Welcome to the magical land of Podlasie, a region that is, not without reason, and quite rightly so in my opinion, known as Poland’s Green Lungs. Situated in the north-eastern reaches of the Republic, this area, primarily covering the Podlaskie Voivodeship but also parts of eastern Mazovia and northern Lublin regions, captivates with its wild nature, a true wealth of cultures, and incredibly hospitable residents. Are you wondering what’s worth seeing in Podlasie? Perhaps you’re looking for things to do in Podlasie for children, planning a weekend getaway, or maybe you’re interested in attractions for teenagers and families, or simply, what Podlasie is like in winter? Or are you simply dreaming of a trip to Podlasie, just like that, with no specific goal other than discovery? This guide to the Podlaskie Voivodeship will, I hope, help you discover its greatest tourist attractions. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Podlaskie Voivodeship, full of beautiful landscapes, valuable historical sites, and unique flavours. Because, in my opinion, visiting Podlasie guarantees relaxation, an escape from all that urban hustle and bustle, and an encounter with authentic Polish nature and history. The Podlaskie Voivodeship, when you think about it, borders Lithuania and Belarus, and this, of course, hugely influences its exceptional, one-of-a-kind, multicultural character, ensuring its cultural richness is no accident.

Białystok – the heart of Podlasie awaits discovery

Our discovery of Podlasie is well worth, and perhaps even essential, to start with its capital – Białystok. It’s the largest city in the region, which on the one hand is dynamically developing, and on the other, still hides plenty of historical traces and green corners. Białystok is, of course, the administrative centre of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, but for tourists, it’s primarily an excellent base for exploring the surrounding attractions of Podlasie. The city itself also offers a wealth of historical monuments and interesting places worth getting to know before setting off on further travels through the Podlasie region.

Branicki Palace and its gardens: a walk through history

When in Białystok, be sure to visit Branicki Palace. This magnificent, 18th-century Baroque palace, built on the orders of the powerful magnate and Grand Crown Hetman Jan Klemens Branicki, is without a doubt a true architectural gem and, you could say, the city’s calling card. Interestingly, today it houses the Medical University. Strolling through its beautifully maintained French gardens, you can literally feel the spirit of history and bygone splendour. In my humble opinion, it’s an ideal place for a moment of relaxation and admiring the craftsmanship of past masters. Isn’t it wonderful that we can walk along the same paths as Branicki today, learning about his history?

Kościuszko Square: the city’s vibrant heart

Kościuszko Square is the vibrant heart of Białystok. Surrounded by charming, historic tenement houses, with the centrally located monument to Tadeusz Kościuszko, it’s a popular meeting place, for walks, simply a centre where something is always happening. Around the square, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can relax and soak up that specific, urban atmosphere. It’s worth taking a moment to wander through its atmospheric, adjacent streets.

“The Girl with a Watering Can” mural: encountering street art

Białystok is a city that can surprise you, especially when it comes to street art. One of the most recognisable examples that immediately comes to mind is “The Girl with a Watering Can” mural on Legionowa Street. This extraordinary work, created by artist Natalia Rak, adds a modern character to the city and, importantly, encourages the discovery of those less obvious corners. This mural has become something of a symbol of Białystok, a spot you simply have to see.

Knyszyńska Forest: the green lungs of Białystok

As a guide friend of mine from Podlasie says, Białystok is surrounded by a “half-crescent” of the Knyszyńska Forest. This vast forest complex is the city’s true green lungs and an ideal place for all lovers of active recreation. After all, you’ll find numerous hiking and cycling trails here that allow you to literally immerse yourself in the wild nature of Podlasie. The Knyszyńska Forest constitutes, when you look at it, a wonderful backdrop for city life, a break that’s within easy reach, offering picturesque routes.

Krzemianka Nature Reserve: nature within easy reach

In close proximity to Białystok, or rather within the Knyszyńska Forest itself, lies the Krzemianka Nature Reserve. This is a place where nature is literally within easy reach, because, if you’re up for a short drive, getting here takes only about 15 minutes from the city centre. The reserve offers picturesque walking trails, allowing you to admire the entire diversity of local flora and fauna. Even though it’s so close to the city, you can feel true peace here.

Podlasie’s gems – small towns, big impressions

Beyond the capital, the Podlaskie Voivodeship hides a wealth of charming, small towns that can easily be called true gems and which, despite their size, offer truly big impressions. These are places where time seems to flow more slowly, and history intertwines in an extraordinary way with local traditions and culture. Visiting these Podlasie gems, you have the chance to feel that authentic, unique atmosphere of the region.

Supraśl: monastery, icons, and peaceful relaxation

Supraśl, located north-east of Białystok, just about 15 km away, is a picturesque health resort and, without a doubt, another gem of Podlasie. It is, incidentally, only one of two health resorts in the Podlaskie Voivodeship. The town lies in the direct vicinity of the Knyszyńska Forest and the Supraśl River. Of particular note is the Orthodox Monastery of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a fortified one, with high walls and corner towers. Within its walls is the Museum of Icons, which houses, believe me, valuable collections. Supraśl underwent a significant transformation in 1834 when the Russian Empire imposed customs duties, practically halting trade with the Kingdom of Poland. The town then had to focus on something else and chose cloth and textile production, and the Buchholtz family made a fortune from this, building the Buchholtz Palace, which was the magnificent residence of the Buchholtz gentry, and where today, as an interesting fact, the Art College is located. It’s also well worth, or even highly recommended, to walk along the boulevards by the Supraśl River and visit the Museum of Printing and Papermaking Art. Not far from Supraśl, in Kopna Góra, there is a charming Arboretum, where an impressive collection of over 500 species of trees and shrubs has been gathered (available seasonally, from April to September), although, sadly, there’s not much point visiting in winter. In Supraśl, you can also, if you fancy something a bit different, visit the Indian Village. This place offers interesting activities for children.

Tykocin: charming market square and history at every turn

Tykocin is, alongside Supraśl, another of those small towns in the Podlaskie Voivodeship that offers a great many attractions. Located just about 30 km away, which, according to the map, is about a 31-minute drive from Białystok, in the charming valley of the Narew river, it retains that special atmosphere from the past. The town, with over 600 years of history, was a place of residence for kings and princes, and its lands were ruled by powerful families, such as the Czarneckis and Branickis. It was in Tykocin that August II the Strong established the Order of the White Eagle in 1705, the oldest Polish state decoration, at the castle which, although partially rebuilt, can still be admired today. Actually, looking at it from a different perspective, this castle witnessed many important events in the region’s history.

The town is dominated by the majestic Church of the Holy Trinity from the mid-18th century and, of course, the charming market square with the monument to Hetman Czarniecki. For centuries, Tykocin was an incredibly multicultural town. Jews once constituted as much as 70% of the population, a fact commemorated today by one of the most beautiful synagogues in Poland. Another relic of former inhabitants, which is still in operation, is the Alumnat, a former care facility for War Invalids, where today, which is a fantastic option, you can even stay overnight. And did you know that film director Jacek Bromski shot scenes for his cult films “U Pana Boga…” (At the Lord’s…) here? Just a 3-minute drive, about 2 kilometres from Tykocin, heading towards Kiermusy, you’ll reach a unique place in Pentowo, which the German Euronatur foundation has named the European Stork Village.

Bielsk Podlaski: town hall, Orthodox churches, and atmospheric streets

Bielsk Podlaski is another city where, strolling through it, you can truly feel the echoes of the former Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The city has a beautiful, Baroque town hall and numerous historic Orthodox churches. It’s simply worth wandering through its atmospheric streets and admiring the extraordinary architecture of the buildings, which is a testament to history. It was here, incidentally, that Jerzy Hoffman, director of the famous film “Znachor” (The Quack) based on T. Dołęga-Mostowicz’s novel, filmed some scenes in recent years.

Not far from Bielsk Podlaski, it’s actually worth visiting Ziołowy Zakątek (Herbal Corner) – an extraordinary place that interestingly combines agritourism, a farm, and a botanical garden. It’s a true oasis of calm, where chickens, ducks, and geese roam freely, and goats, sheep, cows, and rabbits are also bred, while a majestic peacock looks down from the roof like a ruler. Within Ziołowy Zakątek, you’ll also find an inn, naturally with a herbal theme, serving dishes made from local products. If you’re looking for relaxation and contact with nature, this is spot on.

Augustów: town by the lakes and the Augustów Canal

Augustów is, it’s fair to say, the tourist capital of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, picturesquely situated amidst the forests of the Augustów Primeval Forest, fields, and numerous, crystal-clear lakes. It is, incidentally, the second health resort in Podlasie, alongside Supraśl. It was here, as the legend goes, that King Sigismund Augustus had his first secret meeting with Barbara Radziwiłłówna, and subsequently granted the settlement town rights. The city itself is surrounded by as many as 9 lakes, including the most famous ones, Lake Necko and Lake Białe Augustowskie, which covers an area of 480 hectares.

Augustów’s biggest attraction is, of course, the Augustów Canal. This artificially constructed waterway from the first half of the 19th century, measuring 101 km (of which 82 km are in Poland), was originally intended to connect the Vistula tributaries with the Baltic Sea, using the Neman tributaries, and thus help bypass Prussian customs duties when transporting goods through Gdańsk – clever, isn’t it? Today, however, it is primarily, and thankfully, a tourist attraction, extremely popular for kayaking and passenger boat cruises. The canal underwent modernisation in 2008, improving its tourist appeal. The Papal Route is particularly recommended, leading from the port in Augustów through the Netta River, Lake Necko, the Klonownica River, Lake Białe, the lock at Przewięź, and Lake Studzieniczne. In Augustów itself, when walking around, it’s worth visiting Sigismund Augustus Square, seeing the Augustów Canal itself, watching the passenger boats go by, and also looking for the famous bench and statue of Beata from Albatros. Don’t forget to go for a sunset by the statue of Maria Koterbska – the view is reportedly, and actually certainly is, unforgettable. Not far from Augustów there was once Rajgród – a small town where it’s worth visiting Castle Hill, as there is a wooden shelter, a cross, and a viewpoint overlooking Lake Rajgrodzkie, which, let me tell you, is impressive.

Drohiczyn: the historical capital of Podlasie

The small but incredibly charming town of Drohiczyn, picturesquely set in the Bug river valley, is the historical capital of Podlasie. Although small, it surprisingly hides many interesting places. You’ll find plenty of sacred monuments here, such as the impressive Holy Trinity Cathedral (officially the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity), the Franciscan monastery, the Benedictine convent (the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary belongs to the Order of Benedictine Nuns), or the Orthodox church of St. Nicholas (the Orthodox church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker). Castle Hill in Drohiczyn towers over the Bug, offering not only a beautiful view but also a place commemorating the 10th anniversary of regaining independence. Unusually, Drohiczyn is home to Poland’s only Kayaking Museum, as well as the John Paul II Diocesan Museum and the ‘Bug – Borderland of Cultures and Religions’ Historical and Cultural Park Museum. Here, if you’re interested in militaria or motor vehicles, you can also see an exhibition of old motorcycles and remnants of the Molotov Line fortifications. And definitely, absolutely definitely, try the delicious, local ‘zagub’ – this is a Podlasie delicacy. These are just some of the tourist attractions of Drohiczyn.

Podlasie National Parks – a paradise for nature lovers

Podlasie is, without exaggeration, a true paradise for all nature lovers. Within the region there are, get this, as many as 4 national parks, making it one of the most biologically rich areas in Poland. Each of them has its unique, unparalleled character and offers virtually countless opportunities to observe wild fauna and flora.

Białowieża National Park: kingdom of bison and ancient forests

Białowieża National Park is probably the most characteristic of this region and also the most famous park in all of Poland, not just among naturalists. After all, it’s the kingdom of the European bison, a living relic of the primeval forest landscapes of the Białowieża Forest. This wild, vast forest on the border with Belarus, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010 (and since 1979 as a transnational element), constitutes our green national treasure and, importantly, one of the cleanest areas in Poland. In the Białowieża Forest, besides bison, wolves, lynxes, and plenty of other animals also live. The park’s headquarters are located in the atmospheric town of Białowieża, which is a natural centre for the Forest.

What’s worth seeing in Białowieża and the BPN itself, as there are plenty of places? Certainly the European Bison Show Reserve, where you can admire these majestic animals, as well as other species inhabiting the forest, such as deer, elk, wild boar, and roe deer. It’s located by the road from Hajnówka to Białowieża, so it’s easy to find. An interesting option is the Żebra Żubra educational trail, which is 2.7 km long and starts right by the reserve (the second car park is from the village of Pogorzelce). There’s also the Royal Oaks Trail, located in Stara Białowieża, in areas visited by Polish kings – along the route are boards with information about the monarchs who visited the Białowieża Forest, which is fascinating. Yet another interesting place worth visiting, because, actually, it’s a hidden gem, is the trail to the bison sanctuary and the Kosy Most clearing (formally, the Bison Sanctuary and Kosy Most clearing are located in the BPN). Incidentally, when planning the trip, we also considered diverting to the Carska Tropina trail. A must-see is the Palace Park in Białowieża and the immediate surroundings – there are among others: the Grodno Governor’s Manor (today the BPN Nature Education Centre), picturesque Białowieża ponds with a wooden pier, the palace gate, the modern Professor S. Miklaszewski Nature and Forestry Museum (full name Professor S. Miklaszewski Museum of Nature and Forestry of Białowieża National Park), and the historic Orthodox church of St. Nicholas. When in Białowieża, don’t forget to try regional dishes straight from Podlasie – it’s a true feast for the palate.

It’s also worth visiting Lake Topiło – one of the most interesting places on the map of the Białowieża Forest, an oasis of calm with a multi-denominational chapel in the settlement of Topiło. You can reach it by cycling trail from Hajnówka or Białowieża, or, which is quite an adventure, use the narrow-gauge railway that goes to forest settlements like Budy Leśne, Teremiski, or Pogorzelce. In the vicinity of the Forest, there are also observation towers, for example in Pogorzelce, from which a beautiful panorama unfolds. And if you fancy something truly unique, look for the Białowieża Express – it’s a rather unusual railway through the Forest (a tractor with a trailer), driven by, a very friendly Mr Krzysztof, incidentally, who acts as both driver and guide. And one more thing, though often overlooked, it’s worth visiting the Wysokie Bagno nature trail and the Judzianka nature and educational trail in Hajnówka.

Biebrza National Park: wild nature and vast wetlands

Just over an hour’s drive from Białystok, we’re talking about maybe an hour and 18 minutes by car, is the Biebrza National Park. It’s the largest of Poland’s parks, covering a huge area of almost 60,000 hectares, or precisely almost 593 square kilometres. This place is famous primarily for its extensive marshes and fens, which are among the largest in the country and, moreover, some of the largest in Europe – that’s truly impressive. This unique ecosystem is home to over 49 mammal species, and when you look at it, the diversity of life here is astounding. Among the animals inhabiting the park, you absolutely must mention the majestic elk, one of the largest protected hoofed mammals in Poland, as well as wolves, lynxes, white-tailed eagles, and lesser spotted eagles.

The most famous reserve in the Biebrza National Park is Czerwone Bagno (Red Bog) – a strict protection area, an almost completely primeval wetland area, a truly wild and inaccessible one. The park’s headquarters are located in the historic Osowiec Fortress, which is an attraction in itself. Despite the challenging terrain, the Biebrza National Park offers numerous trails for hiking, for example, Czerwone Bagno, Gugny – Barwik, Długa Luka, or Grobla Honczarowska. We also recommend, if you enjoy water activities, kayaking trips, even the 11-kilometre section of the right-bank tributary of the Biebrza, the Brzozówka river, between Karpowicze and Jasionowo. It’s worth heading to the observation towers to admire these vast, one-of-a-kind landscapes, for example in Burzyn, from where a panorama of the entire BPN unfolds, or at Góra Królowej Bony (where the Stara Łomża hillfort once stood) with beautiful views of the Narew river. The Boardwalk – TOE Osowiec Fortress is another place you simply have to see – the new, long boardwalk starts in the village of Nowy Lipsk and runs to the other bank of the Biebrza, passing through the village of Jałowo, all the way to the village of Szuszalewo, allowing you to admire the wetlands up close. You’ll also find information points along the walking routes.

Narwiański National Park: educational boardwalk and the calm waters of the Narew

Narwiański National Park is a unique spot on the map of interesting tourist destinations in Podlasie, often referred to, incidentally, as the Polish Amazon due to the exceptional, braided nature of the Narew river. The park is famous for its numerous habitats of endangered bird species, and its symbol is the Western Marsh Harrier – these beautiful birds can be observed here for hours.

Of particular note, without a doubt, is the educational boardwalk over the Narew, running from the village of Waniewo to the village of Śliwno. The boardwalk is 1.5 km long, and in some places, you have to use floating bridges to get to the other side of the river, which is an attraction in itself (though it can be a challenge if you’re on a bike). Observation towers have been placed along the route, from which you can spot deer or elk – the view is really satisfying then. In my opinion, it’s an ideal place for a trip with children, offering picturesque landscapes and a fantastic opportunity to observe animals in their natural environment. The park’s administrative headquarters are located in the historic manor house in Kurowo (yes, just Kurowo), which is, incidentally, a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. When in Narwiański National Park, it’s also worth seeing the manor house in Kurowo and, which is a relic of the past, the broken bridge in Kruszewo. Another incredibly traditional attraction is a ‘pychówka’ boat trip on the Narew – this is a traditional wooden boat, moved by pushing off the bottom with a long pole, the experience is truly unique.

Wigry National Park: Lake Wigry and the Camaldolese Monastery

Wigry National Park, located east of Suwałki (we’re talking about maybe an hour and 44 minutes’ drive from Białystok), on the northern edge of the Augustów Primeval Forest, is characterised by huge landscape diversity and impressive biodiversity. The park, obviously, takes its name from Lake Wigry, but it also encompasses several other picturesque water bodies, including, interestingly, ‘suchary’ – small, forest-bound water bodies with acidic water. The Czarna Hańcza river flows through the northern part of the park, which is a tributary of the Neman, showing its connection to a larger river system. The entire park area is part of the European Natura 2000 network, highlighting its importance for nature conservation.

The park’s main attraction is, without a doubt, the Camaldolese Monastery in Wigry, picturesquely situated on a small promontory overlooking Lake Wigry. To briefly touch upon history, this monastery was founded by King Jan Kazimierz Waza, who granted lands in the Augustów Primeval Forest to the Camaldolese monks. After a period spent in Wigry, the Camaldolese moved to Bielany in Warsaw, and today the complex belongs to the Church, but it can be visited. It’s worth starting your park visit in the village of Stary Folwark, home to the Wigry Museum, which presents a fascinating exhibition about the park’s attractions. Another attraction, which will delight railway enthusiasts, is the narrow-gauge railway that takes you to Płociczno. Wigry National Park naturally offers numerous hiking and cycling trails and fantastic viewpoints, for example on the Łysocha Peninsula or the observation tower in Bryzgiel, from where the views are, let me tell you, stunning. Nearby is Suwałki, about an hour and 54 minutes’ drive from Białystok, the capital of the Polish part of the Suwałki region, often called, and with good reason, Poland’s cold capital. It’s a city associated with Neoclassicism, where it’s worth seeing Chłodna Street, the Alley of Blues Stars, Maria Konopnicka Square, or looking for the charming gnome figures on the Gnome Trail. Interestingly, the Suwałki region is also home to Poland’s deepest lake – Hańcza, reaching a depth of around 106 metres, and in the Suwałki Landscape Park (established in 1976, and interestingly called the “Bieszczady of the North”), which covers the valleys of the Czarna Hańcza and Szeszupa rivers, you’ll find lots of interesting places, such as Smolniki with the “U Pana Tadeusza” viewpoint (which, incidentally, is wonderful), the nature trail around Lake Szurpiły with a hillfort on Castle Hill, the impressive Bachanowo boulder field, Cisowa Góra known as the Suwałki Fujiyama (the name speaks for itself!), or, reportedly, the most beautiful esker in Poland, the Turtul esker. It’s also worth visiting the Szeszupa river springs and Leszczynowa hill near Turtul. But, you know what, a really interesting place worth seeing is Wodziłki – a village inhabited by Old Believers, followers of a branch of Orthodoxy who separated from the main Church in the 18th century, and Wodziłki is home to their famous molenna (prayer house). When I was last working on an article about religious minorities in Poland, the Old Believers from Wodziłki were a fascinating topic for me.

Extraordinary places in Podlasie – discover hidden treasures

Podlasie is a land where, I’m convinced of this, you can find monuments of past history and feel strong Eastern influences. Although its history may seem, at first glance, less tumultuous than, for example, Silesia or Pomerania, it hides a wealth of extraordinary places and hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. The Podlaskie Voivodeship is not only about National Parks but also many other fascinating corners worth exploring.

Land of Open Shutters: colourful houses and wooden architecture

One of the most picturesque and, I must admit, photogenic trails in Podlasie is the Land of Open Shutters. It’s located in the Narew river valley, stretching between three Podlasie villages: Trześcianka, Soce, and Puchły. This trail leads through these villages, showcasing beautifully decorated wooden houses with those characteristic, colourful window shutters, as well as charming wooden Orthodox and Catholic churches – all these buildings create a unique wooden architecture of Podlasie, rarely found in other regions of Poland. In the village of Puchły, for example, you’ll find that famous blue Orthodox church of St. Michael the Archangel, which is an important centre of devotion to the Mother of God. And in Soce, a village which, surprisingly, still has no asphalt roads, you can literally feel transported to the distant past – the feeling is incredible.

European Stork Village: encountering storks in their natural environment

We already mentioned the European Stork Village in Pentowo, near Tykocin, but it’s worth highlighting as an extraordinary place, especially if you’re travelling with children. Poland is, interestingly, a country where around 20% of the world’s stork population nests, and this bird is, after all, an important element of our natural and cultural heritage, isn’t it? Pentowo is the largest breeding colony in Poland, with over 30 occupied stork nests, making it an ideal place to, quite literally, encounter storks in their natural environment. Isn’t the sight of so many storks in one place magical?

Silvarium: forest park with megaliths and an owl house

Silvarium, or the Forest Garden in Poczopek, located about a 37-minute drive from Białystok, some 20 minutes beyond Supraśl, near the border with Belarus, offers a whole range of fascinating attractions that, I’m sure, will interest you. One of these, for example, is the Megalith Park, where huge erratics have been arranged in a kind of Celtic circle – something completely unexpected in the middle of the forest. It’s also worth visiting the Strigiforium – a kind of special owl house where you can admire these beautiful and mysterious birds up close. A well-maintained and diverse space makes it an excellent place for a walk, especially for those looking for interesting spots near Białystok and Supraśl. Let’s not forget about Kopna Góra, where the Arboretum and an observation tower are located – this is another tourist attraction in the Podlaskie Voivodeship in the Świętojańskie Hills within the Knyszyńska Forest, which is worth remembering when planning your trip. Information boards are also available on site.

Skete in Odrynki: Orthodox hermitage on an island

The Male Skete of Saints Anthony and Theodosius of the Caves in Odrynki is, I must say, one of the most extraordinary places you can visit in Podlasie. It’s an Orthodox hermitage, founded in 2009 in the Kudak clearing on the outskirts of the village of Odrynki, about 45 minutes from Białystok. It is a genuinely secluded place, and it’s situated on an island amidst the meandering Narew river – it’s hard to imagine a better place to escape the world. It is, incidentally, the first male skete in Poland after World War II, and its construction was initiated by Archimandrite Gabriel, an extraordinary figure. On the island itself, as the hermitage grounds are located on a small island, stands a small but charming Orthodox church, which, importantly, is open to visitors. Apparently, you can buy herbs from the monks to calm your nerves, though I’m not sure if it actually works for everyone.

Kruszyniany and Bohoniki: Tatar villages with rich history and tradition

Kruszyniany is a unique Tatar village, located literally on the edge of Poland, hidden among the forests of the Knyszyńska Forest and near the border with Belarus. It belongs to the Tatar Trail and is about a 50-minute drive from Białystok. The local Muslims here, called Lipkas, fought on Poland’s side, among others, in the war against the Turks. In gratitude for this service, and especially for saving the king’s life by Colonel Samuel Murza Krzeczowski at the Battle of Parkany, King Jan III Sobieski granted the Tatars the village and lands. King Jan III Sobieski settled the Tatars in this area in 1679, although they had been arriving in Lithuania since the late 14th century, settling here at the invitation of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. The Tatars profess Islam but speak Polish and, importantly, feel one hundred per cent Polish – it’s a fascinating blend of identities. Kruszyniany was once a ‘three-holiday’ village, meaning three monotheistic religions could be practised side-by-side here, and their coexistence with the local residents was peaceful.

The biggest historical monument and attraction in Kruszyniany is undoubtedly the mosque. It’s the oldest Muslim place of worship in Poland, over 300 years old, and at the same time the oldest preserved Tatar mosque on Polish lands – quite impressive, isn’t it? In 2010, even the Prince, and now King, Charles visited it. A must-visit spot in Kruszyniany is also the Tatar Yurt – this is a centre run by a Tatar family, specifically by Mrs Dżennetta Bogdanowicz, who also serves, and this must be emphasised, unique local Tatar dishes not found anywhere else. In the area, it’s worth taking a stroll by the Ozierany reservoir or visiting the Ecumenical Hill, where symbols of the main religions of Podlasie have been placed, symbolising the peaceful coexistence of cultures.

Just a few kilometres away is Bohoniki, another Tatar village in Podlasie, also located on the Tatar Trail. Like Kruszyniany, it has a rich history and still cultivates Tatar traditions. The 18th-century mosque and the historic Muslim cemetery, called the Mizar, where you’ll find tombstones from the late 18th century, are the main points of interest. The small place of worship in Bohoniki, about 150 years old, lies on the Tatar Trail, and is looked after by one of the Tatar families, and Mrs Eugenia, who lives opposite the mosque, often acts as a guide, telling stories about the life of the community. Part of the Tatar trail also includes the Museum of Tatars in Sokółka (which is part of the Museum of the Sokółka Land and has a section dedicated to the Tatars), so if you’re interested in the history of this minority, there’s plenty to see. Bohoniki is a place filled with peace and clear evidence of the region’s multiculturalism, showcasing its rich heritage.

Grabarka: the Holy Mountain of the Orthodox with a forest of crosses

Grabarka is a place with an extraordinary, deep spiritual dimension. Called the Holy Mountain of Orthodoxy in Podlasie, it is the most important pilgrimage site for Polish Orthodox believers. A characteristic and, it must be said, moving element of this place is the huge forest of votive crosses brought by pilgrims, especially during the Feast of the Transfiguration. The Monastery of Saints Martha and Mary, a female monastery, was established on the hill in 1947, and the entire complex includes the monastery, Orthodox churches, and Pilgrim Houses on Grabarka Hill, forming a spiritual enclave. Grabarka is a place that attracts both the faithful and, understandably, tourists seeking extraordinary, deep experiences.

Siemianówka Reservoir: relaxation by the water

If you’re looking for a place to relax by the water, the Siemianówka Reservoir is, I must say, quite a good suggestion. This dam reservoir, located north of the Białowieża Forest, offers beaches and recreational opportunities, although, it should be remembered, it’s an artificial reservoir, not a natural lake. There is a dam there, and near the beach you can go up the Bondary observation tower – the view is quite pleasant. In Cisówka, there is another observation platform for those who like to admire landscapes from above. When we were there, we stayed near the village of Rybaki, which is a good starting point. It’s an excellent place for summer relaxation, if you’re ready for a compromise between nature and infrastructure.

Ecumenical Hill: symbols of Podlasie’s religions

Ecumenical Hill, located in the vicinity of Kruszyniany, is another place that very eloquently highlights the multicultural character of the Podlasie Land. Symbols related to the main religions present in the region have been placed on the hill. It is a symbolic place, showing the peaceful coexistence of different faiths in Podlasie, something which, in my opinion, is extremely valuable in today’s times.

Rowelska Hill: Podlasie’s highest peak

When in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, you absolutely must, though it might sound funny, conquer its highest peak – Rowelska Hill. It lies on a hill measuring only 298 metres above sea level, which, let’s be honest, isn’t an impressive height, and is located close to the border with Russia and Lithuania. Even though the height isn’t staggering, going up the observation tower (if available) or simply to the viewpoint at the summit allows you to admire the vast, undulating landscapes of the northern reaches of the voivodeship, and the views are, truly, beautiful. On the hill, there is also a wind farm, which adds a modern touch to the landscape.

Suwałki Region: lake districts and boulder fields

The Suwałki region, though often treated as a separate land, geographically speaking, constitutes the northern reaches of the Podlaskie Voivodeship. It’s a land with a characteristic, undulating landscape, full of picturesque lakes and forests, shaped by the glacier that visited this area in the past – its traces are visible everywhere. Often, unfortunately, overlooked by tourists who, for reasons I can’t quite fathom, prefer the nearby Masuria region, it is a region of unique natural beauty that absolutely deserves attention.

Suwałki – which is incidentally an excellent starting point for exploring the region – is easy to reach, for example, by train from Warsaw. It is here that Poland’s deepest lake is located – Hańcza, reaching about 106 metres in depth, a spot loved by divers. This unique area, shaped by the ice sheet, abounds in fascinating boulder fields, such as the one in Bachanowo (officially the Bachanowo Boulder Field), Łopuchowo, or the Turtul Esker – each of them is a testament to the power of nature. The Bachanowo Boulder Field, located by the Czarna Hańcza, contains boulders with circumferences from 50 cm to 8 metres, transported here by the glacier straight from Scandinavia – imagine that journey! In the Suwałki Landscape Park (established in 1976, called, interestingly, the “Bieszczady of the North”, although the landscapes are completely different), you’ll find Smolniki with the “U Pana Tadeusza” viewpoint, the nature trail around Lake Szurpiły with a hillfort on Castle Hill, the aforementioned Bachanowo boulder field, Cisowa Góra known as the Suwałki Fujiyama, or, as some claim, the most beautiful esker in Poland, the Turtul esker. It’s also worth seeing the picturesque valleys of the Czarna Hańcza and Szeszupa rivers. And one more thing, what’s really interesting, is Wodziłki – a village inhabited by Old Believers with their famous molenna (prayer house), which is the centre of their religious life. When I was last working on an article about religious minorities in Poland, the Old Believers from Wodziłki were a fascinating topic for me.

Podlasie Cuisine – the taste of tradition and diversity

Podlasie is a region where, like nowhere else, the influences of various cultures – Polish, Belarusian, Lithuanian, Tatar – have, in a positive sense, left their mark on the local cuisine. Trying regional specialities is, in my opinion, a must-do, even the most important part of any trip to Podlasie. Because travel is also about taste!

Regional specialities: from kartacze to sękacz

Podlasie cuisine is, it goes without saying, hearty and based on local, often simple ingredients. Here are a few regional specialities that, let me tell you, you absolutely must try. These include Kartacze – large potato dumplings with a meat filling, very characteristic of the Suwałki region and the north of Podlasie, which are filling and last a long time. There’s also Babka Ziemniaczana (Potato Cake) – a bake made from grated potatoes, onion, and bacon, simple but brilliant. Soczewiaki – these are lentil-filled pancakes or fritters, typical of the Sejny area, showing that regional cuisine can surprise you. And Sękacz (Tree Cake) – a traditional cake baked on a spit, a sweet delicacy of Podlasie and the Suwałki region, whose texture and flavour are unique. Let’s not forget about other treats, inspired by the cuisine of our eastern neighbours, such as Lithuanian Blinis, Pielmieni, or Mrowisko – a sweet cake resembling an anthill. It’s also worth trying regional products, such as the famous Korycin cheeses, honey from local apiaries, cold cuts like kindziuk (a dried sausage), or regional drinks, for example Duch Puszczy (Spirit of the Forest) liqueur or Piwo Przełom (Przełom Beer) – there’s something for everyone. And in Bielsk Podlaski, as I mentioned, there’s Ziołowy Zakątek, where you can try dishes based on herbs and products from their own organic farm.

Tatar cuisine: pierekaczewnik and other treats

In Kruszyniany and Bohoniki, these unique Tatar villages, you have a unique opportunity to try traditional Tatar cuisine, which, I guarantee you, is exceptionally aromatic and delicious. Pierekaczewnik is a multi-layered pastry filled with meat, cheese, potatoes, or sweet additions, for example apples – preparing it is a true art. Czebureki are large, fried dumplings with crispy dough and a juicy meat filling – perfect as a snack. Muslim cuisine also offers other treats, such as halva, which is sweet and calorie-rich. The best place to experience these flavours is undoubtedly the Tatar Yurt in Kruszyniany, run by the Tatar family of Mrs Dżennetta Bogdanowicz, who passionately serves these unique dishes that, let’s be honest, are not found anywhere else. Remember to leave some room for them!

Podlasie: welcome on an unforgettable journey

Podlasie is a region that simply bewitches, it’s truly magical. It’s a voivodeship where wild nature intertwines with fascinating history, vibrant tradition, and, which is a huge asset, multiculturalism. After all, you’ll find here wild and extensive national parks – Białowieża National Park, a UNESCO site, Biebrza National Park, the largest in Poland, Narwiański National Park, called the Polish Amazon, and Wigry National Park – offering virtually countless opportunities to commune with nature in its purest form. The picturesque towns are captivating, such as dynamic Białystok, charming Tykocin, peaceful Supraśl, tourist-focused Augustów, or historic Drohiczyn – each of them has its unique character. Unique places, such as the Land of Open Shutters with its colourful architecture, the secluded Skete in Odrynki, the Tatar villages of Kruszyniany and Bohoniki with their mosques and mizars (Tatar cemeteries), or the holy Grabarka with that moving forest of crosses, show the region’s cultural and religious richness in an amazing way. Historic Orthodox churches, mosques, and Catholic churches stand right next to each other, testifying to a long, centuries-old history of peaceful coexistence of different ethnic groups, such as Belarusians, Lithuanians, Ukrainians, Tatars, and faiths – it’s an example for the whole country. Active tourists will, of course, find great cycling routes in the Białowieża and Knyszyńska Forests, as well as, which is a great option for summer, kayaking routes, for example on the Czarna Hańcza or the Augustów Canal, or, for those looking for something traditional, ‘pychówka’ boat trips on the Narew. The picturesque landscapes of the Suwałki region with the deepest lake Hańcza and impressive boulder fields, or the health resorts of Supraśl and Augustów, provide relaxation and respite from everyday life. Regardless of whether you’re seeking wild, unspoilt nature, fascinating history, culinary discoveries – because the food here is excellent – or simply peace away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, Podlasie has something special to offer, something that stays with you long after. For those seeking information and news about the region, Podlasie is an inexhaustible source. We warmly invite you to Podlasie, on this unforgettable journey through Poland’s Green Lungs – you won’t regret it.