Oliwa Park, Gdansk

Oliwa Park, located in Gdańsk, is a 25-acre (10 hectares) verdant oasis known for its breathtaking landscaping and architectural marvels. Designed by the renowned Polish gardener Kazimierz Dębiński, this picturesque public park is a popular destination for tourists, nature lovers, families, and couples seeking a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

At the core of Oliwa Park are its manicured gardens, where visitors can enjoy serene walks, scenic picnics, and relaxed afternoons. The park features tree-lined pathways that meander around lush lawns, perfect for picnicking, exercising, or unwinding. A highlight of the park is the stream and waterfall, with stepping-stone-like boulders that are especially popular among children.

The park's southern section boasts an elegant French Rococo garden, complete with a narrow pond and encircled by towering trees. The Botanical Garden here displays a variety of flora including magnolias, rhododendrons, and spruces, while the Palm House is home to an exotic collection of palms. Another notable feature is the Alpinarium, a rockery designed to emulate a mountain environment.

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse fauna, including carp, squirrels, and swans. Art lovers are drawn to the decorative sculptures scattered throughout the park, such as the bust of Poland's national poet, Adam Mickiewicz. A unique attraction is the Whispering Caves, where visitors can communicate through two shells set on opposite sides of a path.

A significant landmark within the park is the 18th-century Abbot’s Palace, formerly the residence of the Cistercian monks' abbot. Today, it houses the modern art department of the National Museum in Gdańsk, featuring an array of Polish art, ceramics, and sculptures dating from the 1800s to early 1900s. In front of the palace lies an immaculately maintained Baroque-style garden.