Biking journey from Gdańsk to Warsaw along the Green 7 trail
The unofficial Zielona 7 bicycle trail, a 400-km route connecting Gdansk and Warsaw, offers an exciting and picturesque journey for cyclists. This route, while not marked on official maps, has become popular among riders due to its unique charm and lesser-travelled paths.
The trail begins in the bustling city of Gdansk and winds its way through a series of charming villages, fields, and forests, almost devoid of cars. One such village is Zawroty, a place that holds fond memories for many riders from their childhood.
After leaving Gdansk, the trail passes through Mlawa, where a detour to Ruda Lagoon is highly recommended for a refreshing break. The route then continues through Ostroda, known for its beautiful forest roads, before reaching the town of Modlin. Here, the trail diverges from the official maps, taking a more scenic route through Strzegowo, as opposed to the field and forest road.
However, the ride isn't without its challenges. Near Gierzwald, the terrain becomes uneven, with gravel, sand, and cobblestones replacing the smooth asphalt. This 10-km stretch, which takes approximately an hour to complete, tests the rider's endurance but rewards them with stunning views of the Polish countryside.
After two bridges, the trail leads along the 7 road, which is not part of the green route. But fear not, as after about 12 km in Bogurzynek, the trail once again calms down, leading riders to Modlin without any traffic congestion.
The trail continues through Rybina and Jantar, deviating from the map provided on the official website (www.zielona7.pl/mapa/). A small cat near Jantar is a common sight for riders, and many have shared stories of rescuing this friendly feline.
Accommodation along the route can be found on the Zielona 7 website, but it mostly consists of campings or hotels. For those seeking cheaper rooms, it may be necessary to look for accommodation outside the route.
One of the recommended places to rest is Joniec, where cyclists can relax by the Wkra river, enjoy a meal in a restaurant, and even rent kayaks for a leisurely paddle.
The route ends in Warsaw, but it can be ridden in the opposite direction if preferred. A scenic detour through Łomianki allows riders to reach Warsaw by side roads and through the Młociny Forest (Las Młociński).
For those interested in exploring the unofficial Zielona 7 trail, it is strongly advised to download a GPS track and consult local cycling forums, GPS trail-sharing platforms, or community groups familiar with Zielona 7 cycling in Poland for precise details on how the unofficial route differs from the official maps. A ferry ride from Świbno to Mikoszewo, which costs PLN 5 for a cyclist and runs every 30 minutes, is also a part of this exciting journey.
So, grab your bike, download your GPS track, and embark on this unforgettable adventure through the heart of Poland!
While immersing yourself in the unforgettable adventure of the Zielona 7 bicycle trail, you might also want to explore different aspects of your travel, such as indulging in a home-and-garden lifestyle in quaint villages like Zawroty or spending a peaceful night beside the Wkra river in Joniec. After completing the 400-km journey, getting a unique perspective of Poland's vibrant lifestyle in Warsaw can serve as the perfect conclusion to your home-and-garden and travel experiences.
