Blog: Exploring Zakrzówek: A Unique Blend of Nature and Design
By Kate Astbury, Junior Landscape Architect
“Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Zakrzówek swimming pools, a former limestone quarry near Kraków, Poland that has been transformed into an oasis. It was a perfect example of how thoughtful design can balance accessibility and safety while allowing people to connect with nature in an unforced, authentic way.
A Hidden Gem: Limestone Quarry Turned Oasis
I try to immerse myself in nature around my birthday each year, and this time my partner and I explored Zakrzówek—a beautiful lake encircled by hiking trails. What stood out immediately were the floating swimming pools, ranging in depth from shallow ponds for children to deeper pools for adults. These pools added a layer of accessibility and safety to what was once a dangerous spot. It was impressive to see how this unregulated swimming area had been reimagined into a space where families, locals, and visitors alike could relax and enjoy the environment.
Whilst wandering through the trails, we discovered hidden play elements like swings and ping-pong tables, creating a sense of playful discovery. The site was largely frequented by locals, which gave it an intimate charm. Families, children, and teenagers were scattered across the area, finding joy in the water and the landscape.
I felt this was a clear example of design encouraging exploration, gently nudging visitors towards moments of delight—whether it be a swing perched overlooking a cliff edge or a quiet spot to take in the views.
Joy of Play for All Ages
Experiencing spaces like Zakrzówek reminds me of the value of playfulness in our lives as adults. The swings, water activities, ping-pong tables, and the winding trails invite us to step away from our daily routines and reconnect with that sense of joy and freedom, which is so crucial for our mental and physical health.
My favourite element along the trails were undoubtedly the swings. There’s something timeless and joyful about them, and their placement within the landscape was so thoughtful. It felt like an organic discovery rather than a planned feature, and it added to the sense of playfulness throughout the site.
Balancing Recreation and Ecology
One of the most admirable features of Zakrzówek is its delicate balance between recreational use and ecological preservation. Educational boards dot the park, emphasising the importance of protecting local flora and fauna. The design encourages playful interaction with the space while subtly steering people away from more sensitive areas. It’s a thoughtful approach, blending enjoyment with a respect for nature.
That said, you could still see groups, particularly teenagers, pushing the boundaries, exploring cliff edges and more secluded spots. There’s a sense of adventure there. The park has a no-alcohol policy, and police patrol during the day, maintaining a safe, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a space designed for community gatherings too. There’s no entry fee, and the openness of the space makes it feel as though it belongs to everyone.
Although parts of the site were still under development—some toilets weren’t open yet—the accessibility was already evident, with ramped entrances to the swimming areas and some hardstanding paths. It was clear they are continuing to invest in making the space even more welcoming and accessible to all visitors.
Engagement Beyond the Ordinary
In addition to families setting up picnics and taking dips, there were also paddleboarders and even a diving school that uses the site for training. They’ve found fascinating things underwater—an entire bus, for example. It adds an element of adventure, encouraging people to engage with the space on multiple levels.
Seamless Aesthetics
The aesthetics of the spaces were equally impressive. The use of natural timbers and muted greens and greys in the signage ensured the built elements blended seamlessly with the environment. Even the gravel paths fit well, though some accessibility issues with people slipping were noticeable.
Climate and Community
While there, I couldn’t help but think of the untapped potential in the UK. With the changing climate, spaces like this could come in handy in the UK too. We have reservoirs that could serve a similar purpose, especially for those far from the coast.
I’ve had a similar experience in Norwich on a particularly hot day when we visited a nearby lake. A friend in our group who is Polish pointed out that the Polish community often gather there on a hot day for a swim and BBQ. It struck me that we don’t embrace these kinds of spaces enough and that it is a great idea to utilise our natural environments to improve both our mental health and our connection to our wider communities.
I couldn’t help but think how much more inviting it would have felt with some thoughtful design, much like Zakrzówek. Kraków managed to maintain a natural feel while making the space more accessible and enjoyable.
Room for Growth
While Zakrzówek is a remarkable space, I believe there are opportunities for enhancement. For instance, increasing the number of shaded areas near to the swimming pools would make the site more comfortable during hot summer days, allowing visitors to swim for longer without seeking cover.
Additionally, I would add more toilets as there were extremely long queues to use the limited amount provided.
By addressing these areas, Zakrzówek could elevate its status as a premier destination for all who seek to connect with nature.”