Family Adventure in the Masurian Lake District

First Impressions of Masuria

Our family adventure in the Masurian Lake District has officially begun, and what a start it has been! Leaving Warsaw behind, we embarked on a scenic drive to the land of a thousand lakes. The anticipation had been building for weeks, and I must say, Masuria has already exceeded our expectations. It's a region where time seems to slow down, inviting you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and the warmth of Polish hospitality.

The drive itself was a treat. As we ventured further from Warsaw, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of rolling fields, dense forests, and charming villages. Jan, ever the history buff, regaled Aoife and me with tales of the region's past, from its Teutonic roots to its role in Polish folklore. I found myself completely captivated, eager to explore every corner of this enchanting land. It's amazing to think that just a few hours from our home in Warsaw, we've found ourselves in what feels like another world.

Our first stop was the Mazury Landscape Park, and it was nothing short of breathtaking. The park is a sprawling sanctuary of interconnected lakes, secluded forests, and diverse wildlife. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. We decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the many trails, and I was immediately struck by the sheer serenity of the place. It felt as though we had stepped into a painting, with every vista more stunning than the last.


Mazury Landscape Park: A Natural Paradise in Poland, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Adventurers.

Aoife, with her ever-present camera, was in her element, snapping photos of everything from the delicate wildflowers to the majestic swans gliding across the lakes. Jan, meanwhile, was busy identifying various bird species with his binoculars, sharing his knowledge with us in his usual enthusiastic manner. I simply wandered, soaking in the beauty and feeling a sense of peace wash over me. It's moments like these, surrounded by nature and loved ones, that make all the stresses of daily life fade away.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After our hike, we were ready for a hearty Polish breakfast. We headed to Karczma Nad Łyną in Olsztyn, a charming restaurant recommended by several locals. The karczma (inn) was rustic and inviting, with wooden beams, cozy fireplaces, and the aroma of traditional Polish cuisine filling the air. We settled into a cozy corner and ordered a feast of local delicacies. I opted for the sour rye soup (Żurek), which came highly recommended, and it was absolutely divine. The large portion was served with a piece of smoked zebra, fried egg and a ball of mashed potatoes. Jan, of course, had to try the pierogi, while Aoife went for the potato pancakes. Every dish was bursting with flavor, and we left feeling completely satisfied and ready for more adventures.


Experience authentic Polish cuisine at Karczma Nad Łyną in Olsztyn – where tradition meets taste in a cozy family-friendly setting.

Next on our itinerary was the Forest Arboretum of Warmia i Mazur. Having worked with botanical texts for years, I was particularly excited about this stop. This botanical garden is home to a stunning collection of trees and shrubs, both native and exotic. As we strolled through the arboretum, I was amazed by the sheer variety of plant life on display. From towering maples to delicate wildflowers, every corner held a new discovery. The arboretum is divided into three sections: Polish flora, a collectible arboretum featuring nearly 700 dendrological varieties, and a natural forest. We explored each section with enthusiasm, learning about the different species and their unique characteristics. I was particularly impressed by the collection of boulders gathered from the region; a testament to the area's glacial history.


Discover the enchanting beauty of the Forest Arboretum of Warmia i Mazur, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Poland.

The Forest Arboretum is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm during the season (April 15 to October 31), and the entry fee is quite reasonable: 12 złoty for a regular ticket and 8 złoty for a reduced ticket. For families with a large family card, the prices are even lower. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll and a chance to reconnect with nature. I was particularly taken by the collection of native Polish trees and shrubs. It was fascinating to see so many familiar species thriving in their natural habitat. The arboretum also has a building of the Board of Education where children and teenagers can learn about nature, the work of foresters, and the history of Forest Management in Kudypy. Aoife found a mobile guide for the Arboretum to use on her smartphone, which made the visit even more informative and engaging. Jan was captivated by the arboretum's history, particularly its origins in 1983 when a hurricane devastated part of the seed stand. The arboretum was established in 1989 and has been growing ever since.

After immersing ourselves in the arboretum's tranquility, our stomachs began to rumble once more. This time, we chose to have lunch at Karczma Warmińska in Gietrzwałd, enticed by its reputation for regional cuisine. The restaurant, like Karczma Nad Łyną, exuded a traditional Polish charm. We indulged in pierogi, golonka, and broth, each dish a testament to Polish culinary heritage. The service was warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Savor authentic Polish cuisine at Karczma Warmińska in Gietrzwałd—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured to Rzemieślnicy Smaków Produkty Lokalne for a spot of shopping. This charming shop, filled with local products, proved to be a treasure trove of culinary delights. We stocked up on regional cheeses, honey, and artisanal bread, eager to sample the flavors of Masuria back at our guesthouse. We also picked up some handmade crafts as souvenirs, supporting the local artisans in the process. It’s important to me that we support local businesses during our travels, and this shop was the perfect opportunity to do just that. The shop was filled with unique items, each telling a story of the region's culture and traditions.


Discover the essence of Polish cuisine at Rzemieślnicy Smaków, where local delicacies meet artisanal craftsmanship in the heart of Olsztynek.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restauracja Pod Zamkiem for dinner. Located in a picturesque setting, the restaurant promised a delightful culinary experience. We were not disappointed. The menu featured a range of Polish and international dishes, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the steak, which was cooked to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. Jan chose the pierogi, while Aoife went for the pizza. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing evening meal.


Discover authentic Polish flavors at Restauracja Pod Zamkiem in Olsztynek – a delightful stop for every traveler seeking culinary experiences.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the peaceful evening air. The stars were out in full force, and the silence was broken only by the gentle sounds of nature. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. As we walked, we discussed our plans for tomorrow, which include a visit to the Teutonic castle in Nidzica and the Museum of Nidzica. We're also planning to visit the 3 Arrows Irish Pub Szczytno for a taste of home.

Back at our guesthouse, I sit down to write this blog post, reflecting on our first day in Masuria. It has been a day filled with natural beauty, delicious food, and warm hospitality. Masuria has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. This region of Poland is truly a hidden gem, and I feel incredibly grateful to be able to experience it with my family. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Tomorrow, we delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating region, and I can't wait to share it all with you. Goodnight from Masuria!