For those seeking the picturesque, tranquil waters of the Maldives but who have a budget to haggle with — look no further, because we’ve got just the perfect holiday dupe.
With flights starting from £15 and beers from £2, this hidden gem destination in Europe can serve as the perfect weekend getaway for those who don’t want to travel across the globe for a relaxing vacation.
So where exactly is this Maldives dupe located? The answer is Poland — and no, you didn’t read that wrong.
While Poland may not be the first place that comes to mind when we think of warm, sandy beaches — the reality will leave you amazed.
Sopot, Łeba, Kołobrzeg, and Świnoujście are all popular for their lively beach vibes and gorgeous topography and joining the list is Jaworzno — which is where the Maldives-esque area is situated.
Jaworzno is a city in southern Poland and has one particular spot that is highly reminiscent of the Maldives, complete with the holiday hotspot’s famous curving walkway and azure waters.
In fact, a content creator on Instagram even called it the Maldives of Poland. Patryk Micek, a drone pilot and filmmaker, took to the social media platform and shared stunning drone footage of the place.
Calling it a budget solution, he wrote: “Can’t afford a holiday in Maldives? Here’s a budget solution! Poland has so much to offer — from mountains on south to sea on North! Somewhere in between you can find a little crystal clear lake with a wooden “Maldives style” path.
“If you haven’t got any idea for a short trip during the weekend you need to consider visiting that place! You can find it by typing “Jaworzno Malediwy” in google (it’s located near Katowice).”
The place in question is Park Gródek in Jaworzno. With a quaint, wooden walking path, crystal clear waters, and alluring sights as far as the eye can see — Park Gródek is a true hidden gem.
How to get there
Flights from London to Jaworzno for the remaining months of the year start from as little as £15.
Park Gródek is around 8 kilometers away from the city centre of Jaworzno and is easily accessible by car and public transport.
Alternatively, holidaymakers can also fly to Katowice first and drive down to Park Gródek from there. London to Katowice flights are also priced at £15, however it’s important to note that there are fewer flights available on this route.
Things to do
With its enchanting sapphire waters, soft sandy beaches, and lush surroundings, Park Gródek is a traveller’s paradise. Situated far away from the madding crowds — unlike its tropical counterpart — Park Gródek has ample space for visitors to spread out and relax without being disturbed.
Park Gródek is actually a former dolomite quarry that has been transformed into a picturesque park that stretches over almost 60 hectares of land. The park is renowned for its cerulean blue waters which can easily transport travellers to the tropical lagoons of the Maldives.
Surrounded by lush greenery, Park Gródek boasts scenic landscapes that create the perfect environment for the traveller that values peace and serenity. It’s the ideal getaway for nature lovers, for it feels like those visiting are cradled in the lap of Mother Nature herself.
It’s important to note that while the water may look unendingly inviting, swimming is prohibited in Park Gródek due to its depth in certain areas. However, visitors can meander along the wooden walkway that weaves through the spot and make the most of the location’s breathtaking views.
The trail takes anywhere between two to three hours to complete and provides visitors with ample opportunities to get that perfect snapshot.
Once travellers have had their fill of Park Gródek, they can go along to explore Jaworzno and Katowice — both quaint cities within Poland that offer ample culture and exploration opportunities.
A Tripadvisor review of Park Gródek states: “Incredible seesight (sic) connected with bird sounds can make you feel relaxed. Just 10/10. Must-to-see place in Jaworzno!”