We are embarking on a journey to a truly remarkable place on Poland’s map – Ujście Warty National Park. It’s the real heart of Green Poland (at least for wetland enthusiasts!), a land of floodplains, rivers, and countless flocks of birds that attract nature lovers from across Central Europe each year. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and want to immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of wild nature, then Ujście Warty is an absolute dream destination, though perhaps a little rugged for those accustomed to comfortable paths. But are you ready for a real adventure? Pack your binoculars, comfortable shoes, and join us in discovering this fascinating place that holds national park status.

Ujście Warty National Park – why is it worth visiting?

When we think of national parks in Poland, we often picture high mountains, picturesque lakes, or dense primeval forests. Ujście Warty National Park offers a completely different, yet equally captivating experience. Its landscape is shaped by the Warta and Odra rivers, and their floodplains serve as a haven for thousands of species. It’s a dynamic place, its appearance changing with water levels and the seasons, for example in winter, yet always retaining its unique, wild character. When you visit Ujście Warty National Park, you step into a world where nature calls the shots and man is merely a guest. I remember once, while working on a piece about river ecosystems, I realised how crucial areas like this are for the entire continent.

History and the park’s unique location

The history of this extraordinary protected area dates back to 2001 when Ujście Warty National Park was established. It was created by combining parts of the existing Ujście Warty Landscape Park and the famous Słońsk Nature Reserve, known as one of the largest reserves in Poland. Located in the Lubusz Voivodeship, the park covers an area of 8074 hectares and includes extensive wetlands at the confluence of the Warta and Odra rivers, right by the border with Germany. Its administrative headquarters are situated in the picturesque village of Chyrzyno, which, incidentally, makes it easier to access information about the park. The Postomia river itself also contributes greatly to the creation of these unique wetlands that define the character of this national park. This location makes Ujście Warty National Park easily accessible to tourists not only from Poland but also from across the western border, making it an important point on the nature map of Central Europe.

Natural assets and importance for biodiversity

The natural assets of Ujście Warty National Park are, frankly, invaluable. This area, dominated by the floodplains of the Warta and Odra rivers, constitutes one of the most important wetland complexes in this part of Europe. These dynamic ecosystems are home to countless species of plants and animals, creating a mosaic of habitats from meadows and pastures to oxbow lakes and marshes. Ujście Warty National Park has been included in the European network of protected areas, Natura 2000, highlighting its international importance for biodiversity conservation. As a biologist friend of mine says, “Ujście Warty is a bit of a biodiversity ‘hotspot’, where nature still calls the tune.”

Fauna and Flora – what can you see in Ujście Warty National Park?

The nature of Ujście Warty National Park captivates with its richness and diversity. It is precisely for this that crowds of tourists come here, eager to admire wildlife in its natural habitat and discover the unique vegetation of the wetland areas. The fauna and flora of this area are closely linked to the rhythm of the rivers and cyclical flooding, which create specific conditions for life. And it’s fascinating how everything here depends on each other.

Birds – a true kingdom of winged creatures!

If we were to point to one element of nature that makes Ujście Warty National Park truly exceptional, it would be the birds. It’s a true kingdom of the winged creatures! Around 270 bird species have been recorded in the park, of which as many as 174 are breeding species. Actually, this number may vary slightly depending on the year and ongoing studies, but it’s still an impressive statistic, placing the park among the top European bird havens. What’s more, Ujście Warty provides refuge for 26 globally endangered bird species! It is here that we can admire rare and beautiful birds such as the Aquatic Warbler, Bittern, Corncrake, or the majestic White-tailed Eagle (often referred to as the ‘Sea Eagle’, although this is a slight simplification). The symbol of the park itself, however, is the Taiga Bean Goose, often gathering in large numbers on the wetlands. Birdwatching is a popular hobby that takes on a new dimension in Ujście Warty. Nature photographers frequently visit the park, and they are advised to bring telephoto lenses to capture these shy creatures, which can take many days of patient observation. And perhaps in the future, a live webcam will appear, allowing you to watch the park from the comfort of your home? You can also encounter numerous cranes, storks, and herons here – oh, those herons, they always look so dignified.

• Aquatic Warbler
• Bittern
• Corncrake
• White-tailed Eagle
• Taiga Bean Goose
• Crane
• White Stork
• Grey Heron

Other fascinating animals also live in the park, such as beavers, otters, moose, and roe deer, which can sometimes also be observed, especially in less frequented areas. Frankly, encountering a moose in the wetlands is truly an unforgettable experience.

The park’s vegetation – more than just grass and reeds

While birds are undoubtedly the biggest attraction of Ujście Warty National Park, its vegetation also deserves attention. The floodplains and wet meadows create unique ecosystems where many plant species grow, including protected ones. On the water, you’ll find beautiful White Water Lilies and Yellow Pond Lilies, and on wet meadows or along riverbanks, you might come across the impressive Garden Angelica. The Warta river’s floodplains are home to numerous plant species adapted to variable water conditions, and that requires some serious adaptation, believe me. It’s also worth mentioning Bolechowice Island, picturesquely situated on the Warta river. Although it doesn’t lie directly within the park’s boundaries, in the vicinity, you can also find monumental trees, such as the Henryk Oak, one of the oldest oaks in Poland, a witness to the history of these lands. And to think how much history that oak has witnessed…

Trails and Attractions – Ready for a Walk?

Exploring Ujście Warty National Park is best started by choosing the right trail. The park offers various routes that allow you to immerse yourself in its unique landscape and nature. Perhaps you’ll try to find your favourite trail among the available nature paths? It’s worth remembering that the experience of hiking in Ujście Warty differs significantly from what visitors to the Tatra National Park or even the Greater Poland National Park are accustomed to. There isn’t tourist infrastructure here on the scale of Zakopane, which for many is a huge advantage, allowing you to feel the true wildness. If you’re prepared for less comfort, you’ll gain authentic experiences in return.

Best trails – on foot or by bike?

Ujście Warty National Park offers walking and cycling trails that lead through the most interesting spots. When planning to discover the charms of nature, it’s worth considering the popular nature paths. Particularly recommended are the ‘Mokradła’ path located in the Chyrzyno area and the ‘Ptasi Szlak’, part of which is near Przyborów. These two paths are adjacent and complement each other perfectly, enhancing the experience. When walking the ‘Ptasi Szlak’, binoculars are practically essential to admire the birds; frankly, without them it’s like walking in the dark, you’ll miss so much. You should be aware of the specific nature of the terrain – for instance, Kamieńska Grobla might be difficult to drive along by car, which is, incidentally, a certain inconvenience for those travelling by car, and in some places, like near the IV Bridge, there are no water level gauges informing about the water level, which is crucial in wetland areas. When walking the ‘Olszynki’ nature paths, you should avoid being under trees during strong winds due to the risk of branches breaking – well, nature can be unpredictable. When heading out onto the trails, remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially during periods of high water levels, as the terrain can be waterlogged. Indeed, very much so.

The viewpoint in Chyrzyno – breathtaking views

One of the must-visit points in Ujście Warty National Park is the observation tower, located in Chyrzyno, right next to the park headquarters. While it’s worth checking for current information about accessibility, as the tower is sometimes closed and parking hours may change, the view from its summit is unforgettable. From the top, a beautiful panorama of extensive meadows, floodplains, and the meandering Warta unfolds. From the tower, you can admire, among other things, Czarnowska Górka, a sandy dune located by National Road No. 22. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching and soaking up the vastness that stretches to the horizon. This view allows you to understand the scale and uniqueness of this park, and frankly, for me, it was one of the highlights of the visit.

Practical information for planning your visit

When planning your visit to Ujście Warty National Park, it’s worth familiarising yourself with a few practical tips that will make your journey and stay in the park easier. Although the infrastructure may differ from more commercialised locations, it is precisely its simplicity and closeness to nature that constitute Ujście Warty’s charm. It’s always worth checking the long-term weather forecast, as conditions on the floodplains can change quickly.

Getting to the park – how to get there without a hitch?

Wondering how to get to Ujście Warty National Park? There are a few options, depending on your starting point. From Poznań, the easiest way to get there is by car, heading along the A2 motorway and then taking local roads towards Kostrzyn nad Odrą, which is located near the park. Other roads also lead to the park, for example, the aforementioned National Road No. 22, near which Czarnowska Górka is located. Remember that the park is a wetland area, and some roads, like Kamieńska Grobla, may only be passable for off-road vehicles or at certain times of the year, so it’s worth checking this before you set off. Parking is available, but it’s worth checking the locations and any potential changes to opening hours, for example in Chyrzyno.

Accommodation in the vicinity – where to stay?

The area around Ujście Warty National Park offers various accommodation options, although it’s not as extensive a range as in typical resorts. You’ll find guesthouses, agritourism accommodations, or small hotels in nearby locations. If you prefer proximity to nature, you can look for accommodation at campsites or designated tent areas. The choice depends on your preferences and budget, naturally. It’s worth booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak season for bird lovers. Also check reviews of accommodation options and compare prices to find the best option. Remember that Ujście Warty National Park is a place you can confidently visit with children, and suitable accommodation nearby will ensure a comfortable stay for the whole family.

Why is Ujście Warty National Park a unique place?

Ujście Warty National Park is a place that is definitely worth visiting. For me, it was already the ninth national park on my way to completing the ‘Crown of Polish National Parks’ challenge, and at the same time, a completely new, surprising experience. Its flat, wetland landscape provides an interesting contrast to the mountain parks I had visited previously, such as the Tatra National Park or the Bieszczady National Park, as well as forest or coastal parks like Tuchola Forest National Park, Słowiński National Park, or Wolin National Park. It also differs from the Table Mountains National Park, the Karkonosze National Park (which includes Śnieżka), or the Greater Poland National Park; in fact, every park has something unique, but Ujście Warty is in a different league when it comes to waterfowl. This land of rivers and birds, encompassing the wetlands of the Warta and Odra, shows a different face of Polish nature, equally fascinating and worth protecting. It is an area of immense natural importance covered by the Natura 2000 programme, serving as a haven for hundreds of bird species and many other animals including beavers and moose. A visit here is not only an opportunity to admire nature but also a moment for reflection on the power and fragility of aquatic ecosystems. While the infrastructure doesn’t resemble that of Zakopane, it is precisely this that allows you to experience wild nature in its purest form, and that, in my opinion, is its greatest asset. Are you planning your trip already? Perhaps Ujście Warty National Park will be your next destination on your list of parks to visit, perhaps alongside the planned Drawa National Park. Or perhaps you’ll plan your trip for tomorrow? You won’t regret it, I promise.