The Lake District is a popular holiday destination in the northwest of England, renowned for its forests, mountains, and lakes.

However, Europe has its very own answer to the Lake District in the form of Masuria, Poland.

Poland’s Masurian Lakeland is an area of impressive natural beauty with more than 2,000 lakes, lush forests, organic farms and charming resort towns. Little known outside of Poland, Lakeland is well worth exploring.

Masuria is located in north-eastern Poland, approximately three hours away from Warsaw by car. 

The region is home to approximately 500,000 people.

Those interested in exploring this picturesque area from the UK can get a direct flight from London Stansted to Olsztyn-Mazury airport in just 2 hours and 15 minutes and flights cost as little as £36.

Known for its crystal clear waters the Great Masurian Lakes offer a slice of pristine paradise tucked away in the heart of Poland.

Visitors can emerge themselves in a range of outdoor activities here, including sailing, kayaking, fishing, swimming on the country’s biggest lakes and cycling through the area’s thick forests.

There is also a range of gorgeous walking routes to explore with one walk crossing 20 lakes. The central part of Masuria forms the 82 mile long Great Masurian Lakes Trail.

The trail runs from the north to south beginning on Lake Brzozolasek near the town of Pisz and ends on the Węgorzewo Canal. There are many good camping spots on the banks.

Hotels can be found in close proximity to the Great Masurian Lakes, in the towns of Giżycko, Mikołajki and Ełk among others. There are also guesthouses and campsites in surrounding villages.

Weather here is generally a cooler than in most parts of Poland, with the area seeing snow several times a year. 

The Masurian lakes are often frozen from December until the end of February.