Rezerwat Przyrody Mewia Łacha

Mewia Łacha Nature Reserve protects a stretch of coast where the Vistula Cut meets the Gulf of Gdańsk, and it is one of the best birdwatching spots on the Polish seaside. Established in 1991, the reserve covers roughly 150 hectares of sand, shallows and coastal spits. It lies on the border of the Gdańsk and Stegna municipalities, east of Świbno.

What does the Mewia Łacha reserve protect?

It is a faunal reserve created for birds. It safeguards the nesting grounds of several tern species, along with feeding and resting habitats for waders and waterfowl. Breeding birds include the Sandwich tern and the little ringed plover, and ornithologists also value the presence of the dunlin. Close to a hundred species of water and marsh birds have been recorded here, so it appeals to seasoned birders and to anyone who simply enjoys nature.

Thanks to its position at the river mouth and a ban on entering the beach inside the reserve, the largest colony of wild seals on the Polish coast has settled here. The animals rest on the sandbars, and the quiet, people-free shoreline suits them well.

Protected at several levels

Mewia Łacha is part of the Natura 2000 network. It contains the eastern portion of two sites: the Vistula Mouth bird area and the Vistula Mouth habitat area. It is also part of the HELCOM network of Baltic Sea protected areas, listed as site number 302. This shows how important the Vistula estuary is for birds and for the wider ecosystem of the southern Baltic.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and summer are best. From April to July the reserve is full of life: birds nest, parents tend their young, and terns fill the air with calls. A marked trail keeps the reserve open to visitors all year, though you will see fewer birds outside the breeding season. Winter offers quiet and wide views over an empty shore.

How do you get to Mewia Łacha?

The easiest starting point is the harbour in Świbno. You can reach it from central Gdańsk by city bus, and there is a car park next to the harbour. Cyclists can follow the R10 route, which runs through Gdańsk along the entire Polish coast. The loop shown on the map is about 6 km, a relaxed outing of a few hours that also suits children who enjoy walking.

Rules of conduct in the reserve

• Stay on the marked path and keep off the closed beach.
• Watch birds and seals from a distance. Binoculars make a real difference.
• Leave your dog at home, especially in nesting season, since dogs disturb the birds.
• Keep noise down, particularly in spring and early summer.
• Bring water, a hat and a windbreaker, because the open shore is often breezy.

Frequently asked questions

Can I visit Mewia Łacha all year? Yes. The marked path makes visits possible in every season, but activity peaks from April to July.

Will I see seals at Mewia Łacha? This is home to the largest colony of wild seals on the Polish coast. Watch them from afar, as the beach inside the reserve is closed to walkers.

How long is the walk? The loop is about 6 km and usually takes a few hours, including stops for observation.

Where should I start? At the harbour in Świbno, which has parking and a bus connection from Gdańsk.