Iława - Poland
Iława: A Charming Town in Northern Poland's Lake District
Located in the heart of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, Iława is a picturesque town with a population of 32,276 inhabitants. As the capital of Iława County, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities.
Nestled within the Iławskie Lake District, Iława boasts an enviable location on the shores of Jeziorak, Poland's longest lake. The town is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and meandering rivers, including the Iławka and Tynwałd. This idyllic setting makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing getaway.
Iława is also steeped in history and culture. The town lies within the area of historical Pomesania, and its strategic location on the Road of St. James has made it an important stopover for Christian pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostella in Spain. Visitors can explore the Pope's Calvary of the Iława Lake District, a unique complex featuring canoe-shaped Stations of the Cross that commemorate Karol Wojtyła's visits to Jeziorak.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Iława is also known for its vibrant summer festivals. The town hosts the Old Jazz Meeting "Złota Tarka," one of Europe's oldest traditional jazz festivals, which draws visitors from across the continent. With its lively atmosphere and stunning lakefront setting, Iława has earned a reputation as the "summer capital" of traditional jazz.
While Iława may not offer all the amenities of larger cities (scoring B- in this regard), it makes up for it with its exceptional commute options (A-) and picturesque surroundings. The town's health score is average (C), but its cultural offerings (C+) and childcare/education facilities (C+) are notable strengths.
One aspect to consider when planning a visit or relocation to Iława is noise pollution, which scores a C. However, the town's tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings make it an attractive choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
In summary, Iława is a charming town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. While it may not be perfect in every regard, its strengths make it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing getaway or a base for exploring northern Poland's stunning Lake District.
View of Iława from Mały Jeziorak Lake with the Church of the Transfiguration on the left
Iława
Country: Poland
Population: 32664
Area: 21.88 square kilometre
Web: http://www.ilawa.pl
Mayor: Dawid Kopaczewski
Postal code: 14-200 to 14-210
Area code: +48 89