The "Polish Maldives" is one of the cleanest lakes in Poland. It may soon disappear.

Imagine standing on a sandy shore, and before you stretches a sheet of water so crystal clear that you can see the bottom in the shallows. The sun reflects off the turquoise waves, and the scent of the forest mixes with the warm summer air. Is it possible to feel like you're on an exotic vacation without leaving Poland? One of the most beautiful lakes in Masuria proves it. This place makes everyday life disappear in the blink of an eye, leaving you with only the thought: "How is it possible that this paradise is so close?!"

Świętajno Narckie, as we're talking about, captivates above all with its water – remarkably clear, with an azure hue that's often associated with tropical islands, not the Polish land. It's no wonder the lake is sometimes called the "Maldives of Masuria" – when your feet sink into the soft, golden sand and the calm, shallow waters lapped the shores, you might feel like you've stumbled upon a small, enchanted corner of the exotic – perfect for both those seeking a carefree vacation and families seeking a safe space for water fun.

It's not without reason that Świętajno Narckie is called the cleanest lake in Warmia and Mazury, and even one of the cleanest in Poland. In summer, clarity reaches 7-10 meters, and sunlight can penetrate to a depth of 25-29 meters. Crayfish, known for their pickiness and love of the highest quality habitat, thrive in such waters. This is a true Masurian gem, captivating not only with its picturesque views but also with its abundant natural beauty.

The area is surrounded by lush forests, creating a natural barrier separating this paradise from the hustle and bustle of civilization. A stroll along the shore or a bike ride through the area is pure pleasure – the only sounds you might hear are the rustling of trees, birdsong, and the gentle lapping of waves. Scattered around the reservoir are intimate resorts, guesthouses, and campsites, some located right on the water's edge, allowing you to wake up with a view of the sparkling blue water. The atmosphere of the place encourages complete relaxation – away from noisy crowds, in harmony with nature.

Although Świętajno Narckie primarily attracts beachgoers and swimmers, it also offers plenty of attractions for those seeking active recreation. This lake is ideal for kayaking , stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The gentle slope into the water can be deceptive – at its deepest point, the lake reaches almost 30 meters, and its varied bottom conceals picturesque underwater landscapes that have been tempting scuba diving enthusiasts for years. And what about anglers? It's also a real treat – the area boasts an abundance of pike, perch, bream, roach, tench, crucian carp, and eel.

Lake Świętajno in Masuria / Wikimedia Commons, photo by Albert Jankowski

The lake is located near the town of Narty, in the Jedwabno commune in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. It's worth noting that there are several bodies of water called Świętajno in the region – this particular body of water is called Świętajno Narckie, sometimes also called Świętajno przy Narty or Jezioro Narckie. The most convenient way to reach it is by car, but during the summer season, buses also run from the region's larger cities. The drive from Olsztyn takes about an hour, and from Warsaw, about three hours. Good, paved roads lead to the town itself, and parking lots are located near the lake, just steps from the beach.

Lake Świętajno is drying up / PAP / photo by Tomasz Waszczuk

This unique Masurian treasure has been grappling with a growing concern for several years now: the lake is drying up at an alarming rate. In the last five years, the water level has dropped by as much as half a meter, and in some places, the shoreline has receded by 15-30 meters , exposing vast expanses of sand.

The reasons for this situation are numerous, and not all are fully understood. Experts primarily point to hydrological and meteorological drought – a lack of heavy rainfall and snowless winters limit the natural supply of the lake, which has no inflows or outflows and is primarily dependent on precipitation and groundwater levels.

Climate change is contributing to the problem, with increasingly warmer summers and prolonged periods without rain. Residents and local media are warning that local tourist development and intensive drilling may also be contributing factors.

Polish Waters is monitoring the lake , but so far, no comprehensive studies have been conducted to clearly pinpoint the cause of the disappearing water. Despite the efforts of residents who are calling for intervention, the "Masurian Maldives" are losing more water each year, and their future remains uncertain.

Lake Świętajno is drying up / PAP / photo by Tomasz Waszczuk

This is one of those places worth seeing before nature changes it forever – the crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and lush forests hugging the shore create a scene straight out of an exotic postcard. Evenings at Świętajno have a unique charm – the setting sun reflects off the lake's surface , spilling golden reflections across it and creating unforgettable views. If you dream of a true Masurian idyll with a touch of the exotic, hurry up and visit this gem while it still shines with its natural charm...