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The Great Mazurian Lakes Region is an area of exceptional
landscape qualities and one of Poland's most attractive tourist
destinations. It is here that Nature displays the whole splendour
of it's wealth and the clean air and lakes tempt visitors to return
whenever they can. District Giżycko lies in the centre of this land,
with over 100 lakes scattered within its boundaries, including some
of Poland's best known water bodies, such as the Mamry Lake Complex
and Lake Niegocin. In the summer, they are a haven for fans of sailing
and windsurfing. The district's capital is the town of Giżycko,
from which ships of the Mazurian Navigation Company sail to Węgorzewo,
Mikołajki and Ruciane-Nida.
The Great Mazurian Lakes Region is home to many animal species and
a great natural attraction. There are 11 nature reserves here, covering
in total 3896 hectares. Some of the more notable sites include the
Islands on Lake Mamry Reserve, the Lake Dobskie Reserve, the Islands
on Lake Kisajno Reserve and the Lake Kożuchy Reserve, habitats of
abundant and diversified waterfowl, including mute swan, whooper
swan, cormorant, grey heron, crane, goldeneye, black-headed gull
and many other species.
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Forests are another tourist attraction and an ideal supplement
to the lakes. The Borecka Forests is of particular interest. It
is the only remains of primeval forest in the Warmia and Mazury
Voivodship. The most valuable fragments of this 250 km2 stretch
of wilderness comprise 4 reserves, covering 650 ha. The forest's
greatest attraction is the European Bison Breeding Station in Wolisko.
The forest's European bison herd numbers about 60 animals.
Places such as the Boulder Reserve on the Fuleda Peninsula or the
Nietlice Wetland Reserve are ideal destinations for cyclists and
hikers.
Summer is not the only time to enjoy the Great Mazurian Lakes. In
winter, the lakes are the scene of ice-sailing events and a paradise
for those who fancy angling under the ice, while the landscape offers
unforgettable sights. Winter is also a time for skiing and sleigh
rides with bonfires in the crystal-clear, frosty air.
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