Indulging in spa treatments… enjoying a brisk walk through forests… taking a step back in time to learn more about a bygone age… Kuiavia-Pomerania offers endless opportunities for a satisfying holiday. Text by Alicja Kosicka
While Toruń and Bydgoszcz are perhaps the best-known destinations in Kuiavia-Pomerania, there are many other fascinating places to visit throughout the region. Take Biskupin for example; often referred to as the ‘Polish Pompeii’, this Iron Age fortified settlement that dates back to 700 BC is one of Poland’s most significant archaeological sites in Poland. Biskupin attracts over 300, 000 visitors each year, many of whom visit the Archaeological Museum, which is famed for its archaeological exhibits. Visitors are transported back in time, as they visit huts that recreate day-to-day life as it was almost 300 years ago – they can even try their hand at ancient crafts. The annual Archaeological Festival, which takes place every September, attracts archaeologists from far and wide.
There is more to Biskupin than archaeology however. The nearby Narrow Guage Railway Museum in Venice (the English name of the Polish town of Wenecja – not to be confused with the Italian city) is a must-see for everyone – not just rail enthusiasts. The collection includes 17 steam engines, with the oldest dating back to 1899, and there are opportunities to take a ride on a hand-car and see a locomotive plough in action.
Moving onwards through Kuiavia-Pomerania, Chełmno is well worth a visit – especially with your beloved, as it is Poland’s ‘City of Love’ thanks to the Church of the Assumption, which contains the relics of St. Valentine, patron saint of lovers. As you would expect, Valentine’s Day is celebrated with gusto in Chełmno! Take a stroll around Chełmno and you will also discover the city’s five Gothic churches, the town hall that dates back to the Renaissance period as well as the carefully preserved historic market, city walls. The distinctive brick style of the city’s architecture gives the market square its unique character.
If you favour more active pursuits, why not hire a canoe and navigate the trails along the Rivers Brda and Wdzie? An option for canoeists of all ages and abilities, these routes also offer unique views of breath-taking scenery. If you prefer to keep active on dry land, there is an abundance of places to go walking and hiking, including forest trails and lakeside paths. Another way to explore the natural beauty of Kuiavia-Pomerania is on a bike – the only challenge you will face is deciding with of the many cycle routes to take!
After all of that physical activity, there is no better to end the day than indulging in a selection of spa treatments. There is no need to look too far for a reviving aromatic sauna, pampering massage, or session in a salt cave – a uniquely Polish spa treatment that is reported to ease repertory conditions and aid relaxation, as Kuiavia-Pomerania has a host of spa centres and resorts, especially in Ciechocinek and Inowrocław. Guests can opt for pampering aesthetic treatments, or more medically oriented therapies that are carried out by qualified practitioners. The benefits of a visit to a spa centre in Ciechocinek are enhanced by a brisk walk along the town’s famous graduation tower; a large wooden structure that allows water to evaporate from naturally occurring salty spring water. This creates a unique microclimate that is reported to boost immunity and ease many medical conditions. Take a deep breath, and fill your lungs...
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