Swornegacie in Kashubia: the Pearl of the Tuchola Forest
- Damian Brzeski
- Jun 8
- 8 min read
Do you know a village whose name makes you smile and the town itself – delight? Swornegacie is not a joke, but one of the most beautiful places in Kashubia.
Immersed in nature, rich in culture and legends, it attracts lovers of active recreation, kayakers and those looking for authenticity away from commercialism.
What is hidden in this picturesque pearl of the Tuchola Forest? The answer will surprise you more than once.
Swornegacie – the pearl of the Tuchola Forest and the Kashubian Lake District
Swornegacie is a small but unique village located on Lake Karsińskie and the Brda River, right next to the Zaborski Landscape Park and the Tuchola Forest . It is a paradise for those who seek nature without filters and crowds.
Nature plays first fiddle here: clean air, stunning landscapes and plenty of trails for hiking, cycling and kayaking. And although it sounds like an idyllic utopia, everything here is well planned: infrastructure, attractions and a coherent vision of developing tourism close to nature.
Swornegacie is now a recognizable point on the ecotourism map. It attracts those who prefer active recreation to hotel sunbeds. And you know what? No wonder, because you really want to come back here.
Kashubia and the Kashubian Lake District – why is it worth coming here?
Kashubia is a region that stretches from the Tuchola Forest to the Baltic Sea. Lakes, hills, forests and the sea - all in one place. Here you will find both charming corners of nature and places vibrant with folk culture.
It is especially worth discovering " Kashubian Switzerland " - a region with amazing views, rich nature and expressive folklore. Combined with the local climate and dialect, they create a unique atmosphere that is difficult to imitate.
What distinguishes Kashubia (Swornegacie, German: Schwornigatz) is its natural beauty combined with a strong cultural identity. Here, you don't just look - you feel, taste and learn. And this stays in your memory for a long time.
Origin of the name: from "swory" to "gaci" – solving the mystery
The name of the village Swornegacie always makes you smile , but its origins are much deeper than you might think. Although it sounds funny to many, it has nothing to do with underwear . It goes back to old Polish terms related to old water engineering.
In old Polish, " gać " meant fascine – brushwood used to strengthen the banks of rivers and marshes. In turn, " swora " was a braid, a plait of pine roots. The combination of these words gave rise to Swornegacie (Kashubian: Swòrnégace) – meaning "compact, reinforced embankments".
The most locally accepted version connects this name with the ancient practice of reinforcing the banks with pine braids.
This shows that the village of Swornegacie grew on the foundation of the practical knowledge of its ancestors and the fight against the power of nature.
Interesting fact? Today, the local community thrives on this etymological confusion. In the shops, you can buy regional, white "pants" stylized as 19th-century underwear. It's a funny, but also witty reference to the name, which has become a local hit.
In historical documents the name Swornegacie (Kashubian: Swòrnégace) appears already in the 13th century and over the centuries it evolved as follows:
1272 – Swornigac
1275 – Swornigat
1303, 1382, 1400 – Swornigacz
1354, 1382 – Sworngatz
1653 – Sfornegac
1664 – Swornogac
These records document how the name of the town of Swornegacie (German: Schwornigatz) changed before it took on the form we know today.
A short history of the town
The first mention of Swornegacie (German: Schwornigatz) comes from 1272 and is associated with the presence of the Augustinian Order.
They were brought by Svatopluk as early as 1265, and their monastery quickly gained the support of Pope Gregory X. Already at that time, there was a hermitage here and a church dedicated to St. John the Baptist.
From the beginning, the Kashubian town of Swornegacie was intended as a spiritual and educational center. It was not an ordinary settlement – it was a place of development. This is evidenced by the establishment of a parish school, the beginnings of which probably date back to 1382.
After Poland regained independence in 1920, Swornegacie returned to Poland, which also meant changes in education.
The German school was replaced by a Polish one, and the growing number of children forced the construction of a new building. In the school year 1930/1931, a larger, brick school was opened, which served generations.
This is how history was created – stone by stone, brick by brick. Today, the village of Swornegacie combines a spiritual past, educational tradition and a modern approach to Kashubian culture.
A paradise for water lovers: lakes, rivers and kayaking
Swornegacie , picturesquely situated on Lake Karsińskie and the Brda River, is a real Eldorado for water sports fans.
The Brda River is one of the most beautiful places for kayaking in Poland , and Swornegacie (Kashubian: Swòrnégace) is an important stage point. Even from the bridge in the center you can admire colorful kayaks floating downstream.
There are rentals with top-class equipment (such as the renowned PRIJON kayaks), as well as the possibility of using a guide. The PTTK Water Station in the center of the village of Swornegacie is proof that water tourism is taken seriously here.
Thanks to its focus on quality and safety, Swornegacie has gained a reputation as a reliable place, ideal for both families and experienced water sports enthusiasts.
Anglers will also find something for themselves here. There are plenty of lakes full of fish in the area, and the nearby Charzykowskie Lake attracts not only fishing enthusiasts, but also those who want to admire the views from the deck of a TUR ship stylized as a pirate ship.
Hiking and cycling trails: discover the Tuchola Forest and landscape parks
The Kashubian town of Swornegacie is a great base for hiking in the Tuchola Forest and Zaborski Landscape Park .
Dozens of well-marked trails lead through forests, meadows and lakes, encouraging you to discover the region at any time of year.
It's worth a walk or a drive:
The ornithological trail towards Kokoszka (approx. 2 km from the village centre)
the route to Owinek, running picturesquely along the lake and through Psia Góra
along the trails of the Tuchola Forest National Park to Chociński Młyn and the 600-year-old Bartuś oak
wooden footbridge over Kaczy Oko
around Lake Gacno Wielkie, where you will find sundew and lobelia
The extensive network of trails and the presence of the Nature Education Centre prove that Swornegacie focuses on ecological education and responsible learning about nature.
For cycling enthusiasts? 165 kilometres of trails combine into one Kashubian Route , a true cycling paradise.
Natural gems and viewpoints
In the vicinity of Swornegacie you will find places that will delight not only nature maniacs. In the Nature Education Center in Chociński Młyn you can meet white-tailed eagles, ravens, cows and horses - rescued animals that now teach us empathy and ecology.
In addition, there is the 600-year-old Bartuś oak, a wooden footbridge over Kaczy Oko and wild corners of the landscape park with birds and deer within sight.
and let me put it this way: Swornegacie is not just a rest. It is an adventure that stays in the heart.
Culture and traditions of Kashubia: the heart of the region
It is in tradition that the soul of Kashubia lies. From handicrafts, through holiday rituals, to local flavors – everything here tells the story of people strongly connected to the land, language and community.
Handicrafts and folk art
In the center of the Kashubian village of Swornegacie you will find a real treasure: the Kashubian House of Folk Handicraft . A stylized house with traditional furniture, costumes and everyday equipment allows you to feel the spirit of the region.
An audio guide will add context, and workshops, such as baking bread, provide opportunities for active participation.
This is not a museum with dusty exhibits - it is a living cultural center. You will find here exhibitions of sculpture, painting and a demonstration of traditional Kashubian embroidery. For children and adults: learning through action, a contemporary form of contact with Kashubian culture .
The following stand out:
ceramics with plant patterns
colorful Kashubian embroidery
folk cutouts and fabrics
sculpture, lace-making, floristry and blacksmithing
Gòdë and Kashubian Christmas Rituals
Kashubian traditions are fairy tales, forest characters, carolers and Santa Claus checking children's prayers. Especially the Christmas period - called Gòdë here - is colorful and full of meaning. From carolers to bazuny, wind instruments chasing away the old year.
Typical elements of Gods:
naturally decorated Christmas tree
12 Christmas Eve dishes, including Brzadowa soup and herring with apple
The Star and Bunter Tellery
Carolers, Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass
New Year's Eve pranks
New Year's rituals with bazunami
These customs are not folklore for tourists. They are a living tradition that you can participate in and that pulsates in your home.
Tastes of Kashubia: tradition on a plate
The cuisine of the region is a feast not only for the palate but also for the soul. In Swornegacie it is worth trying dishes that have been on tables for generations:
Kashubian herring
fish soup and Kashubian żurek
potato cake and Kashubian dumpling
cheesecake, poppy seed cake, cakes, gingerbread
Every bite is a story of history and local flavors. Kashubian cuisine is a living heritage that can not only be learned but also savored with the whole family.
What else is worth seeing in the area?
Swornegacie is not only nature. It is also history and culture at your fingertips. In addition to the already known Kashubian House of Folk Handicraft , the village is home to the neo-Baroque Church of St. Barbara from 1912–1916 – not only a spiritual center, but also a monument of interesting architecture.
In the area you can also see:
The Fojutowo Aqueduct – a unique hydrotechnical structure
Drawbridge over the Brda River - with viewing points
Kashubian Ethnographic Park in Wdzydze Kiszewskie
The Western Kashubian Museum in Bytów (in the former Teutonic castle)
The Historical and Ethnographic Museum in Chojnice
The city of Chojnice – with charming, historical buildings
Interesting facts and local legends
Swornegacie and its surroundings hide many stories that give this land its magic:
The Devil's Stone in Kokoszka and the story of blacksmith Ferdynand
A commemorative paddle commemorating Pope John Paul II's kayaking trips
The Napoleonic linden tree , under which the emperor supposedly rested
Chociński Mill and sawmill from the 16th century
The Zańskie Ditch System – a fascinating drainage network
These places are not just points on a map. They are stories that live and give meaning to the entire region. For those curious about the world – a real treat!
How to get to Swornegać?
Swornegacie is well-connected and can be reached in several ways – regardless of whether you travel by car or use public transport.
By car: The most convenient and fastest from Gdańsk (approx. 1 hour 45 min, approx. 115 km). Travel cost: PLN 60–95. A car gives you freedom and the ability to explore the area without restrictions.
Taxi : A taxi ride from Gdańsk to Swornegacia costs around PLN 400–500, depending on the carrier and time of day. This is an option for those who value comfort and direct access.
By train: From Gdańsk to Mecikał (approx. 4 hours 20 minutes) or from Tczew to Krojanty (approx. 3 hours 15 minutes). The service is provided by Polregio. Then you have to change to a local bus.
By bus: From Tczew to Chojnice (approx. 4 hours). Connections are provided by PKP Intercity. Then a local bus to Swornegacie or Małe Swornegacie.
Locally: There are buses and coaches from Chojnice (from the Towarowa-Dworzec PKP/PKS stop) – also on weekends.
Thanks to this, the Kashubian village of Swornegacie remains accessible not only to drivers, but also to those who prefer a more sustainable or budget style of travelling.
Swornegacie: unforgettable experiences in Kashubia – plan your stay!
Swornegacie (Kashubian: Swòrnégace) is a true pearl of the Tuchola Forest. A unique name, rich history and vibrant Kashubian culture combine here with unearthly views.
You can here:
kayak down the Brda River or on Lake Karsińskie
discover the trails of the Tuchola Forest on foot and by bike
take part in workshops and events at the Kashubian House of Folk Handicrafts
immerse yourself in legends and local stories
Good infrastructure, high quality services and authenticity attract tourists who often come back here again. Because Swornegacie is worth visiting not once, but many times.
Plan your visit now and see for yourself that this Kashubian village is a place you want to return to!
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