Sopot

Built at the beginning of the 19th century the Grand Hotel is one of the landmarks of the city. In my childhood my father liked to take us here for tea and cakes on Sundays.

"Molo" is the most favorite promenade of the locals and the longest wooden pier in Europe (650 m)

Lots of charming neo-baroque and eclectic villas have remained. Most of  the houses have towers and wooden sun verandas.

The Sierakowski Mansion (Dworek Sierakowskich) is a must stop for a coffee, sweets, art exhibitions  and classical/ jazz music concerts

Another must-stop after cold winter promenade for best hot chocolate in town at Wedel café. Wedel is the oldest chocolate brand in the country.

Pedestrian Monte Cassino Street connects the upper city with the sea

Apples are national fruit and there are countless types and names

Poles love honey, especially for a tea in winter, there are many variations on offer

This is a fishermen house that sits on the beach, our family used to buy "catch of the day" here

Favorite duo: lemon tea & newspaper

I love to return to this sea-town of mine, it has a precious place in my heart. I was born and grew up here, graduated from the University of Gdansk and all together spent twenty five years of my life. Its location is already lovely; it sits on the shores of Gdansk Bay on the Baltic coast and is sourranded by hills and forests.  It is a small, seaside town that has it all: sandy beaches, beautiful architecture and rich culture, yacht marina, cafés and restaurants serving good seafood. Its been always one of the most elegant polish saeside resorts since centuries and each time I am so glad to see that its sheer beauty is preserved until today. There are plenty beautiful residencial buildings and villas in renaissance, gothic and baroque styles. But my favorites are two storey houses surrounded by gardens with a simple design, with wooden porches and bay windows. So glad my father as a fresh graduate moved here from the very south of Poland following his love for the sea and sailing. I am always thankful for that.