Spring is a time when Gdańsk comes to life in a way that can charm even the most discerning tourist. It is during this time that nature fills the streets, parks, and forests with fresh, iodized air and a whole palette of colors. Cool mornings give way to warm afternoons, and the scent of spring flowers weaves into a unique mixture of a seaside city.
If you feel like taking a walk that will be both soothing, an exploratory adventure, and a journey through history, it works out perfectly since I have prepared a route for you that will allow you to experience Gdańsk in three extraordinary versions.
Oliwa Forests and the Valley of Joy – spring harmony in the heart of Gdańsk
Everything begins in the heart of the Tri-City Landscape Park, in a place that serves as an ideal sanctuary from the urban hustle. The Oliwa Forests stretch across hills that at this time of year are covered with the first bright green leaves of beech trees. It is here that you will find the Valley of Joy – a charming place whose name is not accidental.
As you enter the valley, you feel a change – the air becomes cooler, filled with the scent of damp earth and resin. The murmur of the Oliwa Stream accompanies you all the way, and its clear surface reflects the sun's rays sparkling in the treetops. With a bit of luck, you might spot a kingfisher and larger mammals, including deer, which come down to the stream in the morning to quench their thirst.
As you stroll along the forest paths, you will come across traces of ancient history. The remnants of old water mills remind us of times when this place pulsated with artisan life.
For many visitors, as well as locals, the highlight of wandering through the Oliwa Forests is the ascent to Pachołek Hill, which stands just over 100 m above sea level. It is from here that the panorama of Gdańsk and the Gdańsk Bay unfolds. The view makes you feel for a moment like a conqueror, with the city at your feet. I encourage you to visit here at sunset when the city is bathed in gold and birds sing their evening songs in the treetops.
Photo: Tri-City Landscape Park
Oruń Park – a green enclave with a soul
If you want to feel how history intertwines with nature, visit Oruń Park – one of the most picturesque and underrated places in Gdańsk. This once-overlooked pearl is close and easily accessible even for novice tourists.
Upon entering the park, you will be greeted by ancient trees, and further on, numerous attractions reveal themselves: ponds with ducks, picturesque bridges, and romantic nooks that encourage you to rest. The heart of the park is a historic manor once belonging to Gdańsk merchants. In summer, the amphitheater in the park resonates with concerts, but in spring, it is an oasis of peace – you can sit on a bench and listen to the birds singing or simply – enjoy the silence.
Oruń Park in spring is a true paradise for photography lovers – blooming fruit trees, glades, and clouds reflected in the water create an almost fairy-tale scenery. If you feel like having a picnic, bring a blanket and some treats – it's the perfect place for a longer rest in the midst of nature.
Photo: Oruń Park in Gdańsk
Thermal Meadows – a treat for nature lovers
Gdańsk hides many smaller areas of protected nature worth exploring during spring walks. One of them is the Thermal Meadows in the Valley of the Oruń Stream – a unique assemblage of thermophilic plants that owes its presence to a specific microclimate.
These meadows are a true botanical gem. You will find about 50 rare plant species here that in spring and summer create a colorful carpet on the sunny slopes of the valley. This place is a paradise not only for botanists but also for nature lovers. On warm days, you can spot numerous butterflies, including the protected blue butterfly, and among the grasses, small insects and lizards scurry about, enjoying the warmth of the heated rocks.
The thermal meadows in the Valley of the Oruń Stream are proof of how rich and diverse Gdańsk's nature is. This place is full of life, offering moments of respite and contact with the wild nature – almost in the very heart of the city.
Gradowa Hill – Gdańsk in its full glory
Gdańsk is of course not just nature. As the spring sun slowly sinks towards the horizon, it's worth heading to Gradowa Hill to admire the panorama of Gdańsk in the warm rays of evening light.
This historic hill, once serving as a defensive fort, today is one of the most interesting viewpoints in the city. From the top, you have a view of the Main City, the port, and the Gdańsk Bay. You can also visit the Hevelianum Center – an interactive museum that modernly presents the history and science.
Walking along the fortifications, you can feel the spirit of ancient times and ponder how the city has changed over the centuries. And when you sit on a bench, looking at the city in the evening glow, you have the impression that Gdańsk reveals its most beautiful face before you.
It is worth staying here longer and waiting for the night illuminations – the twinkling city lights combined with its historical character create a unique atmosphere. You can also look for one of the numerous events organized on Gradowa Hill – concerts, festivals, or astronomical shows, which will further highlight the uniqueness of this place.
Photo: Gradowa Hill in Gdańsk
Summary
The forests, parks, and hills of Gdańsk offer an extraordinary mix of nature and history, all in the heart of a vibrant city. Spring is the best time to discover them – at your own pace, with an openness to new experiences. Take advantage of the spring sun to explore, experience, and enjoy everything that Gdańsk has to offer. Will you embark on this journey? I definitely recommend it :)
Author of the post: Daria Bałdyga
