Discover Gutkowo: Church, Lakes and Trails
Accommodation in Gutkowo
In Gutkowo, Gothic architectural history, bodies of water, and hiking and cycling routes come together. The Church of St. Lawrence, trails by Lake Ukiel and the lakeshore landscape at Lake Redykajny offer different ways to plan your trip.
Gutkowo at a glance
- The Church of St. Lawrence was built between 1375 and 1400 and is one of Olsztyn’s oldest historic buildings.
- Lake Ukiel (Krzywe) lies between the districts of Dajtki, Gutkowo and Likusy. It covers 412 hectares and is 43 metres deep.
- Lake Redykajny is Olsztyn’s northernmost body of water and lies on the border between Gutkowo and Redykajny.
- The black Alojzy Śliwa hiking trail is 18.5 kilometres long and reaches Gutkowo.
How are the lakes and natural areas situated in relation to Gutkowo?
Lake Ukiel lies in northwestern Olsztyn, between the districts of Dajtki, Gutkowo and Likusy. Covering 412 hectares and reaching a depth of 43 metres, it is Olsztyn’s largest and deepest lake.
Lake Redykajny lies on the border between the districts of Gutkowo and Redykajny. Several natural, unguarded beaches line its shores and can be reached via forest paths through pine woods. Fishing takes place on the lake both from the shore and from boats. Nearby, the Redykajny nature reserve protects bogs and their vegetation.
This means your trip can take in different landscapes: the large Lake Ukiel and the forest paths by the beaches of Lake Redykajny. If you are particularly interested in lakeside trails, there is also a cycling route that runs along Lake Ukiel.
Which hiking and cycling routes pass through Gutkowo?
The 21.9-kilometre Dywity–Barkweda–Dywity cycle route is a recreational and sightseeing route that passes through Redykajny and Gutkowo. Another cycling route, “Szlakiem olsztyńskich jezior” (Along the Lakes of Olsztyn), follows a cycle path along the shore of Lake Ukiel and passes Zatoka Kopernika (Gutkowska). Check current trail conditions before setting out.
The black Alojzy Śliwa hiking trail is 18.5 kilometres long, reaches Gutkowo and is considered Olsztyn’s longest hiking trail. Its length and ranking may change if the trails are revised. From the Gutkowo section, the route heads toward the former village of Łupstych, then continues along a forest path by the shore of Lake Ukiel in the direction of Dajtki. Alojzy Śliwa (1885–1969), after whom the trail is named, was a Warmian poet, prose writer, publicist and social activist.
What makes the Church of St. Lawrence special?
The late Gothic Church of St. Lawrence is built of red brick on a stone foundation. It was built between 1375 and 1400 and is one of Olsztyn’s oldest historic buildings; only St. James’s Church in the city centre is older. Its decorated tower, made of brick and wood, dates from 1778.
The altars, pulpit, organ, confessional and holy water stoup inside are Baroque in style. The main altar and side altars from the 18th century have been preserved. Work to uncover medieval wall paintings beneath the plaster at the church began in 2007. A cemetery is located right next to the church, where Alojzy Śliwa is among those buried. You will therefore encounter his name in connection with both the cemetery and the hiking trail.
What other experiences are part of Gutkowo’s history?
During the interwar period, Gutkowo partly served as a recreation area for Olsztyn; an excursion boat operated there at the time. The Ataman stud farm in Gutkowo offers riding lessons. Check its current operating arrangements before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Dywity, Biesówko, Olsztyn, Biskupiec, Nowa Kaletka, Maróz, Barczewo, Butryny.
FAQ
When was the Church of St. Lawrence built?
It was built between 1375 and 1400 and is late Gothic in style.
How long is the Alojzy Śliwa hiking trail?
The black hiking trail is 18.5 kilometres long and reaches Gutkowo.
Where are the beaches on Lake Redykajny?
The natural, unguarded beaches lie along the lake and can be reached via forest paths through pine woods.
For the main travel overview: Olsztyn.
