Lake Bytyń Wielki

Bytyń Wielki is the largest lake of the Wałcz Lakeland. It lies in Wałcz County, within the municipalities of Mirosławiec, Tuczno and Wałcz. Its area is between 829 and 881 ha, depending on the measurement.

The lake and its bays

The water surface lies at an altitude of about 113 m above sea level, the average depth is 10.4 m and the greatest 41 m. The lake has two islands and three long arms: Drzewoszewska, Nakielska and Lubieska, as well as several smaller bays. The shores are formed by hills up to 30 m high, covered mainly with beech wood.

Strongholds and the reserve

By the lake there are two early medieval strongholds, most probably from the early 12th century. Since 1989 the lake and the surrounding land have been covered by a nature reserve. On the water lie the tourist villages of Nakielno, Próchnowo and Drzewoszewo and a scout camp in Próchnówko. In Próchnowo stands a palace, and in Nakielno St Lawrence's Church.

Practical information

• The lake and the surrounding land are covered by a reserve, so the rules of entry and of using the water must be checked with the reserve's manager and the municipalities.
• Bathing places, marinas and trails are indicated by the municipalities of Mirosławiec, Tuczno and Wałcz.