Poland’s restful forest retreats

To break away from your routine and feel revitalized on holiday, you can’t go wrong with a forest retreat in Poland. 30% of the country is covered in woodland and its Białowieża Forest is one of the last remnants of the primeval forest that once spanned the European Plain. For a divine few days spent in nature, head to any of these Polish forest hideaways.

Apartamenty Carskie

In the middle of the Białowieża Forest – the last remaining part of lowland Europe’s primeval forest – Apartamenty Carskie offers accommodation within a restored railway station that was built for Tsar Nicholas II in 1903. Upon entering the mustard- and green-painted wooden main building, you’ll notice the decor appears untouched since the late 19th century; from claret-coloured brocade wallpaper and deep green walls studded with mounted antlers, to immaculate period furniture and silver candelabras. There’s a selection of suites and apartments available, including one in a historic water tower and several in renovated, luxurious railway carriages. Wake up to the distant roaring of European bison and moose roaming the surrounding woodland, before taking a guide to explore the ancient forest. Then come home to try out the traditional ‘Ruska Bania’ (Russian sauna), and to enjoy a meal of regional Polish-Russian cuisine prepared with considerable flair (and using locally-sourced ingredients) at the hotel’s restaurant. Alternatively, the staff can organise an outdoor feast for you of roasted wild boar, eaten while sitting around a fire accompanied by live music.

Świronek

For a peaceful rural escape, book a small wooden cabin at Świronek. The property stands in a meadow bordered by pine trees that’s just a short walk from the Białowieża Forest, with bison often grazing close by. If you’re visiting in summer, spend your days hiking or lounging in the hammock and your evenings having al fresco barbecue dinners on your private terrace. In winter, cuddle up in a fur throw and watch a film while the snow piles up outside.

Maciejewka

Maciejewka is a wooden lodge perched on the southernmost tip of Poland, an hour’s drive from the mountainous Bieszczadzki Park Narodowy – although the immediate surroundings provide enough natural beauty that you won’t feel the need to venture far. In summer, hanging flower baskets blossom on the verandah, where you’ll tuck into generous breakfast spreads to fuel you for a day of hiking. But winter stays are equally special, with icicles dripping from the verandah’s wooden rafters and an interior that couldn’t be cosier – think wood-panelled walls and ceiling beams, pea green rocking chairs and an enormous old stone fireplace.

Domki Osada Werdołyna

Wandering up the paved stone path of Domki Osada Werdołyna in southeastern Poland, you’ll chance upon a wooden cottage concealed within the trees. This small, triangular cabin is the epitome of the region’s traditional architecture, with a warm interior featuring gingham curtains and woven wicker lampshades. Guests can play table tennis at the property, as well as fish, hike or hire bikes to venture further afield. In summer, the 5km-walk to Solińskie Lake is delightful.

Białowieski Dworek

With sunflowers and foxgloves sprouting out of the manicured front lawn, a roof of pretty grey slate tiles and a white-washed chimney, this cottage is a bucolic base for visiting the nearby Białowieża Forest. The silent surrounds make falling asleep wrapped in a floral bedspread in your mint-green bedroom feel blissful – a silence broken only by the delicate sound of birdsong. Start your first day here early, heading off on an early morning guided walk through the ancient forest reserve. The Royal Oaks Trail, an educational walking route taking in archaeological sites and much of the region’s rich flora and fauna, is also not far from the property.