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Treat yourself to royal treatment at the Wierzynek restaurant

? Wierzynek is a fantastic historic restaurant located at the Main Square of Kraków Old Town in Poland. This glorious architecture occupies four floors and has eight separate dining rooms for 200 guests.

? The exquisite interiors of original period furnishings, 19th century paintings, shiny brass wall lamps and incredible timber ceilings make you feel like you’ve stepped into a 14th century palace. From the moment you entered the Wierzynek restaurant, you will experience royal treatment.

? The tradition of Wierzynek dates back to 1364, when a wealthy merchant Mikołaj Wierzynek hosted a splendid feast served on gold and silver plates for the guests of King Casimir the Great, including Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and many other kings and princes on the opening night. Records from the Cracow cathedral chronicle, the feast lasted twenty days and It is impossible to describe how joyful, magnificent, glorious and abundant this feast was, except by saying that all were given more than they had wished for.

? Thanks to its exquisite traditional Polish cuisine, the highest standards of service, luxury interiors full of delicate ornaments, Wierzynek was a Global Winner of International World Luxury Restaurant Awards in Luxury Theme Restaurant category as well as mentioned in the American bestseller “1000 Places to See Before You Die” as a place which is well worth a visit. 

❤️ With such splendid history and first-class food and service, no wonder many world leaders and celebrities like Charles de Gaulle and Sophie Marceau visited here.

? Do not miss this place next time you visit Krakow.

? Short film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yU-3PBw-g3A

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Europe’s last well-preserved primeval forest

???Białowieża Forest is the last remaining fragments of Europe’s primeval forest that once stretched across the European Plain. You can visit this one of Europe’s natural treasures from the Polish side. The Białowieża National Park situated in the north-east part of Poland and covers a part of the Białowieża Forest extending over 100 square kilometres.

?? The Białowieża National Park was established in 1932, is blessed with a wide variety of flora and fauna – from 809 vascular plants species to over 3 thousand cryptogams and fungi species; from 59 mammal species to over 250 bird.

? The symbol of the park is the European Bison, the biggest European land mammal, which was almost completely eliminated In the 18th century until the first reserve was established in 1929 to save bisons from extinction. In the first half of the 20th century, the park turned out to be the most important sanctuary. Nowadays there are about 500 bisons living in the Polish part of Białowieża Forest, which is the biggest wild population of this species in the world. Besides the European bison, there are also many rare species that can be identified only in Białowieża Forest or few places worldwide. If you want to take a close look at bisons and other wildlife, the Białowieża National Park is an ideal place for you to travel.

?The Białowieża National Park is the only Polish natural property designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage site and it is also recognized as the most important central zone of Białowieża Forest Biosphere Reserve.

The top things to do in Białowieża National Park.

?Come face to face with bison ?

The first place on a list of “must-see” attractions is the European bison Show Reserve, a modern and large enclosed animal park that is surrounded by natural vegetation, where visitors can see the king of the forest – the bison! Is the best chance to observe these legendary creatures In semi-natural conditions. Besides, the reserve also holds several other species including elks, deer, roe deer, wild boars, wolves and lynx that you may observe them as well. With flat roads and good facilities, the reserve is easily here accessible for families with pushchairs and wheelchairs. It’s worth remembering that the best time to visit is in the morning, when the sun is not very hot and animals do not rest out of sight to avoid the sun.

?Bird watching in the Forest ?

The Białowieża Forest lies on the border of two different woodland zones – the mixed deciduous and the boreal ones which a variety of birds are attracted to. Visitors can find many bird species such as woodpeckers (10 species of woodpeckers), owls, eagles, flycatchers and the smallest European birds: goldcrest and firecrest. Since many species of birds are increasing their range, it’s easier to watch them in various parts of the forest. Little tip. If you want to watch some special birds, an experienced guide could help you design the appropriate travel route.

?Visit Nature and Forest Museum ⛪️

Nature and Forest Museum is the oldest museum in the Polish national parks, its traditions date back to the interwar period. The museum presents exhibitions relating to the park’s flora and fauna, the history of park, and the archaeology and ethnography of the region. Visitors can see nearly all species of animals and plants that exist in the forest, take a close look at those creatures and learned about their lifestyle in the forest.

?Cycling in the Forest ?

The Białowieża Forest is an ideal place for bikers with flat gravel roads and no cars at all. There are many routes to choose from, along with different length and complexity. But I highly recommend the perfectly marked and organized Green Velo trail that goes across the whole eastern part of Poland. 

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Dreamlike watercolours of Warsaw

If you see Warsaw through the eyes of an artist and architect Tytus Brzozowski, you will find a dreamlike city where decorative buildings sit on lofty stilts and trains seem to emerge from tunnels in the side of residential buildings.

He creates a new magical world by combining the elements of architecture and landscape of Warsaw where all bathed in a beautiful, golden sunlight.

Tytus’s paintings are being recognized around the world for its surreal depictions of cityscapes, a string of exhibitions of his new series works will be held both in Poland and abroad.

Visit Poland DMCWhy not go sightseeing around this vibrant city at first, to find all the magical elements which make Warsaw so unique and attractive ?

This time, we promise that we will slow down to appreciate the beautiful capital of Poland and create our own colorful paintings of Warsaw.

Visit Poland DMC

Visit Poland DMc

Visit Poland DMC

Images by Tytus Brzozowski

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Land of a thousand lakes – Masurian Lake District

There is a region in northeastern Poland, which is known for its 2,000 lakes, and that is the so-called “A land of a thousand lakes” – Masuria (Mazury in Polish).

This picturesque region covers 10000 km², of which Masurian lake district covers 486 km² where over 15% of the area is covered by water and another 30% by forest. Around 10,000 years ago, the glaciers covering the lake district started to melt and gradually formed the landscape we see today.

In Masuria there are plenty of activities you can join in, from kayaking along the picturesque Krutynia River, to cycling and horse riding among thick forests. It’s also awesome to rent a boat sailing on the Poland’s biggest lake and enjoy a whole day out with family in the sun.In addition to water sports, you may explore a multitude of historical places here. There are Teutonic castles, beautiful historic churches and palaces as well as Hitler’s former Second World War military headquarters. If you want to experience local life you may stay as a guest on a small holding or farm in villages where you can tase some of local organic food and the price is very reasonable.

The beauty of nature, clean water and fresh air as well as historic places, all of this make Masuria one of the best summer resorts in Europe.

? If you want to go further to explore Poland, contact us to get more inspiration for travel.

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Visit the Tatra Mountains from Poland

Poland has been blessed with immense natural resources, one of its biggest attractions is the spectacular views of Tatra mountains which is the highest mountains in this part of Europe.

⛰ The Tatra Mountains stretches from Slovakia into Romania via Hungary, Poland and Ukraine, of which about 180 square kilometers lie within Poland are called the Tatra National Park that is the highest Polish mountain range in the Carpathian Mountains.

? Tatra National Park is located in southern Poland, in the Małopolska region, right on the border with Slovakia. As a biosphere reserve designated by UNESCO in 1992, Tatra National Park boasts thousands of plant species and is a natural habitat of endemic animal species, such as the Tatra chamois, marmot, bear, lynx, wildcat and wolf. In addition to the rich and varied flora and fauna, the peculiar geological landscape construction also makes it an ideal destination for photographers.

?  Visitors could first head to the city of Zakopane, which is the closest and popular settlement under the Tatra Mountains. As a gateway to the national park, Zakopane is also an attractive city for visiting and staying, it would be a wonderful experience for you to live in lovely chalets, to taste traditional Highland cuisines and shopping for traditional leather Highland shoes and socks.

All the best places to visit in Tatra Mountains！

?  Enjoy spectacular views at the peak of Kasprowy Wierch

Kasprowy Wierch (1987 m asl) is a must-visit attraction in the Tatra Mountains because there is a cable railway from Kuźnice to the very peak of the mountain. the whole trip runs through the area of the Tatra National Park and it only takes about 15 minutes. Once you arrive at the peak, you could directly climb to the meteorological observatory which is the highest-located building in Poland. At a height of almost 2,000 m above sea level, you can admire the breathtaking panorama of the High Tatras over the Slovakian side and overlook the peaks of the Polish High Tatra mountains and the whole of Podhale region.

?  Discover the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains

Morskie Oko lake, which means “Eye of the Sea” in English, is the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains. Gaze into Lake Morskie Oko and admire the reflection of the highest polish peak (Rysy, reaching 2,503 m) on the surface. This blue-green alpine lake is truly a wonder of nature, which is formed during the sculpting processes of the last ice age, in which you can easily find trout through the clear water.

?  Hiking to Five Lakes Valley

As its name suggests, there is 5 lakes located in the Valley, including one of the deepest Tatra lake – Wielki Staw Polski (The Great Polish Lake). Five Lakes Valley has lots of hiking trails with the most beautiful scenery, which is perfect for families with children to visit in the summer time. On your way to Five Lakes Valley, you can find the largest waterfall in Poland – The Siklawa, which is about 65 meters high. If you get tired, Five Lakes Valley mountain hut would be a perfect place for you to take a rest and meet lots of interesting people. They also provide delicious food to help keep your energy up and relieve fatigue. Don’t forget to stop by here.

? Stroll around the Krupowki Street

Krupowki Street is the most popular street In Zakopane, where there is a peculiar market of the city and its central point. Walking along the street you can find many traditional highlander items to buy, such as clothes and souvenirs, but also some traditional snacks to eat. In addition, there is many cultural activities you can join in, like the most famous International Festival of Highland Folklore which is held in the second half of August. During the festival, highlanders from all over the world get together here, the whole town is filled with lively music and dancing.

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Warsaw Uprising Run

You might see some movies about Warsaw Uprising, but do you know there’s an awesome anniversary event in Warsaw as well, which is to honor the Warsaw insurgents and heroic people fighting for their capital in 1944.

?‍♀️ Every year on July 27th, thousands of runners come together to honor the memory of Warsaw Uprising by completing a 10 km or 5 km running race in Warsaw. Last year was the 29th time, more than 13,000 people participated in the race to commemorate the efforts of thousands of people who stood up against the Nazi German occupiers. While due to the ongoing epidemic, a virtual run will replace the outdoor activities hold in Warsaw this year, which is an event “for new times”.

? It also means that everyone around the world could take part in the race, which will be held on the last weekend of July. There is also an optional package for participators including a commemorative medal, a pin and a band for commemoration purposes.

? Warsaw is a city full of life, you can find lots of activities here, such as biking along the Vistula river, making polish dumplings, enjoying Chopin Concert, or more adventurous activities like indoor skydiving and Bungee jumping.

? Check out our Warsaw City Break to make the best of your time in Warsaw.

Photo by skeeze from Pixabay

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Visit famous film locations in Poland

Did you know that there are many famous movies shot in Poland? ?

1.The Chronicles of Narnia

The Chronicles of Narnia series of films is based on novels, which tells an adventure story in the world of Narnia. Some scenes in The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005) and Prince Caspian (2008) were filmed in the Stolowe Mountains and the Bledne Skaly labyrinth. The shooting was filmed at Dunajec River Valley, Siemianowka Lake and the Tatra Mountains. 

2. Schindler’s List

As one of the most famous movies of the ’90s, “Schindler’s List” tells the story that a German businessman Oskar Schindler manages to save Jews by employing them in his factories in Nazi-occupied Poland. It was shot in a variety of locations, Krakow provides many impressive locations for war and occupation scenes such as Oscar Schindler’s Factory, the Main Square in Krakow, Krakow Glowny Railway station and the old Jewish quarter Kazimierz. Nowadays, these locations have become an integral part of Krakow’s tourism.

3. The Pianist

Based on the autobiographical novel of Holocaust survivor, “the pianist” recreates the tragic historical scene seen through the eyes of a Polish-Jewish musician struggling to survive in the Jewish ghetto of Warsaw. The film was shot mostly around Warsaw which is the capital of Poland, including the Saski Hotel in Warsaw, Krakowskie Przedmiescie Street, Zabkowska and Stalowa Streets in Praga District.

4. Ida

Ida is the first Polish movie to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, which tells about a young woman about to take her vows as a Catholic nun uncovers a family secret. It was shot in various places in Poland, including the city of Łódź which was designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Film in 2017.

5. Out of Reach

Out of Reach is an American action film, it’s about a former covert agent trying to resume his friend, a 13 years old orphan from Poland. The film was shot in Warsaw, there are many must-see attractions used for scenes from the film including the Palace of Science and Culture, University of Warsaw Library, Warsaw Old Town and Warsaw University of Technology.

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Escape to Poland

Escape the heat of summer and enjoy the beauty of nature in Poland. There are always various activities you can be involved in, such as hiking in Tatra national park, cycling along the Baltic Sea Coast and rafting down the river Dunajec. Come to Poland, you will be spoilt for choice.

Hiking in Tatra national park ?

Poland is an ideal destination for a walking holiday, with over 15000 miles of marked trails that go through the mountains, lakes and forests. If you want to look down from above the clouds to admire the beauty of nature, the Tatra mountains would be your best choice. As the highest mountain range in the Carpathian Mountains, Tatras are one of the most stunning places to visit, with a lot of picturesque valleys, lakes, peaks and mountain trails, covering the area of nearly 180 square kilometers within Poland. There are various trails satisfying hiking lovers of all levels, some of those trails are short and flat which are perfect for families with children.

Cycling along the Baltic Sea Coast ?

The Baltic Sea Cycle Route in Poland is part of the EuroVelo 10 (EV10), which is 582 kilometers long and starts at the Polish-German border in Swinoujscie, passing through the picturesque seaside resorts. You can cycle directly along the sea, which makes a regular rest at picturesque bays and white beaches possible. The route in Poland is mostly flat and well suited for a cycling trip at any level of preparation, especially for families. Experience Baltic Sea and beautiful scenery by exploring Poland on two wheels.

Rafting on the river Dunajec ?

Rafting on the Dunajec River is a relaxing experience for everyone, enjoying the natural surroundings on a traditional wooden rafting boat, listening to the old legends and stories about the river and surroundings. It’s the best way to admire the beautiful landscapes of Pieniny National Park in 2-3 hours trip.

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A Charming Polish Village, Zalipie!

Zalipie is a small village in southeast Poland, considered as the prettiest village in Poland. This small village is known for its unusual tradition that the house inside and outside decorated with lovely floral patterns.

?  Where does the tradition of painting houses come from?
It’s not entirely clear, but it might relate with a poorly ventilated stove. A long time ago, the interior of small and quite poor huts was covered with   soot from a home stove. There was no chimney in the room, and the hearth area quickly blackened with smoke. Thanks to resourceful Zalipian women who came up with the idea of decorating darkened walls with white irregular spots to tidy up and brighten up their homes. After ventilation improved, villagers (mainly women) continued to conduct their folk art, moving from ceilings to walls to bridges and everything in between.

? The Painted Cottage competition

The Painted Cottage competition (called Malowana Chata) has been held regularly every spring since 1948 which continuously added new colorful floral patterns on cottage walls, continuing a tradition over 100 years old. Its initial purpose was to cover up damages after the war and put a new face on the village again. The starting date of the Malowana Chata has a very special meaning, as it began right after the WW2 ended.

? Felicja Curyłowa, a local art museum

Despite its beauty and attractiveness to tourists, the village is not an open-air museum but a place where people lived their normal lives, creating and developing their tradition. For visitors, there is a museum well worth a visit which was the three-bedroom cottage of a resident named Felicja Curyłowa. After her death, her beautiful house was turned into a museum where visitors can admire her work.

Zalipie is about 70 km from Krakow, if you are planning to travel to Krakow, don’t forget to stop by here!

Photo by mzphotos from Pixabay

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The Best Seaside Resort in Poland

There is nothing more refreshing than a holiday by the sea. ?  If you feel the same way, then Sopot which is located on the southern coast of the Baltic Sea would be an ideal destination for you.

Sopot is an elegant seaside resort town in northern Poland, which lies between Gdańsk to the southeast and Gdynia to the northwest. They are interconnected and together form a metropolitan area called the TriCity.

? In Sopot, you can stroll along the longest wooden pier(Molo) in Europe, extending into the Baltic sea to a length of over 511 m. It’s a perfect place for a romantic walk.

? You can also unwind on the white sand beach which stretches for 4.5 kilometers from the southern to the northern boundaries of the city and make up one of the most popular attraction during the summer.

? For outdoorsy people, there is a bike route from Sopot to Gdansk which is a great way to enjoy stunning views of the Baltic coast.

❤️ Start planning your best seaside holiday in Poland!  ?  3 days trip to TriCity.

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