One and only Poland's coolest Tree-House Hotel

Those who have never in their childhood had fantastic experiences with tree houses, probably won't understand why in modern times the term carries such positive connotations for many (not only the adventurous) people. A house in the trees is a DREAM that many of us have cherished at one time or another, and I would be really surprised if none of you was at times "a proud resident" of one of these kind constructions. Chances are high that this primitive desire to escape to a simple, secluded place where Mother Nature, rather than "Graham Norton Show" satisfies your entertainment needs, is still burning. 

What you focus on is magnified. For that and many other reasons, I hold an undisguised admiration to the Fraszka family for making their childhood DREAM come true. Thanks to their determination and surely an ingenious idea, like modern Robinson Crusoes, they found the place to build the house and began in labours. And now, a few years later they can proudly say they own not one, but three tree house (if you are interested to see how the houses were growing from zero to their top shape, you can follow W Drzewach profile on Facebook by clicking here ).  

So, it has been two years since "W drzewach" (Polish for "In the Trees") has been inviting their guests to try out to have a sleep up in the leaves. From 4 to 5 meters off the ground, they built a complex of three luxurious lodges called: Sosna, Jodla and Grab. While some of you think of just planks of wood nailed together in the tree tops, this first in Poland tree-house hotel is something much more than this. Built around a gigantic pine and fir trees the apartments offer a very special experience living close to nature and I appreciate the efforts of making the whole interior look simple but luxurious. Each of the eco-lodges has a bedroom, kitchen unit, sleeping loft and private balcony (or two) for dining and lounging.  

Another highlight of these modern high-flying apartments is its surrounding that fully surprises tourists with its lush greenery and sentimental atmosphere. As a former local resident (I used to live in the Lublin Area), I am genuinely, genuinely delighted to see how this region is progressing!!

 Why is it unique: 

• ideal for a group or family holiday
• ultimate adventure accommodation
• eco-friendly, completely built with sustainable materials
• ingenious, modern design with a choice of three lodges each of them having its own look
• extremely comfy and high quality cabins
• tranquil environment in the nature preserve in Naleczow
• beautifully done lodges including kitchen unit, open plan living space and en-suite bathroom. It has a simple design and perfect balance between comfort and luxury. 
• one in a lifetime experience

Oh, and there is a home made apple pie and a cup of tea delivered to your tree-house, just if you need more convincing :) I think this place is just too cool not to visit! x

In no particular order, JODLA, SOSNA and GRAB inviting their guests to an unforgettable stay in the heart of Naleczow's naturally beautiful forest reserve. 

All pictures - courtesy of "W drzewach". 
For more information about eco-lodges in
Naleczow visit www.wdrzewach.com  

"Colour Lakes" in Rudawy Janowickie Mountains

Visiting Lower Silesia, the southern part of Poland, can be a really rewarding experience, especially if you are a true nature freak and like to be surprised at times. The region is very popular and this popularity can surely be attributed to its beautiful wild nature and great heritage. Even though there are many who have in their minds only one powerful association between Silesia and industrial chimneys, I am going to prove today they cannot be much further from the truth. 

Here come Colour Lakes in Rudawy Janowickie Mountains, a complex of three lakes-ponds created in the pits of former German pyrite mines - probably the most beautiful place in Rudawski Landscape Park. In my opinion, truly magical and unique. All in one, spectacular phenomena, freaks of nature and great examples of existing industrial symbiosis. By the way, it is hard to believe how well nature and heavy industry can work together. Or maybe how the nature outwit the industry, I should say.

Usually unusual places come with extraordinary stories behind them. Our story is going back to 18th and 19th centuries when there was pyrite mined here from mica schists. The works continued until 1925; the mines were abandoned and the old pits flooded by the water which resulted in creating a spectacular view: three small lakes: "Purpurowe" (Red),  "Błękitne" (Turquoise) and "Zielone" (Green). Their colours are the result of different chemical compounds present in the waters and they are in fact, some kind of mineral solution. 

First on the educational track, you'll see the biggest of all three, Purple Lake. It is a flooded pit of the oldest (established in 1785) German mine called "Hope". Its deep red yellowish colour owes to iron and copper compounds still present in the water. It is easily recognised by its distinctive smell and high acid pH = 3.1. 

Further up the track is situated smaller Blue Lake positioned in a small pit previously being an open mine called "New Happiness". It is the smallest and shallowest out of all three lakes. Contrary to the Purple Lake its water is clean and odour-free. Due to copper compound water has stunning emerald colour which reminds me of the Caribbean Sea. 

The last on the track, The Green Lake, was established in the mine pit called "Gustav Grube". The work in the copper mine continued until 1902. After leaving, it was flooded by water which resulted in creating a wonderful lake, also called the Black Pond. Unfortunately, viewing the Green Lake is not always possible as in period of drought disappears.

With many thanks to the author of all photographs published in today's post, Zbigniew Rękas, born and bred in Lower Silesia. To see more of his stunning pictures visit his blog: www.zbychflash.blogspot.com and fotoblog: http://zbyrek.flog.pl

Useful information:

*Colour Lakes are situated on the northern slope of Wielka Kopa mountain near the town of Wiesciszowice. 
* to read more about Colour Lakes visit: http://www.kolorowejeziorka.pl/eng/index.html

* the so called Green Track through Colour Lakes is more than lakes on their own. The area attracts its visitors with tunnels, caves, canyon and majestic wildlife around them. 

* here on the site, it is planned to soon open a natural water reservoir. What a lovely project! Fingers crossed!

Guess where I am

Guess where the pictures were taken! 

With many thanks to my dear student Aneta Jakubaszek who kindy agreed for the above photographs to be published on this site! 

Thanks for stopping by in Pasym!

When travelling along the borders of Masurian Lake District, you are more than welcome to pop in to Pasym. Here, in the oldest town in the region time hangs heavily and unlike big and noisy tourist resorts, Pasym upon Kalwa Lake is the Mazury where you can just sit and savour the silence. You may like to pop in to the local fish market in the morning, talk to the owner of the only store in town or simply find spare hour for a good read. A good read like "Dom nad rozlewiskiem" by Malgorzata Kalicinska with a great setting and enjoyable characters. Well written, accurate and engaging fiction bringing some sunshine and simplicity to our busy lives.

Pasym  - with many thanks to Mieczyslaw Wieliczko, the author of the above photograph, who kindly agreed for it to be published on this site. For more photographs by Mieczyslaw visit his official website: www.wieliczko.com.pl.

I must say that my taste in places and ways of unwinding underwent a drastic change. It probably happened around the same time I started to live in a city. So, I will be the first to pre-warn you that my suggestions may seem déclassé to some but that is the way I am. Instead of recommending shiny disco clubs, I would rather persuade you to stay in a distant place, find a good book and pair it with a fine hammock and shady lawn. Or simply enjoy the water splash and rock the boat in the moonlight shadow... 

That is how you make the sweetest memories you wish to hide away, cherish forever and never let them fade away :) xoxox

Kalwa Lake - with many thanks to "Oleszka", the author of the above photographs, who kindly agreed for them to be published on this site. For more photographs and Oleszka's adventures, follow her blog: http://wildand3.blogspot.co.uk. 

Mazury - away from the hustle and bustle...

Finally, I am able to do what I have wanted to do for a long, long time: to fill you in with more info about the beauty spots of Poland! And I am so excited to share the beautiful pictures with you too!

I was skimming through holiday brochures looking for Poland's top holiday destinations. The place away from the hustle and bustle of city life where we can enjoy the peace and tranquility is what I want! 

Here comes the Great Masurian Lake District - my perfect choice. A mystic land offering it all: peace, bliss, tranquility... no crowds, no traffic or no network, if you decide to venture deep into the landscape park. On the top of everything else, exceptionally beautiful surroundings and plenty opportunities to get closer to nature, simple and unspoilt. A truly special place where you can enjoy the delights of the richest wildlife areas of Poland, the freshest air and fresh fish served straight from the clear waters of Masurian lakes. I have been there before but next summer I'd like to come back for more. The region on its own is so big that any nature spotting enthusiasts can easily spend each year's holidays and there still will be plenty left to explore. 

Beautiful surroundings like these, you can see here in every corner:

With many thanks to Jacek Fałatowicz, the author of the above photographs, who kindly agreed for them to be published on this site. For more photographs by Jacek visit his official website: www.jacekfalatowicz.pl. 

(above: Dadaj Lake)

With many thanks to Mieczyslaw Wieliczko, the author of the above photographs, who kindly agreed for them to be published on this site. For more photographs by Mieczyslaw visit his official website: www.wieliczko.com.pl.

You must know that Mazury (Polish for Masuria) is the place every Pole takes a real pleasure in praising shamelessly. I couldn't not to join in as I genuinely think this place is worth even more positive attention! I am aware that it seems almost impossible to exhaust the topic, although I will try to include as much information as I can in the 3 consecutive posts which create, (the words are probably too big), "a small Masurian saga" :) At the same time, I promise I will put in an honest effort to come back to the subject and make a photographic statement of my next trip to Mazury.

I believe in strong arguments. Here're a couple:

- Firstly, this is a reasonable choice for everyone, no matter of your age, preferences or size of your wallet. Literally everyone will find something special to do! If you are a man / woman of leisure, you can book one of the finest luxurious Masurian Lake District hotels offering spa and golf facilities (eg. Hotel Młyn Klekotki in Godkow or Golebiewski Hotel in Mikolajki) or one of the pleasant restored manor houses like the one in Kaliszki. If you are of rather primitive nature, there is a big choice of camping, campering, cottages rentals and B&Bs. Sometimes it is worth just to pack away a tent together with a good camping equipment and start an out of schedule trip...

- Secondly, outstanding natural beauty, nature reserves and wildlife. The Masurian Landscape Park covering over 500 km² of lakes, rivers, canals, forests and 11 nature reserves is the oldest in Poland. A few special places worth visiting are: 

* Łuknajo Lake which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a must! This shallow (only 0.6 metres deep) freshwater lake is a shelter for the largest in Europe surviving community of mute swans and home for other rare bird species including waterfowls and raptors. Already in 1930s, the area was put under special protection being a place of international importace. A true paradise for ornithologists and other nature lovers!  To read more about Łuknajo Lake Reserve: http://www.unesco.org/mabdb/br/brdir/directory/biores.asp?code=POL+03&mode=all

* The Borecka Pushcha forest with a breeding station for European Bisons. A real gem! Not everyone knows that this is an incredibly valuable nature corner of the entire continent. This large primeval forest complex offers a plenty of nature spotting opportunities: you can trace here: bizons, elks, red deers, packs of wolves, wild boars, beavers or lynxes. To find out more about a great safari experience in Puszcza Borecka click on: http://www.skyscanner.net/news/5-european-safaris-take-walk-europe-s-wild-side

* Krutynia Kayak Trail - one of the most unique waterways in Old Continent. Measuring almost 100 km, offering a variety of attactions ranging from: a varied tracks, through the opportunity to see the wealth of the surrounding natural beauty to a night spent on the desert island,  Krutynia Kayak Trail is believed to be one of the most stunning outdoor activities you can experience in Masurian Landscape Park. To read more about these picturesque kayak safaris click on: http://www.poland.travel/en-gb/tourist-route/kayak-trail-on-the-river-krutynia

- You can't really get bored in here with the entertainment operating all year round. In summer, Mazury with over 2.000 lakes, beautiful forests and picturesque meadows is a paradise for a variety of outdoor and recreational activities including hiking, fishing, kayaking, sailing, horse riding, cycling, strolling on moonlight nature walks or picnicking alongside one of many stunning lakes in the the region.

- In winter time, the lakeland offers a great opportunities for diving under the ice (the clarity of water reaches its highest note with visability of 10 metres!), fishing, sleigh rides, ice sailing or cross country skiing (it may come as a surprise but the truth is, in order to satisfy all tourist appetites, Mazury easily turns into a real winterland meeting the standards of Zakopane, for instance. All outdoors attractions are reasonably priced plus most of the luxurious resorts are cheaper in winter season so why not to give it a go? To read more about skiing in Mazury:  http://www.poland.travel/en/skiing-and-snowboarding/skiing-in-the-warmia-mazury-region

This is the end of part 1. Over the next days few check out  for parts 2 and 3. Bye for now! I'm leaving you with the beautiful pictures of Masurian lakes by Mieczyslaw Wieliczko! Enjoyyyy!

(above) Sniadrwy Lake

Kisajno Lake

Yet again, many thanks to Mieczyslaw Wieliczko, the author of the above photographs, who kindly agreed for them to be published on this site. For more photographs by Mieczyslaw visit his official website: www.wieliczko.com.pl.

Indulge with fine food and a glass of śliwowica...

Yes, there are places in this world where dreams of tasting real food are still alive. The region of Łącko in Lesser Poland is remarkably recommended as one of those magic corners where you can explore the very best that this nation, and beyond, has to offer.

This small village comes as a surprise, tucked under a lone hill, with the adjoining plum and apple orchards which seem to become an inseparable landscape feature. Not many would come expecting to be connected to the most uncommon food experiences and local producers you can find here in every corner. But, that's exactly how it is. 

Yet again, with many thanks to Kamil Bankowski, the author of the photographs, who kindly agreed for them to be published on this site. For more photographs by Kamil visit his official website: www.irart.pl. 

The local people take pride in canning, freezing, drying and preserving the harvest as well as distilling a local plum brandy, called śliwowica łącka (literally slivovitz from Łącko). We are talking here about 70% of pure alcohol so you would have to have nerves of steel to try it out! Quoting local tasters, "it is very refreshing"! lol

Śliwowica łącka has been distilled in Łącko since at least 17th century and due to its characteristic and distincive flavour it has already made a sensation inside and outside of Poland! I would not called it a cheap and ordinary spirit that you drink in large amount! As it is produced with such a great care and attention, it gets people all around the world to taste it with zestful pleasure! A small shot of it after dinner is all you need!

If you feel like trying it out for yourself, 200ml bottles of śliwowica łącka are now available to buy at Krzysztof Mauer's shop in Zabrzeż. Soon, there will join in another 12 types of high-proof spirits including an apple brandy, cherry brandy, black currant brandy, raspberry brandy, pear brandy and any other fruit brandy you can think of!

Those who know the subject may fancy reading the latest article in "Sądeczanin" online newspaper:

http://www.sadeczanin.info/wiadomosci,5/to-hit-sezonu-w-gminie-lacko-zalegalizowali-sliwowice,40021#.Ukh49dKmiOI

Our Renaissance gem

And now for something completely different... During my last holiday stay in Poland I went to see an aristocratic residency of Potoccy in Lancut. Although it was not my first visit, it has definitely made the deepest impression in me. I guess, the older you get, the more you appreciate the tremendous value of the history. However cliché this may sound, I felt there like our history is something more than only piles of dusty books in a library. The residency in Lancut is a must for any first time visitor exploring Southern-East part of Poland. The castle is so well preserved that you almost feel like you belong there. Like the time has stood still.

For those who have not been there, here is a brief.

The palace is definitely one of the most impressive aristocratic residencies in Poland, famous for a rare collection of carriages, beautiful English gardens and luxurious interiors reflecting the distinctive beauty of the era. Attention to detail and good taste are seen with every step you make.
Originally, the residency was designed and built by famous at that time Giovanni Batista Falconi who gave it a shape of "a palace inside a fort" sort of thing. The person who converted this rough fortress into a beautiful palace-park complex we can admire today was Izabela Lubomirski of the Czartoryski family. It is Princess Izabela who the mansion in Lancut is owing its current splendour to. She was the one who invested all her time and money in modernising and decorating the castle in order for it to meet the standards of other great European mansions. And believe it or not, she nailed it!

Until World War II, the mansion remained one of the most luxurious residencies in the continental Europe (they even had a private theatre there!). Throughout the years the castle has been re-built and modernised a few times but its purpose always remained unchanged. It functioned as a place for social meetings for representatives of royal dynasties, aristocracy and diplomats from all around the world. Potoccy more than anyone else were very determined in their efforts to strengthen Polish cultural vitality and promote fine arts in all aspects. Following this tradition, the castle, to this day is open for all art exhibitions, live orchestra concerts, musical contests and plays.

This is all I am going to say for now as I think the best bits you should experience yourself! I hope there is no need to say anything more, anyway - pictures speak for themselves! I personally strongly recommend this unique place and I am sure you won't be disappointed!

PS. Included in the price of a ticket are: visiting the palace and its excellent interiors (unfortunately photo taking is not allowed inside), extraordinary collections of horse-drawn carriages and sleigh rides, English gardens, rose garden, Orangery, Orchid House, Stables and Couch House. All for a tenner!

Useful information:

• to get to Lancut it's best to fly to Rzeszow (Jasionka Airport), flights from all UK airports 
• I recommend opting for a visiting with a guide who will fill you in with all extremely interesting information regarding historical background to the castle
• opening times and ticket prices depend on the season. For details click on http://www.zamek-lancut.pl/en/Visiting
• for virtual tour around the castle click on http://www.zamek-lancut.pl/en/CastleToday/VirtualTour

To find out more about Castle Museum in Lancut:

http://www.zamek-lancut.pl/
http://www.tvp.pl/rzeszow/historia/wedrowki-galicyjskie/wideo/ostatni-z-rodu-potockich/6315887?start_rec=8