Rest, eat, run! In May get off the beaten track, visit the most picturesque corners of north-eastern Poland and take part in a unique run held every year on the streets of the region’s capital: PKO Białystok Half Marathon.
PKO BIAŁYSTOK HALF MARATHON
SLOW DOWN – TO SPEED UP
Included in the Crown of Polish Half Marathons, the run traditionally takes place in May. The half marathon is accompanied by the City Run on a shorter, 5 km distance. Both routes lead along the streets of Białystok and through the Zwierzyniec Forest Nature Reserve – a stretch of intense greenery, granting the runners some relief in the shade of the trees.
Visit Podlaskie for a slow weekend, refuel with nature and take a deep breath.
More info at bialystokpolmaraton.pl
Supraśl
TAKE A DEEP BREATH IN THE HEART OF THE KNYSZYN PRIMAEVAL FOREST
Supraśl is what is best in Podlaskie in a nutshell. This intimate town isveiled by the majestic Knyszyn Primaeval Forest. Thanks to its unique micro-climate, Supraśl is one of the region’s two health resorts. The town’s historic architecture is in perfect sync with nature. Supraśl’s present character reflects its long-standing traditions.
Here is a list of Supraśl highlights:
1. Visit the monumental Orthodox monastery and Poland’s only Museum of Icons
2. Go for a stroll along the Supraśl River
3. Drop by the neo-Renaissance Buchholtz Palace from late 19th century, nowadays the seat of the Secondary School of Fine Art
4. Watch a performance at the Wierszalin Theatre. Immerse in the universe of myths, legends and folklore, presented in an innovative form full of expression. Remember to book your ticket in advance on the Theatre’s website.
5. Go for a hike or a bicycle ride into the wilderness
6. Return for lunch and discover the flavours of the region’s multicultural cuisine in one of the many Supraśl restaurants
Tykocin
A FAIRYTALE TOWN
This is what Agnieszka Osiecka, a famous Polish poetess and songwriter, used to call Tykocin. It is a picture-postcard little town with big history which still resounds in its preserved original architecture and Baroque style synagogue. If you love Kazimierz upon the Vistula, you will certainly delight in Tykocin upon the Narew as well.
What should a Tykocin “must-see” list include?
1. Take a stroll along the streets of a traditional Jewish town. Visit the Great Synagogue and the baroque Holy Trinity Church.
2. Visit the Tykocin Castle – a restored residence of Polish kings. Discover the flavours of Polish court cuisine in the castle restaurant.
3. Savour the delicacies of the Jewish cuisine, such as tzimmes, kugel or kreplach, at the Tejsza restaurant just opposite the synagogue.
BIAŁOWIEŻA PRIMAEVAL FOREST
IN THE DEPTHS OF A PRIMAEVAL FOREST
A visit to the Białowieża Forest is a journey to the roots. It is Europe’s only surviving deciduous primaeval forest – an ecosystem untouched by human hand.
You will be left in awe over the sheer number of the shades of green, the vibrant micro cosmos of a moss-covered tree and the monumental majesty of ancient oaks. Experience the peace and harmony which drive the life of the Forest.
Definite musts:
1. Fall in love with the Białowieża Forest – visit the Protection Reserve, which can be accessed only with a guide. You can find a list of licensed, english speaking tour guides on the Białowieża National Park website.
2. Meet the European bison at the Bison Show Reserve
3. Soak up the ambience of the age of the Tsars – visit the Palace Park and the Carska Restaurant housed in the former railway station, built during the reign of Tsar Nicholas II
4. Fully recharge your batteries
