Bory Tucholskie

Bory Tucholskie National Park – updated 10 January 2023.

The Park is located in the northern part of the country in the Pomeranian Voivodeship within the Tuchola Forest; which is the largest woodland area in Poland.

Forests, lakes, rivers & wildlife

Bory Tucholskie National Park was established in 1996 to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region, including its forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

The park is known for its forests, which are dominated by pine and spruce, as well as its numerous lakes, rivers and peat bogs. These habitats are home to diverse wildlife, including beavers, deer, boar, and a variety of birds, particularly water birds. The park is also known for its ancient oaks and its rich plant life, including many rare and protected species.

The park covers an area of approximately 121 square kilometers (47 square miles). The park is also rich in history, and there are many important historical and cultural sites located within its boundaries, including a castle, a palace and many of the ancient pagan shrines.

Activities

The park offers visitors a wide range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, canoeing and kayaking, as well as fishing, bird watching and nature photography. There is also a network of well-marked trails and educational paths.

Accommodation

There are also several accommodation options within the park, including campsites, hostels, and holiday homes. The park forms the core of the Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve, designated by UNESCO in 2010.

The forested areas are predominantly pine trees and yews and the local wildlife includes deer, wild boar and wolves.

Glacial Lakes

Within the park, there are 21 glacial lakes with crystal-clear waters; which are home to around 25 species of fish and European beavers.

Bats & birds

Bory Tucholskie National Park is a haven for birds, at the last count 144 species were found including crane and eagle owl. The park is also home to several species of bats.

Bartuś

In the Park you can find rare species of plants, such as sundew or clubmoss in addition to over 300 species of fungi. There’s also a few gems to discover such as the 600-year old oak tree named Bartuś; which is located by Lake Płęsno and has a circumference of 608 cm.

Stone Circles

Among the area’s attractions are the Stone Circles in Odry, along the Wda, constructed ca. 1^st to 3rd century AD. The circles have diameters of 15 to 33 metres, and their interior is covered with stone pebbles, under which graves can be found.

The national park is very popular with tourists, particularly those who enjoy agrotourism, kayaking, inland yachting, cycling and hiking.

On the water

Lake Charzykowy is popular with sailors and provides good yachting conditions in summer and winter. The lake is the second biggest body of water in Bory Tucholskie covering an area of 1363,8 ha and is around 30 meters deep. The lake’s shoreline is inhabited by cranes, herons, cormorants and grebes.

Hiking trails

Within the park, there are three educational paths with a total length of 16.4 km in addition to five hiking trails with a total length of 45.6 km. There are also trails for horse riders and mountain bikers.

Around 7% of the park is under strict protection and 91% is under partial protection leaving just 2% where any kind of business activities are permitted.

Bory Tucholskie National Park is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed during the winter months. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers and those interested in the history and culture of the region.

FAQ

What is the Bory Tucholskie National Park in Poland?
The Park is a protected area located in the Tuchola Forest in northern Poland. It was established in 1996 to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region, including its forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

What can visitors do in the National Park?
There are many activities available for visitors to the Park, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, and boating. The park also has several educational trails and nature reserves that visitors can explore.

What wildlife can be found in the Bory Tucholskie National Park?
The Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lynx, beavers, otters, and over 200 species of birds.

Are there any accommodation options within the Park?
Yes, there are several accommodation options within the National Park, including campsites, hostels, and holiday homes. There are also several hotels and guesthouses located in the surrounding area.