Greater Poland: Not Just Potatoes. A Guide to the Land of Old Oaks and Steam Locomotives.

Greater Poland (Wielkopolska) is the cradle of the Polish state, but history is not everything. It is a region that can surprise lovers of nature and technology. Here, modernity intertwines with tradition in an extremely harmonious way.

It is a land of a thousand manors and palaces, picturesque lake districts, and cuisine that is simple but brilliant in its simplicity. We take you on a journey through Greater Poland, where time flows on its own calm track – sometimes to the rhythm of the clatter of steam locomotive wheels.

1. Rogalin and Kórnik: In the Shadow of History

Just a dozen or so kilometers from Poznań you will find two treasures.

• Rogalin Oaks: A walk through the Warta riverine forests in Rogalin is a must. The oaks Lech, Czech, and Rus stand here – they are several hundred years old and remember the times of kings. Their twisted branches in the fog look like something out of a fairy tale.
• Kórnik Castle: A neo-Gothic residence surrounded by a moat and an arboretum (dendrological garden). In spring, thousands of rhododendrons and magnolias bloom here, creating a colorful spectacle. Legend has it that the White Lady walks around the castle at night.

2. Wolsztyn Steam Locomotive Depot: A Journey in Time

Wolsztyn is the only place in Europe where steam locomotives are not exhibits in a museum but still pull regular passenger trains. A visit to the steam locomotive depot is a treat not only for railway fans. The smell of grease, the whistle of steam, and the sight of powerful, black machines that are still "under steam" make a huge impression. You can feel like you are on Platform 9 and ¾ here.

3. Wielkopolski National Park: The Lungs of the Region

For those tired of the city, the Wielkopolski National Park is the perfect escape. It is a post-glacial landscape at its best.

• Góreckie Lake: The most beautiful lake in the park, with an island featuring the ruins of the romantic castle of Klaudyna Potocka.
• Bukowsko-Mosiński Esker: A narrow earthen embankment overgrown with forest, offering views of the surrounding lakes. Perfect for a long walk or bike ride.

4. Ostrów Lednicki: Where Poland Began

Before Kraków or Warsaw existed, the heart of Poland beat here. Ostrów Lednicki is an island on a lake reached by ferry. Here lie the relics of the palace of Mieszko I and the chapel where the Baptism of Poland likely took place. This place has an amazing aura – it is raw, authentic, and devoid of a fairground atmosphere.

5. The Great Loop of Greater Poland: Life on the Water

Greater Poland is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The Warta and Noteć rivers form a huge navigable route. Houseboat charters are becoming increasingly popular here. You don't need a license to rent a house on the water and sail ahead, mooring in small marinas, fishing, and watching herons. This is the definition of absolute relaxation.

6. Cuisine: Croissant and Gzik

To be in Greater Poland and not eat these two things is like not being here at all.

• St. Martin's Croissant (Rogal Świętomarciński): A certified pastry made of semi-puff pastry, filled with white poppy seeds, nuts, and dried fruits. It is very sweet, filling, and legally baked only in this region.
• Pyry with Gzik: Potatoes (pyry) boiled in their jackets, served with gzik – cottage cheese mixed with cream, onion, and chives. A simple dish that tastes outstanding in the Greater Poland version.

Summary

Greater Poland is a solid and hospitable region. Heritage is cared for here, but nature is also respected. If you are looking for a place where you can touch history, sail a boat on a wild river, and eat something delicious – this direction will not disappoint you.