The Winter Swimmers' Rally
The International Winter Swimmers' Rally at Mielno is one of the most recognisable winter events on the Polish coast. It has been held since 2004, usually in January or February. Its high point is a mass entry into the winter sea — often in fancy dress — with music, displays and a joyful atmosphere on the beach.
The Walrus Monument
By the Friendship Promenade stands the Walrus Monument — a cheerful emblem recalling Mielno's reputation as the capital of winter swimming. It is one of the most photographed spots in the resort, and can be seen all year round.
In practice
The rally is an open event — the exact date is set each year, so it is worth checking the district's announcements. Cold-water swimming itself should be approached sensibly and discussed with experienced groups. The Walrus Monument, on the other hand, can be seen at any time.
How to get there and practical info
- Location
- Mielno, the beach and promenade (the Walrus Monument by the Friendship Promenade)
- Date of the rally
- January or February; the exact date is set each year
- Held since
- 2004
- Admission
- Free; the Walrus Monument can be seen all year
- Who it suits
- Cold-water swimmers and spectators; swim with care
- Nearby
- The promenade, the beach and Lake Jamno
When to go
After the rally season — the Walrus Monument is there and the beach is quiet.
The Walrus Monument is a summer attraction on the crowded promenade; there is no cold-water swimming.
Quiet, with the first cold weather — the winter swimmers start their season.
The time of the rally: in January or February the beach fills with winter swimmers from all over Poland.
Other sights in Mielno
Straight-line distances from „The capital of winter swimming — the rally and the Walrus Monument" — calculated from real coordinates. By road it is often further.
Where to stay nearby
Places from our list that have The capital of winter swimming — the rally and the Walrus Monument within walking distance or a short drive.
