How to spend a weekend in Masuria?

A weekend in Masuria is synonymous with relaxation and closeness to nature. The Land of a Thousand Lakes, with its picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and crystal-clear water, provides the perfect backdrop for a short yet intense break.

Whether you are a sailing enthusiast, a seeker of peace, or a lover of luxury relaxation, Masuria has something special to offer. Welcome to our guide. Learn how to spend a weekend in Masuria.

Masuria to start – what is worth knowing?

Located in northeastern Poland, Masuria is a geographical and historical region that captivates with its unique post-glacial landscape. It is characterized by a huge number of lakes, the largest of which are Śniardwy and Mamry, connected by a system of canals and rivers, creating the Great Masurian Lakes Trail – a paradise for sailors and kayakers. It is also an area rich in history, marked by the presence of Teutonic castles, palaces, and old Prussian fortifications. The diversity of fauna and flora, with numerous nature reserves and landscape parks, makes it a place where you can fully immerse yourself in nature.

Weekend in Masuria by the lake

Spending a weekend directly on the shore of one of Masuria’s lakes is the quintessence of relaxation in this region. The choice is vast, and each lake has its unique character.
Lake Śniardwy: The largest Polish lake, called the “Masurian sea,” is the perfect place for experienced sailors. Its vast waters can be demanding but offer unforgettable experiences. Numerous marinas and tourist towns around the lake, such as Mikołajki and Pisz, provide extensive infrastructure.

Lake Mamry: The second largest lake complex in Poland, consisting of six connected bodies of water. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate diversity. Here, you can find lively ports in Węgorzewo and Giżycko, as well as quiet bays ideal for mooring and enjoying nature.

Lake Niegocin: One of the most popular lakes on the Great Masurian Lakes route, with Giżycko – the sailing capital of Poland – located at its heart. It is a great base for exploring the area, and the lake itself offers excellent conditions for water sports.

Lake Nidzkie: For those seeking peace and quiet, Lake Nidzkie, surrounded by the Piska Forest, is the perfect choice. A silence zone is in effect here, meaning the use of combustion engines is prohibited. It is a paradise for kayakers, anglers, and anyone wishing to escape the noise of civilization.

Or maybe a citybreak?

A weekend in Masuria does not have to mean complete disconnection from urban attractions. Combining relaxation in nature with touring charming small towns is an excellent idea for a varied trip.

Giżycko: Situated between Lakes Niegocin and Kisajno, it is not only an important port but also a city rich in history. You must see here the unique European rotating bridge and the massive 19th-century Boyen Fortress.

Mikołajki: Considered the pearl of Masuria, this vibrant town has a picturesque promenade and a port that fills to the brim with yachts in summer. It is a great place to feel the sailing atmosphere, enjoy fresh fish in one of the many taverns, and soak in the holiday resort vibe.

Olsztyn: Although located in Warmia, it is often the starting point for Masurian adventures. The capital of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship offers a beautiful old town with a Gothic castle where Nicolaus Copernicus resided, and numerous lakes within the city, including the popular city beach by Lake Ukiel.

Discover the wild nature – Wigry National Park and surroundings

Although geographically located in Suwałki Region, Wigry National Park is often and rightly visited by tourists spending time in Masuria. It offers a slightly different, wilder, and more intimate landscape. The heart of the park is the spectacular Wigry Lake with numerous deep bays and islands. The main historical attraction is the beautifully restored Camaldolese monastery complex, picturesquely situated on a peninsula. The park is crossed by numerous hiking and cycling trails (we especially recommend the loop around Lake Wigry – Green Velo), but its true essence lies in kayaking trips, especially along the picturesque and very popular Czarna Hańcza River.

However, Poland’s green lungs are not just national parks. The entire region is dotted with natural gems in the form of landscape parks, each with its unique character. If you are looking for less frequented but equally beautiful places, here is a guide to the most interesting:

Masurian Landscape Park – The absolute heart of the Land of Great Lakes. It protects the Piska Forest and the Krutynia River, considered one of the most beautiful kayaking routes in Europe.
Iława Lake District Landscape Park – Its pride is Jeziorak, the longest lake in Poland. It is a paradise for sailors and birdwatchers, with numerous bays and islands serving as bird sanctuaries.
Romincka Forest Landscape Park – Known as the Polish taiga due to its unique, harsh climate. Its symbols are the monumental railway viaducts in Stańczyki, some of the highest in Poland.
Dylewska Hills Landscape Park – A landscape that surprises in Masuria. It encompasses the highest elevation in the region, Dylewska Góra, offering views and trails reminiscent of foothill areas.
Welski Landscape Park – Focused around the protection of the picturesque valley of the Wel River, which meanders through forests and fields, creating ideal conditions for peaceful kayaking trips and nature observation.
Elbląg Upland Landscape Park – Creates a unique, almost seaside landscape. Its steep, forested edges descend towards the Vistula Lagoon, resembling cliffs and offering wonderful viewpoints.

A particularly recommended option for a peaceful weekend rest is Brodnicki Landscape Park. Located on the border of Kujawsko-Pomorskie and Warmian-Masurian Voivodeships, it offers a "Masuria in a nutshell" landscape. It is a land of dozens of lakes connected by a network of small rivers. It is an absolute paradise for kayakers – the famous Drwęca River flows through here. Dense forests are full of cycling and hiking trails, and the absence of large marinas and noisy motorboats guarantees real contact with nature. It is an excellent choice for those who want to feel the Masurian atmosphere but away from the main routes.

Long weekend in Masuria at the SPA

For those who want to dedicate their weekend trip to deep regeneration and relaxation and are staying near Brodnicki Landscape Park or Brodnica, it is worth planning a stay at Głęboczek Resort Vine & SPA, located in a picturesque setting on the border of Kujawy and Masuria, surrounded by vineyards and lakes, offering a unique combination of relaxation and vinotherapy (treatments based on grapes and wine). It is the perfect place for a romantic weekend for two or a peaceful rest in luxurious conditions, away from the hustle and bustle, with excellent cuisine and a wide range of wellness treatments.

The heart of the resort is an extensive Wellness and SPA area that allows for complete relaxation of body and mind. Guests can enjoy, among others: indoor and outdoor pools, several saunas (including a sauna by the lake), jacuzzi. In addition to classic massages and rituals, one can avail of signature grape-based treatments here, such as wine baths, wraps, or grape seed scrubs.

Thanks to direct access to a clean lake and a private pier, Głęboczek is also a fantastic place for winter swimming enthusiasts.