Polesie National Park

Poleski National Park (Polesie National Park) is one of the wildest corners of eastern Poland. It lies in the Lublin Voivodeship, in the Polish part of the historical region of Polesia, with its base in the village of Urszulin. The park was established on 1 May 1990 and still protects vast wetlands, peat bogs, lakes and forests where nature keeps its own pace. Its symbol is the crane.

Where is it and how big is it?

The park spreads across the Łęczna-Włodawa Plain, a flat, waterlogged landscape on the border between the Lublin region and Polesia. At first it covered roughly 48 km². In 1994 the Bubnów Marsh was added, which nearly doubled the protected area. Today the park covers about 97.6 km², of which forests take up around 47.8 km² and water and wetlands (including the most valuable marshes) about 20.9 km². A buffer zone of over 137 km² surrounds the park.

What does it protect?

Inside its borders are former peat-bog reserves, among them Durne Marsh, Moszne Lake, Długie Lake and the Orłowskie Peatland. Oxbow-type lakes and natural forest complexes shape the scenery. As a result, a fairly small area offers very different habitats, from open wetlands to damp woodland.

What wildlife can you see?

The flora here is unusually varied. Alongside species typical of Western Europe, you will find plants associated with tundra and forest-tundra, steppes and even mountain regions. Glacial relicts such as dwarf birch and Lapland willow are among the highlights. Among animals, the European pond turtle stands out: it is an endangered species and the park runs intensive active protection for it. Bubnów Marsh is a refuge for water and marsh birds, and the crane, the park's emblem, is a fitting presence in this landscape.

How to visit

Urszulin is the most convenient starting point. From there you can follow nature trails such as "Spławy", "Dąb Dominik" ("Dominik Oak"), "Obóz Powstańczy" ("Insurgent Camp") and "Żółwik" ("Little Turtle"). A cycling route of about 23 km, Urszulin to Perehod, links all of the park's nature trails, so the park is easy to explore by bike. A slow pace suits birdwatching and spotting amphibians, and the flat terrain needs no special fitness.

Frequently asked questions

When was the park created? On 1 May 1990.

How large is it? About 97.6 km² today, with a buffer zone of more than 137 km².

What is the park's symbol? The crane.

Are there pond turtles in the park? Yes, the park protects one of the larger populations of this endangered species.

Where should I start? In Urszulin, where the nature trails and the Urszulin to Perehod cycling route begin.

Can I cycle here? Yes, a roughly 23 km bike route connects all the park's nature trails.

Who is it for?

Poleski National Park suits anyone looking for quiet, wide wetland views and contact with nature away from crowds. Birdwatchers, nature photographers and relaxed cyclists will enjoy it most. Bring comfortable shoes, insect repellent for the summer season and binoculars, which are the best way to spot the residents of the marshes. This is a protected area, so stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing the animals.