Savor Poland: A journey through flavor, nature, and tradition

In recent years, food and wine tourism has become a real trend. In other words, people are increasingly choosing destinations that offer not only natural beauty and culture, but also authentic and—the key word—sustainable food and wine experiences. It's not just about "eating well," but about connecting with the history, flavors, and people of a region.

In this context, Poland is certainly worth considering: a dynamic country combining cities of art, green landscapes, and a cuisine rich in traditions. Far from the beaten tourist track, it offers authentic experiences and original itineraries.

Forests, wooden villages, and cycling routes through mountains and lakes intertwine with a gastronomic culture rooted in history. Every dish tells a story, every ingredient speaks of the region. Participating in tastings, visiting markets, or visiting farms is the best way to discover a heritage of handed-down recipes and genuine conviviality.

Malopolska: A Taste of Mountains and Vineyards

Let's start with the Małopolska region, one of the richest in specialties: 230 products registered nationally and 14 recognized by the European Union with PDO and PGI designations. To immerse yourself in this universe of flavors, the Strada del Gusto ( Taste Route) is a route that visits 42 regional trattorias, where you can enjoy typical dishes and flavorful meats, as well as fish such as mountain trout and Zator carp (PDO).

For those seeking an authentic experience, it's worth visiting a bacowka , the traditional wooden mountain huts in the Tatras and Beskids, where shepherds still produce oscypek (PDO) , the famous smoked sheep's cheese. Also not to be missed is the Wine Route , which passes through some sixty vineyards around Krakow and Tarnow, with tastings and meetings with local producers.

Lower Silesia: Rural Flavors and Craft Beers

In southwestern Poland, Lower Silesia combines history, nature, and gastronomy. Among castles, underground passages, and spas, you'll find traditional peasant recipes like wodzionka (bread soup) and geremuszka (hemp seed soup), alongside richer dishes like bigos wroclawski and pierogi with shrimp.

Spirits lovers can explore the Beer and Wine Route , which brings together 29 wineries and 11 craft breweries. It's an opportunity to taste wines and beers in bucolic settings, between the hills of Trzebnica and historic cities like Jelenia Góra and Wrocław, the latter recently included in the Michelin Guide Poland .

Wielkopolska: the home of the St. Martin's Cornetto

In the heart of western Poland, Wielkopolska alternates rural landscapes, lakes, and cities steeped in history. The region's gastronomic symbol is the St. Martin's Cornetto (PGI) , filled with white poppy seeds, dried fruit, and orange peel, even celebrated in a dedicated museum in Poznan.

Local specialties include pyry with gzik (potatoes with cream cheese), pyzy (stuffed dumplings), roast duck with apples, and Andruty Kaliskie (PGI) , thin sweet wafers with a long tradition. To complete the journey, monastic liqueurs, fruit wines, and fragrant linden and buckwheat honeys.

Warmia and Masuria: Between Lakes and Slow Food Cuisine

In the far northeast, Warmia and Masuria is known as the "land of a thousand lakes": a paradise for nature lovers, cyclists, and those who enjoy a slow pace. Here, the connection with water is reflected in a cuisine that features freshwater fish, from whitefish to pike, served fried or baked.

Among the most unusual products are pike caviar and artisanal cured meats such as Dylewska ham. Local farms, dairies, and apiaries complete a journey that combines authentic flavors, bread baked in traditional ovens, and fine honey. Information and addresses at www.polonia.travel/it/ .

Where to stay: three addresses for an Instagram-worthy stay

Hotel Copernicus (Krakow, Malopolska) A boutique hotel housed in a Renaissance palace in the heart of the city. Rooms feature coffered ceilings and a spa with a historic-style underground pool. Perfect for those seeking a blend of culture and comfort.

Pałac Pakoszów (Jelenia Góra, Lower Silesia) A Baroque palace transformed into a charming hotel, nestled in the Valley of Palaces and Gardens. It offers a gourmet restaurant, wine cellar, and breathtaking views of the Krkonoše Mountains.

Galery69 (Masuria) A design hotel overlooking Lake Wulpińskie, with interiors curated by local artists and direct access to the water. For those seeking tranquility, water sports, and creative cuisine.