Amusing one day trip from Wroclaw: Ksiaz Castle

You can take a train from Wrocław to the Wałbrzych Miasto station. From there, buses 8 and 12 will take you to the Palm House and Ksiaz Castle. It’s recommended to check the schedule online for the most accurate timings.

The main attractions in this area are Ksiaz Castle, the Palm House, the horse stables, and the underground tunnels. We visited three of these and began our tour with Ksiaz Castle.

Ksiaz Castle is the third largest castle in Poland, boasting a rich history that spans over 700 years. The castle has undergone numerous expansions and renovations under various noble families, most notably the Hochbergs, including the famous Princess Daisy. During World War II, the Nazis seized the castle and integrated it into the secretive Project Riese.

Today, Ksiaz Castle is open for visitors and research. The main building is surrounded by a vast park featuring gardens and natural landscapes. As you walk through the grounds, you'll encounter beautiful flower beds, hiking paths, observation decks, and several buildings. Near the castle, you'll find the Hochberg Chapel Grave, which was initially a summer pavilion and later converted into a tomb. We even spotted deer during our walk.

The castle courtyard is a charming area with beautiful statues and stunning views of the surrounding hills and woods. From this vantage point, you can observe a more modern section of Ksiaz Castle. There are also restaurants here for a convenient dining option.

Inside Ksiaz Castle, you'll find plenty of rooms and halls adorned with exquisite details. The audio guide allows you to dive deep into the context of what you see. One of the highlights of our visit was the photography exhibition within the castle walls, showcasing the life and daily routines of Princess Daisy and her family, captured by the court cook. These authentic photos provide a captivating journey through time. Another unforgettable sight is the Maximilian Hall, often referred to as the pearl of Ksiaz Castle, with its golden decor and grandeur.

From April to September, you can enjoy the incredible gardens of Ksiaz Castle, which can be visited separately from the main castle. There are 12 terraces in total, each offering unique and beautifully landscaped designs. Additionally, you can find another perspective of Ksiaz Castle from the oldest part. These outdoor spaces are perfect for photography, relaxation, and enjoying the serene natural beauty that surrounds the castle. In this area, there is also a café where you can take a tasty break with a perfect view.

The historic stables, situated near Książ Castle, serve as a breeding center for Silesian horses. Visitors can enjoy horse riding and rent carriages.

Palm House is located around 2 km from Ksiaz Castle. This wonderful place is built like a present for Princess Daizy from her Husband so it’s literally the biggest bouquet of flowers.

The building includes several interconnected halls and greenhouses, each housing different types of plants. Also, you can find here some residents like a white peacock and other birds, turtles, and lemurs. We also find a bonsai threes exhibition with many kinds of such threes.

Additionally, there is a store with plants and a cafe here.

Call it a day at the Palm House Café, which features a beautiful interior. Enjoy a drink and a dessert while spending time in the indoor or outdoor café areas, reflecting on a day well spent exploring the wonders of Książ Castle and its surroundings.