Nowa Ruda is one of those places on the map of Lower Silesia, which still remains underestimated and at the same time hides a huge tourist potential. Located in the picturesque Kłodzko Valley, surrounded by the Owl and Bardzkie Mountains, it is an interesting destination for both a weekend getaway and a longer holiday. Nowa Ruda is a city with a soul, where the history of mining is combined with charming architecture, interesting walking routes and attractions for the whole family. Though associated by many mainly with a former coal mine, this is only part of what it has to offer. What is New Redhead known for? Here are its biggest attractions.
New Ruda and its attractions
One of the main attractions of New Ruda is the Underground Tourist Route at the Coal Mine. This is a place where visitors can literally feel the atmosphere of the old mining industry. Guides — often former miners — show groups around in helmets and lamps, sharing authentic stories from their days working underground. How long does it take to visit the Nowa Ruda mine? The standard tour lasts about 1.5 hours, but it is worth booking yourself more time to carefully inspect the exhibitions and take advantage of additional attractions, such as a ride on the mining coaster.
New Ore offers tourist attractions not only underground. One of the most interesting places is the Stillfried Castle. This property dates from the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries and was for many years the seat of the Stillfried House, owners of New Ore. Although the interior is not regularly available for visitors, cultural events such as exhibitions and concerts are held there on selected days. The façade of the castle and the adjacent park impress with Renaissance architecture with Baroque elements, and the old walls attract lovers of history and photography. Nearby there is also a former conservatory and ruins of outbuildings, which give the place a special atmosphere. Nowa Ruda Castle is situated on a light hill overlooking the Włodzica Valley.
Read also: Wambierzyce — basilica, movable nativity scene, calvary and other popular attractions
Mountains around Nowa Ruda — a paradise for walkers and cyclists
What mountains are there in Nowa Ruda? First of all, the Owl Mountains, with the highest peak the Great Owl, but there are also Table and Bardzkie Mountains nearby. Active recreation is definitely one of the biggest attractions here. For hiking enthusiasts, Nowa Ruda offers hiking trails in varying degrees of difficulty — both for beginners and more advanced walkers. The most famous routes lead towards the Owl Mountains, from which there is a beautiful panorama of the Kłodzko Basin. Popular trails include the red trail leading from the centre of Nowa Ruda through the Jugowska Pass to the Wielka Sowa (1015 m above sea level), the green trail from Ludwikowice Kłodzki to Kalenica and the route from Jugowo to Słoneczna — a viewpoint with a picturesque landscape. In the summer season, MTB cycling routes through forest paths around Srebrna Góra and Nowa Ruda are also very popular.
Nowa Ruda — attractions for children
What does Nowa Ruda have in store for the youngest tourists? Children's attractions are not just a mine. In the city there is a modern playground at the J. Czechowicz City Park, where children can spend time outdoors and parents relax on benches among the greenery. A big attraction is also the Traffic Town with mini roads, signs and traffic lights — a great place to learn by playing. During the summer season there are also cultural events organized by the Municipal Cultural Centre, such as performances for children, open-air family cinema and creative workshops.
Walk through Nowa Ruda — hidden corners and local climate
Walking around the city, it is worth straying from the main trail and looking into less obvious corners. What's interesting about Nowa Ruda? The streets around the market hide real gems — like the iconic cafe “Górnicza”, decorated in retro style with exhibits related to the local industry, or the atmospheric tea house “Zielona Wzgórze” with a view of the Włodzica Valley. Also worth visiting is the Cultural Centre of the Commune of Nowa Ruda in Ludwikowice Kłodzkie, which organizes exhibitions of local artists and chamber concerts. Nowa Ruda and its attractions are also the City Park with a charming pond and a monument to the miner, which is an important point on the historical map of the city. An interesting stop during the walk will also be the historic water tower, which offers a panorama of the surrounding hills.
Also check out: Kłodzka Basin — excursions worth going on
Where to stay? Peaceful rest close to attractions
Nowa Ruda is a place that is definitely worth entering your travel list. Although small, it can surprise with its richness of attractions and authentic atmosphere. For everyone — regardless of age and interests — there will be something interesting here. Nowa Ruda presents attractions in a unique way, encouraging you to explore the Kłodzko Land from a new perspective. It is an offer for those who are looking for real experiences — not necessarily in crowds, but in places with history, climate and character.
Visiting Nowa Ruda and Lower Silesia, after an eventful day, it is worth planning a quiet evening in a cozy place away from the hustle and bustle. An excellent choice will be accommodation in Zieleniec — one of the most famous mountain resorts in this part of Poland. On the Szarotka website you can book comfortable rooms at the property located right on the slopes and trails.
Photo: Jacek Halicki CC BY-SA 3.0 en
