Poranek w Klukach Slowniski Park Narodowy by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
A unique natural phenomena in Europe
Słowiński National Park with its dunes (just west of the town of Łeba) — often nicknamed the “Polish Sahara”— are one of the most unique natural phenomena in Europe.
The park is part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves due to its extraordinary landscape and biodiversity.
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
What makes the dunes unique?
The area features a series of massive sand dunes, some rising up to 30–40 meters (100–130 feet) in height. The largest and most famous of them is Wydma Łącka (Łącka Dune).
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
What sets these dunes apart is that they move inland at a pace of up to 10 meters (33 feet) per year, driven by strong coastal winds.
This slow, steady migration creates a dramatic and ever-changing landscape that resembles a desert—hence the nickname “Polish Sahara.”
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
How do they form?
The dunes originated from coastal sand deposits that were blown inland over time. As vegetation struggles to take root in the dry, loose sand, the wind continuously reshapes the terrain.
When sand buries trees or brush, it creates surreal visuals—half-buried forests, skeletal tree remains, and ghostly stumps.
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
Wydma Łącka – the most accessible and iconic dune, reachable by foot or bike from Łeba.
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
Why it’s important
△ Ecological rarity: Coastal shifting dunes are extremely rare in Europe.
△ Climate archive: Layers of sand and soil here preserve ancient climate and vegetation records.
△ Biodiversity: Despite the harsh environment, you’ll find resilient plant species, migratory birds, and even some amphibians and insects.
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
The polish Sahara – a natural wonder
The moniker “Polish Sahara” may be playful, but it captures the essence of this remarkable site: a desert-like environment formed not in the heart of a continent, but right by the Baltic Sea.
It’s one of Poland’s most stunning natural attractions, drawing photographers, hikers, and nature lovers from around the world.
Łącka Dune by Paweł UchorczakPolish Association of Rural Women's Clubs
Some formerly vegetated areas were completely overtaken by sand, leaving behind barren “sand seas.”
All photos were taken by Paweł Uchorczak 📸
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