Pilchowice-Zapora station, situated on the picturesque railway route No. 283 known as the Bóbr Valley Railway, is waiting for a new owner. Construction of route No. 283 began in 1904 and lasted five years. It was an impressive engineering achievement. As part of the project, numerous bridges were built, including the unique arch bridge in Pilchowice with an inverted arch structure, as well as a magnificent viaduct. Three tunnels were also excavated. Seven stations were built along the railway line: Jeżów Sudecki, Siedlęcin, Pilchowice-Zapora, Nielestno, Wleń, Marczów, Dębowy Gaj and Lwówek Śląski.

The history of the Bóbr Valley Railway and Pilichowice–Zapora station

Against this backdrop, Pilichowice–Zapora station shone like a pearl in a crown. Built in 1909 as part of the railway line connecting Jelenia Góra with Żagań, it was intrinsically linked to the construction of the dam on the Bóbr and was crucial to the local economy and transport.

In the first half of the 20th century, the station was one of the most interesting points on the tourist map, attracting travellers with its picturesque landscapes. The station’s architecture, consisting of a half-timbered station building and a wooden platform shelter, is a valuable example of railway construction from the period. It is also an important element of the cultural landscape, recalling the history of the region.

The route became popular among tourists who, as they reported, were left breathless while admiring the picturesque landscapes of the Bóbr Valley from the carriage windows. The views of the winding stream, the rushing river and Lake Pilchowickie made an unforgettable impression. Between 1920 and 1940, there was heavy traffic on the Bóbr Valley line. More than 20,000 tickets were sold annually at Pilchowice Zapora stations, and as many as 70,000 at Wleń station.

In the 1960s, the unique scenery of this place gained recognition among filmmakers. Pilichowice–Zapora station served as a backdrop for productions such as Jerzy Passendorfer’s "Drenched in Fire" and the cult comedy "How I Unleashed World War II". The distinctive wooden architecture, harmoniously integrated into the mountain surroundings, gave these films a unique atmosphere.

In a film prepared by Podróże 24 klatki na sekundę, you can see the places where the famous comedy starring Franek Dolas was filmed.

On 11 December 2016, the last “sluggard” travelled along it. This is a derisive term for the trains that ran on this route. Railway line No. 283 was characterised by low speeds due to the poor condition of the tracks. Since the station was closed to traffic, the stop has been deteriorating. The route became overgrown with grass and weeds, railway sleepers were stolen, and the small stations fell into ruin.

Controversy surrounding the sale of Pilichowice–Zapora station

The sale of Pilchowice-Zapora station by Polskie Linie Kolejowe is surprising in the context of the planned resumption of train services on the Lwówek Śląski–Jelenia Góra line. The decision has caused consternation and attracted media attention, especially given the picturesque nature of the route and the architectural value of the station.

The Marshal’s Office allocated more than PLN 3 million from the 2025 budget for the revitalisation of railway line No. 283.
The local government’s takeover of management of the line in 2022 was a milestone, enabling coordinated remedial action. Preparatory work is currently under way, including an inventory of the line and the process of obtaining the necessary permits.
According to declarations by the regional authorities, the first passenger trains could appear on this route as early as 2026!

The location of Pilchowice Zapora station, picturesquely surrounded by forests, paradoxically poses a challenge when it comes to finding a sensible purpose for it. The visually attractive location, combined with its entry in the heritage register and the building’s average technical condition, effectively discourages potential buyers. An investor would have to reckon with a costly renovation carried out under strict heritage-conservation supervision.

The future of Pilchowice Zapora station remains uncertain. Will an entity be found that is ready to undertake the difficult task of revitalising this historic building and giving it a new lease of life? Or will the building, which has made its mark on history and Polish cinema, ultimately fall into oblivion?

We asked the mayor of Wleń whether the municipality could and wanted to take over the property, but despite numerous contacts from the municipality and assurances that a response had been sent, the reply email never reached the editorial office.