Warmia-Masuria: Land of a Thousand Lakes and Red Brick. A Guide to Warmia and Masuria.

Warmia-Masuria is a region that everyone knows, but few understand. We often throw everything into one bag labeled "Masuria", forgetting about Warmia. And that is a mistake.

Warmia is a land of roadside shrines, Gothic castles, and gentle hills. Masuria is wild water, primeval forests, and sails. In this guide, we will show you how to combine these two worlds and find places where, even in the peak season, you can only hear the singing of birds and the sound of water.

1. Krutynia River: The Polish Amazon

If you are to go kayaking only once in your life, do it on the Krutynia. It is considered one of the most beautiful lowland kayaking routes in Europe. The river is shallow, the current is calm, and the water is so clear that you can see every pebble on the bottom. You flow through the Krutynia Reserve, passing fallen oaks and observing kingfishers. It is the perfect form of meditation in motion.

2. Warmia: Holy Warmia and Red Gothic

Warmia is history written in brick. It is a land that belonged to bishops for centuries, which is why there are no large industrial cities here, but there are pearls of architecture.

• Lidzbark Warmiński: The Castle of Warmian Bishops is an absolute masterpiece. The cloisters in the courtyard resemble Wawel, but there is much greater peace here.
• Reszel: A town belonging to the Cittaslow network (cities of good living). The Gothic castle, bridges over the Sajna River, and narrow streets create an atmosphere where time flows at its own pace.

3. Wolf's Lair: Concrete and Forest

In Gierłoż, in the heart of the forest, Hitler built his headquarters. Today, these are the ruins of massive bunkers that nature is slowly reclaiming. The sight of moss-covered, reinforced concrete blocks the size of houses, split by tree roots, makes an electrifying impression. It is a history lesson, but also proof that nature always wins. It is worth visiting this place with a guide to learn the secrets of the 1944 assassination attempt.

4. Elbląg Canal: By Ship on Grass

This is unique on a global scale and a monument of hydro-engineering. To overcome the water level difference of almost 100 meters, ships do not sail through locks here, but are pulled on special carriages up slipways covered with grass. The sight of a ship "driving" on a meadow is something you won't see anywhere else. A cruise, for example on the Buczyniec – Kąty section, is relaxation in its purest form.

5. Borecka Forest: Alternative to Białowieża

If you are looking for wild nature but are afraid of crowds, the Borecka Forest is for you. It is a dense, undulating forest in the east of Masuria. A herd of bison lives here in the wild (you can also see them in the show enclosure in Wolisko). This is a more difficult, wilder terrain, ideal for bicycle trips for those who want to get lost in the greenery.

6. Tastes of the Region: Vendace and Marzipan

The cuisine of this region is fish and influences of old East Prussia.

• Vendace (Sielawa): The queen of Masurian lakes. A small, delicate fish, most often served smoked or fried whole. It tastes best bought straight from a smokehouse on the lake shore.
• Dzyndzałki: Warmian dumplings, resembling Lithuanian kołduny, stuffed with beef, generously garnished with "skrzeczki" (cracklings).
• Königsberg Marzipan: A sweet historical souvenir that can still be found in good cafes in the region.

Summary

Warmia-Masuria is a region that allows you to breathe deeply. Here, water washes away stress, and the greenery of forests soothes the eyes. Regardless of whether you choose sails on Śniardwy or a walk through the cobbled streets of Reszel, you will return from here with new energy.