The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Ostróda

You have to drive sideways because the gate is closed.

Good road with views of Lake Drwęckie.

The Zamek Krzyżacki Castle is part of the long history of the Teutonic Order, a powerful military and religious organization that had great influence in Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. Originally founded as a hospital order in the Holy Land, the Teutonic Order began conquering and Christianizing the pagan territories in what is now Poland and the Baltic States from the 13th century onwards, building numerous castles as administrative centers and military bases. The castle itself served as an important fortress and administrative seat in the region, especially during the conflicts between the Teutonic Order and the Kingdom of Poland-Lithuania. The famous Battle of Grunwald (1410), in which the Teutonic Knights suffered a decisive defeat against the combined Polish-Lithuanian forces, marked a turning point for the Order. Even though the castle was not abandoned afterward, the Teutonic Order gradually lost power. Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous changes and reconstructions, especially after the secularization of the Order in the 16th century, when it served various purposes, including as a residence and later as a storage facility. Today it is a testimony to this eventful history and an important place of remembrance of the region's medieval past.

While the water features gently bubble up from the ground, you can make yourself comfortable on one of the surrounding benches. The small fountains provide a pleasant cooling effect, especially on warmer days, and conjure up a playful atmosphere. The sculpture in the center of the fountain attracts curious glances, while children frolic excitedly between the water jets. Even though it inevitably gets wet, the fun seems to be worth the small risk. A beautiful place that is ideal for a short break when exploring the city. Whether for a refreshment or just to watch the people passing by, this is a great place to enjoy the moment.

The Ostróda seafront promenade is a beautiful place that offers more than just a path along the water. The wide footpath and cycle path runs right along the shore and opens up new views of the lake, whose surface shimmers in different colors depending on the time of day. As you stroll, you can feel the fresh breeze and enjoy the hustle and bustle of people walking, cycling or simply sitting on one of the benches and enjoying the view. Just a few steps away, the old Teutonic castle towers up, telling its own story. From the masters of the Teutonic Order to Gustav Adolf of Sweden and Napoleon - many famous people have left their mark here. The castle forms an exciting contrast to the modern promenade and is worth a detour to immerse yourself a little in the history of the region. At the pier, you have the opportunity to take a boat trip across the lake district or even to the Elbląg Canal. These tours offer a relaxed opportunity to experience the surrounding nature from a different perspective. The promenade itself is a lively place that invites you to linger, be it for a break by the water or a longer walk along the lake.

The old railway bridge has something abandoned about it, as if it has already witnessed many a story. The rails have long been overgrown with moss and grass, and the beams creak quietly in the wind. Here, in the middle of the greenery, the former railway traffic is only a memory that resonates in the rusty railings and faded wooden planks. It almost feels like you are walking through a time capsule. The bridge not only connects the banks of the small river, but also the past with the present. You can literally feel how the trains once rattled here - a thought that gives the place a certain melancholy. The view from the bridge offers a charming view of the surrounding nature, which is reflected in the water and offers a moment of silence. Although the bridge is no longer passable, it remains a silent witness to history and a worthwhile detour for anyone who wants to discover the forgotten places on their hikes. A bit of a sense of adventure is required here, because the path is bumpy and the traces of time are unmistakable.

Czech restaurant in Masuria? Why not ;). Behind the bar a true representative of the Czech Republic. Draught beer, fried cheese, dumplings.

Sailing Marina in Ostrud on Lake Drwęckie, where the Drwęca River flows through the lake.