The other weekend, we were riding the Veturilo city bikes around in Praga and decided to ride all the way down to the Wilan�w neighborhood, which was about 20 km away from our original starting point. We don�t often travel this far south because Wilan�w seems like a whole different world from Centrum where we live.
But since the weather was so nice, we parked our bikes and paid a visit to the beautiful Wilan�w Park, which is an integral part of the Wilan�w Palace and Gardens. We weren�t the only ones with the same idea that day! We waited in line for about 10 minutes, paid our 10 pln each for our tickets and proceeded through the gates.
Since the park is much-loved by Warsaw residents and tourists, I have always found it difficult to get decent photographs WITHOUT people in them. (Christmas time was a nightmare!) I need to return here first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds for my perfect photos. This park probably has one of the most manicured gardens in Warsaw.
Pink magnolia trees were in full bloom in front of the 17th century palace, which is painted a cheerful yellow color.We also found some blooming perennials and tulips in the manicured Baroque garden and more blooming bulbs by the Orangerie, which was closed. In total, there�s 45 hectares for you to leisurely stroll through at the Wilan�w Park. I think the park is even more lovely in the summer time when the roses are blooming, but then you have to deal with even more crowds.
Behind the palace, you�ll also find a natural lake and a man-made pond dating back to King Jan Sobieski III�s days. I always enjoy water features especially for their water reflection photograph opportunities.
It may have been a bit of trek for us to get to Wilan�w Park, but we were rewarded with a lovely spring day. I couldn�t have asked for anything better than that!
Click here for more information if you want to visit the Wilan�w Palace and Museum.
