Winter is also a time to visit waterside places

Winter is a special time that allows us to see familiar places from a completely different perspective. Frozen lakes, quiet riverbanks, and white landscapes have their own unique charm. For those seeking tranquility, contact with nature, or simply a break from everyday hustle, we have prepared a list of the ten best places in Poland to visit in winter for a walk by the water.

1. Baltic Sea

Visiting the seaside in winter? Why not – a trip to the Baltic Sea during the colder months can be an extraordinary experience. Coastal towns empty out, offering peace and quiet that are hard to find in summer. A walk along the shoreline in winter scenery lets you enjoy crisp, iodine-rich air, which is beneficial for health.
Particularly picturesque are the snow-covered beaches, dusted with fine ice crystals. In places like Władysławowo, Ustka, or Hel, you might spot a grey seal resting on the shore or observe winter migratory birds. The winter Baltic coast also offers the chance to explore local attractions in a calmer atmosphere, such as lighthouses or museums, which are less crowded than during the tourist season.

2. Morskie Oko (Tatra Mountains)

Morskie Oko, one of the most famous lakes in Poland, is just as stunning in winter as in summer. The frozen lake surrounded by the towering peaks of the Tatras creates an incredibly picturesque view. A walk around the lake is an excellent opportunity to admire the majesty of the mountains in their winter attire. For photography enthusiasts, it’s a perfect spot to capture unique shots. Don’t forget warm clothing and proper footwear, as winter conditions in the mountains can be demanding.

3. Lake Śniardwy (Masuria)

Masuria, known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, takes on a whole new character in winter. Lake Śniardwy, the largest in Poland, becomes a quiet and peaceful place. The snowy landscapes and the frozen lake surface make a walk along the shores a unique experience. Take a longer route to discover the area’s wildlife, which remains active even in winter. With some luck, you might encounter wintering water birds like swans or mallards.

4. Milicz Ponds (Barycz Valley)

The Barycz Valley is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. The Milicz Ponds in winter are less frequented by tourists, making them perfect for a peaceful stroll. Snow-covered banks and frozen waters create a remarkable landscape. Nature enthusiasts will find it an excellent spot for birdwatching, with cranes, herons, and many other species present in their natural habitat.

5. Lake Wigry (Suwalszczyzna)

Lake Wigry in Wigry National Park is enchanting year-round, but winter brings a unique atmosphere. Snow-covered shores, forests reflected on the icy lake, and the silence of the surroundings make it an ideal place for a relaxing walk. Be sure to visit the Camaldolese monastery on Wigry, which looks particularly charming in its winter setting.

6. Kamieńczyk Waterfall (Karkonosze Mountains)

Kamieńczyk Waterfall is one of the highlights of the Karkonosze Mountains, attracting visitors with its uniqueness in winter. The frozen waterfall forms icy sculptures that look like works of art. A walk in the vicinity of Szklarska Poręba, where the waterfall is located, allows you to combine direct contact with nature with the admiration of mountain views. For the more adventurous, it’s also the starting point for trails leading to the higher parts of the Karkonosze.

7. Biebrza River (Podlasie)

The Biebrza Marshes are a harsh and mysterious place, especially in winter. The Biebrza River, surrounded by frozen wetlands and snowy fields, offers a view that lingers in the memory. Walking along the river, you might encounter moose, the symbol of this region, as well as many birds that stay here for the winter. It’s a place for those seeking quiet and connection with wild nature.

8. Lake Solina (Bieszczady Mountains)

In winter, Lake Solina offers a completely different experience than in summer. The snow-covered hills surrounding the reservoir and the tranquility of the area make a walk along the shore an excellent idea for a winter trip. Don’t miss the dam, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the lake.

9. Lake Czorsztyńskie (Pieniny Mountains)

Lake Czorsztyńskie in winter not only offers breathtaking views but also the chance to visit historic castles in Niedzica and Czorsztyn. The frozen lake and the mountains around it create a landscape that nature and history enthusiasts alike will appreciate. A walk in the area also provides an opportunity to admire the Pieniny in their winter glory.

10. Zegrze Reservoir (Mazovia)

Close to Warsaw, the Zegrze Reservoir attracts city dwellers looking for an escape from urban hustle and bustle. A walk along the frozen reservoir is a perfect way to spend a winter day outdoors. Under the right conditions, you might even see ice sailors training on the frozen surface.

Winter walks are relaxing and connect us with nature

Winter walks by the water are a wonderful way to relax and connect with nature. Poland offers many beautiful spots that impress with their charm this time of year. Be sure to prepare well, including wearing warm clothes and comfortable shoes, to fully enjoy these unique moments in nature.