Family Adventure in the Masurian Lake District

A Day of Warmian Wonders

Today was a day of exploring the heart of Warmia, a region steeped in history and natural beauty. Jan, Aoife, and I set out to discover the city of Olsztyn, eager to immerse ourselves in its culture and charm. With each step, we found ourselves captivated by the blend of medieval architecture and modern life, a testament to Poland's rich heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sielanka Restauracja & Bankiet in Gietrzwałd. Though a slight drive from Olsztyn, the countryside views were worth it. The restaurant was charming, and the staff incredibly welcoming. I opted for the Polish breakfast, a delightful spread of fried white sausages, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes and of course, the pickled cucumber. Aoife went straight for the smoothie menu, choosing a red smoothie with strawberries, blueberries and raspberries. Jan, of course, stuck to his usual black coffee and a simple omelet. Fuelled for the day, we headed towards Olsztyn, ready to explore.

Our first stop was Wysoka Wieża, a towering structure that promised panoramic views of the city. As we approached, I couldn't help but think of the old round tower back in Westport, County Mayo. While not quite the same, both stand as testaments to the ingenuity and ambition of those who came before us. I learned that this tower was once part of the city's fortifications, a crucial defense against invaders. While Wysoka Wieża isn't quite as tall as the Katowice parachute tower, the views were still spectacular. The climb was a bit strenuous, but the vista from the top was well worth the effort. From this vantage point, Olsztyn unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of red rooftops, green parks, and the shimmering waters of the Łyna River.


Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Wysoka Wieża, Poland's stunning natural tower perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them with those you love.

Next on our list was Plaża Miejska, Olsztyn's city beach. I was surprised to find such a vibrant and inviting space in the middle of the city. The sandy shores of Lake Ukiel beckoned us to relax and soak up the sun. Aoife, ever the water enthusiast, immediately dipped her toes in the water, while Jan and I found a bench to sit and watch the world go by. The beach was bustling with activity, families building sandcastles, couples strolling hand in hand, and groups of friends playing beach volleyball. It was a lively scene, and we were happy to be a part of it. I was impressed by how well-maintained the beach was, with clean facilities and plenty of amenities. It's clear that Olsztyn takes pride in its urban oasis. It reminded me of summers spent along the Irish coast, though the Baltic waters are certainly a bit cooler than those of the Atlantic.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Plaża, a coastal paradise perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable sunsets.

For lunch, we ventured to Restauracja Pod Kogutem, a charming eatery known for its traditional Polish cuisine. The restaurant exuded a rustic charm, with wooden beams, cozy lighting, and the aroma of hearty, home-cooked meals. We decided to try their speciality, Danie Kłobuka, which was potatoes served with sour milk and a fried egg. We also ordered a plate of pierogi, filled with a variety of savory fillings. Each bite was a burst of flavour, a testament to the skill and passion of the chefs. Jan was particularly impressed with the żurek, a sour rye soup that he declared to be the best he'd ever tasted. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a perfect spot for a family meal. It was the kind of place where you could linger for hours, savoring the food and enjoying the company.


Experience authentic Polish cuisine at Restauracja Pod Kogutem in Tylkowo—where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

After lunch, we decided to do some shopping. Aoife needed a few bits and pieces, so we headed to Action Olsztyn. I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of goods on offer. From household essentials to quirky gifts, the store had something for everyone. Aoife found some art supplies, while Jan picked up a new gardening tool. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time in Olsztyn. It's always fun to explore local shops and discover unique treasures.


Discover unique gifts and DIY treasures at Action Olsztyn, your go-to destination for local crafts and souvenirs in Poland.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restauracja Pod Zamkiem for dinner. Located near the castle, the restaurant offered stunning views of the city. The ambiance was elegant and refined, with soft lighting and attentive service. We started with a selection of appetizers, including smoked fish and pickled vegetables. For our main courses, we opted for traditional Polish dishes, such as roasted duck and pork knuckle. The food was exquisite, each dish expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The flavours were rich and complex, a true celebration of Polish culinary heritage. As we dined, we watched the sunset over Olsztyn, the sky ablaze with vibrant colours. It was a magical moment, one that we would cherish forever.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the natural beauty of the Masurian Lake District, heading to Punkt widokowy nad jeziorem Dłużek and Zatoka Księżycowa. I'm eager to see what other hidden gems this region has to offer. We also plan on having breakfast at Karczma Skansen, lunch at Restauracja Ratuszowa, and dinner at Restauracja Warmia Olsztyn. Jan has spotted a bar called Buła that he wants to try, so we might pop in there for a nightcap.

Today in Olsztyn was a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the panoramic views of Wysoka Wieża to the relaxing shores of Plaża Miejska, every moment was filled with wonder and delight. The delicious meals at Restauracja Pod Kogutem and Restauracja Pod Zamkiem were a true culinary adventure, and the shopping trip to Action Olsztyn added a touch of fun to the day. As we reflect on our experiences, we are grateful for the opportunity to explore this enchanting region with our family. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sometimes, the most meaningful journeys are those taken with family, exploring new places and creating shared memories.

I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, eager to discover more of the Masurian Lake District's hidden gems. Until then, dobranoc from Olsztyn!