INTRODUCTION
The 18th European Cave Rescue Meeting is going to take place in Wojcieszow (Voy-che-shoov), Poland, September 25-28th 2025.
Pre ECRA Meeting: 24-25 September 2025.
This meeting is organized by GOPR and GRJ on behalf of the European Cave Rescue Association (ECRA).
During the Pre-Meeting you can enjoy caving, cave diving and visits to tourist destinations. We are preparing several interesting locations.
Please also visit our website www.caverescue.eu for last minute changes or send us an email on info@caverescue.eu in case of any question.
Please note the date for the ECRA meeting in your diary!
We look forward to meeting you in Poland!
The Organizing Committee
Table of Contents
TIME SCHEDULE
PROGRAM
Visit Program page to see updated program for the 18th European Cave Rescue Meeting
LOCATION
A small town located on the Kwisa River, with about 3000 inhabitants. It is an important point on the speleological map of Poland. There are several caves in the area, including the Wojcieszowska Rift – the second deepest cave outside the Tatra Mountains.
The town has a rich speleological tradition. For many years, the Polish Championships in Cave Techniques were held here. In Wojcieszów there is also a cottage of one of the local clubs, which serves as a base for speleological and training activities.
EVENT AREA
Available facilities:
- Two conference rooms
- Conference tents on-site
- A room in the local primary school (900 m from the resort)
- Municipal auditorium (2 km from the resort)
Photos: Dinko Novosel
EXERCISE AREA
In the town of Wojcieszów and in its close vicinity there are quarries that can be used during the event.
The “Gruszka” Quarry
Located 2 km from Meeting place, widely accessible and equipped with permanent climbing points.
The “Gruszka” Quarry. Photos: GOPR and GRJ archive
The “Winnicki” Quarry
It is located in a closed mine, 3 km from Meeting place. An ideal place for team practice of rope techniques and passage enlargement.
The “Winnicki” Quarry. Photos: GOPR and GRJ archive
The “Zimnik” Quarry
Located about 40 km (40 minutes) from Meeting place. The facility allows you to conduct exercises in the field of diving techniques in combination with surface techniques.
The “Zimnik” Quarry. Photos: GOPR and GRJ archive
Nowa Cave
Located 30 minutes from the meeting site. It is 227 meters long with a vertical range of 47 meters. Personal equipment is required. Nowa Cave features a large chamber and several narrower passages.
Nowa Cave. Photos: Rajmund Kondratowicz
CLIMATE IN POLAND
Poland has a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers.
Wojcieszów, located in the Sudetes, experiences slightly harsher conditions due to its mountainous terrain. Winters can be snowy and chilly, while summers are mild with occasional rainfall.
September in Wojcieszów is generally cool and pleasant, with temperatures gradually dropping and increased chances of rain. The area is known for its fresh air and scenic landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
PARTICIPATION FEE
The participation fee is 60 EUR and must be paid when the participant checks in.
Payment: only cash (Euro!) during the onsite registration.
The participation fee includes accommodation, breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the ECRA meeting.
Drinks are at your own expense.
ONLINE REGISTRATION
Online registrations have closed!
Accommodation: We provide accommodation in heated tents supplied by the State Fire Service. Participants staying in tents must bring their own sleeping bags.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
The official language of the European Cave Rescue Meeting and Pre-Meeting is English.
Simultaneous translation into other languages will not be available.
PRESENTATIONS
All presentations and documents should be written in English.
The email for sending your presentations is info@caverescue.eu (in PDF format!).
For the smooth running of the meeting, we kindly ask that you send us your presentations no later than one week before the start of the meeting.
We strongly encourage you to submit your presentations!
EXERCISES
Joint exercises will take place during the main ECRA Meeting on Friday 26 September 2025
Due to the growing need for cooperation between teams specializing in cave diving, cave rope access techniques and medical procedures, we are planning to organize a joint training exercise that will integrate the work of subcommittees (technical, diving, medical).
Carrying out such an exercise effectively requires a sufficient number of participants.
We would like to kindly ask each organization to consider delegating at least two members to take part.
The aim of this exercise is not only to improve operational procedures or exchange experience, but also to build a common language and mutual understanding between teams working in complex and challenging environment.
We truly believe that such initiatives have a real impact on both safety and the overall effectiveness of our work.
A preview of what these activities will look like
SRT sets (harness, helmet and SRT gear) will be available to borrow, but you must request one in the registration form. Availability is limited.
VISA
No visa is required from citizens of European countries.
Visitors from other countries should contact their Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
LETTER OF INVITATION
If needed, the participants can request a Letter of Invitation by email to: helpdesk@caverescue.eu.
SECURITY WARNINGS
No specific warnings for Poland. Public safety in Poland is very high.
CURRENCY
Currency in Poland is Polish Zloty (PLN).
EURO 1 = 4,21 PLN (02.02.2025)
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
All variations are possible for arrival – own car, bus, train, plane.
By bus and train, you can only travel to the nearest larger town close to Wojcieszów (20 km), Jelenia Góra.
From Jelenia Góra, you will need a car pick-up.
By Plane
- Wroclaw Airport
International airport about 99 km away from Wojcieszow - Prague Airport (Czech Republic)
International airport about 189 km away from Wojcieszow - Poznan Airport
International airport about 246 km away from Wojcieszow - Berlin Brandenburg (BER) Airport
International airport about 272 km away from Wojcieszow - Katowice Airport
International airport about 290 km away from Wojcieszow - Krakow Airport
International airport about 366 km away from Wojcieszow
By Bus
Buses operate on the Wrocław (and other Polish cities) – Jelenia Góra route (the nearest large town).
- Please check here: https://www.checkmybus.pl/wroclaw/jelenia-gora
- From Wroclaw and Prague, you can take also FlixBus.
By Train
There is a line from Wrocław (and other Polish cities) – Jelenia Góra.
- Please check here: https://koleo.pl/
- There is no train from Prague to Jelenia Góra!
PICKUP SERVICE
We will provide transfer to the meeting location from:
- Jelenia Góra bus and train station
- Wroclaw Airport
- Prague Airport
ACCOMMODATION
Provided by the organisers for pre-ECRA and Main Meeting (included in the participation fee).
Accommodation will be organized at the Sports and Recreation Center in Wojcieszów, on Górnicza Street.
We provide accommodation in heated tents with temporary camp beds supplied by the State Fire Service. Participants staying in tents must bring their own sleeping bags.
The centre offers access to toilets on-site and the sanitary facilities will be supplemented by a shower container.
Participants are also welcome to search for local hotels and guesthouses in the area if they prefer private accommodation.
MEAL AND DRINKS
Provided by the organisers ONLY for Main Meeting (not available during Pre-ECRA Meeting) and included in the participation fee.
“Speleo Bar” will be available during the afternoon and evening.
PRE-MEETING
Wednesday – Thursday, 24-25 September 2025
Lower Silesia is one of the most beautiful provinces in Poland, famous for its numerous castles, palaces and charming towns with picturesque old towns. However, this region offers much more – you will find numerous mines, undergrounds and tourist caves.
During the Pre-ECRA Meeting, we would like to present the greatest attractions of Lower Silesia to the participants.
The excursions can only be booked by conference participants.
Optional Pre-ECRA Activities
We are pleased to offer a series of optional excursions prior to the ECRA event. These activities will take place in the days leading up to the main meeting and provide an opportunity to explore the unique natural and historical attractions of the region. Please note that spaces are limited and advance registration is highly recommended.
Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Riese Complex + Grodno Castle (Ex-01)
Time: 09:00–19:00
Cost: €40
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant.
Description:
- The Riese Complex is a mysterious system of underground tunnels and halls excavated by the Germans in the Owl Mountains during World War II. Visitors can explore the dark adits in Rzeczka, Włodarz, and Osówka and learn about one of the largest Nazi construction projects.
- Grodno Castle in Zagórze Śląskie is a picturesque medieval fortress from the 13th century. It offers tours of the tower, dungeons, and chambers with historical exhibits, along with beautiful views of Bystrzyckie Lake and the Owl Mountains.
Both places combine history, mystery, and beauty of the Lower Silesia region.
Group size limit: 21 participants
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (transport is provided)
Links
Riese Complex:
- Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rd3QcjGGCNu6Bhod9
- Website: https://wlodarz.pl/
Grodno Castle:
Bear Cave (Tourist Route) (Ex-02)
Time: 09:00–19:00
Cost: €35
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant.
Description: The tourist route in the Bear Cave in Kletno is about a 40-minute, easy-to-walk path that leads through the most beautiful parts of the cave. Visitors can admire impressive rock formations, underground chambers, and corridors highlighted by lighting that emphasizes the natural karst shapes. The route is adapted for tourists and does not require any special preparation.
Group size limit: 14 participants
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (transport is provided)
Links:
Bear Cave (Sport Route) (Ex-03)
Time: 09:00–20:00
Cost: €20
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant
Description: The Bear Cave in Kletno is the longest cave in the Sudetes, known for its beautiful speleothems and rich geological history. The tourist route passes through impressive chambers and corridors, and the duration of the walk depends on the participants’ fitness level. It is estimated that visitors will reach the Champagne Chamber, one of the most beautiful and impressive karst chambers in Poland, located in the lower parts of the cave.
Temperatures: The cave maintains stable, cool conditions with temperatures around 6 to 8°C.
Group size limit: 14 participants
Note: No personal gear required, only a caving suit and boots. Expect generally dry conditions, though it may drizzle a bit at times after rain.
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (transport is provided)
Links:
Bare Cave. Photos: Szymon Kostka
Thursday, 25 September 2025
Diving part on Zimnik Quarry (Ex-04)
Time: 9:00-17:00
Cost: We will try to provide any missing equipment, however if necessary it can be supplied at a local diving centre at list prices.
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant
Description:
- Discussion of anchor point placement: expansion bolts (HST), PETZL PULSE anchors, screw-in MMS anchors, and SPIT anchor sleeves for underwater use
- Overview of tools used for anchor placement: traditional methods and drills – construction and application
- Guidelines for rigging with thick rope
- Rigging underwater
- Diver casualty transport: traditional methods and using DPV scooters
Group size limit: 12
Note: Drysuit, harness, individual diving equipment and ballast, scuba tanks will be available (it depends on whether there is enough for those interested, so please register early).
Contact person: Jaroslaw Kur (+48) 506 707 377, jarek.kur@gmail.com
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (transport is provided)
Links:
Diving in Poland. Photos: Przemyslaw Sekowski
Szczelina Wojcieszowska Cave (advanced level) (Ex-05-01 and Ex-05-02)
Time: 09:00–17:00 or 11:00–19:00 (two separate groups)
Cost: €10
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant
Description:
Trip for advanced cave explorers. Szczelina Wojcieszowska Cave is one of the longest and most well-known caves in the Sudetes, located in the Kaczawskie Mountains on the western slope of Mount Połom, near the town of Wojcieszów (Lower Silesian Voivodeship). It was formed in Devonian limestone as a result of karst processes.
Length: about 450 meters
Vertical range: 112 meters
The cave is vertical in nature, mostly consisting of crevices with several narrow passages and chokes, making it technically challenging. To traverse it, a suit and rope access equipment are necessary.The cave will be pre-rigged. The estimated time for a skilled group of seven people to complete the cave is about 6 hours. Access by car is possible close to the cave entrance, followed by a 500-meter walk.
A distinctive feature of the cave is its fissures layout and numerous speleothems such as stalactites, stalagmites, and draperies, although many of these formations have been damaged by earlier explorers.
Temperatures: The cave maintains stable, cool conditions with temperatures around 6 to 8°C.
Group size limit: 2 groups of 6 participants
Note: Personal gear (SRT) required, caving suit and boots! Take into account that there will be a very narrow squeeze to overcome! Expect generally dry conditions, though it may drizzle a bit at times after rain.
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (bus-transport is provided)
Links:
- Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9VCpzWArohp2JQVd9
- Website: https://epimenides.sktj.pl/inne/szczwoj_p.html
Szczelina Wojcieszowska Cave. Photos: Rajmund Kondratowicz
Rigging guide of Szczelina Wojcieszowska Cave
Książ Castle and Stara Kopalnia in Walbrzych city (Ex-06)
Time: 09:00 – 18:00
Cost: €45
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant
Description:
- Książ Castle in Wałbrzych is the largest castle in Lower Silesia and the third largest in Poland. Its history dates back to the 13th century, and during World War II, it was part of the Riese project. Today, visitors can tour the historic interiors, garden terraces, and underground tunnels.
- Stara Kopalnia is a revitalized complex of the former “Julia” mine, offering an underground route, historic machinery and exhibitions dedicated to mining history.
Both attractions are unique places combining history, culture, and technology.
Group size limit: 14 participants
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (transport is provided)
Links
Książ Castle:
Grodno Castle:
Kłodzko and Srebrna Góra Fortresses (Ex-07)
Time: 09:00 – 20:00
Cost: €45
Meals: Not included; lunch break planned at a local restaurant
Description:
A trip to the forts in Srebrna Góra and the Kłodzko Fortress is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the military history of Lower Silesia. Srebrna Góra is home to the largest mountain fortress in Europe, featuring a labyrinth of tunnels, impressive bastions, and picturesque views. The Kłodzko Fortress delights visitors with its underground mining routes and guides dressed in historical uniforms who bring to life the stories of the city’s former defenders. Both attractions offer a fascinating journey through time – ideal for an active and adventure-filled excursion.
Group size limit: 21 participants
Meeting point: Parking – MOSiR Wojcieszów (transport is provided)
Links
Klodzko Fortress:
Srebrna Góra Fortress:
Optional Self-Guided Trips – Our Suggestions for Sunday
For those who wish to explore the region independently, here are a few ideas for unforgettable day trips full of nature, history, and adventure.
Śnieżka (1,603 m asl)
Day: Sunday
Duration: Approx. 6 hours hiking + 1 hour drive
Main Attractions Along the Trail:
- Wang Church – A unique 12th-century wooden church originally from Norway
- Bronisław Czech Clearing – A scenic viewpoint and entrance to the Karkonosze National Park
- Samotnia Shelter – Beautifully located mountain refuge by the Mały Staw lake
- Strzecha Akademicka Shelter
- Równia pod Śnieżką – A high-mountain plateau
- Dom Śląski – The last stop before the summit
- Śnieżka Summit – The highest peak of the Karkonosze and Sudetes mountains (1,603 m)
Car park: Parking location
Entry Fees: Karkonosze National Park: 11 PLN (ticket booth at the entrance, card payment accepted)
Wang Church: 14 PLN (Visa and MasterCard accepted)
Map & Route:
Description: This classic hiking route from Karpacz to Śnieżka leads through iconic landmarks like Wang Church, Samotnia, and Dom Śląski. Expect breathtaking views and charming mountain shelters along the way.
Bolków Castle & Chojnik Castle
Day: Sunday
Duration: Approx. 5 hours including drive
Route:
- Bolków Castle
- Chojnik Castle
Parking:
- Bolków Castle
- Chojnik Castle (Paid parking)
Entry Fees:
- Bolków Castle: 20 PLN
- Chojnik Castle: 15 PLN + Karkonosze National Park entry: 11 PLN
Links:
Description:
A journey through the medieval history of Lower Silesia. Both castles rise scenically on hilltops, offering stunning views and rich legends. Easy walking trails lead to the sites, and each castle provides a glimpse into old defensive architecture.
Szczeliniec Wielki & Błędne Skały
Day: Sunday
Duration: Approx. 8 hours including drive
Route:
- Błędne Skały
- Szczeliniec Wielki
Parking:
- Błędne Skały (Note: one-way traffic system, parking fee: 30 PLN)
- Szczeliniec Wielki (Paid)
Entry Fees:
- Błędne Skały: 14 PLN
- Szczeliniec Wielki: 14 PLN
More info: Park website
Description:
This adventure in the Stołowe Mountains features a picturesque rock labyrinth at Błędne Skały and the region’s highest peak, Szczeliniec Wielki, known for its panoramic views. Expect short hikes, stairs, and narrow passages between rock formations.
Climbing in the Sokoliki Area
Day: Sunday
Duration: 30-minute drive from Wojcieszów
Climbing Areas: Sokolik, Sukiennice, Rudawy Janowickie
Parking: Map location (Paid)
Entry Fees: None
Useful Links:
Sokoliki Area. Photos: karkonoszego.pl
Description:
Sokoliki and the Rudawy Janowickie range form one of Poland’s top climbing areas, located near Trzcińsko and Karpniki (30 minutes from Wojcieszów). These granite crags offer hundreds of routes up to 70 meters high, mostly sport climbing with solid fixed protection, but also traditional lines. Climbing styles include cracks, slabs, and corners. The area is well-developed, with good access and facilities, including the Szwajcarka mountain hut. Suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Note: It will be possible to rent a TOPO guidebook upon prior arrangement.
PARTNERS
Marszałek Województwa Dolnośląskiego Paweł Gancarz
Miasto Wojcieszów
Website: https://wojcieszow.pl
Państwowa Straż Pożarna
Website: https://www.gov.pl/web/kgpsp
Fundacja GOPR
Website: https://fundacja.gopr.pl
ORGANISING COMMITTEE, CONTACTS
Local Organizing Committee
E-mail: ecrapoland@gmail.com
Grzegorz Michalek, GOPR Poland
Phone: +48 604 973 211
Marcin Feliks, GOPR Poland
Phone: +48 608 439 835
Ewelina Raczyńska, GRJ Poland
Phone: +48 602 614 691
Michal Macioszczyk, GRJ Poland
Phone: +48 514 257 317
Dinko NOVOSEL
President of ECRA
Hrvatska Gorska Služba Spašavanja / HGSS, Croatia
E-mail: president@caverescue.eu
Phone: +385 91 517 94 31
Werner ZAGLER
Vice President of ECRA
Höhlenrettungsverbund Deutschland / HRVD, Germany
E-mail: vice-president@caverescue.eu
Phone: +49 151 750 41 557,
+49 89 856 1328 (landline)
Ewelina RACZYNSKA
General Secretary of ECRA
Cave Rescue Group, Poland
E-mail: general-secretary@caverescue.eu
Phone: +48 602 614 691
Giuseppe CONTI
Chairperson of the Technical Commission
Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico / CNSAS, Italy
E-mail: technical-commission@caverescue.eu
Denes Akos NAGY
Chairperson of the Medical Commission
Hungarian Cave Rescue Service / HCRS, Hungary
E-mail: medical-commission@caverescue.eu
Robert ANZIC
Chairperson of the Cave-diving Commission
Jamarska Reševalna Služba Slovenije / JRS, Slovenia
E-mail: cavediving-commission@caverescue.eu
Werner ZAGLER
Chairperson of the Passage Enlargement Commission
Höhlenrettungsverbund Deutschland / HRVD, Germany
E-mail: pec@caverescue.eu
Pete ALLWRIGHT
Communications Working Group
ECRA (Honorary Member)
E-mail: communications@caverescue.eu
Antoniya VLAYKOVA
Responsible for ECRA web visibility
Cave Rescue Bulgaria / CRB, Bulgaria
FIGURES AND PHOTOS BY
Municipality of Wojcieszów
GOPR archive
GRJ archive
Dinko Novosel
Szymon Kostka
Przemyslaw Sekowski
Rajmund Kondratowicz
