Godkowo (0.0 km) · Skowrony (1.8 km) · Klekotki (5.2 km) · Zimnochy (9.6 km) · Ząbrowiec (12.8 km)
This route offers exceptional scenic views; the section from Klekotki to Zimnochy (approx. 5 km) runs through the very picturesque valley of the Wąska River. The river itself is 46 km long. Interestingly, despite its short length, it is characterized by great diversity. It exhibits the features of both a highland and lowland river, and as it flows through its middle course between moraine hills, it even resembles a mountain river. At its mouth into Lake Druzno, it is embanked. Its valley constitutes the Wąska River Protected Landscape Area.
Godkowo is an old village, founded before 1331. It was separated from the nearby town of Skowron, which remained more important for centuries afterward. This changed only in the 19th century, when Godkowo—located halfway between Pasłęk and Orneta—gained greater significance. Today, it serves as the seat of the municipality.
Following periods of depopulation caused by wars and epidemics, settlers from the Netherlands were brought to Godkowo on two occasions. This occurred in the 16th and 17th centuries. Its convenient location along a busy road was advantageous in times of peace but disastrous during wartime. Armies marched through the village on numerous occasions, destroying the residents’ possessions. This was the case with the Russians during the Seven Years’ War in the 18th century and with the French during the Napoleonic Wars. Toward the end of World War II, the village was alternately captured by the Red Army and the Wehrmacht. Despite its small size, the village boasts an interesting attraction: a wooden Greek Catholic church with an unusual history. The trailhead, marked by an information sign, is located at the intersection in the center of the village, not far from the Godkowo Forest District office and the municipal office. Following the signs, we turn left and travel a short stretch along the provincial road, then turn left toward Klekotki and Niebrzydowo Wielkie. We ride 2 km along a road with a good asphalt surface to Skowron.
Skowrony is a village founded in the first half of the 14th century on the site of a former Prussian stronghold. The local Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was built in the 14th century and expanded at the end of the 17th century. It acquired its current appearance after being rebuilt following a fire in 1909. The village was significantly damaged during World War II. We continue along a narrow, neglected asphalt road for 3 km to Klekotki, specifically to a hotel complex located on the site of a former mill settlement, which has been thoroughly restored by the owner since the 1990s in accordance with conservation guidelines. We leave Klekotki following the trail markers. Less than a kilometer further on, the trail turns left onto a gravel road. However, it’s worth continuing along the paved road toward Markowo. Nearby lies the Dohn family cemetery, known for its unique layout, which resembles that of megalithic burial grounds. To reach it, turn left at the intersection before Markowo onto an overgrown, tree-lined path. Markowo itself is also worth visiting. History and heritage enthusiasts will be interested in the early 18th-century palace complex, complete with an outbuilding, a steward’s house, and farm buildings. We return to the trail, passing fish ponds along the way through which the Wąska River flows. We turn onto a gravel road and head through a mixed forest toward Zimnoch. We ride through the river valley amid tall moraine hills. Zimnochy is a summer resort village with a beach, beautifully situated in the Wąska Valley, on the shores of Lakes Zimnochy and Okonie. A lock has been built on the river between the two bodies of water. Until 1945, the village belonged to the Dohn family. Unfortunately, only the foundations of the former manor house remain. However, three arcaded houses from the 1930s have survived. From the village center, we head north and ride the final 3 km to Ząbrowiec. Here, the trail ends near the Church of St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr. However, you can complete the loop by taking the paved road toward Pasłęk, which, contrary to appearances, is not heavily trafficked by cars.
The yellow-marked trail initially follows paved roads, then gravel and dirt roads. Bikes with wider tires (hybrid or mountain bikes) are recommended, as the road before Zimnochy can be muddy, especially after rain. You can take a break in Klekotki, at a unique hotel complex, and at the tourist-friendly beach in Zimnochy.
There is no direct public transportation access to the route. The nearest train station is in Pasłęk (about 18 km from Godkowo). Regional trains running between Olsztyn and Elbląg, as well as several long-distance trains, stop there.
Godkowo lies along Provincial Road No. 513, between Pasłęk and Orneta. You can leave your car at the trailhead and then complete the loop by driving from Ząbrowiec to Godkowo (5 km).
Greek Catholic Church in Godkowo
In 2012, reconstruction began in Godków on the Greek Catholic church, the remains of which were moved here from Kupna in the Podkarpacie region. This wooden church, dedicated to the Protection of the Most Holy Mother of God, dated back to 1729. Its preserved elements were incorporated into the structure being built in Godków. In 2015, the church was consecrated.
Klekotki Mill
From the 16th century until 1945, the property belonged to the Dohn family, specifically to its branch—the zu Dohna-Reichertswalde family (the village of Reichertswalde is now called Markowo). The watermill on the river dates back to the 17th century, as attested by a plaque from 1619. Nature lovers will be delighted by the picnic area featuring a 600-year-old oak tree. The complex is picturesquely situated in the Wąska River valley, surrounded by forested moraine hills. You can reach the ponds by following the walking trail leading south.
