Polichno: Cycling and Gliding History

Polichno can be explored in two very different ways: by following a cycling route that passes through the village, and by learning about the history of gliding in the region. There is also a memorial site in nearby Gościniec. For planning, both the approximate route distances and the different sites connected with aviation history are worth noting.

Cycling routes and distances

The black “Skały i jaskinie” cycling route passes through Polichno. It is about 26 kilometres long, and the ride takes approximately three hours. This gives you an idea of the route’s length and the time needed for a cycling trip. Allow for the approximate duration and check the current route conditions locally before setting out.

Another route detail concerns the first section of the walking and cycling path, just under 1.6 kilometres long. It opened in 2022 and connects Gościniec with Polichno near the school. The 1.6 kilometres refers to this first section, while the approximately 26 kilometres refers to the length of the “Skały i jaskinie” cycling route. The year of opening refers to the first section.

Gliding history in Polichno

The LOPP Polichno–Pińczów Gliding School, named after General Leon Barbecki, was formed by merging the gliding clubs of Pińczów and Polichno. Its history links the two places in a specific historical context.

The primary school in Polichno houses numerous exhibits relating to the gliding school once based there. There is also an exhibition on the region’s aviation history. Information panels tell visitors about General Stanisław Skalski, one of the best-known pilots of the Second World War. The regional exhibition therefore broadens the focus beyond the school itself. If you would like to see the exhibits and panels in person, arrange your visit with the school beforehand.

Barbecki and Skalski represent different connections: the gliding school is named after Barbecki, while Skalski is featured on the panels at the primary school. Together with the school exhibits, they offer a perspective on the school’s origins and on the portrayal of an individual pilot.

Memorial site in nearby Gościniec

In nearby Gościniec, not in Polichno itself, stands the aviators’ monument, erected in 1992. It commemorates the heyday of the gliding school, as well as its instructors and students: Polish pilots who fought for their country’s independence during the Second World War.

Every September, the Municipality and Town of Chęciny organises commemorations there for the aviators, instructors and graduates of the school who fought and fell in the Second World War. If you plan to include a commemoration in your trip, check the specific event date. For planning your time, note that the cycling trip is estimated to take approximately three hours, while the commemorations are held every year in September.

Discover more destinations: Nowa Słupia, Piekoszów, Chrusty, Zaborowice, Chmielnik, Mniów, Bodzentyn, Kołomań

For the broader travel overview: Kielce.