Wolin – The sunny island
The island of Wollin (Polish: Wolin) is located on the German-Polish border, in the immediate vicinity of Usedom.
Nowhere else on the Polish Baltic coast does the sun shine more often and rain fall less than on these two islands.
Wollin covers an area of 265 km² with elevations of up to 116 m above sea level. Forests with ancient trees
and lakes, which can be found all over the island, make it particularly beautiful.
How to get here
By aeroplaneeroplane
There is an international airport in Gollnow near Szczecin (IATA: SZZ).
There is an international airport near Poznań (IATA code: POZ) with connections to Munich and Frankfurt in German-speaking countries.
Heringsdorf Airport (on the island of Usedom)
By train
From the German rail network from Usedom to Świnoujście-Centrum, then by ferry, then by rail on the Polish rail network. From the Polish rail network via Szczecin-Dąbie and Głowno to Wołomin, Międzyzdroje and Świnoujście.
By car
From Germany via Usedom or via the A11 and the Pomellen/Kołbaskowo border crossing (south of Szczecin), continue on the Polish A6 motorway and the Polish S3 national road, which crosses over to the island at Wollin and leads along the southern edge to Świnoujście.
From Poland, the best way to get there is via the A1 motorway and the A6 motorway, which leads to the island via the border crossing at Świnoujście.
By ship
Excursion boats from Heringsdorf or Szczecin. Ferries from Scandinavia to Świnoujście dock on the Wollin side of Świnoujście. Ferry connections within Świnoujście to the island of Usedom. Seaworthy sports boats and sports boats for inland traffic can reach the island of Wollin.
By bicycle
Two long-distance cycle routes pass through the region:
the Baltic Sea Cycle Route and the Iron Curtain Trail.
As a hiker
The European long-distance hiking trail E9 passes through the region.
Sand, beach, sun, and water sports
The region is very diverse with many different types of landscape: in the north, there is a fine sandy beach followed by a steep cliff up to approx. 80 metres high and 15 km long. The north-east is glacially formed with numerous dunes, moraines (and a small lake district – the Wolin Lake District).
The coastal region is ideal for all kinds of water-based fun. From gently sloping, child-friendly beaches to every conceivable type of water sport, there is something for everyone.
In the south, the coastline merges into the Szczecin Lagoon, a sea of reeds. In the southwest, there is a marsh and peat landscape with dozens of small offshore islands, the largest of which is ‘Large Kricks Wiesen’.
Pure nature right down to the water’s edge:
Wolin National Park
Wolin National Park
The national park is Poland’s first marine nature reserve. The landscape of the national park is extremely varied. Its most characteristic feature is a cliff stretching over 15 km and reaching heights of up to 95 m.
The waters also dominate the appearance of the national park. In the northern part, these are the water landscapes of the Baltic Sea and in the west, those of the Świna Delta. The Świna Delta is an ensemble of 44 marshy islands and islets, separated from each other by channels with different currents and water levels, which are periodically flooded and reshaped.
Flora and fauna on Wolin
The island of Wolin is home to over 1,300 species of vascular plants, including many protected and rare species. Among the forest communities, the beech forests are particularly well preserved, with a structure very similar to the primeval forests that once grew here. The best-preserved beech communities are located in two strictly protected areas in the southern part of the park and in two areas in the northern part. An orchid beech forest can also be visited here.
The fauna is very diverse and includes many
rare species. More than 230
bird species have been recorded (including white-tailed eagles – the national park’s heraldic animal – sedge warblers, dunlins and red-breasted flycatchers). The national park also plays an important role in protecting the habitats of marsh birds, which find peace and food here, especially during the migration periods in spring and autumn. The Swina Delta region has been declared a refuge of European importance for birds. The national park also boasts bison as a special attraction.
Vikings and history
The island of Wolin has a fascinating history. From prehistoric settlements to its time as an important trading centre for the Vikings, to changing rule under various kingdoms and states over the centuries. Wolin has witnessed conquests, trade and cultural exchange. Even a female pirate, Stina, the companion of Klaus Störtebeker, set sail from Wolin with her band of buccaneers into the Pomeranian Bay to board merchant ships that promised rich booty. For those who would like to read about its eventful history, we have compiled a short bibliography here.
Bibliography
Georg Wilhelm von Raumer: Die Insel Wollin und das Seebad Misdroy. Eine historische Skizze. Decker, Berlin 1851 (online).
Heinrich Berghaus: Landbuch des Herzogtums Pommern und des Fürstentums Rügen. Teil II, Band 1, Anklam 1865, S. 583–592 (online).
Peter August Rolfs (Hrsg.): Die Insel Wollin. Ein Heimatbuch und Reiseführer. Julius Beltz, Langensalza u. a. 1933 (Heimatbuch des Kreises Usedom-Wollin 1),Nachdruck, Husum-Druck- und Verlags-Gesellschaft, Husum 1993, ISBN 3-88042-245-1.
Erwin Rosenthal: Die Insel Wollin, Kaseburg und Cammin. RhinoVerlag, Ilmenau 2011, ISBN 978-3-939399-09-4.
Erwin Rosenthal: Usedom und Wollin. Zwei Schwesterinseln in der Pommerschen Bucht. Demmler-Verlag, Ribnitz-Damgarten 2013, ISBN 978-3944102023.
Places of interest on Wolin
Wolin offers numerous attractions, ranging from profound history to breathtaking natural phenomena. Immerse yourself in the cultural treasures and scenic highlights that make the island an unforgettable experience. Let yourself be captivated by the diversity and beauty of Wolin.
The fishing village of Misdroy
Coastal tour
The Aquapark
Dinosaur park
The café in the tower
Cathedral in Kamien Pomorski
Wolin – the dream island for…
Families with children
With its wide, child-friendly beaches, exciting attractions such as the Baltic Dinosaur Park and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, the island offers plenty of fun and adventure for the whole family. What’s more, Wolin’s safe and natural environment ensures that parents can relax while their children discover the island’s freedoms and wonders.
Dog owner
The island offers numerous dog-friendly beaches and extensive hiking trails through Wolin National Park, where dogs can enjoy nature to the fullest. In addition, many accommodations are geared towards the needs of dogs, offering fenced gardens and welcome treats to ensure that furry guests also enjoy a relaxing and joyful stay.
Senior citizens
Wolin is also a wonderful holiday destination for seniors, offering comfort and relaxation in picturesque surroundings. The island is easily accessible and offers a variety of relaxing activities, such as leisurely walks on the beach, cultural attractions and gentle hiking trails in the national park. In addition, numerous senior-friendly accommodations with barrier-free access and quiet relaxation areas ensure a carefree and restful stay.
Hikers and cyclists
For hikers and cyclists, Wolin offers a diverse network of trails that lead through the island’s picturesque nature. From gentle forest paths to challenging coastal trails, the island enchants with spectacular views of the Baltic Sea and its diverse landscape.
Athletes on land and water
Wolin is ideal for sports enthusiasts who love the water and the mainland. The island offers excellent conditions for water sports such as sailing and windsurfing, as well as a wide range of land-based activities, including mountain biking and golf, in a breathtaking natural setting.
Vacation on Wolin
Join us on a journey of discovery through the island of Wolin, a breathtaking destination on the Baltic Sea that delights nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. This guide will be your compass for experiencing the island’s diverse landscapes, historical sites and lively activities.
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