Family Adventure in the Masurian Lake District

Echoes of Teutonic Knights in Nidzica

Today was a day of delving deep into the past, a journey through the heart of Nidzica, where the imposing Teutonic castle and its accompanying museum whispered tales of knights, battles, and centuries of history. It's remarkable how these ancient stones can still speak volumes, offering glimpses into lives lived long ago.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sielanka Restauracja & Bankiet. The name 'Sielanka' itself suggests idyllic charm, and it certainly lived up to its promise. The breakfast was a delightful spread, setting us up perfectly for a day of exploration. I opted for a traditional Polish breakfast, while Jan enjoyed a continental selection, and Aoife, ever the adventurous one, tried a local specialty. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect start to our historical day.

With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to the Teutonic castle in Nidzica. It's hard to miss, looming large and impressive against the town's skyline. The castle dates back to the 14th century, built by the Teutonic Knights. As we approached, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like within those walls centuries ago. The sheer scale of the structure is awe-inspiring, and you can almost feel the weight of history pressing down on you.


Discover the enchanting Teutonic Castle in Nidzica, a historical gem showcasing medieval architecture and local history in the heart of Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship.

The castle has a turbulent past, having been occupied by various forces over the centuries. It served as a seat of Teutonic officials, and even hosted peace conferences. It was fascinating to learn that in 1454, the castle was occupied by the Prussian Union. Later, in the 18th century, fire consumed the inner ward, and in 1812, Napoleon's forces devastated the castle. It's incredible that it still stands today, a testament to its resilience and the enduring spirit of the Polish people.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Inside the castle walls, we found the Restauracja ORDO na Zamku w Nidzicy, where we planned to have lunch. But first, we explored the Museum of Nidzica, housed within the castle itself. The museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region, with exhibits showcasing artifacts from various periods. Aoife was particularly interested in the ethnographic displays, which highlighted the local culture and traditions. Jan, with his historian's eye, was captivated by the exhibits detailing the castle's history and its role in regional conflicts. I found myself drawn to the displays showcasing the daily life of the castle's inhabitants, imagining their routines and challenges.


Uncover the fascinating history of Nidzica at the Museum of Nidzica, where local culture and heritage come alive through captivating exhibits.

After a fascinating tour of the museum, we were ready for lunch. Restauracja ORDO, located within the castle, offered a unique dining experience. The menu featured traditional Polish dishes, and we decided to try a few local specialties. Jan opted for the mushroom soup, while Aoife chose the pork chops. I decided on the pierogi, a classic Polish dish that never disappoints. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect. Eating within the walls of a medieval castle is not something you get to do every day!


Experience exquisite Polish cuisine within the historic walls of Nidzica Castle at Restauracja ORDO.

As we ate, we discussed our impressions of the castle and the museum. We all agreed that it was a truly enriching experience, offering a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture. It's moments like these, shared with my family, that make our travels so special.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we decided to venture out for a drink. We found ourselves at 3 Arrows Irish Pub in Szczytno. Now, I know what you might be thinking – an Irish pub in the middle of Poland? But it was a delightful surprise! The pub had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff was incredibly friendly. We enjoyed a pint of local beer and chatted with some of the locals, learning more about the area and its people. It was a fun and unexpected twist to our day of historical exploration.


Discover the charm of Ireland at 3 Arrows Irish Pub in Szczytno, where hearty food and friendly atmosphere come together.

The pub, as I discovered, is the brainchild of Tomasz Grzegrzółka, a photographer from Warsaw who fell in love with the Szczytno region. It's a testament to the universal appeal of Irish hospitality, even in the heart of Poland. The warm atmosphere and friendly faces made it a perfect way to wind down after a day of historical immersion.

For dinner, we drove to Restauracja Warmia in Olsztyn. The drive itself was beautiful, with the sun setting over the Masurian landscape. The restaurant is known for its regional cuisine and its beautiful location on the shores of Lake Ukiel. Unfortunately, I learned that Restauracja Warmia closed its doors in September of last year. Nevertheless, we found a new place to dine in Olsztyn.


Savor authentic Polish flavors at Restauracja Warmia in Olsztyn - your destination for unforgettable meals and events.

As we sat down to dinner, we reflected on the day's experiences. From the imposing Teutonic castle to the charming Irish pub, it had been a day of contrasts and surprises. We had learned so much about the history and culture of the region, and we had created memories that we would cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Ethnographic Park in Olsztynek and Zabytkowy młyn w Rusi, continuing our exploration of the Masurian Lake District's rich heritage. The Ethnographic Park, I hear, is a fascinating open-air museum showcasing traditional Polish architecture and rural life. And the historic mill in Rus, I imagine, will offer another glimpse into the region's industrial past. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of immersing ourselves in the local culture and learning more about the traditions and customs of the Masurian people.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped at a local shop, Empik, to pick up some essentials. It's always interesting to see what the local shops have to offer, and it's a great way to support the local economy.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. The Masurian Lake District is a truly special place, and I'm so glad that we decided to come here. It's a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am also grateful for having Jan and Aoife with me. Their insights and perspectives always enrich our travels, and I wouldn't want to experience these adventures without them. It's the shared moments, the laughter, and the discoveries that make these trips so meaningful. And as we continue our journey through the Masurian Lake District, I know that we'll create even more memories to cherish.

Good night from Nidzica! Tomorrow we explore Ethnographic Park in Olsztynek and Zabytkowy młyn w Rusi. I am looking forward to it!

I can't help but feel a deep connection to this land, a sense of belonging that transcends borders and cultures. Perhaps it's the echoes of my own Irish heritage, the shared struggles and triumphs of a people who have endured so much. Or perhaps it's simply the universal appeal of history, the timeless stories that connect us to those who came before us. Whatever the reason, I'm grateful for the opportunity to be here, to learn, to explore, and to share my experiences with you.

As I close my eyes tonight, I'll dream of knights and castles, of rolling hills and sparkling lakes. And I'll look forward to another day of adventure in this enchanting corner of Poland.

Slán go fóill (Goodbye for now),
Róisín