The Wełna is a moderately challenging river for kayaking. It’s often referred to as “the only mountain river in Greater Poland”, as the current can sometimes be as fast as in a mountain stream. The river offers the most interesting kayaking trail near Poznań, with truly stunning views. It’s an excellent option for a weekend trip, though a single day is enough to enjoy its charms as well.
The most recommended routes are the stretches from Ruda Młyn to Jaracz Młyn or from Ruda Młyn to Oborniki. Kayaking these sections is possible even in winter. Near Rogoźno and Oborniki, you’ll find numerous companies that organize the Wełna kayaking trips.
Calm upper course
The source of the Wełna River is located near the village of Osiniec, close to Gniezno. It’s 118 km long, yet kayaking is possible only from Jankowo Dolne, about 5 km downstream from the river’s source. The upper course of the Wełna, which passes through several lakes, is a demanding section, recommended primarily for experienced kayakers.
In its middle course, the river is mostly regulated and calmer, passing through quite monotonous landscape. Additionally, you might encounter some problems finding accommodation between Jankowo and Wągrowiec. Finnaly, the Wełna flows into the Warta River in Oborniki.
“Mountain River” in Greater Poland
The most popular and also most crowded section of the Wełna is a 50-kilometer trail from Wągrowiec to the river’s mouth in Oborniki. Here, the Wełna flows along the edge of the Noteć forest, meandering densely and crossing four nature reserves along the way.
In the final section, the river sometimes features significant lowering of terrain, which speed up the current and create rapids, giving it a mountain-river character. Potential obstacles include fallen trees, weirs, rapids, and a small hydroelectric power plant in Oborniki.
Along the route, you can admire several intriguing sights, such as the Cistercian monastery in Wągrowiec, the wooden church in the village of Wełna, and, above all, the must-visit Milling Museum in Jaracz, which features a historic water mill on the Wełna.
