It is perfect for all beginners who are only just entering the world of canoeing. Here, they can benefit not only from its relaxed current and lack of obstacles along the way, but first of all, from the breathtaking allure of nature in the Tuchola Forest (Bory Tucholskie). This river will keep your eyes wide open in excitement. It is extremely charming and diverse. It leisurely meanders amidst meadows and forests, and, before you know it, it turns into a brisk stream enclosed with precipitous banks.

In its upper course, you may encounter some easy-to-overcome obstructions. The current is more rapid here since the river is pushed into a narrow bed. Before you canoe onto Lake Szczytno you will also have a chance to see some herons and cormorants, which live here in large numbers. The middle course of the river (heavily crowded during the season) is well-suited to family excursions and peaceful relaxation in water environs. The river’s serene waters can now extend wider and slow down while passing four tranquil lakes. Because of the steeper river bed, the last stage of the trip is characterised by a slightly-stronger current, yet it is still considered to be easy to traverse.

The Brda is clearly marked and boasts a well-developed tourist infrastructure in the form of accommodation facilities. It is one of the top-quality rivers in Poland in terms of development. Its numerous tributaries can serve as add-ons to your trip or constitute challenges under a separate canoeing journey.

The Brda Trail: 233 km
The recommended route: Świeszyno – Fordon (Bydgoszcz)
Number of days: 10
Number of portages: 5
Difficulty: The upper course (to the Arched Bridge [Garbaty Most]) – medium, middle and lower courses – easy
Tributaries: The Zbrzyca, the Chocina, and the Great Brda Canal (see descriptions below)