Kujawsko-Pomorskie: Beyond Toruń. A Guide to the Land of Wild Rivers and Starry Skies

When we think of Kujawsko-Pomorskie, the first association is usually Toruń and gingerbread. And rightly so, because it is a magnificent heritage. However, for someone looking for an escape from civilization, this region has much more to offer.

It is a land where the Vistula River shows its wild face, forests stretch to the horizon, and lakes are still quiet and empty. It is here that you will find the Polish capital of kayaking and places where history is written in wood and brick. We take you on a journey through a region that is unfairly often just a stopover on the way to the sea.

1. Tuchola Forest: Biosphere of Silence

Forget about the Białowieża Forest for a moment. Tuchola Forest (Bory Tucholskie) is one of the largest forest complexes in Poland, listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

• Kayaking Paradise: The Brda and Wda rivers are absolute classics. The Brda is considered one of the most beautiful kayaking routes in Europe. It flows through wild recesses, meanders among fallen trees, and the water is so clear that you can see the bottom. This is an ideal option for a multi-day trip with a tent or accommodation in a forest cabin.
• Heaths: In late summer, it is worth visiting the Old Polish Yews Reserve, but the heaths around Cekcyn make the biggest impression, resembling Scottish landscapes.

2. Brodnica Lake District: Masuria in "Slow" Version

If you love lakes but hate crowds, motorboats, and the noise of Mikołajki – the Brodnica Lake District is for you. This is a land of over 100 lakes, mostly connected by rivers (Skarlanka!), which allows for amazing water trips. Here you can still find wild beaches where you won't meet a living soul all day. It is an ideal region for introverts and bird watching enthusiasts – you will meet white-tailed eagles, cranes, and cormorants here.

3. Toruń: Gothic Touch (and by Night)

Toruń is a "must see", but we recommend visiting it differently. Instead of running with a guide in a crowd of school trips, go for a walk at night. The illuminated panorama of the Old Town seen from the other bank of the Vistula (from the vantage point on Kępa Bazarowa) is one of the most beautiful views in Poland. It is also worth visiting the Living Museum of Gingerbread, where instead of watching exhibits behind glass, you will bake a traditional cake yourself in the atmosphere of a medieval bakery. You will smell the scent of cinnamon, ginger, and honey that has been floating here for centuries.

4. In the Footsteps of Mennonites: Lower Vistula Valley

Along the Vistula, in the vicinity of Świecie and Bydgoszcz, you will find remnants of Olęder (Mennonite) settlements. They were masters of fighting water who arrived from the Netherlands in the 17th century. It is worth visiting Chrystkowo, where a beautiful, wooden Mennonite cottage from 1770 has been preserved. It is a journey back in time to a world where life went on in the rhythm of river floods, and houses were built with extraordinary carpentry craftsmanship.

5. Biskupin and Polish Pompeii

Kujawsko-Pomorskie is the cradle of history. The archaeological reserve in Biskupin is not just "wooden houses". It is the best-preserved settlement of the Lusatian culture in Central Europe. Walking along wooden bridges, you can feel the spirit of ancestors from 2700 years ago. It is best to visit this place during the annual Archaeological Festival (usually in September), when the settlement is bustling with life, and craftsmen present ancient techniques.

6. Culinary Map of the Region: Goose and Cider

This region tastes delicious.

• Goose Meat: Kujawsko-Pomorskie is famous for goose meat. Around St. Martin's Day (November) is the time when roasted goose with apples and red cabbage reigns in restaurants. Be sure to also try "półgęsek" – a traditional cured meat.
• Local Orchards: The Lower Vistula Valley is a basin of old apple varieties. Local cider houses are developing more and more dynamically here, producing craft spirits that perfectly match a summer evening by the water.

7. Astrobases: Look at the Sky

The region where Nicolaus Copernicus was born obliges. Kujawsko-Pomorskie has created a unique network of Astrobases – small astronomical observatories available to the public. Thanks to low light pollution in rural areas, observations of the moon and planets are an amazing experience for whole families here.

Summary

Kujawsko-Pomorskie is a region for connoisseurs. It does not scream with bright advertisements but quietly offers quality, peace, and space. It is the perfect place to rent a cabin in the forest, turn off your phone, and simply be. Pack comfortable shoes, mosquito repellent, and set off to discover this underrated treasure.