 |
|
28 Jul 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
|
Poland in a 4x4
Hello all,
Ive been searching for information on 4x4ing in poland and this site got recommended despite its biking origins.
We will have five days i think in poland, we will drive long distances each day so traversing the whole country in that period isnt a problem, I will list the areas in no particular order... if people know better places that landrovers can go and play.
also how important is it to speak a bit of polish?
1. ancient forest in eastern poland?
2. bledlow desert north east of krakow
3. chockolow village which was recommended on this site
4. rastenburg and masurian lakes
Thanks for any help
Pete
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
Last edited by Bertrand; 29 Jul 2009 at 11:41.
|
28 Jul 2009
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Austin, TX
Posts: 303
|
|
|
In terms of offroading, Poland is pretty much like Germany: it's forbidden pretty much everywhere. The only difference is that the enforcement thereof isn't as strict as it is over here. Might actually be a tad better in the eastern part of Poland, can't quite tell you whether or not that's correct.
Speaking a little Polish might turn out to be quite handy, but you should get along with English just fine. Kids learn English from first grade these days, and pretty much anybody below the age of 30-35 speaks almost perfect English. Some people also speak some German, especially in the German-Polish border region and the parts that used to be German at one point or another in history.
__________________
"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in one pretty and well preserved piece, but to skid across the line broadside, thoroughly used up, worn out, leaking oil, shouting GERONIMO!"
|
31 Jul 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
|
I think im going to take a phrase book along with me,
can anyone give an idea of what dirt track means to poland... its on a 1:200,000 scale... are we talking africa style or gravel or what?
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
|
31 Jul 2009
|
|
-
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,342
|
|
|
The few tracks I bumbled along were a mixture of mainly compacted earth. These get muddy after rain and often are the local's short cut routes between villages-
Mostly I stayed on tarmac- some poor secondary roads have very damaged old tarmac, many with pot holes and often with metal rods and bits sticking out- one even had a branch to show a missing manhole cover altogether!
There exists a Garmin gps map of Poland you might find helpful.
A phrase book could be useful as are 'image cards'- I made my own by photographing the most needed things (for me!) and fixed them together- it's about 3"X2 as a picture speaks a thousand words! it looks very amateurish -and it is- but it works
great places to see - sea side towns of Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia, the old town of Warsaw, ski/mountainous Zakopane in the foothills of the Tatry mountains, the old cemetary in Zakopan ahs headstones carved out of wood, the Mazury region full of lakes and forests for your Landy to go and have some exercise!
and if you have time go see the Hel peninsula full of beautiful fishing villages, long white sand beaches etc- The President's summer residence is there too
|
1 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
thanks for you help bertrand,
garming gps map would be useful, where can it be found?
is that region with lakes and forests in the north/north west of poland? landy needs exercise!! especially while theres two, so if i get stuck i can be removed! 
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
|
1 Aug 2009
|
|
-
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,342
|
|
|
electronic map is sold by Garmin-
Have you thought about look at the Stanfords web site (map shop in Covent Garden) as they have the best selection of maps I have ever come across including O.S maps which sound what you need to find those trails you are seekingThe Bialowieski National Park is also worth a look but be warned you need a guide and will deffo not be allowed to 'off road it there'!
It has some of largest forests in Europe (maybe even the largest) and is near the Polish-Byelorussian border, near Bialystok. 580 square kilometers of the forest.
Sounds to me like you may need to keep heading East and head into Russia! plenty of open spaces there for the Landy to exercise those bearings and differentials!
|
3 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
|
I had a look on there but at the time i had no idea where was good to go so i bought the 1:200,000 scale map for all of poland. Ill have another look at the smaller maps.
Well we only have a week and because we seem to want to do things in three main areas which are in different corners of poland we are going to do the western half, leaving out the old forest on the belarus (cant spell) border.
Id love to go to russia, but we dont have the time this year, next year is probably the sahara so maybe the year after!
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
|
3 Aug 2009
|
|
Contributing Vendor
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Northumberland, UK
Posts: 556
|
|
|
Poland
There's loads of off roading in Poland and a very active 4x4 scene. Just look for 4x4 magazines in garages and newsagents when you get there. be aware that you can't drive in the Bledow desert. It's a military training area and you could get a 5000 zloty fine.
Happy trails,
Jojo
|
4 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
|
Hello Jojo,
ok, well bear that in mind about the desert, we want to go that way anyway so still go down and have a look from the outside.
i dont speak polish... how do i interpret what the 4x4 mags are saying? not meaning to be rude but am wondering how to gather infromaiton from them!
can i assume that if we follow dirt tracks in the forested area east of berling that we will come across offroad tracks?
Cheers
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
Last edited by PeterClark; 6 Aug 2009 at 08:07.
|
6 Aug 2009
|
|
Contributing Vendor
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Northumberland, UK
Posts: 556
|
|
|
Poland
Hi Peter,
The better 4x4 magazines have tulip diagrams which are easy to interpret. If you're very lucky they'll have tracks in the region that you're headed for.
They're also full of addresses for off road specialists, parts suppliers, garages, local clubs, etc. Hotel/campsite staff can help with translations if you're really stuck.
Jojo
|
17 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
ok thats really good info jojo, thanks 
another question, what are the tatra mountains and sudenten mountains like to visit from tourist and 4x4 point of view, the tatra mountians are in a national park what does this mean?
many thanks
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
|
17 Aug 2009
|
|
-
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,342
|
|
|
Beautiful views Peter but as for using your 4x4 off road, you are very likely to get in trouble with the authorities if they catch you.
All National parks I have been to are protected for the benefit of all and you cannot ride/drive anywhere at your leisure.
Perhaps get a local map and drop in the local police to ask them where you can/cannot go could be helpful or get a local 4x4 magazine
Just a thought!
|
19 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
|
ok the general impression im getting from this is to go to poland heading for an area and theres a good chance that if youre at a campsite they can tell you where to go or you can find a 4x4 mag that also tells you.
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
|
20 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Krakow, Poland
Posts: 62
|
|
|
North East
Hi Peter,
I'd suggest Mazury (Lake District) in the north-east corner of Poland. There are many minor roads allowed for car traffic. 66th edition of World Rally Championship took place there in June this year. Take a look here: news - Rally Poland official website. You will get a detailed map at any major gas station in the area. I don't see a way to buy a Garmin map of Poland over internet in English. Maybe if you ask these people, they could handle it: APEX24.pl - Dystrybutor GARMIN - Twoje Centrum Nawigacji. Remember that there are few highways in Poland and traffic is pretty heavy so allow something like 9hr to get from western border to the destination. Mapy Google give fairly good estimates of time needed.
Good luck,
Kris
|
24 Aug 2009
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 36
|
|
thanks very much for your help mdmystko , i think i will follow that rally course, do you know anything about the terrain?
__________________
If today was perfect there would be no need for tomorow
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
Similar Threads
|
| Thread |
Thread Starter |
Forum |
Replies |
Last Post |
|
UK to Poland
|
explorer |
Travellers Seeking Travellers |
1 |
3 Aug 2009 22:27 |
|
Poland
|
luckyman |
Europe |
19 |
11 Sep 2008 17:24 |
|
Poland.
|
fazer67 |
Europe |
10 |
9 Apr 2006 05:05 |
|
poland 04
|
garyfzs1000 |
Travellers Seeking Travellers |
0 |
14 Mar 2004 02:03 |
|
GPS in Poland
|
garyfzs1000 |
Navigation - Maps, Compass, GPS |
6 |
24 Feb 2004 22:35 |
|
Next HU Events
ALL Dates subject to change.
2025 Confirmed Events:
- Virginia: April 24-27 2025
- Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025
- Germany Summer: May 29-June 1 2025
- CanWest: July 10-13 2025
- Switzerland: Date TBC
- Ecuador: Date TBC
- Romania: Date TBC
- Austria: Sept. 11-15
- California: September 18-21
- France: September 19-21 2025
- Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2 2025
Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!
Questions about an event? Ask here
See all event details
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
