Unexpected Places to Experience a Winter Wonderland in Poland
Poland may not be the first place that comes to mind when you imagine a winter wonderland, but give it a chance to surprise you. Poland is filled with diverse natural landscapes, including calm seas, endless forests, and towering peaks. In the wintertime, each of these settings transforms into something magical. Elizabeth and Damian of Key to Poland encourage us to discover what winter in Poland offers by exploring unexpected places that will lead you into a winter dream.
Winter Garden of Lights at Zamek Książ — Wałbrzych
If you have never had a chance to visit Zamek Książ, now is the time! This incredibly romantic and fairytale castle is located prominently on a forested hill in Lower Silesia. With a long history, this bright pink castle stands out among the sprawling trees and rolling hills decorated with a fresh coat of snow in the winter months.
This year, the gardens at Zamek Książ will come to life with an enormous outdoor light display. The gardens, fountains, and terraces will be transformed into a glowing outdoor ballroom. Spend some time with your family (be sure to dress warm!), taking an evening stroll around this enchanted castle.
Read more about festive illuminations in Poland and holiday light displays across Poland in our post.
Photo source: Zamek Książ w Wałbrzychu
Dog Sledding (and Other Winter Activities!) in Mazury — Ściborki
Mazury might sound like a popular summer hot spot for Polish travelers, but have you considered visiting in the winter? In the winter, you will find affordable prices, no crowds, and endless possibilities of fun, snowy activities. One thing you might have never imagined trying in Poland is dog sledding!
In the village of Ściborki, you will find Republika Ściborska, a family-run business that offers dogsledding excursions. Dress for the weather and take the whole family on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Kids will love meeting the dogs, and everyone will have a chance to ride on the sled. In addition to dog sledding, you will find other winter activities in the area, including Nordic skiing, ice skating, sleigh rides, and more!
More about visiting the Mazury region of Poland in our post.
Photo source: Republika Ściborska
Breathe in Restorative Salts by the Sea — Kołobrzeg
On the northern coast of Poland, besides the Baltic Sea, lies the town of Kołobrzeg. Traveling to the beach to find your winter wonderland may sound obscure, but it presents a different type of winter charm. The Baltic Sea is fantastic in winter as it appears dark and calm and is perfect for a bundled-up seaside stroll. Many people may not know that in the winter, the Baltic Sea emits additional amounts of beneficial iodine into the air, which is believed to boost the immune system.
While visiting Kołobrzeg, take a little time to warm up with a visit to the spa. There are many spas and hotels that have an area especially for kids to swim and play in warm water. Adults can indulge in a friendly healing soak in the salt springs or locally harvested mud. These healing treatments will have your body thanking you for the remainder of winter.
Read more in our post featuring beach towns and Baltic seaside resorts in Poland.
Nordic Skiing, Sleigh Rides, and Bison Tracking — Białowieża
Many people in Poland consider Białowieża Forest ideal for a summer adventure, but it is surprisingly lovely in the winter, too! The snowy environment is great for winter activities, including Nordic skiing and long wintry walks. In the winter, when the forest is quiet and not overwhelmed with blooming plant life, it is much easier to spot the famous bison for which this area is known. You can find them calmly wandering through meadows and on the outskirts of villages.
Organizing a sleigh ride in the forest is the perfect way to transport your family into a winter dream. The sleigh rides here are unique because you will enjoy this winter pastime and have the opportunity to learn about the wilderness in the region and its unique ecosystem.
Read our tips on visiting the Białowieża Forest.
Make (and Taste!) Your Gingerbread —Toruń
Nothing says winter holidays like gingerbread! If you want to experience the winter season through your tastebuds, Toruń is the place to be. The town is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for being the home residence of the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Additionally, Toruń is renowned for its gingerbread, which has been produced in the town since the Middle Ages.
The Living Museum of Gingerbread in Toruń is the perfect place to dive in, learn about, and experience everything there is to know about gingerbread. With current restrictions, the museum may not be operating on a regular schedule. Make sure to check before visiting. If the museum is not open, there are many other beautiful bakeries around the town where you can indulge in this local delicacy! Children will love taking a bite of the delicious holiday treat! Take some gingerbread to go as you wander the charming cobbled streets of this historic and beautiful city.
Read our tips on visiting the city of Toruń.
So many picturesque and unexpected places are still left to be discovered in Poland. Choose which adventure might be the perfect match for you and your family, and take advantage of the winter holidays to explore new and different areas. We guarantee that you will make some fun memories during this magical season.
About the Author
Elizabeth and Damian Hadaś are a Polish-American couple that operates a small boutique travel business called Key To Poland. The mission of Key To Poland is to help create a positive image of Poland around the world by sharing the modern, vibrant, and authentic side of the country. They organize private custom tours that are focused on sustainable travel and personal experiences. If you have questions about planning your trip to Poland or are looking to organize a private tour please get in touch with them at contact@keytopoland.com.
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