Cycling, Poland

Nestled in the heart of Warsaw, this expansive park is a beloved retreat for locals, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. One of its most enchanting features is the summer residence of the last king of Poland, Stanisław August Poniatowski. The complex is named after a 17th-century bathhouse owned by a Polish nobleman, which was transformed into a palace in the 18th century. Within the Palace on the Island, King Stanisław August Poniatowski hosted his renowned Thursday dinners, inviting scholars and poets to engage in lively discussions about the pressing issues of their time. Today, it serves as a museum where visitors can admire exquisite paintings from the royal collections. As you wander through Łazienki, you'll encounter an array of attractions: an elegant orangery, a charming amphitheater, an 18th-century court theater, the intriguing Museum of Hunting and Horse-riding, the majestic Myślewicki Palace, and numerous captivating sculptures scattered throughout the grounds. Did you know that the park also hosts a series of free concerts during the summer months? These events, often held by the iconic Chopin Monument, offer a delightful way to experience classical music in a picturesque setting. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply in search of a peaceful afternoon, Łazienki Park has something to captivate every visitor.

Imagine Warsaw without the Vistula River: it's nearly impossible. This majestic river has played a crucial role in shaping the city, and today it serves up a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. Picture yourself strolling along the kilometers-long riverside promenade, perfect for a leisurely walk, a scenic bike ride, or even an exciting night out at one of the seasonal clubs that pop up here. Along the boulevards, you'll find charming gazebos with sun loungers, stone benches, and even seats crafted from tree branches. There's a lookout point offering stunning views and a mini beach complete with wicker baskets for that perfect relaxation spot. And don't forget to stop by the iconic Mermaid monument, a true symbol of both the river and Warsaw itself. It's a must for a memorable photo! For families with young children, the water playground is a hit. Kids can splash around in the “dancing” fountains and bounce on fish-shaped trampolines. It's a delightful spot that brings smiles to little faces. When summer rolls around, the Vistula becomes a hub of water activities. You can choose your own adventure: motorboats, sailboats, ferries, or even kayaks. There's something for everyone. Did you know that Warsaw's Vistula River is one of the few major European rivers that remains mostly wild and unregulated? It offers a unique natural experience right in the heart of the city.

Nestled between Różyckiego, Paderewskiego, Kopernika, and Olszewskiego streets, this expansive park spans over one hundred hectares. It's a lush, green escape in the bustling city of Wrocław. The park’s origins can be traced back to 1783 when L. Hohenlohe, the commander of the city garrison, first established a park in the then-village of Szczytniki, situated in the suburbs. Initially covering 16 hectares, it showcased the elegance of English-style landscaping. However, in 1806, Napoleon’s soldiers caused significant damage. By 1833, the park had undergone an expansion, not just in size but also in features. A racing track was added to the south and remained a popular attraction until the early 20th century. The park's current charm owes much to Peter Joseph Lenne, a renowned royal gardener from Berlin. He contributed significantly to its design and layout, particularly with the establishment of a dyke system at the end of the 19th century. A major transformation occurred around the turn of the 20th century, coinciding with the Exhibition of the Century in 1913. This event saw the park enriched with several fascinating structures that still captivate visitors today. Among these attractions is the wooden Church of Jan Nepomucen. This historic building, dating back to the turn of the 17th century, was relocated from Stare Koźle to the eastern part of the park in 1913. It's a beautiful example of traditional architecture, offering a glimpse into the past amidst the natural beauty of the park. For those exploring Wrocław, Park Szczytnicki is an unmissable stop. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this park offers something for everyone. Take a leisurely stroll along its winding paths, and you might just stumble upon a hidden gem or two.

Adam Mickiewicz Park, also known as Oliwa Park, stands out as one of the most renowned spots in Gdańsk. Its unique charm is a blend of stunning flora and intimate, winding paths that make it impossible to resist. The park's history stretches back to the days of the Cistercians, who cultivated a vegetable and herb garden near their monastery. Begin your leisurely walk from the entrance on ul. Grunwaldzka, following the path alongside the pond. Here, you'll discover the Botanic Garden, established after World War II, and can step into the delightful Palm House. The main pathway, starting from ul. Opata Rybińskiego, leads you toward the French section of the park. Here, the Abbot's Palace stands, now home to a branch of the National Museum in Gdańsk, showcasing contemporary art. Continue along the path to reach the Oliwa Cathedral, a place where you can enjoy organ concerts and the annual Organ Music Festival each summer. Art lovers will find plenty to admire, with sculptures like the Exhibition of Contemporary Sculpture of Gdańsk, as well as statues of Swietopelk the Great and Mestwin II, plus a bust of Adam Mickiewicz. Another branch of the National Museum, the Branch of Ethnography, is housed in the Abbot's Granary within the park. Recently, Oliwa Park has expanded to include new gardens, such as a serene Japanese garden. It's a perfect spot to pause, soak up the tranquility, and appreciate the beauty of what was once one of Gdańsk's city gardens. If you're visiting Gdańsk, this park is a must-see. It's not just about the history and art, but the peaceful atmosphere that invites you to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or someone who just loves a good stroll, Oliwa Park offers a little something for everyone.

Nestled in a lesser-known corner of Gdańsk, this park stands as one of the city's oldest gems, second only in size to the famous Oliwa Park. Despite being less frequented, it offers a magical charm that's definitely worth exploring. As you wander through the park, you’ll discover two serene ponds, surrounded by hills steeped in local legends. The park is a delightful blend of natural beauty: ponds, cascading waterfalls, and meandering alleys lined with fascinating tree varieties. The linden alley is particularly enchanting, and you'll find yourself captivated by the graceful sight of weeping willows draping over the pond. Adjacent to the park, there's a historic 19th-century manor house that adds a touch of elegance to your visit. For families, the recent addition of a large playground makes it a perfect spot for both leisurely strolls and fun-filled family outings. Besides the picturesque scenery, the park is a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy a picnic, read a book, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the local flora and fauna; you might spot a few rare bird species or colorful flowers that add to the park's allure.

The Botanical Gardens, a proud part of Adam Mickiewicz University, stand as one of the most cutting-edge and stunning gardens in Europe. Spanning over 22 hectares, this lush oasis boasts a remarkable collection of more than 7,000 species and varieties of plants sourced from nearly every climate zone across the globe. As you wander through this expansive paradise, you'll encounter everything from exotic tropical flora to resilient alpine plants, each with its own unique story and beauty. The gardens are not just a feast for the eyes; they're also a hub for research and education, making them a perfect destination for both nature enthusiasts and curious minds seeking to learn more about the botanical world. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Botanical Gardens offer a tranquil retreat where you can reconnect with nature and discover the incredible diversity of plant life. Don't miss the chance to explore the themed sections, such as the aromatic herb garden or the serene water garden, each offering a different sensory experience.