Why Should You Go To Poland For A Walking Holiday?
Poland isn’t always the first place people think of for a walking holiday, but it’s actually a hidden gem for anyone who loves the outdoors. Beyond its famous cities like Kraków and Warsaw, you’ll find a country brimming with diverse landscapes. Think towering mountains in the south, rolling hills in the center, and pristine lakes up north.
One of the joys of wandering through Poland is the blend of history and nature you’ll encounter at nearly every turn. Medieval castles perched on hilltops, serene lakeside towns lined with Gothic architecture, and bustling local markets all add a layer of culture to your outdoor adventures. And with well-maintained trails, it’s easy to strike out on your own or join a guided tour to uncover areas only the locals know about.
Then there’s the warm hospitality and hearty cuisine that make each day’s effort feel thoroughly rewarded. After traversing a scenic ridge or admiring timber-framed churches, there’s nothing like sitting down to a plate of pierogi or sipping hot tea in a rustic mountain hut.
In Poland, a walking holiday goes beyond the steps you take. It’s really about experiencing the country’s heart and soul on foot.
Go To These Places For Your Polish Walking Holiday
Here are the top destinations in Poland for a walking holiday:
Mountain Treks
If you’re aiming for dramatic vistas and a bit of altitude, Poland’s southern ranges won’t disappoint you. The mountains here are comparable to the Alps in Switzerland or Austria.
Tatra Mountains – Kasprowy Wierch
For those of you who love a good summit view without an overly technical climb, Kasprowy Wierch is a popular choice. Trails winding through evergreen forests give way to open ridges, and if you’re feeling less energetic, you can always ride the cable car partway and then hike the rest.
Babia Góra in the Beskids
If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to the bustling Tatras, Babia Góra in the Beskid Mountains is a must. Known as the “Mother of Bad Weather,” it can be misty and moody at times, but that just adds to its wild appeal. The summit offers epic views of rolling hills and valleys below, which is perfect for sunrise or sunset walks if you time it right.
Pieniny Mountains – Dunajec Gorge Trail
For those of you who enjoy mixing dramatic scenery with a little relaxation, the Dunajec Gorge Trail fits the bill. Hike along the gorge’s limestone cliffs, and if you like, you can hop on a traditional wooden raft for a leisurely float down the river. This is also one of the best hiking trails in Poland that you should try.
Lakeside and Lowland Walks
If gentler terrain and calm waters are more your style, these lakeside and lowland routes promise peaceful strolls and scenic backdrops.
Masurian Lake District – Ruciane-Nida to Mikołajki
For water lovers, the Masurian Lake District is all about endless lakes, lush forests, and a laid-back vibe. One popular route takes you from Ruciane-Nida to Mikołajki, and it weaves through lakeside paths where you’ll spot sailboats gliding on the horizon. You can make time for a pit stop at one of the region’s many taverns, where fresh fish dishes are the local specialty.
Drawsko Lake – Czaplinek Trails
If you want to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in untouched nature, the area around Drawsko Lake in Western Pomerania is a hidden gem. Trails here wind through pine forests and quiet villages, and they often lead to secluded spots along the lake’s shore. Bring binoculars, because you might catch sight of eagles!
Wigry National Park
For those of you who enjoy a mix of serene waters and woodlands, Wigry National Park in the northeast is known for its pristine lakes and monasteries. Gentle trails loop around Wigry Lake and offer boardwalk sections that cross through marshy wetlands.
Castle and Historical Routes
Poland’s rich history shows up everywhere, and these routes let you explore centuries-old architecture while enjoying beautiful surroundings.
Malbork Castle and Nogat River Walk
For those of you who love medieval grandeur, you’ll want to start at Malbork Castle (which just so happens to be the largest brick castle in the world) and then follow the footpaths along the Nogat River. It’s a flat, easy walk that gives you stunning views of the castle’s red walls reflecting in the water.
Eagles’ Nests Trail (Szlak Orlich Gniazd)
Stretching between Kraków and Częstochowa, this iconic route features a series of medieval castles perched on limestone cliffs, and is nicknamed the Eagles’ Nests. You can pick a shorter section or tackle the whole trail to explore ruins that look like they’ve sprung straight from a storybook.
Lower Silesia – Książ Castle Forest Paths
Tucked away in a picturesque forest, Książ Castle is a fairytale-like estate with sprawling gardens. Trails circle the castle grounds and venture into the surrounding woodland. It’s ideal for a leisurely walk that combines nature with historical flair. Plus, you can even tour the castle’s ornate interiors.
What Can You Expect on a Walking Holiday in Poland?
Here’s what you can really expect from a fun walking holiday in Poland:
Adventures Beyond Walking
If you’ve worked up an appetite for more than just scenic trails, Poland has plenty of ways to enrich your journey.
History enthusiasts, for instance, can explore the poignant World War II sites in cities like Warsaw or Gdańsk, adding depth to their walk through centuries-old fortifications and museums. Or for those of you who enjoy a more festive vibe, you can time your trip with events like the Kraków Christmas Market or harvest festivals in rural regions makes for a lively cultural detour.
If you’re a foodie, you can dive into Polish gastronomy beyond pierogi. Consider booking a culinary tour or visiting local farmers’ markets to taste smoked sheep cheese (oscypek) in the Tatra region, or sample craft beers in cities like Wrocław, which has a thriving brew scene. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hop on a kayak trip along the Krutynia River or spend an afternoon biking through scenic forest paths in Pomerania.
The Food and Drink Experience
Polish cuisine is hearty, comforting, and perfect for refueling after a day on the trails. Yes, pierogi (those delicious stuffed dumplings) are a national treasure, but there’s so much more to try. Think tangy żurek, which is a sour rye soup often served in a bread bowl, or gołąbki, cabbage rolls packed with rice and minced meat.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, keep an eye out for regional specialties like oscypek in the Tatra region. It’s a smoked sheep’s cheese that pairs brilliantly with cranberry sauce. It’s the kind of food that warms you from the inside out.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a real visit to Poland without sampling the local beverages. Beer lovers can explore craft brews in places like Wrocław or Poznań, while those of you with a taste for something stronger might try krupnik (a sweet honey liqueur) or the iconic vodka. In fact, vodka tastings are quite popular in bigger cities in Poland.
Fun Accommodations
Poland has its fair share of standard hotels, but if you’re looking to add a bit of character to your stay, there are some seriously fun options out there. In the bustling heart of Kraków, for example, you can find boutique hotels housed in medieval townhouses. Think exposed brick walls, stained-glass windows, and a cozy café just downstairs.
Up in the Tatra region, mountain huts known as “schronisko” will let you share hearty dinners around communal tables, perfect for swapping trail stories with fellow walkers. It’s no luxury resort, but that’s all part of the charm. Plus, you can’t beat waking up to a sunrise over the peaks.
If you prefer a quieter pace, Poland’s countryside offers enchanting farm stays (called agroturystyka) where you’ll experience local life firsthand. These family-run spots often serve produce right from their garden and might even teach you a thing or two about Polish cooking!
Conclusion
A walking holiday in Poland will be like a doorway into medieval history and mouth watering cuisine. Add in unique places to stay, from cozy mountain huts to castle retreats, and you’ve got all the ingredients for an unforgettable adventure on foot.
