Tuchola Forest - a guide for tourists
- Damian Brzeski
- 10 minutes ago
- 22 min read
What do a mud turtle, Celtic music and an aqueduct in the middle of the forest have in common? Only one place in Poland can combine such crazy elements into a coherent whole – the Tuchola Forest.
This is not another "green oasis", but a harsh, non-obvious world where nature speaks with the voice of wolves and culture smells of smoke from the Borowia fire.
See why this corner can surprise even those who thought they had seen it all.
Tuchola Forest: nature, culture and attractions of the region
The Tuchola Forest is more than just one of the largest forest complexes in Poland – it is a living mosaic of nature, culture and history that invites you to discover it on your own terms.
This vast complex of Tuchola forests stretches over almost 3,000 km², acting as a kind of "green lung" of our country.
Due to the fact that the Tuchola forests grow on such a large scale, they are of great importance not only locally, but also nationally – they filter the air, produce oxygen, and at the same time... captivate with their peace and wildness, which is missing in cities.
This is where wildlife meets rich cultural heritage – a perfect mix for those who want to relax, learn something new or simply feel close to nature.
Here you will find rare species of plants and animals, find traces of ancient civilizations and feel the spirit of the Borowiaks. In a word – the Tuchola forests are amazing !
The importance of the Tuchola Forest on the map of Poland
Against the background of the entire country , the Tuchola Forest stands out not only for its size, but also for what it has to offer: unique natural and cultural values that cannot be found anywhere else.
Where exactly are the Tuchola Forest located and what do they encompass?
It is not one small forest, but a complex of the Tuchola Forest , which stretches on the border of the Pomeranian and Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeships. The focal point of the region is the Tuchola Forest National Park , located in Chojnice County.
This national park of the Tuchola Forest covers over 4,600 ha and is an important part of the entire complex.
But that's not all – this area also includes such gems as the Tucholski Landscape Park , the Zaborski Landscape Park , the Wdzydzki Landscape Park and the Wdecki Landscape Park .
Together they form the Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve , also appreciated by UNESCO. Such a mosaic of nature conservation and diverse landscapes is a real treat for every traveler.
This picturesque area of the Tuchola Forest is not only a green enclave – it is also a space full of adventures, where you can explore the Tuchola Forest in many ways: on foot, by bike, by kayak or by car.
What is so characteristic of the Tuchola Forest?
The Tuchola Forest is characterized by incredible biodiversity. Here you will find mixed forests, marshes, lakes and rivers of the Tuchola Forest – including the Brda and Wda – which create ideal living conditions for wild animals.
Deer, wolves, storks and even rare butterflies feel at home here.
It is worth knowing that this region is also a true haven for naturalists – not only for scientists, but also for each of us who seeks contact with nature in its pure form.
For example, Usnea hirtella occurs here, considered extinct in Poland, as well as the nivalis lungwort , typical of the mountains, and yet... found here, in the lowlands!
History woven into the landscape
The Tuchola Forest is also unique in terms of culture. In its area you will find traces of ancient civilizations: from archaeological sites to old chapels and wooden huts.
It is here that the inhabitants of the Tuchola Forest have for centuries created a unique culture, fragments of which are still alive – for example in the language, costumes and handicrafts.
If you want to get to know this world better, be sure to visit the Borów Tucholskich Museum in Tuchola . It's a great starting point for further exploration and a great place to see what the daily life of the Borowiacy looked like.
The Tuchola and Charzyków Plains – two different worlds
The landscape of this part of Poland is the result of a retreating glacier – and it shows! On one side we have the Tuchola Plain , an agricultural area with fertile soils and moderate forestation, and on the other – the Charzykowska Plain , full of lakes and hills, ideal for trips, kayaking and Instagram photos.
It is on the Charzykowska Plain , in the Brda River basin, that you will find many charming nooks that are just begging to be discovered. It is especially beautiful there in the summer, when the water glistens in the glacier depressions and the hills are covered in greenery.
Tourist attractions and cultural heritage of the region
The Tuchola Forest is a true treasure trove of history, nature and local tradition. Every corner of this region hides its own story – sometimes dark, sometimes surprising, but always fascinating. Below you will find a few places that you simply must visit.
Stone Circles in Odry – Polish Stonehenge
The Oder River hides one of the most intriguing places in Poland – the Stone Circles , which many call the "Polish Stonehenge".
Protected as an archaeological and nature reserve since 1958, they constitute a unique combination of history and nature.
Within the reserve there are 12 circles with stones with a diameter of 15–33 meters and as many as 30 barrows.
Archaeologists have discovered a Goth and Gepid cemetery here dating back to the 1st–3rd centuries AD, and the finds include items made of gold, silver, bronze, and Roman pottery.
But it's not just history. The stones are overgrown with over 80 species of lichens, including high-mountain varieties - which is evidence of the pristine microclimate. The protection of the Tuchola Forest is not a theory, but a concrete one - the reserve is one of the ecologically cleanest places in the country.
In autumn the place comes alive – the heather blooms and the organised events take you back in time: Celtic music, pottery workshops, Gothic fashion shows... And all this without a ticket – free admission!
The Fojutowo Aqueduct – a hydrotechnical gem
Fojutowo is a place that can totally surprise you. In the middle of the Tuchola Forest complex you will find... an aqueduct! And not just any aqueduct – modeled on Roman structures.
Here the Great Brda Canal crosses Czerska Struga . The canal flows at the top, and the natural stream at the bottom. The difference in levels reaches up to 11 meters! The structure is over 70 meters long, and the history of its construction dates back to the mid-19th century.
The facility has undergone modernization, preserving its original atmosphere. Today it is surrounded by tourist infrastructure: parking, hotel, equipment rental, observation tower.
The whole thing makes a huge impression, especially from the perspective of a kayak – because the Brda is one of the most beautiful kayaking routes in the Tuchola Forest .
It's the perfect place to feel the importance of the Tuchola Forest not only as a natural space, but also as a technological one. And you can have a lot of fun along the way!
The hillfort in Raciąż – a journey through time
3 kilometers from the center of the village of Raciąż there is a real gem - a medieval stronghold on Lake Śpierewnik. Settlements in this place date back to the Neolithic period! This is one of those corners of the Tuchola Forest , where history literally comes out of the ground.
The castle was destroyed and rebuilt, but in 2012 it gained a second life thanks to reconstruction. Paths, parking lots were taken care of, and the whole thing is also available to families with children. What's more - admission is free.
There are picturesque lakes in the area (Raciąskie, Rudnica, Przylonek), and the Castellan Trail runs through Raciąż – perfect for fans of bikes and hiking trails . It is a great place to see how the cultural Tuchola Forest intertwines with nature.
Museum of the Tuchola Forest – history you can touch
In the heart of Tuchola , at ul. Podgórna 3, there is a unique place – the Tuchola Forest Museum . It is located in a former granary, and its interior is full of life and history.
What will you find here? First of all:
The history of Tuchola – from the Middle Ages to the 20th century,
reconstruction of the Borowiak cottage with authentic furnishings,
ethnographic exhibitions of old professions and handicrafts,
presentation of the flora and fauna of the Tuchola Forest , with an emphasis on endangered species.
There are also so-called "living history lessons" - you can churn butter, spin flax or try your hand at a mangle. The kids will be delighted! This is the perfect introduction to exploring the Tuchola Forest with your head - first you learn, then you explore.
Towns and tourist centers in the Tuchola Forest
The Tuchola Forest includes not only wild forests and picturesque lakes, but also charming towns and villages, ideal as a base for trips. If you are planning to visit the Tuchola Forest , make a note of these places!
Tuchola – the heart of the region and culture of the Borowiaks
Tuchola is the undisputed capital of the Bory. It is located in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, and its history dates back to the Middle Ages – from the castle of the Pomeranian princes to the fortress of the Teutonic Order. It gained city rights in 1346.
This town has it all: shops, cafes, museums and closeness to nature. A few steps separate you from the Brda River Valley , and the local gem – the “Piekiełko” forest – delights with its winding meanders of the river and the play of light among the trees.
Also worth visiting are the five 700-year-old oaks, known as the “hanging oaks”, and the monument in Rudzki Most – a moving commemoration of the tragic events of 1939.
Tuchola is a combination of a small-town atmosphere with a rich heritage – for those who want to have both forest and civilization at their fingertips.
Chojnice - monuments and entrance to the national park
Chojnice is the largest city in the region and a great starting point for trips to the Tuchola Forest National Park . You can stroll through the historic old town, eat something delicious in the market square or visit the local museum.
Right next to it is Lake Charzykowskie , a center for water sports and summer relaxation. Sailing, kayaks, fishing - everything on site. In addition, rentals, schools, restaurants.
Chojnice is perfect for those who like to have access to a shower, pizza and Wi-Fi after a day in the forest 😉
Raciąż – a village with atmosphere and history
If you dream of silence, Raciąż will give it to you. Located on the outskirts, among lakes (Raciąskie, Rudnica, Przylonek), it tempts with peace and natural rhythm.
The local stronghold is a living history lesson – a medieval settlement reconstructed with visitors in mind. Free admission, easy-to-follow paths, even with a stroller.
In July, a folk art fair is held here, and in the summer and autumn mushroom pickers and fishermen visit. The Castellan Trail also runs through Raciąż, perfect for cycling or walking.
Raciąż doesn't pretend to be anything - it's authentic, local and full of charm. Perfect if you're looking for a relaxing break away from the crowds.
Amazing hiking trails and outdoor activities
The Tuchola Forest is a true Eldorado for active people – regardless of whether you prefer hiking, cycling adventures or kayaking trips. Here, nature combines with recreation, and the Tuchola Forest encourages movement and exploration.
Hiking and cycling trails - a network of trails throughout the region
The Tuchola Forest National Park and its surroundings offer an impressive network of trails – from leisurely walks to off-road challenges. There are 45 km of hiking trails and 25 km of cycling trails that flow seamlessly beyond the park boundaries, allowing you to traverse almost the entire territory of the Tuchola Forest .
Among the most interesting routes:
Blue Trail of the Brda River – over 159 km through forests and villages (Swornegacie!), also ideal for MTB bikes,
The Great Brda Canal Trail – 15.8 km, with the aqueduct and observation tower in Fojutowo ,
The Heidekraut Military Training Ground Trail – 16 km through the former German military training ground,
The “Lipnicki Loop” trail and other educational sections – perfect for family trips,
The Gołąbkowy Trail and the Borowa Auntie Trail – less known, but with soul.
Among the surfaces you will find asphalt, gravel, forest paths. This is not a place for one bike – both trekking and gravel will come in handy here. And for every level – from families to professionals – there is something tailored.
Kashubian Route - by bike through the heart of the region
The Kaszubian Route is one of the largest bicycle networks in Poland – 204 km of marked routes leading through the Zaborski Landscape Park , the National Park, and even Czersk and Chojnice .
In short:
Red trail – 55 km from Charzyków through Swornegacie to Czersk – a favourite of many cyclists,
Yellow trail – 67 km from Charzykowy through Rytel – long, picturesque, perfect for the whole day,
Green trail – 42 km from Chojnice, light and calm,
Black trail – 33 km loop from Konarzyn – difficult, but worth the effort.
The routes run through the picturesque area of the Tuchola Forest , along lakes, forests, historical points and attractions such as a seed extraction plant or viewpoints. A bike and a camera are a must!
“Piła Młyn” educational trail – a nature lesson in practice
A trail about 5.5 km long between Bachorze and Małe Swornegacie. What will you find here?
Bartuś Oak – a 600-year-old giant with a fairy-tale-like tree hollow,
Copy of the Napoleonic Cross – an interesting fact with history,
Views of Lake Charzykowskie , lobelia Gacno Wielkie and peat bogs,
Wooden footbridges and educational boards – perfect for families.
This is a proposal for those who prefer walks with added value. Ideal as a first "encounter" with the nature of the region.
By kayak through the rivers of the Tuchola Forest – Brda and Wda
The largest rivers of the Tuchola Forest , the Brda and the Wda , are a perfect place for a kayaking holiday.
Brda – the queen of the region's rivers, easy, diverse, flowing through virgin areas and numerous lakes. Recommended sections:
Świeszyno – Nowa Brda – for those thirsty for adventure,
Przechlewo – Małe Swornegacie – perfect for a start,
Rytel – Water Carrier – dynamic and wild,
Water carrier – Rudzki Most – a quiet classic,
Rudzki Most – Wilcze Throat – through lakes and old trees.
Wda , also called Czarna Woda, is more wild and changeable. From mountain streams to calm backwaters. Cool sections:
Lipusz – Wdzydze Kiszewskie,
Czarna Woda – Tleń – long, scenic, 4 days of relaxation with a paddle in hand.
Recommended kayaking routes on the Brda and Wda rivers
River | Episode | Length (km) | Estimated time | Difficulty | Key Features/Notes |
Brda | Swieszyno - Nowa Brda | 25 | 1 day | Easy/Moderate | Wild stream, fallen trees, for adventurous beginners. |
Brda | Nowa Brda - Przechlewo | 26-27 | 1 day | Easy | Fewer obstacles, picturesque, through the lakes Szczytno, Szczycienko, Końskie. |
Brda | Przechlewo - Małe Swornegacie | 25 | 1 day | Easy | Popular, perfect for all levels, few obstacles. |
Brda | Rytel - Water carrier | 17.6 | 1 day | Easy/Moderate | Meandering river, forests, rapids and stones for experienced riders. |
Brda | Water carrier - Rudzki Bridge | 20.5 | 1 day | Easy | Peaceful, through forests and meadows. |
Brda | Rudzki Bridge - Gostycyn Nogawica | 15.1 | 1 day | Easy | Through the Piekiełko Forest, 700-year-old oaks in Świt. |
Brda | Gostycyn Nogawica - Wolf's Throat | 25.2 | 1 day | Easy | A long section through Lake Koronowo and Lipkusz. |
Wda | Lipusz - Wdzydze Kiszewskie | 22 | 1 day | Easy/Moderate | The beginning of the adventure with Wda, through the lakes. |
Wda | Wdzydze Kiszewskie - Miedzno | 14 | 1 day | Easy/Moderate | Part of the multi-day trips. |
Wda | Miedzno - Black Water | 21 | 1 day | Easy/Moderate | Part of the multi-day trips. |
Wda | Borsk - Black Water | 23 | 7 hrs | Moderate | Varied, two portages, temporarily fast current. |
Wda | Black Water - Black | 16 | 4.5 hrs | Easy | No portages or obstacles, suitable for families. |
Wda | Black Water - Oxygen | 89 | 4 days | Moderate | Long section, beautiful landscapes, few obstacles. |
The waterways are well marked and equipped – marinas, campsites, camping points. And all this in the rhythm of nature – no hustle and bustle, just you and the water.
Agrotourism and accommodation in the Tuchola Forest
There's nothing like hiding among the forests and lakes and... just taking a breath. This part of the Tuchola Forest is a real relief - and the accommodation options? A full range! From atmospheric cottages to family resorts with full facilities.
Overnight stay in the pine forest – cottages, farms, guesthouses
You don't have to choose between peace and comfort. In the Tuchola Forest you will find everything from agritourism to cottages with a swimming pool, not to mention "hobbit" hideouts in the forest.
Some examples:
Fairytale HOBBIT Cottages (Iwiec/Tuchola) – underground houses straight from fantasy,
Siedlisko Malwy (Wyrówno) – with a view of the lake and the option of "Chatki nad Wodą",
Chata Nad Jeziorem (Błądzim) – garden, swimming pool, trampoline – a paradise for families,
Dwór Pod Bukiem (Rybaki) – apartments in the Kashubian style,
Guest Rooms in Wiele – with boats, kayaks and a beach at your fingertips.
There are over 160 facilities in the region – and not just any facilities. Many of them offer catering, event organization, and water equipment rentals. The Tuchola Forest complex really knows how to take care of its guests.
With children to the forest - family attractions and full chill
Planning a vacation with kids? You can't go wrong. Hotels (e.g. Hotel Notera in Charzykowy ) have packages with the option "2 kids free", and the programs for the youngest are like from a fairy tale.
What awaits you there?
Children's clubs with animations, workshops, outdoor games,
Educational and artistic activities – clay modelling, painting, baking bread,
Swimming pools, saunas for children, SUPs and kids yoga – more than just a slide,
Bikes, walks, open-air museums, forest bathing – actively and with a bang,
Entertainment zones – consoles, mega blocks, XXL games and sensory gardens.
But the best pleasures are simple:
jumping into the lake,
evening bonfires with sausages,
tracking traces of deer and wild boars,
bike rides in the forest,
and of course – mushrooms! 🍄
A family trip to this corner of the Tuchola Forest is an idea for a stress-free vacation – full of joy, activity and nature. The kids will have a blast, and you will relax – simply, without pretense, but with a smile.
Flora and fauna of the Tuchola Forest
The Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve is one of the most interesting places in Poland for anyone who loves nature – and not just with a camera in hand. The local plant and animal world surprises with its diversity, environmental purity and... wildness, which is so hard to experience today.
Pines, peat bogs and other botanical wonders
The dominant view here is of course pine forests – the classic, sandy ones, with tall, straight trunks. But that's just the beginning. You'll also find beech forests, riparian forests, alder forests and peat bogs, and on them: peat mosses, cranberries, common marsh and... sundews! Yes, the carnivorous ones.
Interesting fact? There are about 250-300 species of lichens growing in these areas, including Usnea hirtella – once considered extinct. There are also mountain lichens here – even though we are in the lowlands. This tells us one thing: nature conservation is working.
In winter it is quiet here, in summer – purple. The heaths bloom in full bloom in August and September, creating fairy-tale landscapes. And if you happen to come across Lake Gacno Wielkie – take a look at the lobelia plants: lake lobelia, quillwort or water elisma. A real paradise for botanists.
Animals – from deer to wolves and the European pond turtle
The local forests and meadows are home to over 40 species of mammals. Among the "regulars" are roe deer, wild boars, and red deer.
But there are also less obvious characters – like shrews, otters, or wolves, which have been returning since 2010. Their presence is proof that this corner of the Tuchola Forest is alive and well.
In the air? Bald eagle, black stork, cranes, woodpeckers, pheasants. And in the evening – frog concerts and croaking from the marshes.
Of the more "exotic" species, you can find the pond turtle here, as well as the European adder (although this one does not attack without reason). There are also plenty of butterflies, including rare species listed on the red lists.
The Wda and Brda rivers , forest thickets, peat bogs and meadows – each type of environment has its inhabitants. Thanks to this, the places of the Tuchola Forest are a paradise for photographers, ornithologists and those who simply want to “listen to the forest”.
The unique Tuchola Forest is not only peaceful, but also full of life ecosystems. This is where you can follow wolf tracks, watch a white-tailed eagle in flight or simply immerse yourself in the greenery. Come and see how the Tuchola Forest delights when it is not the rustling of trees, but… life.
Borowiacy Tucholscy and the cultural heritage of the region
The Borowiacy Tucholscy are not just residents – they are the pride of the region, a living heritage that has been creating the unique atmosphere of the Tuchola Forest for centuries. Their culture is more than just folklore – it is a way of life that can still be found here.
Traditions, dialect and identity of the local community
The Borowiacy are a community with a strong character – independent, proud and deeply connected to the forest. Their life revolved around nature, manual labor and local rituals. And although times have changed, many of the old traditions have survived to this day.
Borowiacki costume:
Men : linen shirts, black waistcoats, linen russet coats with red collars, belts, long "wołoszki" coats, Poznań caps.
Women : silk scarves, gold-embroidered bonnets ("kapoty" and "złotnice"), "laced" corsets, dark pleated skirts, checked woolen scarves.
Borowiacy crafts:
Baskets made of pine and juniper roots,
Snuff boxes made of bark or horn,
Houses without nails, with wooden door handles.
Regional cuisine:
Zacierki, skubacz, potato dumplings ("golce"),
The famous "gómółki" - lumps of cottage cheese dried in the sun,
Forest fruit liqueurs, beer, local wines,
Acorn coffee and tobacco.
Borowiacka dialect – still alive and colorful. Here are some examples:
a potato tuber
bak – miss (about a girl)
stork – shoe
bócek – stork
byska – woman (often in a slightly pejorative meaning)
cornflower – bread
to get married – to get married
to laugh – to laugh
to giggle – to chuckle
peasant – husband, man
chyna – I guess
continuously – constantly, continuously
a poor woman , a beggar
paint – color
fasa – barrel
cart – wagon
trousers
gizd – ugly child
rummage – rummage
top - attic
gzub – child
yeah - yes
slippers – flip-flops, home footwear
kiecak – squirrel
when – when
clack – stork
cleats / klumps – wooden shoes
kitchen – kitchen
clumsy – clumsy
wickedness – evil, misfortune
boletus (a type of mushroom)
lyjc – flax
whiner – crybaby
to have money
blue -flowered cornflower
for the pine smoke - for nothing
there is nothing to talk about – there is nothing to talk about
get hit – get
to burn – to smoke
a trifle – a trifle, a stupidity
parsley – carrot
planta – field
rajza – journey
to vomit – to throw up
siekierezada – party with alcohol
pickers – a type of dumpling
lard – bacon
to hit – to strike, to strike
tolubka – a warm women's jacket
to hit – to strike
to get drunk – to get drunk
shroud – rope
węborek – bucket
to dress up – to spruce oneself up
mash – a type of dumpling
inn – inn
courtship – flirtation
a weakling – a weak person
Borowiacy valued freedom – they were never subjects, which built a strong sense of value. Today, this culture is cultivated by, among others, the Borowiackie Towarzystwo Kultury , which has been taking care of tradition for 50 years, organizing events, workshops and exhibitions.
Borowiak Culture in Landscape and Tourism
In the past, man shaped the Bory – he cleared, burned, settled. Today, the roles have reversed: the Tuchola Forest is enchanting , and this cultural heritage is becoming its greatest asset.
In the forest districts of Czersk, Rytel, Skórcz and Zamrzenica, special recreation zones have been created – with campsites, parking spaces and trails in the heart of the forest. Villages are gaining the status of summer resorts – and the region is bustling with peaceful, tourist life.
What can you do here?
Explore the cultural Tuchola Forest on foot, by bike or on horseback,
Kayaking on the Brda River – a route considered one of the most beautiful in Europe,
Stay in hospitable homes and farms where the Borowiacy still live in accordance with the rhythm of the forest,
Talk to the locals – because they are the best guides to their world.
Borowiacy are not a relic. It is a living culture that draws, inspires and... stays in the heart. If you really want to visit Bory Tucholskie - meet the people who create it. They are the ones who make this place so special .
Nature conservation in the Tuchola Forest – the most important facts
National Park "Bory Tucholskie" This is the heart of the region, established in 1996. It covers over 4,600 ha, of which 83% are forests and 11% - lakes. You will find here wild landscapes, unique lobelia lakes and rare species of animals such as wolves and white-tailed eagles. A well-developed network of trails makes sightseeing easy.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve The largest biosphere reserve in Poland – 3195 km². Included in the “Man and the Biosphere” program, it combines nature conservation with local development. It is a world-class natural area that promotes sustainable tourism.
Natura 2000 European network of protection covering about 350,000 ha. It protects 60 lakes and over 28 species of birds. There are also unique habitats, such as lichen forests and lobelia lakes.
Forest Promotional Complex A model of education and protection. It supports biodiversity, runs educational paths and takes care of the condition of trails. Here you will find, among others, "Jelenia Wyspa", an ecological education room or a demonstration animal enclosure.
The Tuchola Forest is one of the best-protected natural regions in Poland – ideal for lovers of wildlife, ecology and peaceful, conscious relaxation.
Landscape parks of the Tuchola Forest
Apart from the National Park , the Tuchola Forest is also protected by a network of landscape parks, which highlight the diversity of landscapes and natural richness of the region.
Tuchola Landscape Park – trails, views and nature
Tucholski Landscape Park is one of the most accessible natural areas in the region. On its territory, you will find:
The Great Brda Canal Trail (15.8 km) – with the aqueduct and observation tower in Fojutowo,
The Castellan Trail (3 km) – to the hillfort in Raciąż,
The Brdy Forest Trail (5.8 km) – through the mysterious “Hell”,
The Gołąbkowy Trail (38 km) – a red cycling trail with educational attractions,
Okonin Trail (17.8 km) – for MTB fans,
Borowa Auntie Trail (50 km) – the longest bicycle trail in the park.
You will also find viewpoints here, including Lake Charzykowskie, as well as natural gems such as the Bartuś Oak or the Lobelia lakes . This is an ideal space for hiking, cycling and nature photography.
Wdecki Landscape Park – the Wda River and the secrets of nature
This park covers the valley of the Wda River – one of the largest rivers of the Tuchola Forest – and five reserves:
forest: Clinks ,
ornithological: Miedzno ,
peat bogs: Lake Ciche and Dury ,
landscape: Lake Piaseczno .
It is a great place for kayaking , hiking and nature observation. Over 40 species of mammals and almost 150 birds live here. Educational trails, such as "Zatoki" or "Trasa Radańska", make it easy to learn about flora and fauna.
Additionally, a 4th-century Gothic settlement was discovered near Oś – a real treat for history buffs!
Zaborski Landscape Park – the heart of Kashubian nature
Zaborski Landscape Park, encompassing among others Brusy and Chojnice , is an area of lakes, peat bogs and dense forests.
The main attractions are:
Lake Charzykowskie – ideal for water sports,
Swamp Stawek and Lake Małe Łowne – habitats of rare species,
fragments of the Brda River , the middle course of which crosses the park.
Zaborski Park is part of the Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve and the Natura 2000 network, which proves its importance for environmental protection on a European scale.
Nadwiślański Landscape Park – the wild Vistula valley
Although lesser known, Nadwiślański Park Krajobrazowy is a gem on the Vistula. It lies on the left bank of the river, north of Bydgoszcz, and covers over 60,000 hectares.
You will find here:
picturesque plateaus, oxbow lakes and river terraces ,
reserves such as Wiosło Duże , Lake Fletnowskie or Linje (with a unique dwarf birch),
heron colonies, floodplain forests and oak-hornbeam forests .
This park offers a unique opportunity to get to know the valley of a large river up close, with its unique climate and vegetation.
Nature reserves and unique ecosystems
The Tuchola Forest boasts not only forests and lakes, but also a network of nature reserves that protect the most valuable ecosystems in the region. Here are three gems worth seeing for yourself:
The Yew Trees Nature Reserve – the largest concentration of yew trees in Europe
This place is a living legend - a reserve established in 1827 , one of the oldest in Poland! It houses the largest concentration of yews in Europe - about 4,000 trees , growing among monumental pines, oaks and alders.
You will find here:
"Yew Island" - a fragment of the forest dominated by yew,
Lake Mukrz (over 40 ha),
peat bogs and alder swamps,
a marked educational route,
an atmosphere that fascinated Leon Wyczółkowski so much that he created over 100 of his works here.
This place has an almost mystical feel. Perfect if you want to feel the spirit of the Sacred Grove , as the artist called this reserve.
Marshes on Stążka Reserve – a kingdom of peat bogs and birds
This is the largest low peat bog in the Tuchola Forest – over 470 ha of wild, watery space. The name itself makes an impression: "Jelenia Wyspa" – because a nature and educational path leads through this part of the reserve.
What you will find here:
sedge grasslands,
relic and rare plant species,
ideal breeding conditions for birds, including cranes,
an atmospheric sightseeing route (3.5 km, start: Gołąbek).
This is a must-see for ornithologists , but also for anyone who wants to escape from civilization for a moment and immerse themselves in wild nature .
Brda River Valley Reserve – a spectacle of nature by the water
The Brda, a river that has appeared in this guide many times, shows its most picturesque face in this version. The reserve covers 1,681 ha and is full of bends, escarpments, boulders and lush forests.
Here you will feel like in the mountains:
the river meanders through oak and linden forests,
you will see beavers, wild boars, roe deer,
you will spot rare birds in the treetops,
the vegetation of the ground creates a real mosaic of colors,
the reserve is great for hiking and kayaking .
Rivers and lakes of the region
The Tuchola Forest is a true water land – full of picturesque rivers and crystal clear lakes. Their presence not only shapes the landscape, but above all provides plenty of opportunities for active recreation – from relaxing kayaking trips to exciting sailing regattas.
Brda River – a kayaking classic
The Brda is the heart of the region and one of the most beautiful kayaking routes in Poland. It is 239 km long and leads from Lake Smołowe to the Vistula. The kayaking route is 233 km long and is perfect for both beginners and advanced kayakers.
What awaits on the water?
wild, forest sections in the upper reaches,
the "Hell" gorge with rapids,
Mylof Dam,
Koronowo Lake,
"Bydgoszcz Venice".
The trail is well marked and has excellent infrastructure: marinas, campsites, equipment rentals.
Wda River – Black Water for the Active
Wda – 198 km long, of which almost the entirety (195 km) is an accessible kayak trail. It is calmer than the Brda, but no less charming. Its course leads through wild valleys, meanders between forests, and in places surprises with a precipitous bank.
Why is it worth it?
the diverse nature of the river,
lichen flora and clean water,
popular section Lipusz – Tleń (7 days),
many places for overnight stays and camping.
Perfect for both a quiet rest and an active kayaking trip.
Lake Charzykowskie – sails, kayaks and relaxation
Lake Charzykowskie is 13 km² of water space – one of the largest in the Tuchola Forest. A paradise for water sports enthusiasts: sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, fishing.
Attractions on the shore:
bathing areas with beaches,
sailing schools,
water equipment rentals,
regatta events.
It is also a great base for trips around the Tuchola Forest.
Lobelia lake Gacno Wielkie - a kingdom of rare plants
Gacno Wielkie is the pearl of the Tuchola Forest National Park. It belongs to the so-called lobelia lakes – acidic, clean and full of unique plants.
Plants that delight:
lake lobelia,
lake quillwort,
single-flowered shorebird,
water elisma,
roundleaf sundew.
A heart-shaped wooden footbridge leads from the southern shore – a great place for photos and nature observations.
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