Flatow: Lakes, Rivers and Hiking Trails

In Złotów County, the Flatow travel destination, there are about 80 lakes. Lake Borówno is one of the largest in the area. The county lies mostly in the historic region of Krajna and the Krajeńskie Lake District; the remaining areas are in the Gwda Valley, the Szczecineckie Lake District and the Wałcz Plain. This means the landscape extends beyond a single lake district to include valleys and plains as well.

Waters and trails

The Gwda and its tributaries are described in the county as attractive options for kayaking. A water route on the Gwda runs through the area between Lędyczek and Tarnówka for about 35 kilometres. So, in addition to the lakes, there is a specific stretch of river with named endpoints to help plan your trip.

A cycling loop through the area is also part of the cycle route network; the routes were designated by five surrounding forest districts. The two hiking trails differ in length and duration: the red trail is a two-day, 46-kilometre route with overnight accommodation options in Złotów or Radawnica. The yellow hiking trail is 29 kilometres long. This lets you compare the route lengths directly and, for the red trail, also take its stated duration into account.

The starting and ending points of the hiking trails are accessible by train or PKS bus. Check the current timetables before travelling so you can coordinate your arrival and departure with your chosen route.

Buildings and protected areas

One attraction in Złotów is the Zagroda Krajeńska, a farmstead dating from the 18th century. In Krajenka, St. Anne’s Church is located in the surviving western wing of a former castle. The historic sites therefore differ in their architectural form: a farmstead in one place, and a church in a former castle wing in another.

The Diabli Skok nature reserve is located at the source of the Rurzyca. It was established at the beginning of the 20th century and was given the name “Devil’s Leap.” Near Okonek, around seven kilometres away, is the “Wrzosowiska w Okonku” nature reserve. It was established in 2008 on the site of a former military training ground. The two reserves therefore have different historical contexts: Diabli Skok’s early establishment and the former use of the land near Okonek.

Krajna traditions and regional cuisine

Local associations and folk groups in Złotów County preserve Krajna traditions and practise old customs. They also promote Krajna embroidery and the Krajna dialect. Alongside the historic buildings, textile crafts and regional language are distinct cultural themes.

One culinary specialty is “Czernina po krajeńsku na słodko” from Dzierzążenko. The dish was featured in the “Polska Wieś Smakuje” soup competition. Its name alone combines its connection to Krajna with the sweet preparation mentioned in the title.

A loop around Flatow

A proposed loop through the southern part of Złotów County is listed as 85 kilometres long. As a loop, it differs from the hiking trails and the water route on the Gwda described above; its southern orientation and stated length offer another way to plan your trip around a specific route.

Discover more destinations: Skórka, Okonek, Radawnica, Głomsk, Jastrowie, Złotów, Łąkie, Zakrzewo.

For the overview of the wider region: Greater Poland.