Discover Straszyn: Hydropower and the Radunia

Straszyn combines the history of hydropower with experiences on the Radunia River and ecclesiastical heritage. When planning your trip, the main points of interest are the kayaking route to Pruszcz Gdański, the EW Straszyn hydroelectric power plant and the town’s historic sites. If you are looking for a hotel, these different points of interest can help guide your choice of where to stay.

Hydropower on the Radunia

The EW Straszyn hydroelectric power plant was built in 1910. It has a capacity of 2,411 kW and a head of 13.80 m. These figures describe two different technical characteristics: capacity is expressed in kilowatts and head in metres. On the seven-kilometre section of the Radunia kayaking route between Straszyn and Pruszcz Gdański, visitors can see historic hydroelectric power plants from the early 20th century, some of which are still in operation. A trip along this section therefore offers insights into the region’s hydropower history. A visit to the EW Straszyn plant can be included in a kayaking trip between Straszyn and Pruszcz Gdański. Check the arrangements for visits before your trip.

Kayaking on the Radunia

The “Szlak Elektrowni Wodnych” kayaking route follows the Radunia from Straszyn to Pruszcz Gdański. The trip takes about two hours; water levels and group size affect the duration. Along the way, fast-flowing river sections alternate with reservoirs at the hydroelectric power plants. A landing stage and a meadow near the “Mielnik” bakery in Straszyn can serve as the starting or finishing point for a kayaking trip, subject to prior arrangements with the “Radunia” kayaking club in Straszyn. If you plan to use this location, make arrangements in advance. The trip can be continued along the Radunia and the Motława as far as Gdańsk. This extension goes beyond the section to Pruszcz Gdański; check water conditions and arrangements for the starting point separately.

More ways to explore the area

A scenic route runs from Straszyn along the Radunia towards Juszkowo, ending at a kayak landing stage. The recurring “Wojewódzki Bieg Doliną Raduni” race also takes place along the route between Juszkowo and Straszyn. Dates vary, so check the specific event dates if you would like to include the race in your travel plans. One organised walk covered 9.5 kilometres: the Bielkowo and Straszyn hydroelectric power plants were viewed from the outside, and the route circled Lake Straszyńskie. These examples show different ways to experience the Radunia area—on the water, along a route towards Juszkowo or on a walk around the lake.

Ecclesiastical heritage in Straszyn

Behind the Church of St. Jacek Odrowąż is a Stations of the Cross trail, with each station marked by a large erratic boulder. The area also contains historic grave slabs belonging to the Tiedemann family, owners of Prędzieszyn, Goszyn, Rusocin, Grabiny-Zameczek and Wojanowo. The family’s remains were probably found there during construction work on the church. The Stations of the Cross and the grave slabs offer a different perspective from the technical history of hydropower, inviting visitors to explore religious and family history. Together with the Radunia and the hydroelectric power plants, they provide a range of ways to shape a stay in Straszyn around your own interests.

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