Family Adventure in the Masurian Lake District

Whispers of Warmia
Today was a day of venturing deeper into the heart of Warmia, a region brimming with natural beauty and historical significance. It's a place where the whispers of the past mingle with the rustling of leaves in ancient forests, creating an atmosphere that's both enchanting and grounding. Join me as I recount our exploration of this captivating land, where every path tells a story and every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Oberża Pod Psem. Jan had read about their regional cuisine and was eager to try it. The drive there was lovely, the morning mist still clinging to the fields as we passed. The Oberża Pod Psem is located amidst Mikołajki, Piecki and Ruciany-Nida. As we stepped inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering stews filled the air. The place was cozy, with wooden beams and rustic décor that immediately made us feel at home. It reminded me of the small pubs back in Westport. I ordered the kwaśnica mazurska, a local sour cabbage soup, while Jan opted for the wereszczaki, pan-fried pork belly. Aoife, ever the adventurous eater, chose the zupę kurkową, a creamy mushroom soup. My kwaśnica arrived in a large, earthenware bowl, the steam carrying a tangy, inviting scent. The broth was rich and flavorful, with tender pieces of cabbage and smoked sausage. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. Jan thoroughly enjoyed his wereszczaki, declaring it a true taste of Poland. Aoife was equally pleased with her mushroom soup, savoring every spoonful.
Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us back to simpler times and closer to nature.Wrota Warmii. These symbolic gates mark the historical boundary of Warmia, a region with a unique cultural identity shaped by centuries of shifting borders and diverse influences. As we approached, I couldn't help but feel a sense of stepping back in time. The Wrota Warmii in Bałdach has a fascinating history, especially the Aleja Biskupów. It's where new bishops arriving from Warsaw were greeted into their diocese. They would receive their first tribute and be welcomed by the Warmian chapter, who were the bishop's partners in governing Warmia. The avenue was reconstructed in 2006, long after these events. Next to the symbolic Gates of Warmia are display cases filled with historical information. Along the 1200-meter stretch lined with old linden trees, there are 51 plaques dedicated to the Warmian bishops. In the past year, church dignitaries such as Józef Glemp, Edmund Piszcz, and Wojciech Ziemba have planted their trees there. The avenue was lined with ancient trees, their gnarled branches reaching out like welcoming arms. Informative plaques detailed the history of the region and its people, offering insights into their struggles and triumphs. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of adversity.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of Poland at Wrota Warmii, a captivating museum showcasing the history and art of the Warmia region.
Rezerwat przyrody Las Warmiński im. prof. Benona Polakowskiego, we ventured into the vast forest reserve that protects a diverse range of ecosystems. As we entered the forest, the air grew cooler and the sounds of the outside world faded away, replaced by the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. The reserve is home to numerous hiking trails, each offering a unique perspective on the forest's beauty. We chose a trail that wound its way through ancient woodlands, past shimmering lakes, and over moss-covered hills. The forest floor was a carpet of vibrant green, dotted with wildflowers in every color imaginable. Towering trees formed a canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight and creating a magical, ethereal atmosphere. The Rezerwat przyrody Las Warmiński im. prof. Benona Polakowskiego is characterized by its natural forests, including deciduous, mixed, ash, and alder forests, as well as moist and swampy coniferous forests. It also features a 6.5 km section of the Łyna River, stretching from its outflow from Lake Łańsk through Lake Ustrych to the village of Ruś, and four lakes: Ustrych, Galik, Jełguń, and Oczko. We paused by the shore of Lake Ustrych, its surface reflecting the surrounding trees like a mirror. The tranquility of the scene was broken only by the occasional splash of a fish jumping or the call of a distant bird. It was a moment of perfect serenity, a reminder of the restorative power of nature. Aoife, ever the keen photographer, captured the scene with her camera, determined to preserve the memory of this idyllic spot.


Discover the serene landscapes and rich biodiversity of Las Warmiński Nature Reserve, a perfect escape for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts in Poland.
Restauracja z Zielonym Piecem in Olsztynek. Jan had heard rave reviews about their traditional Polish cuisine, cooked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant was charming, with a cozy interior and a welcoming atmosphere. We were seated at a table near the window, overlooking a picturesque garden. I ordered the pierogi, while Jan chose the żurek, a sour rye soup. Aoife, once again, opted for something different, selecting the placki ziemniaczane, potato pancakes. My pierogi arrived steaming hot, filled with a savory mixture of cheese and potatoes. The dough was tender and the filling flavorful, a perfect combination of textures and tastes. Jan declared his żurek to be the best he had ever tasted, praising its rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture. Aoife was equally impressed with her potato pancakes, devouring them with gusto. Restauracja z Zielonym Piecem prides itself in offering regional cuisine of Warmia and Masuria, and the cosy atmosphere allows you to relax after a long day.


Discover authentic Polish flavors at Restauracja z Zielonym Piecem in Olsztynek – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Beczka Pub. The pub was lively, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the convivial atmosphere. I ordered a pint of local beer, while Jan opted for a glass of Polish vodka. Aoife, ever the social butterfly, struck up a conversation with a group of students, eager to learn more about their experiences in Poland. The Beczka Pub in Olsztyn is a popular spot, even hosting concerts. We spent a pleasant hour at the pub, soaking up the local atmosphere and enjoying the lively banter. As the evening drew near, we made our way to Restauracja Między Deskami for dinner. The restaurant was located in a charming, rustic building, with a cozy interior and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We were seated at a table near the fireplace, its flickering flames casting a warm glow over the room.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beczka Pub in Olsztyn, featuring a diverse beer selection and a welcoming environment for all.
halibut, while Jan chose the żeberka, ribs. Aoife, ever the adventurous eater, selected the risotto szafranowe, saffron risotto. My halibut arrived perfectly cooked, its delicate flesh melting in my mouth. The accompanying vegetables were fresh and flavorful, a perfect complement to the fish. Jan thoroughly enjoyed his ribs, praising their tender texture and smoky flavor. Aoife was equally impressed with her saffron risotto, savoring every mouthful. The Restauracja Między Deskami features a beautiful interior and relaxed atmosphere.


Discover the perfect blend of modern European cuisine and stunning marina views at Restauracja Między Deskami in Tomaszkowo.