Ukta: Kayaking, the Krutynia and Cultural History

Kayaking and getting your bearings in Ukta

In the centre of Ukta, a bridge crosses provincial road 610 between Piecki and Ruciane-Nida. A kayak can be conveniently launched nearby. The bridge and the nearby launch point provide a practical landmark when planning a stay focused on the water. Check the conditions on site before setting out.

The kayaking route from Ukta to Nowy Most is about 7 km long. The approximate distance helps you consider the route as a separate part of your trip; check the organisational details with the operator before your tour. If you are looking for a holiday apartment, the kayaking trip can be a useful guide for planning your vacation: consider how important time on the water should be during your stay.

The Krutynia below Ukta

The lower section of the Krutynia below Ukta lies within the “Krutynia” nature reserve, also known as “Krutynia Dolna”. A two-kilometre stretch of river below the village is called “Mała Amazonka”. Numerous meanders, fallen tree trunks and inaccessible, marshy banks give this stretch its name.

Meanders are bends in a river; the term draws attention to its winding course. Together with the tree trunks and marshy banks, they create the impression of a distinctive stretch of river. Travellers who want to include nature and landscape in their plans will find a specific connection to the Krutynia here. The name “Mała Amazonka” belongs to this stretch below Ukta and does not refer to the village centre.

Church and art history

The Church of the Holy Cross in Ukta was built as a Protestant church between 1860 and 1864. Inside, a Renaissance painting depicting the Lamentation of Christ before his burial adorns the church. The construction period and the subject of the painting highlight different historical aspects: the church points to its origins in the 19th century, while the painting depicts a scene from the Passion.

For travellers who want to include cultural history alongside the river landscape and kayaking, the church offers a specific point of interest. The painting provides another way to explore the area, distinct from the landscape along the Krutynia. Ukta can therefore be understood not only through activities on the water, but also through its architectural history and a particular artistic subject.

A kayaking story from 1957

On 1 and 2 August 1957, Karol Wojtyła was in Ukta during a summer kayaking trip with acquaintances from Sorkwity to Ostrołęka. An obelisk on the bank of the Krutynia commemorates his stay. This memorial connects the village with a specific historical journey, but it should not be confused with the approximately 7 km route to Nowy Most: the two accounts refer to different routes and different periods.

When looking for a holiday apartment in Ukta, it is worth deciding what you want to focus on during your vacation. If kayaking is what draws you to the area, water activities and route planning will take centre stage. If you are more interested in nature and culture, the Krutynia, the church and the obelisk offer other points of interest. When planning your vacation together, you can weigh up these interests and decide which themes matter most for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ogródek, Pianki, Niedzwiedzi Rog, Biala Piska, Krzyże, Klusy, Wygryny, Iznota

For the broader travel overview: Piski.