Smolany Dąb by Lake Gremzdy

• The village lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Gremzdy.
• A small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) is protected as a natural monument.
• 412 soldiers are buried in the First World War military cemetery.
• A 30-kilometre paved cycle path between Sejny and Suwałki passes through the village.

Its location on the northeastern shore of the lake gives Smolany Dąb a clear geographical setting. Among its specific natural features is a small-leaved lime protected as a natural monument. An official resolution from 2022 gives its height as 24 metres and its trunk circumference as 490 centimetres, measured at a height of 1.3 metres. The measurement height forms part of the circumference figure: it clarifies the basis on which the tree’s circumference was recorded.

The surviving building style is also part of the village’s character: several buildings made of wood and clay remain, including an old smithy. This is a separate aspect from Henryk Borowski’s forge, which is described in connection with its artistic and practical metalwork and demonstrations for visitors.

At Henryk Borowski’s forge, furniture, lamps, railings, gates, signs, logos and advertising lettering are made using traditional blacksmithing techniques. Borowski gives demonstrations of artistic and practical blacksmithing for excursion groups and individual tourists. If you plan to attend a demonstration, arrange your visit in advance.

Teatr Stodolany hosts cultural initiatives, performances, workshops and meetings on a range of topics. If you’re interested in a particular event, check the date and access details in advance. This lets you distinguish the general programme from a specific event without assuming there is a fixed visit date.

A local tradition tells of settlers who saw a burning oak tree by Lake Gremzdy, took it as a good omen and derived the name Smolany Dąb from it. In the past, the village had a tar-making kiln.

Another historical point of interest is the First World War military cemetery. It is the resting place of 412 soldiers, including 95 members of the German army and 317 members of the Russian army.

Agroturystyka u Oli has five guest rooms for two to three people each, all with private bathrooms. When booking, check the current room configuration and availability.

Overnight guests have access to a private beach with a pier on Lake Gremzdy and a telescope for observing the night sky, particularly nebulae. Guest amenities also include a boat, a fishing kayak, six touring kayaks, an Omega-class sailboat, SUP boards and a windsurfing board. Use of these amenities is conditional on an overnight stay at the accommodation.

A description from 2025 mentions a 30-kilometre paved cycle path between Sejny and Suwałki that passes through Smolany Dąb. The 30 kilometres refer to the entire route, not just the section in the village. This means you can consider the cycle route as part of a longer trip. Check the current route and path conditions before setting out.

Głuszyn, Frącki, Oszkinie, Giby, Krasnopol, Puńsk, Stabieńszczyzna, Cimochowizna

Which amenities are reserved for overnight guests only?

The beach with pier, telescope and the listed boats and watersports equipment are intended for guests of Agroturystyka u Oli. These details apply to guests staying overnight at the accommodation.

How is the cycling route described?

The paved route described in 2025 is 30 kilometres long, runs between Sejny and Suwałki through Smolany Dąb, and refers to the full route.

What figures describe the military cemetery?

412 soldiers are buried in the First World War cemetery: 95 members of the German army and 317 members of the Russian army.

For the broader travel overview: Sejny.