Somonino

Somonino is a rural commune located in the Pomeranian Voivodeship, within the Kartuzy County, with its administrative seat in the village of Somonino. Established in 1954 as the Goręczyno Commune, it was part of the Gdańsk Voivodeship from 1975 to 1998. The commune covers an area of 112.27 km², of which 53% is agricultural land and 36% is forested. Somonino consists of 16 village districts (sołectwa), including Borcz, Egiertowo, Goręczyno, and Ostrzyce. As of the end of June 2022, the commune had a population of 11,204, with 30.8% of residents speaking the Kashubian language, highlighting its bilingual character. Situated in the heart of the Kashubian Landscape Park, Somonino is known for its beautiful landscapes, the hills of the Szymbark Heights, and the Radunia River, a popular spot for anglers and kayaking enthusiasts. The area is dotted with numerous lakes and ponds. The commune features holiday resorts, as well as historical and natural attractions, such as the Stare Modrzewie Nature Reserve. Somonino borders other communes, including Kartuzy, Kościerzyna, Przywidz, Stężyca, and Żukowo. The highest point is 296.2 meters above sea level near the village of Kaplica, while the lowest point, the Radunia River valley, lies just above 157 meters above sea level. The commune is rich in Kashubian traditions, which deeply influence the local culture.