Straszyn on the Radunia: Hydropower and Routes
Accommodation in Straszyn
Straszyn connects the Radunia with an unusual discovery: on the “Szlak Elektrowni Wodnych” kayaking route, hydroelectric power stations are part of the river landscape. You can get to know the area on the water or explore routes on foot and by bicycle. These different options give your stay different focuses—from the history of technology to outdoor activity along the Radunia.
Hydropower on the Radunia
The EW Straszyn hydroelectric power station was built in 1910. Its capacity is 2,411 kW, and its head is 13.80 m. These specific technical details make the power station a notable destination for anyone interested in energy generation and the history of technical installations. On the seven-kilometre section of the Radunia kayaking route between Straszyn and Pruszcz Gdański, visitors can see historic hydroelectric power stations, some of which are still operating, dating from the early 20th century. A visit to EW Straszyn can also be included in a kayaking trip along this section.
The kayaking route begins in Straszyn and alternates between fast-flowing river sections and reservoirs at the hydroelectric power stations. So the trip is not just along a uniform stretch of river: the route passes through different types of water, and the changes shape the character of the journey. Allow about two hours for the kayaking route from Straszyn to Pruszcz Gdański, depending on water levels and group size. The route can be continued along the Radunia and the Motława to Gdańsk.
On the water or on land
If you want to start or finish a kayaking trip, there is a landing stage and a meadow in Straszyn, near the “Mielnik” bakery. This is possible by prior arrangement with the “Radunia” kayaking club in Straszyn. This arrangement is important for your planning; the location is not described as a start or end point for unannounced visits. If you prefer to travel on land, you could consider a 9.5-kilometre hike: the hydroelectric power stations in Bielkowo and Straszyn were viewed from the outside, and the route went around Lake Straszyńskie. The hike therefore combines views of technical installations with a walk around the lake, without involving a visit inside the power stations.
A cycling route is also described. It runs from Straszyn along a scenic stretch of the Radunia towards Juszkowo, as far as a kayaking landing stage. The recurring “Wojewódzki Bieg Doliną Raduni” race also follows the route between Juszkowo and Straszyn. These examples show different ways to experience the area; the race is a separate event, not an additional leg of the kayaking trip.
A quiet historical note
Behind the Church of St. Jacek Odrowąż, there is a Stations of the Cross marked by large erratic boulders, as well as historic tombstones belonging to the Tiedemann family. The family owned Prędzieszyn, Goszyn, Rusocin, Grabiny-Zameczek and Wojanowo. Their remains were presumably found there during construction work at the church. The Stations of the Cross and the tombstones complement the water-based activities with a place of remembrance and a different perspective on Straszyn’s history.
When choosing your holiday apartment, you can therefore consider which part of your stay you would like to focus on: kayaking on the Radunia, a hike around the lake, a cycling trip towards Juszkowo, or a visit to technical and historical sites. Straszyn offers different starting points for these activities, which do not all require the same mode of transport.
Discover more places
You can also include these places in your travel plans: Kłodawa, Przywidz, Elganowo, Kleszczewo, Wiślina, Otomin, Swibno and Postołowo.
For the broader travel overview: Gdańsk.
