Walking in Borne Sulinowo: a lake, a forest and a town with an unusual history

Borne Sulinowo is a place where it feels good to slow down. You can wander unhurriedly through the streets of a former military garrison, relax by Lake Pile, or head off along forest paths, far from the noise of the city. And none of it requires planning a demanding hike or covering dozens of kilometres.

If you're wondering what to see in Borne Sulinowo, walking is a wonderful way to discover the town from different sides — historic, natural and very peaceful.

1. A walk through a town that was long missing from the map

Borne Sulinowo is an unusual place even by Polish standards. In the 20th century it was home to a military garrison, and after the Soviet troops left, the town opened up to civilian life. It was granted town rights in 1993. Official history of Borne Sulinowo (in Polish)

Start in the centre and stroll through streets where the military architecture of the past is still easy to spot. Large buildings, old villas, distinctive apartment blocks and wide streets create a special atmosphere, unlike any typical tourist town.

It pays not to rush here: look at the façades, notice the details and imagine how life in the town has changed over the decades. A walk like this works even as a short outing of an hour or two. To learn more about the town's past, read our series “On the trail of the lost town”.

2. To Lake Pile — for the views and the quiet

Lake Pile is one of the natural gems around Borne Sulinowo. Water, trees and ever-changing light make it perfect for a slow, unhurried walk.

By the lake you can take a short break, enjoy the view or simply sit by the water. In the warmer months it's a lovely idea for a morning walk, and towards evening, a chance to end the day in a calm atmosphere.

Your holiday doesn't have to be a sporting achievement. Pick a convenient stretch, walk as far as you feel like, and leave time just to take it all in. If you're planning a longer walk along the shore, check the map and whether your chosen path is accessible beforehand.

3. Forest trails: a small escape from everyday life

The area around Borne Sulinowo is full of forests, lakes and small ponds. According to the local forest district, it is well suited to walking thanks to its varied nature and historic sites. Tourism in the Borne Sulinowo forest district (in Polish)

A forest walk doesn't have to mean a long route. You can go for a short outing into nature, follow a familiar path or plan a longer trek with a map.

What makes these walks special?

• the quiet, and a chance to rest from the pace of city life;
• the scent of pine needles and natural forest scenery;
• an opportunity to see the area beyond the tourist centre;
• a way to combine exercise with nature photography.

Keep in mind: not every forest road is open to the public. Before you set out, check the latest information about access, marked trails and any restrictions. This applies especially to areas linked to the former military training ground.

4. Autumn in Borne Sulinowo: walks and mushrooms

In autumn, the forests around Borne Sulinowo take on a special charm. The leaves change colour, the air grows cooler, and a walk becomes a perfect chance to take a break from everyday life.

For many people, an autumn forest also means mushroom picking. If you're planning a quiet mushroom hunt, go only where picking is allowed, and take only the mushrooms you're sure about. Don't enter closed areas of the former training ground, and don't touch any suspicious objects that may have been left behind by military activity.

And even if your basket stays empty, the walk will still have been worth it: fresh air, movement and time in nature are a great result on their own.

5. What to take on your walk

Even a short route is more enjoyable if you prepare for it in advance.

• Comfortable shoes. Forest paths can be slippery or uneven after rain.
• Water and a light snack. Especially if you're planning to walk outside the centre.
• A phone with a map. Don't rely on mobile coverage alone — in the forest it can be patchy.
• Clothes for the weather. Even on a warm day it can be cooler by the water or under the trees.
• Tick protection. Check your clothes and skin after the walk.

If you're heading into an unfamiliar area, tell someone your route and roughly when you expect to be back. Better still, stick to marked trails that are open to visitors.

Where to stay after your walks in Borne Sulinowo

After a day outdoors, it's lovely to come back to a cosy place, cook dinner and relax without hurrying.

Slow Life Apartment is an option for those who want to combine exploring Borne Sulinowo with a calm stay at their own pace. See what the apartment offers, and find booking details on the Slow Life Apartment page on Airbnb.

Borne Sulinowo doesn't demand a packed schedule every day. Sometimes a walk through historic streets, an hour by the lake and a quiet evening after a forest trail are all you need — and it's for simple moments like these that people keep coming back.