– ideal for a day trip
Although Giżycko is bustling with life and offers plenty of attractions centered around the Great Lakes, the true, wild heart of Masuria beats a little further away, in one of the largest landscape parks in Poland – the Masurian Landscape Park (MPK). It is a vast, protected area that impresses with its landscape diversity, natural wealth, and peace that is hard to find elsewhere. When in Giżycko, it's worth planning a day trip to immerse yourself in this unique land of forests, lakes, and rivers.
What does the Masurian Landscape Park protect?
Established in 1977, the Masurian Landscape Park aims to protect the unique values of the post-glacial landscape of the Masurian Lake District. It includes picturesque lakes (including parts of Śniardwy, the largest lake in Poland), meandering rivers (led by the famous Krutynia River), vast forest complexes (mainly the Piska Forest), peat bogs, and marshes. The park is a refuge for many rare species of plants and animals, caring for the preservation of this extraordinary biodiversity for future generations.
Top attractions of the park – what to see during your trip?
The park area is extensive, but during a day trip from Giżycko, you can focus on its most famous gems:
Krutynia River – the jewel of Masurian kayaking trips
It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful kayaking routes in Europe. The Krutynia River is known for its crystal-clear water, picturesque meanders winding through forests and meadows, and extraordinary nature. Even a short, several-hour kayaking trip on a section of the Krutynia (e.g., from the village of Krutyń) is an unforgettable experience and an excellent way to get close to nature. Many companies offer organized trips with transportation included.
Śniardwy Lake – the Masurian "sea"
Although Giżycko lies on the equally beautiful Niegocin Lake, it is worth seeing the largest lake in Poland – Śniardwy, a part of which is within the MPK boundaries. Its vastness and shoreline disappearing beyond the horizon make an incredible impression. It's a popular spot for sailors (though it requires experience and caution due to its size and shallows) and a viewpoint from towns like Nowe Guty.
Piska Forest – kingdom of forests and wildlife
Much of the park is covered by the forests of the Piska Forest. These are perfect areas for hiking or cycling on marked trails. In the quiet of the forest, with some luck, you can encounter wild animals – roe deer, deer, wild boars, and even signs of wolves or moose. It is also worth visiting the Tarpan-type Polish Horse Reserve in Popielno (PAN research station).
Nature reserves and educational trails
Within the MPK, there are many valuable nature reserves (e.g., the "Zakręt" Reserve with picturesque dystrophic lakes, the "Królewska Sosna" Reserve with famous monumental trees) and educational trails that allow you to better learn about and understand the richness of Masurian nature.
Active in the heart of nature
The Masurian Landscape Park is a paradise for the active. Besides the aforementioned kayaking, hiking, and cycling, it is an excellent place for birdwatching, nature photography, or simply peaceful relaxation in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of popular resorts.
How to plan a trip from Giżycko to the Masurian Landscape Park?
- Transport: The most convenient way is by car, which offers flexibility when moving around the vast park area. Getting to popular spots like the village of Krutyń or Mikołajki (a good base for MPK) usually takes from 45 minutes to over an hour from Giżycko.
- Planning: It's worth planning your route in advance and choosing specific places you want to visit – whether it's a kayak trip on the Krutynia, a walk through the Piska Forest, or a visit to Śniardwy. Tourist maps or apps will be useful.
- Respect Nature: While in the park, you must follow its regulations – stick to marked trails, avoid noise, don't leave litter, and respect the wild nature.
Why visit the MPK when in Giżycko?
Because it's a great opportunity to see another, wilder and more natural side of Masuria that perfectly complements a stay by the Great Lakes around Giżycko. It's a chance for a true reset in untouched nature, an adventure kayaking the famous Krutynia River, and admiring landscapes that linger in memory. A trip to the Masurian Landscape Park adds value to any stay in the region.
