Lake Gaudy near Iława

A few kilometres from Iława, near the villages of Rudniki and Kamieniec, spreads Lake Gaudy — one of the wildest corners of the Western Masurian Lake District. It is not a recreation lake but a nature reserve established in 1957, covering the lake itself and the extensive bogs adjoining it to the east. The shore can only be reached from those two villages — the rest is ringed by impenetrable reed beds and fens.

The region's bird capital

The reserve protects a wetland bird haven and peat vegetation. Nesting here are the bittern, ferruginous duck, garganey and teal, while rarer species include the grasshopper warbler, bluethroat, spotted crake and water rail. In autumn up to several thousand waterbirds stop over on passage, and crane flocks gather on the bogs. This is one of the better birdwatching spots in the southern part of the lake district — bring binoculars, as water levels and vegetation effectively hide the shore.

Beavers reshaping the landscape

In 1998 beavers were introduced here; they settled in and around the reserve. Their dams created new wetlands that improved the bog habitats — traces of their work are easy to spot along the shores.

Planning your visit

The best viewpoints lie near Rudniki and Kamieniec, reached by local roads from Iława. Nearby are the castle in Szymbark (14 km), Karnity castle (22 km) and the Elbląg Canal (28 km), so Gaudy works well as a stop on a tour of the western Masuria. Reserve rules apply — stay on public roads and leave dogs at home.