Pomorskie: More Than Windbreaks. Guide to Moving Dunes and Kashubian Switzerland

For many, Pomorskie ends at the beach in Władysławowo or on Monciak in Sopot. That's a great shame. This voivodeship is one of the most diverse regions in Poland, full of places where you can still find wild nature and silence.

Here you will find the only moving dunes of such size in Europe, thousands of lakes hidden in forests, and the Kashubian culture, which is completely different from anything you know. We take you on a journey through Pomerania, where the wind smells of resin, not waffles.

1. Słowiński National Park: The Polish Sahara

This place looks like it's from another planet. Between the sea and Lake Łebsko stretches a belt of moving dunes.

• Walking on Sand: The Łącka Dune is over 30 meters high. Climbing it offers a view of the Baltic Sea on one side and a huge lake on the other. The sand is constantly moving, burying forests – the sight of dead tree stumps sticking out of the dunes makes a thunderous impression.
• Czołpino Lighthouse: Located far from civilization, one of the most beautiful lighthouses on the coast. A path leads to it through a magical, mossy forest.

2. Kashubia: Switzerland of the North

Kashubia is a land of hundreds of lakes and hills that deceptively resemble foothills (hence the name "Kashubian Switzerland").

• Wdzydze Lakes: Called the "Kashubian Sea". It is a complex of connected lakes ideal for sailing and kayaking. The water here is clean, and the shores are covered with pine forest.
• Stone Circles in Węsiory: Polish Stonehenge. A mysterious Goth cemetery from 2000 years ago hidden in the forest. This place has extraordinary energy and an aura of mystery.

3. The Checkered Land: Architecture with Soul

Around Słupsk, towards the sea, lies the so-called Checkered Land. It owes its name to timber-framed construction. Black, tarred construction beams and whitewashed walls create a characteristic grid pattern. The capital of this land is Swołowo. This village looks like a living open-air museum. Cobbled roads, well-kept farmsteads from the 19th century, and grazing geese create an idyllic picture, perfect for escaping the city.

4. Hel Peninsula: The Wild Side

Hel can be difficult in season, but outside of it (or in its lesser-known corners) it is a miracle of nature. The peninsula is actually a long, sandy dune piled up by sea currents. We recommend visiting the Seal Sanctuary, which rescues Baltic seals, and then going for a walk along forest paths towards the headland. You will see bunkers and fortifications from wartime there, which nature is slowly reclaiming from man.

5. Vistula Żuławy: Polish Netherlands

East of Gdańsk, the landscape flattens out. This is Żuławy – a depression (area located below sea level). Once, these lands were drained by Mennonites – settlers from the Netherlands. They left behind arcaded houses (with characteristic upper floors supported on columns) and canal systems. It is an ideal place for a bicycle trip – it is flat as a table here, and the wind from the sea cools pleasantly.

6. Flavors of Pomerania: Herring and Strawberry

The cuisine of this region is a combination of gifts from the sea and lakes.

• Kashubian Herring: Every housewife has her own recipe, but usually it is herring in tomato sauce with onions, raisins, and plums. A sweet and sour taste that is addictive.
• Kashubian Strawberry (Kaszëbskô malëna): Sweeter and more aromatic than others, thanks to the specific microclimate of Kashubia. In June, it reigns on every table.
• Goose Meat: Pomorskie is famous for goose breeding. Half-goose or roasted goose are exquisite dishes served in the best restaurants of the region.

Summary

Pomorskie is a region where breathing becomes deeper. Regardless of whether you choose to climb a dune, sail on Kashubian lakes, or take a bicycle trip through Żuławy, you will find space for yourself here.