Wigry National Park

Wigry National Park, established on January 1, 1989, is one of the largest national parks in Poland, covering an area of 15,089.79 hectares. It was created to protect unique natural features, including 42 lakes, the most important of which is Lake Wigry. The park is located on the northern edge of the Augustów Primeval Forest and spans parts of three geographical mesoregions. It is home to rich flora, with nearly 800 species of vascular plants, including 75 protected species, and fauna comprising around 300 species of vertebrates, such as birds, mammals, and protected beavers. Interestingly, until the 1970s, Lake Wigry was known for international hydrobiological research, and conservation efforts in the area began as early as the start of the 20th century. In the 1950s, beaver reserves were established, contributing to the species' recovery in the region. The park also offers diverse tourist activities, with 190 km of hiking and cycling trails, as well as opportunities for water-based tourism. Reorganized educational paths and attractions like the Wigry Museum draw visitors. Conservation measures, such as bans on fishing certain fish species, are part of the protection strategy. Thus, Wigry National Park is one of Poland’s key nature conservation areas, combining history, unique natural values, and tourist attractions.