Szeskie Hills

The Szeskie Hills, also known as the Szeski Garb, are a mesoregion located in northeastern Poland, within the Masurian Lake District. Covering an area of 401 km², they stretch approximately 30 km in a north-south direction between Olecko and Gołdap. This region is the highest and smallest part of Masuria, and its name derives from the village of Szeszki. These hills are a fragment of terminal moraines, distinguished by their pronounced terrain formed at the junction of two major glacial lobes: the Masurian and the Lithuanian. The elevations include Szeska Hill, which, at 309 meters above sea level, is the third-highest hill in the Polish lake districts. The region lacks large lakes, featuring only small water basins and streams that, during heavy rainfall, can cause soil erosion. The Szeskie Hills are characterized by a cooler and more humid climate, which favors winter tourism, including downhill skiing on Gołdapska Hill. Although there are no large forest complexes, the area is home to two nature reserves: Cisowy Jar, which protects a common yew habitat, and Torfowisko na Tatarskiej Górze, encompassing valuable peat bogs. Low population density and the absence of major urban centers make the Szeskie Hills a less explored and diverse region of Masuria, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.