, eventually pivoting to form a diagonal line against the southern end of the Austrian line. This oblique formation allowed Frederick to concentrate his forces at the point of attack, achieving local superiority despite his overall numerical disadvantage. The Prussian attack began with an intense artillery bombardment, followed by an infantry advance led by General von Zieten's cavalry.

Austrian Response

The Austrian left wing, primarily composed of troops from Bavaria and Württemberg, crumbled under the unexpected and concentrated Prussian assault. As the Prussians pushed forward, the Austrian line began to falter, with Prince Charles struggling to reposition his troops to meet the threat. However, the rapidity and ferocity of the Prussian attack, coupled with Frederick's excellent use of terrain and maneuver, left the Austrians reeling and unable to form an effective defense.

A battalion of the veteran Rot-Wurzburg Regiment in Leuthen’s Roman Catholic church.

The Climax and Aftermath

The decisive moment came with a bold charge by the Prussian cavalry, which broke through the Austrian lines, causing widespread panic and disarray. The Austrians, overwhelmed and outflanked, began a disorderly retreat. Frederick's army pursued vigorously, inflicting heavy casualties. The battle, though costly for the Prussians, was a tactical masterpiece and marked a turning point in the Seven Years' War, reaffirming Prussia's military prowess and Frederick's reputation as a brilliant commander.

The victory at Leuthen was not just a triumph of strategy and tactics but also a testament to the discipline, training, and morale of the Prussian Army. It showcased Frederick's ability to leverage his smaller, well-drilled force against a larger adversary through superior maneuvering and battlefield innovation, setting a precedent in military history that would be studied and emulated by future generations of military leaders.

Your Connection To The Battle Of Leuthen

The Seven Years' War left an indelible mark on Niederschlesien (Lower Silesia) and the surrounding areas of the Lodge, enriching the region with historical significance. Visiting this area, you can immerse in a past where the echoes of this global conflict are still evident in numerous sites and stories

The site of the Battle of Leuthen and around is dotted with battlefields and memorials, local tour operators offer guided tours of significant Seven Years' War sites and museums in the area, like the Silesian Museum, feature exhibits dedicated to the Seven Years' War

Distance:

80

Drive time:

1:30 h 

Duration:

min. 3-4 h 

Background Information

New Expeditions

Lodge Activity

Offroad Tour

From forested slopes and winding trails to mountain paths and offroad routes, Lower Silesia has it all. And The Oak Lodge is your perfect base for thrilling offroad adventures. Whether you’re an experienced offroader or a first-timer, the landscapes surrounding the lodge offer a mix of challenge, beauty, and excitement.

Read more

Short Expedition

Farmers Market

The Lwówek Śląski Targ Rolny has quickly grown into a space where sustainability, community, and authenticity come together in the most natural way.

Go shopping, meet the people behind the products, and enjoy the feeling of being part of something local and meaningful

Read more

Lodge Activity

Vision Quest

If you’re searching for answers, wanting to embark on a deeper journey within, or simply needing time away from the fast-paced modern world. The Vision Quest is a powerful and transformative practice that can help you gain clarity, hear your inner voice, and connect with the wisdom of nature.

Read more

Arrangements & Packages 

We want every stay to be a unique and wonderful experience. That's why we regularly offer changing arrangements and packages to make your visit  even more memorable. The offerings vary depending on season, holidays, or special occasions, ensuring there's always something new.

Book Now

Stay at

The Lodge

The Oak Lodge


Outdoor Adventure Lodge

The Valley


Nature & Wilderness

Discover

Little Oak


Individual Holiday Homes

Discover

Have Fun

& Explore

Day Trip



Cities & Architecture

Wrocław (Bresslau), is the capital of Lower Silesia and was shaped by various cultures over the centuries. Today, it offers visitors a unique blend of historical landmarks, dynamic city life and warm hospitality. Wrocław has something special for everyone.

Read More

Lodge Activity



Celebrations & Events, Group Activity

Celebrate your love at a magical place with a timeless atmosphere surrounded by nature. In Lower Silesia, the wild heart of Europe, nested between breathtaking landscapes and historic walls, you’ll find the perfect setting to make your wedding unforgettable.

Read More

Lodge Activity



Hiking & Biking, Lost Place, Nature & Wilderness

Embark on a journey beyond the usual trails to uncover fascinating history or reconnect with the elements and nature. An authentic experience for you alone and alongside equal-minded.
Find adventure for the heart and freedom for the soul—we will guide you there!

Read More

Short Expedition



Castle/Palace, Hiking & Biking, Nature & Wilderness, Ruin

The ruin of Lenno castle, stands majestically on a rocky promontory overlooking the Bóbr Valley in Lower Silesia, Poland. This site, which has been a sentinel over the valley for centuries, tells a tale of power, war, and decay that continues to fascinate visitors to this day.

Read More

Short Expedition



Castle/Palace, Hiking & Biking, Ruin

Deep within the forests, the ruins of Bolczów Castle stand as a testament to a rich and tumultuous history. This once-majestic fortress, now a picturesque ruin, continues to captivate visitors with its stories of medieval lords, wars, and changing times.

Read More

Lodge Activity



Restaurants & Shops

Shopping may not be the reason for your visit to The Lodge, but it’s reassuring to know that everything you might need for your adventures is just a stone’s throw away. Here, we’ve gathered the most essential addresses for shops in the surroundings for you.

Read More

Day Trip



Hiking & Biking, Nature & Wilderness, Watersports

In the southwest of Poland, nestled among the gentle hills and rugged mountain ranges of Lower Silesia, the Bóbr River meanders through a landscape that is both picturesque and full of historical places waiting to be discovered.

Read More

Lodge Activity



Nature & Wilderness

If you’re searching for answers, wanting to embark on a deeper journey within, or simply needing time away from the fast-paced modern world. The Vision Quest is a powerful and transformative practice that can help you gain clarity, hear your inner voice, and connect with the wisdom of nature.

Read More

Experience

The Extraordinary

Przemysław

Outstanding Atmosphere



We spent 5 unforgettable days here. The surroundings are perfect for a city dweller – meadows, orchards, forests. Seclusion from the surroundings and the feeling of finally being able to breathe.

The building exudes history, creaks, smells of wood – that's its charm!

Krzychu

Action & Relaxation



An absolutely unique place, the atmosphere of a 200-year-old half-timbered house is impossible to imitate/repeat.

Great as a starting point because the area is full of attractions, it works great as an escape from the city hustle and bustle, you can calm down and just relax.

Marta

Perfect Getaway



We experienced magical moments... silence that rang in our ears, walking on the surrounding hills, wonderful autumn colors, slightly frozen grass, a deer that looked us straight in the eyes :). Beautifully restored interiors let you dive into another dimension of reality. We will definitely come back in summer!

Feel At Home

The charm of the buildings, the wide landscape, the tranquility of the surroundings, and the deliberately low number of guests all contribute to really making you feel nestled in nature. The privacy and exclusive atmosphere will give your stay the feeling of being in your cozy home away from home!

Feel Wellcome

At The Oak Lodge, you can expect a wonderful atmosphere and a relaxed ambiance. Everything is designed to ensure you feel comfortable and welcome at the moment you arrive. From the warm lighting to the hand-picked furnishings, every detail is crafted to make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Feel The Magic

Search for adventures or find serenity. Whether you're strolling through the woods, unwinding by the crackling fireplace, or embracing the tranquility, within the natural beauty, here you can revitalize and recharge. Explore the magic of this place and take something with you to the “Outside World”!

Feel Wellcome

At The Oak Lodge, you can expect a wonderful atmosphere and a relaxed ambiance. Everything is designed to ensure you feel comfortable and welcome at the moment you arrive. From the warm lighting to the hand-picked furnishings, every detail is crafted to make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Feel At Home

The charm of the buildings, the wide landscape, the tranquility of the surroundings, and the deliberately low number of guests all contribute to really making you feel nestled in nature. The privacy and exclusive atmosphere will give your stay the feeling of being in your cozy home away from home!

Feel The Magic

Search for adventures or find serenity. Whether you're strolling through the woods, unwinding by the crackling fireplace, or embracing the tranquility, within the natural beauty, here you can revitalize and recharge. Explore the magic of this place and take something with you to the “Outside World”!

Relax & Nature Spa

Lobby, Bar & Library

Outdoor Locations

1000 Mbit Wi-Fi

Own Water

Tea & Coffe

Regional Fruits

Meals Available

Fresh Air

Dark Nights

Sounds of Nature

Acres of Freedom

Book Now

>