Słowiński's varied ecosystems provide habitat for numerous animal species, including over 260 bird species that make the park a crucial stop on European migration routes. Notable avian residents include white-tailed eagles, cormorants, and various shorebirds. The park's mammals include elk, wild boar, and red deer, while its waters support diverse fish populations. The wetland areas are particularly important for amphibians and provide breeding grounds for rare species of waterfowl.
The park's diverse habitats support over 900 species of vascular plants, representing distinct ecological zones from coastal to forest communities. Dominant vegetation includes pine forests, dune grasses like European beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria), and rare psammophilic (sand-loving) plants adapted to the harsh dune environment. Coastal meadows feature unique salt-tolerant species, while peat bogs host specialized plants including sundews and cranberries. Several plant species found here are protected under Polish law and are endemic to coastal regions.
The park's most distinctive geological feature is its extensive system of moving dunes, formed by post-glacial processes and continuous coastal erosion. These dunes, reaching heights of up to 42 meters, migrate at a rate of 3-10 meters annually due to prevailing winds. The landscape also includes coastal lakes (former sea bays), peat bogs, and beaches formed during the Holocene period. The unique geological composition creates a dynamic ecosystem where sand movement constantly reshapes the terrain, earning the area the nickname 'Polish Sahara.'
The area now known as Słowiński National Park has a rich cultural heritage dating back to medieval times, when it was inhabited by the Slovincian people, a unique Slavic ethnic group of fishermen and farmers. Established as a national park in 1967, the region was designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 1977. The landscape bears testament to centuries of human interaction with coastal environments, including historical fishing settlements and lighthouses that still stand today. During World War II, the area served as a military testing ground, traces of which can still be found within the park.
The park's most remarkable attraction is its system of moving dunes, particularly the Łącka Dune, which offers panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding landscape. The historic lighthouses at Czołpino and Stilo provide both historical interest and spectacular vantage points. The park's extensive network of educational trails includes elevated wooden walkways across sensitive dune areas, while its coastal lakes offer opportunities for boating and birdwatching. The Museum of the Slovincian Village in Kluki provides insights into the region's cultural heritage and traditional way of life.
Słowiński National Park experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and cool summers, heavily influenced by the Baltic Sea. Average summer temperatures range from 16-20°C (61-68°F), while winters typically hover around 0-3°C (32-37°F). The region receives substantial annual rainfall, approximately 700mm, with peak precipitation occurring during late summer and autumn. Strong coastal winds are common throughout the year, contributing to the dynamic movement of the park's famous shifting sand dunes.
Poland
54.7170°, 17.2830°
1967
186.18
Słowiński National Park is famous for its moving sand dunes along the Baltic Sea coast. The park contains lakes, peat bogs, and meadows, creating a unique ecosystem. The shifting dunes, some reaching heights of 30 meters, create a desert-like landscape often called the Polish Sahara.