History

Via Regia

The Via Regia, also known as the King’s Road, is a historic road, with origins dating back to the early history of Europe. Crossing it on a total length of more than 4000 km, it formed one of the most important west-east connections on the continent for centuries.

History Across Europe

Origin and Development

The roots of the Via Regia date back to the time of the Roman Empire. However, the route became one of the most important trade routes in Europe, especially in the Middle Ages. It reached its greatest importance between the 13th and 17th centuries. The Via Regia extended over a length of about 4,000 kilometers, connecting the Spanish Atlantic coast with Kyiv in Ukraine. On its way, it crossed historical regions such as Galicia, Silesia, Saxony, and Thuringia.


Significance for Trade and Culture

The Via Regia was more than just a trade route; it was a lifeline for cultural and economic exchange between Eastern and Western Europe. The road facilitated the transport of goods such as cloth, salt, furs, and agricultural products, thereby contributing to the economic growth of the cities along its route. Moreover, it was a way for pilgrims, merchants, armies, and artists, thus contributing to the exchange of ideas, languages, and cultural influences.

The Via Regia in Germany and Poland

The Via Regia was of great significance not only in Germany but also in Poland. In Germany, it traversed the core regions of the Holy Roman Empire, linking major trading cities such as Frankfurt am Main, Erfurt, Leipzig, and Görlitz. These cities flourished due to the influx of merchants and pilgrims traveling along this route. The Via Regia also played a crucial role in political and military affairs, being a key route during the Crusades and various military conflicts in later periods.

In Poland, the Via Regia was equally important, serving as a vital corridor for trade and cultural exchange. It connected Polish cities with their German counterparts, facilitating not only commerce but also the flow of ideas and cultural influences between Eastern and Western Europe. Key Polish cities along the Via Regia included Wrocław, a major medieval trading center, and Kraków, renowned for its historical significance.

Your Connection To  the Via Regia

The Via Regia is not a single destination, but a historical fact to keep in mind when exploring the Area around The Lodge. Here you will find numerous remnants of medieval architecture and sites closely associated with this significant trade route. 

While direct Roman structures in this area are rare, as the Roman Empire did not extend its borders to these regions, everything had a significant development during the Middle Ages. 

This is particularly visible in the architecture of the surrounding towns and villages. Historical city walls, some of which are still preserved today, as well as impressive town halls in Brick Gothic style, bear witness to the importance and prosperity of the region. Gothic churches from the 13th century, such as the St. Peter and Paul Parish Church, display typical architectural features of this era.

This includes various castles and manor houses, such as the ruins of Gryf Castle, which was likely built in the 13th century and served as an important control and security post along the Via Regia

In addition to these prominent buildings, the area also has numerous smaller churches and chapels from the Middle Ages, some of which have been elaborately restored. They offer a vivid picture of the religious and cultural life of that time.

Distance:

4500 km

Riding time:

 6 months

Duration: 

Ages 

Background Information

New Expeditions

Lodge Activity

Fishing

Fishing is a way to reconnect with nature while engaging in a rewarding pursuit and amazing for a short escape.
While you’re staying at The Oaklodge, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to enjoy a tranquil fishing experience at a a charming trout pond hidden in the woods and nearby locations.

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Lodge Activity

Shooting Range

Shooting can be a lot of fun and is also a sport that challenges your concentration and focus. If you’re interested in trying it out, there are several shooting ranges near the Lodge where you can do professional training, have some fun with your friends or just give it a try.

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Lodge Activity

Eat & Drink

During your visit to Lower Silesia, you will not miss out on culinary delights.
There are many restaurants available within short distances, even by foot. Here are some tipps worth visiting, where you can eat or pick up delicious food. -Or even have it delivered right to the doorstep of The Lodge.

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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.

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Stay at

The Lodge

The Oak Lodge


Outdoor Adventure Lodge

The Valley


Nature & Wilderness

Discover

Little Oak


Individual Holiday Homes

Discover

Have Fun

& Explore

Short Expedition



Hiking & Biking, Mountainsports, Nature & Wilderness

The Kolorowe Jeziorka, or “Colorful Ponds”, are a remarkable natural attraction and a fascinating example of how human activities can transform the natural landscape and how nature adapts to create unique and beautiful ecosystems.

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Lodge Activity



Castle/Palace, Cities & Architecture, Lost Place, Nature & Wilderness

The Oak Lodge is your perfect base if you want to capture the beauty of nature through the lens of your camera. Centrally located, it provides excellent access to a variety of impressive natural sceneries and historical sites, starting right in front of the door.

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Short Expedition



Hiking & Biking, Mountainsports, Nature & Wilderness

In the heart of Lower Silesia, where nature has created its own mythical world, lies the Ostrzyca Proboszczowicka Nature Reserve. It’s known for its unmistakable landscape and the majestic Ostrzyca – an extinct volcano.

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Short Expedition



Hiking & Biking, Mountainsports, Nature & Wilderness

The Kamieńczyk Waterfall, Zackenfall or Wodospad Kamieńczyka stands as the highest waterfall in the Polish part of the Giant Mountains. It plunges dramatically from a height of 27 meters (about 89 feet) cascading down three impressive tiers of rock.

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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.

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Short Expedition



Cities & Architecture, Hiking & Biking

Lwówek Śląski, formerly known as Löwenberg, was first documented in 1217 as “Lewenberc” and established as part of the first clearing settlements carried out by Duke Henry I in the 13th century. As one of the oldest towns in the region, it provides insight into the complex history of Silesia.

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Short Expedition



Cities & Architecture, Hiking & Biking, Nature & Wilderness, Watersports

The Pilchowice Dam, known in Polish as Pilchowickie Zapora was constructed in the early 20th century. The impressive bulding continues to serve as a hydroelectric power station and a bulwark against flooding in the area of the Bóbr valley.

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Day Trip



Hiking & Biking, Lost Place, Nature & Wilderness

The Przemkowski Park is an expansive, predominantly flat landscape characterized by marshes, heathlands, pine forests, lakes and even a desert. Besides countless cycling and hiking trails as well as rare and protected plants and animals, there is also history to be discovered.

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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

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