Kalenica (964 m a.s.l.) is the third highest peak in the Sowie Mountains (Owl Mountains) and one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the entire range. A historic steel observation tower, dramatic rock formations and a dwarf beech forest reserve make this summit well worth the hike.
The peak is built of ancient gneisses and migmatites, and its rocky character is best seen at the outcrops known as 'Dzikie Skały' (Wild Rocks). From the top of the observation tower you get a sweeping panorama over the town of Bielawa, the village of Jugów and the surrounding Sudeten hills. The slopes shelter a remarkable stunted beech forest protected as the 'Bukowa Kalenica' nature reserve — a spectacular sight in autumn colours. In winter the summit is peaceful and snow-covered; in spring the beech leaves unfurl against the grey rocks in a beautiful contrast.
How to reach the summitThe tower was funded by the Sowie Mountains Society (Eulengebirgsverein) and was originally named 'Hindenburgturm' — today it is one of the few surviving pre-war steel observation towers in the Sudetes and a landmark in its own right.