The City of Poznań is famous for its green areas.

Several dozen percent of the city's surface is occupied by squares, parks and even woods. Little do people know that there are over 100 various water areas in the city, including several lakes that are ideal for spending free time.  

The largest water basin in the city is the Kierskie Lake situated at the western limits of Poznań. Its surface reaches almost 300 hectares with average depth of 10m, though there are  places over 30m deep. 12-km-long shore line ensures exquisite tourist and recreational conditions. On the eastern shore of the lake among the deciduous woods there are walking paths that lead along the green wedge to the Sołacki Park and the city centre.
All year long the lake is available to fishermen who may hope primarily for a vendace, but also an eel, sander, pike, perch, white amur, carp or bream. You may fish both from the shore and from a boat. 
At the Kierskie Lake there are two guarded bathing places: in Krzyżowniki and in Kiekrz, and many rest and training centres. As there are active sailing centres (in winter ice-yachting), the sailing marinas are the characteristic features of the landscape.

Picture 1 – the Kierskie Lake
The Malta Lake is an extraordinarily picturesque spot. It is situated several hundred metres from the Poznań Cathedral and several kilometres from the Old Town. It is an artificial lake formed 50 years ago as a result of damming of the little Cybina River. For a dozen or so years the lake has been playing the role of a regatta course for the kayak and rowing events. Within the last few years you could admire sailing boats, very fast motor boats and even Chinese dragon boats.

Picture 2 – Bird's-eye view on the Malta Lake

Picture 3 – Fountain at the Malta Lake
In the western part of the city there ar two more little lakes: Rusałka and Strzeszyńskie. Similarly to the Malta Lake, the Rusałka Lake is artificial. Its surface reaches almost 2 hectares with the depth of 10m. You can meet fishermen here all year long, and in the summer also quite large number of sunbathers. The Rusałka Lake has its own water sports centre and a bathing place. 

Picture 4 – the Rusałka Lake
Several kilometres further west there is the Strzeszyńskie Lake. This picturesque water spot is surrounded by beautiful woods and great holiday areas. Wooded shores form wonderful creeks. At the lake there is a holiday resort with a small motel open all year long. In the summer season there are also a bathing spot, several eating places and a restaurant.

Picture 5 – the Strzeszyńskie Lake

Pictures: City Hall