The route
The daily stages in Masuria are typically between 14–20 km, giving you plenty of time for breaks and sightseeing along the way. The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, making it suitable for nearly everyone — even those with little experience on walking holidays. The trails are clear and well-marked, with virtually no technically difficult sections. You’ll walk through a wonderfully varied landscape of forests, lakeshores, and small towns. The itinerary also includes a couple of relaxing experiences on the water: an easy canoe trip down the Krutynia River and a leisurely boat ride across the beautiful Masurian Lakes.
Itinerary
Welcome to Masuria – the enchanting Land of a Thousand Lakes! Your walking holiday begins in Giżycko, a lively lakeside town beautifully situated between Lake Niegocin and Lake Kisajno. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your detailed travel materials and get a short introduction to the route ahead.
Take the rest of the day to settle in and explore the area. Perhaps enjoy a walk along the marina, visit the historic Boyen Fortress, or simply relax by the water with a taste of local Polish cuisine. This is the perfect start to your Masurian adventure!
Overnight stay in or near Giżycko.
After a short transfer, your day begins in Sztynort, a picturesque village surrounded by lakes and forests. Before setting out, take a moment to admire the historic von Lehndorff Manor, once one of the grandest estates in Masuria and now a fascinating glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past.
From Sztynort, your walk leads you through a magnificent avenue of centuries-old oak trees and along the peaceful shores of Lake Łabap. The route then takes a dramatic turn toward history as you reach Wolf’s Lair (Wolfsschanze) — Hitler’s former military headquarters hidden deep in the Masurian forest. Exploring these haunting ruins offers a powerful insight into one of World War II’s most secretive sites.
After your visit, continue to Kętrzyn, a charming town with a beautifully preserved Gothic church and cozy restaurants where you can unwind after a day filled with nature and history.
Overnight stay in Kętrzyn.
Today begins in the charming little town of Reszel, known for its red-brick architecture, cobbled streets, and the impressive Gothic castle that overlooks the town. Take a stroll through the old center and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere — this is one of Masuria’s hidden gems.
From Reszel, your walk continues through gentle countryside towards Święta Lipka, one of Poland’s most important pilgrimage sites. Here, you’ll visit the magnificent Baroque church, a true masterpiece of art and architecture. Don’t miss the highlight of the day — the famous organ concert, where the ornate instrument comes to life with moving figures and beautiful melodies. It’s a magical and unforgettable experience.
After your visit, you continue to Mrągowo, a welcoming lakeside town surrounded by hills and forests — the perfect place to relax after a culturally rich day.
Overnight stay in Mrągowo.
Today’s stage takes you deep into the heart of Piska Forest — Poland’s largest forest area and one of the most peaceful places in Masuria. The trail winds through a lush landscape of towering pines, quiet glades, and shimmering lakes, where you might spot deer, cranes, or even a curious squirrel or two.
Around midday, you’ll reach the small lakeside village of Zgon, a perfect spot for a short rest or a picnic with a view of the calm waters. From here, the route continues along the shores of Lake Mokre, offering beautiful reflections of the forest in the still surface of the lake.
Your destination for the day is Krutyń, a delightful riverside village often considered one of the prettiest in Masuria. With its wooden houses, riverside cafés, and relaxed pace of life, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a day surrounded by nature.
Overnight stay in Krutyń.
Today, it’s time to give your walking boots a well-deserved rest and experience Masuria from a new perspective — on the water! You’ll gently paddle along the Krutynia River, often described as the most beautiful river in Poland. The water here is shallow, calm, and crystal clear, making it perfect even for beginners.
As you glide quietly through the peaceful landscape, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, water lilies, and the soothing sounds of birdsong. From your canoe, you might spot fish darting beneath the surface or herons standing gracefully by the riverbank — it’s a day made for slowing down and soaking in the beauty of nature.
After approximately 11 km of easy paddling, you’ll return to the cozy village of Krutyń, where you can relax by the water or enjoy a hearty local meal.
Overnight stay in Krutyń.
Today’s route takes you deeper into the peaceful Masurian countryside, with a lovely mix of forest paths and quiet rural trails. Your walk begins toward Gałków, where you can admire a beautifully preserved traditional hunting lodge — a reminder of Masuria’s long connection with nature and outdoor life.
From here, the trail continues to Kadzidłowo, home to the region’s famous Wildlife Park and Museum of Masurian Culture. The park is a wonderful place to take a break and meet some of the local animal residents — deer, lynx, bison, and many species of birds roam the large, natural enclosures. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Masuria’s flora and fauna up close.
After your visit, you’ll continue your journey through the woods and along quiet paths until you reach Bartlewo, beautifully situated by Lake Bełdany. This tranquil lakeside area is the perfect setting to end the day — peaceful, scenic, and full of that special Masurian charm.
Overnight stay in or near Bartlewo.
Your final day begins in Mikołajki, one of the most beloved towns in Masuria — often called “The Venice of the North” thanks to its lively harbor and charming lakeside atmosphere. Take a moment to stroll through the marina, browse the small shops, or enjoy a coffee by the water before today’s highlight: a beautiful boat trip across the Masurian Lakes.
From the deck, you’ll experience the landscape from an entirely new perspective — the endless blue of the lakes, the green forests lining the shores, and the gentle rhythm of the water all combine into a wonderfully relaxing finale to your walking holiday.
After the cruise, you return to Giżycko, where there’s still time to explore the town’s sights — such as the fascinating Boyen Fortress, built in the 19th century, or the unique rotating bridge, a true engineering curiosity that still operates by hand.
Enjoy your last evening in the heart of Masuria, surrounded by lakes, history, and the calm of nature.
Overnight stay in or near Giżycko.
After breakfast, your walking adventure in Masuria comes to an end. Take a final look at the peaceful lakes and forests before beginning your journey home — or, if you’re not quite ready to leave this beautiful region, why not extend your stay for a few extra days of relaxation or exploration?
Whether you’re heading home or staying a bit longer, you’ll bring with you wonderful memories of Poland’s Land of a Thousand Lakes — a place of nature, history, and serenity.
Photos from the tour
Prices and dates
The price includes
ACCOMMODATION
- 7 Nights at carefully selected hotels (2–3 stars – all with private bathroom and toilet)
FOOD & DRINK
- Breakfast every day
- 6 Dinners - dinner is not included on the arrival day in Giżycko.
HIKING AND EXPERIENCES
- 6 days of walking (approx. 86 km total)
- Detailed descriptions of the carefully selected routes (maps, route notes, information about local attractions, and important contact numbers – in English)
- Double kayak rental
- Boat trip
TRANSPORT
- Luggage transfer between accommodations
- Transfer on Day 2-5
OTHER
- 24-hour local and international service hotline for the duration of the tour
- This is a packaged holiday and is therefore covered by The Travel Guarantee Fund - See which benefits this means for you - click here
GENERAL
- Travel insurance
- Handling fee EUR 20,-
REQUIRED AND PAID LOCALLY
- Possible tourist taxes in the hotels
Use the button "Calculate price" on this page to see what the tour will cost with your wanted inclusions.
PARKING
It is possible to park at the first hotel or nearby. Parking cannot be reserved in advance and must be arranged directly with the hotel — but it is free of charge.
Practical Information
The price is based upon two people sharing. For safety reasons, this tour cannot be booked for solo travellers. There must be minimum two participants.
On this tour you will be on your own supplied with maps, route descriptions and luggage transfers. That means that your time is your own and you have plenty of time to enjoy the stages in your own pace.
Check the price quickly
You can quickly check the price of your desired trip without having to fill out any forms. Here’s how:
- Click on the "Calculate Price" button (you’ll find it in the "Dates and Prices" section) – this will take you to the first pages of the booking form
- Select your preferred date, number of people, room distribution, any extra nights, and any available add-ons you may want
- See the price
Get a quote
If you would like a flight included, or changes made to the trip, you can request a customized offer by clicking the "Get Quote" button at the top of the page. Remember to describe in detail what changes you would like.
The booking process
When you book the trip, we will begin booking hotels and arranging all the practical aspects of your tour. This process typically takes 5–8 working days, but in some cases it may take longer for certain bookings. If you arrange your own transportation, we recommend waiting until we have confirmed your booking before making any arrangements.
Dates
If you can select a date in the trip calendar (in the booking form), then this is a possible start date. We regularly update our trips with sold-out dates; these dates will then appear in red/grey and cannot be selected.
The journey from Denmark to Giżycko is not included in the price of the trip. You can easily find a suitable flight via a flight booking engine such as Momondo or Skyscanner.
Notice: we recommend that you book with us and wait for the confirmation before you book your flights.
It works like this:
- You book your chosen holiday with us
- We confirm your holiday
- You arrange your transportation
Get a quote
If you prefer that we handle your flight, then we would be happy to arrange this for you. You simply book a quote below the map on this page and we will return with a quote as soon as possible (usually within 48 working hours). Please note that we add a handling fee of 45 euro to each flight and this means that the flight will be cheaper if you book it yourself.
Arrival in Giżycko
If you fly, we recommend flying to Warsaw and then taking a bus to Giżycko – the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. It is also possible to take the train.
You can view the options via the link here.
If you are planning to drive to Giżycko, it is possible to park your car safely and free of charge near the first accommodation.
During the trip, you will stay in 6 different charming guesthouses. You will be accommodated in double rooms with a private bathroom.
On this trip, 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners are included (the exception is Day 1, when you arrive in Giżycko).
Drinks are not included in the price. Lunch, snacks, and other in-between meals are also at your own expense.
The tap water in Poland is safe to drink, but if you prefer bottled water, this is also available.
Luggage transfer is included on this tour. Upon arrival at the first hotel you will be given luggage tags along with the rest of the welcome package. You fill out the luggage tags and put them on your bags where they will remain for the duration of the tour.
Your luggage is picked up from the hotel lobby around 9am every morning and will arrive at your next hotel at 6pm at the latest (often long before that). If there are any special exceptions to the luggage transfer you will be notified upon arrival.
Luggage transfer includes one bag per guest and the bags can weigh 20kg each.
This tour has difficulty grade 1.
Grade 1
Easy hikes that anyone with good health can do. Short hikes of 2-4 hours a day. The paths are in good conditions and mainly flat, and luggage is transported. Requires no special equipment.
Read more about our grading system here.
On this tour, you will receive the following documents:
Upon booking
Immediately after booking this trip, you'll recieve a pre-booking-email where you can get a complete overview of your booking. Once the tour is confirmed you get a confirmation email from us along with practical information about the tour.
One month before departure
You will receive a hotel list and final travel documents.
Upon arrival at the first hotel
You'll receive the welcome pack, which contains everything you need for the trip. There will be route descriptions, maps, luggage tags and specific local vouchers. The documents are in English.
Notice: On some tours it is necessary to either print the documents yourself or to bring them electronically.
We recommend taking out travel insurance that covers at least illness, accident, repatriation, lost holiday, luggage and liability. As a customer, you are responsible for taking out the necessary travel insurance to cover these costs.
Before taking out insurance, you should check whether you are already covered by travel or cancellation insurance through your home insurance company, credit card or similar - please note that there may be differences in insurance coverage.
"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"
