Masurian Landscape Park

The Masurian Landscape Park, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, is one of the largest landscape parks in Poland. Established in December 1977, it was created to protect the wealth of picturesque post-glacial lakes, as well as the valuable faunal, floral, and cultural assets of the region. The park covers areas within the municipalities of Piecki, Mrągowo, Świętajno, Ruciane-Nida, Mikołajki, Orzysz, and Pisz, with a total area of 53,655 hectares, including 29,000 hectares of forests and 18,000 hectares of water bodies. The largest lake within the park is Śniardwy, and it also includes the northern part of the Piska Forest with the Krutynia River. The park is home to a variety of unique ecosystems, including small dystrophic lakes and peat bogs. The region experiences influences from both continental and maritime climates, which contribute to its rich microclimate. There are 29 human settlements within the park, with a total population of approximately 4,800 residents. The park hosts many rare and unique faunal species, such as the freshwater isopod (Kiełż), the European pond turtle, and Polish Konik horses in Popielno. Additionally, it is inhabited by numerous mammal species, including deer, roe deer, moose, and wolves, as well as diverse bird species such as the white-tailed eagle, osprey, and crane. The rich flora includes glacial relics, such as the boreal bog willow and many rare orchids. The park also encompasses several nature reserves aimed at protecting valuable ecosystems and species. In the future, there are plans to establish a national park within part of the Masurian Landscape Park, highlighting its importance in preserving the region's unique natural values. An interesting fact is the presence of numerous moss species and rare aquatic plants, making this area exceptional in terms of biodiversity. The park's address is Krutyń 66, Piecki, making it easily accessible for visitors interested in nature and the beauty of Masuria.