Being born in Poland and growing up in Germany had its advantages and disadvantages, and the older I get the more I like to know more about my birth country. (See story below). As I was coming from the Baltic States – Driving through the Baltic States – my first stop in Poland was the historical Wolf’s Lair and Gdańsk. Gdańsk is a city I had heard a lot of but have never been. I can’t wait to see what Poland has to offer.
My personal story
I was born in south Poland (Schlesien), near Katowice. Having lived through the communism, back in 1989, my parents decided that living in Poland wasn‘t the best for us, so they packed us three little kids (I was almost 9), leaving for a better life. We drove across the countries, in a dark van without windows, to an immigration house in Germany. They left everything they knew, as well as all family and friends behind. It was a very brave thing to do back then. And so, from my age of 9, my life in Germany started. New language, new school, new friends. From memories, I think we settled in pretty quickly. Life was great! But I never fetl home in Germany and so, I was always working towards moving to Australia. Until it finally became my home. But that is another story.
With that in mind my trips to Poland usually involves around visiting family. I have lots of uncles, aunties and cousins, always happy to see me (and I spent a lot of time with them – Spring time in Paris & When the family comes to Town.
Before moving to Australia back in 2005, I did a quick solo trip through Poland via train visiting Warsaw and Krakau. And that was it, I haven’t explored much of Poland otherwise. Especially not as a tourist. Although since I wrote this blog post, I have been to Krakow a few times and I love it every time!
A road trip through my birth country Poland
It is great to be back again. This time driving through the Poland, from the north east to the south west. Poland is a beautiful country and most likely underestimated by most. Yes, it might not be the most prosperous country to visit, but the landscape is gorgeous, the lakes beautiful, the food super delicious and the locals very friendly.
I admit, when visiting outside the tourist area it helps speaking the language as not many speak english here (esp. the older generation). However I would recommend to give Poland a chance. You won’t be disappointed.
As for me, I was looking forward to explore northern Poland more. Especially after the stunning Baltic States. And Wolf’s Lair and Gdańsk were on my list to see. And WOW.. !
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The Wolf’s Lair
I have never been to the northern part of Poland and coming from Lithuania, it was a great opportunity to drive through this part. First stop was the Wolf’s Lair. Wolf’s Lair (or Wolfsschanze) was Adolf Hitler’s first Eastern Front military headquarters in WWII. As well as a great place to hide from allied bombing campaigns. However, and I didn’t know that, it was actually built originally to plan the invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941.
Hitler spent quite a lot of time there during the war but all headquarters have been blown up by the Germans 48 hours before the arrival of the Soviet forces (Jan 1945). (A bit of history here). It was quite amazing seeing it. The amount and thickness of concrete used, and the average size of the bunkers all over the place, were huge. Especially noticeable me standing next to it.
Now it all seems like part of the Forrest. So why did he choose this part of the country?
It was quite unique to see the Wolf’s Lair. Gdańsk was next on the list!
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Gdańsk
Leaving history behind (Wolf’s Lair) and driving further into Poland, I aimed for Gdańsk. And what a gorgeous city Gdańsk is. Really! I had no expectations. I just wanted to go there to see a big city outside Warsaw and it was (more or less) on the way. It is a gorgeous port city on the Baltic Coast that has been rebuild after WWII. The colourful facades, the cobblestoned streets and the summer markets (literally all over the city) give it a really great charm and feel. I loved it here and I would definitely come back here.
Being August however, there were way too many people. So maybe, when visiting Wolf’s Lair and Gdańsk, plan your visit in May or June. Because both spots are definitely worth a visit and a great way to see some of the history Poland has to offer. Krakau and Auschwitz would be the other. And all of those are better than Warsaw (in my opinion). But Warsaw was destroyed 90% during the war and had to be be rebuilt so it is more a new town.
And as photos speak more than words, here they all are! I can’t wait to explore more and spend time with my cousins soon. xx
(post 43)
