Family Adventure in the Masurian Lake District

Aromatic Escapes and Natural Havens

Today was a symphony of scents and sights, a true immersion into the heart of Masuria's natural beauty. From the calming fragrance of lavender fields to the serene wetlands teeming with life, it was a day that nourished the soul and invigorated the senses. Jan, Aoife and I set out early, eager to explore the treasures that this region holds.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Karczma Na Winie. It was a quaint, rustic place where the aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with the rich scent of Polish coffee. I savored a traditional breakfast of scrambled eggs with kielbasa, while Jan opted for the pierogi. Aoife, ever the adventurer, tried the local cheese, declaring it a delightful discovery. Fuelled and ready, we set off for our first destination: Lawendowe Pole, or Lavender Field. The drive itself was a treat, with rolling hills and verdant meadows stretching as far as the eye could see. It reminded me of the Irish countryside, albeit with a distinct Polish charm.



As we approached Lawendowe Pole, the air grew thick with the unmistakable fragrance of lavender. The fields unfolded before us in a sea of purple, a breathtaking sight that immediately transported me to the lavender fields of Provence I've read so much about. I’ve always wanted to visit the lavender fields in France, but who knew such beauty existed right here in Poland? Aoife, with her keen eye for photography, was in her element, snapping pictures from every angle. Jan, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the practical aspects of lavender farming, inquiring about the harvesting process and the uses of lavender oil. I simply wandered through the rows, inhaling the calming scent and feeling a sense of peace wash over me.



Explore the enchanting lavender fields of Lawendowe Pole, a must-visit destination in Poland for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.

“The fragrance of lavender is a bridge to serenity, a reminder to pause and appreciate the simple gifts of nature.”

We spent a good hour wandering through the lavender fields, losing ourselves in the beauty and tranquility. Aoife even managed to convince me to pose for a few photos, something I usually shy away from. But surrounded by such beauty, I couldn't resist. It was a moment I knew I would cherish forever, a memory captured in time.



After our lavender-infused interlude, we drove to Bagno Nadrowskie, a nature reserve known for its diverse birdlife and unique wetland ecosystem. The reserve is located near Nadrowo village in Olsztynek commune. It was established in 1991 and expanded in 2009, encompassing peat bogs, unused lands, and forests. The reserve protects the population of the European pond turtle and habitats for herpetofauna and water-marsh birds. As we approached the reserve, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of reeds, marshes, and shimmering pools of water. The air was filled with the calls of birds, a symphony of nature that both Jan and Aoife were keen to identify. I must admit, my knowledge of ornithology is rather limited, but I was eager to learn.



Discover the serene beauty of Bagno Nadrowskie, a nature preserve in Poland that offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich wildlife experience.

We followed a winding path through the reserve, our boots sinking slightly into the soft earth. The landscape was ever-changing, with hidden pools and open expanses of reeds offering glimpses of the diverse wildlife that calls this place home. Jan, with his trusty binoculars, was in his element, spotting various species of birds that I could only vaguely make out. Aoife, meanwhile, was busy capturing the intricate details of the wetland ecosystem, from the delicate wildflowers to the intricate patterns of the reeds.



Bagno Nadrowskie is known for its population of the European pond turtle, and we were hopeful of spotting one. Although we didn't see any turtles, we learned that the reserve is a haven for various amphibians and reptiles, including the gray toad, green toad, common spadefoot, common newt, viviparous lizard, adder, and grass snake. The reserve also hosts nesting birds such as the bittern, marsh harrier, mute swan, black tern, great crested grebe, water rail, spotted crake, reed warbler, Savi's warbler, and moustached warbler. For several years, ospreys were observed, and hobbies and red kites occasionally visit the area. Fish species in the reserve include tench, pike, crucian carp, roach, and sunfish.



The reserve also boasts rare plant species, including alternate water-milfoil and rootless wolfberry. Historical records indicate that a stronghold existed near the northern border of the reserve in the early Middle Ages on a small sandy elevation. As we walked, Jan shared his knowledge of the area's history, painting a vivid picture of the people who once inhabited this land and their connection to the natural world. It struck me how much history is woven into the very fabric of this landscape, a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and nature.



After our walk through Bagno Nadrowskie, we were ready for a late lunch. We drove to Smażalnia Pluski, a local fish restaurant known for its fresh catches and lakeside views. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a testament to its popularity. We managed to snag a table on the terrace, overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Pluszne. The views are splendid, and the air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of grilled fish. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including fried pike-perch, smoked eel, and a variety of salads. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a true taste of Masuria. Aoife was particularly impressed with the salads, which were made with locally sourced ingredients and bursting with flavor. Jan, of course, was in his element, sampling the local beer and engaging in conversation with the friendly staff.



Discover Smażalnia Pluski: Where Fresh Fish Meets Cozy Atmosphere in Beautiful Pluski.

As we savored our lunch, we watched the boats glide across the lake, the laughter of children echoing across the water. It was a scene of pure bliss, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Good food, good company, and a beautiful setting – what more could one ask for?



After lunch, we made a quick stop at Delikatesy Centrum to pick up a few essentials. It was a typical Polish grocery store, filled with a bewildering array of products. I always find it fascinating to wander through local grocery stores, observing the different products and cultural nuances. It's a small window into the everyday lives of the people who live here.



Discover the flavors of Poland at Delikatesy Centrum, your go-to grocery store in Olsztynek for local delicacies and fresh produce.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Restauracja Gęś i Zając in Olsztyn. This restaurant is located in Olsztyn's Old Town on Prosta Street. This place combines a rustic decor with traditional hospitality and an original cuisine full of unforgettable flavors. The restaurant has a cozy room, a summer garden, and professional service. The menu changes seasonally to provide the highest quality of fresh products and specializes in traditional Polish cuisine, especially goose. The restaurant also offers its own preserves, such as country bread, smoked meats, homemade sausage, and goose lard.



Discover authentic Polish cuisine at Restauracja Gęś i Zając in Olsztyn – where tradition meets flavor.

We started with a selection of appetizers, including smoked goose breast, pickled cucumbers, and a variety of local cheeses. For our main courses, Jan and I both opted for the roasted goose, a house specialty. Aoife, ever the vegetarian, chose the pierogi stuffed with mushrooms and cabbage. The food was exquisite, each dish a testament to the chef's skill and passion. The goose was tender and flavorful, the skin perfectly crisp. Aoife raved about her pierogi, declaring them the best she had ever tasted. The restaurant itself was charming, with a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.



As we drove back to our accommodation, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Masurian landscape. The sky was ablaze with color, a breathtaking spectacle that left us in awe. We reminisced about the day's adventures, sharing our favorite moments and laughing at our mishaps. It was a day that had brought us closer together, a reminder of the importance of family and the beauty of the natural world.



Tomorrow, we plan to explore Leśny paśnik and Wąwóz Czarci Jar. I'm particularly excited about Wąwóz Czarci Jar, as I've heard it's a place of great natural beauty and historical significance. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the fragrance of lavender, the sounds of the wetlands, and the taste of fresh fish. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the experiences that stay with you long after you've returned home. It’s experiences like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to share my journey with you all. Until tomorrow!