Ginkgo in the forest

Ginkgo in the Forest, located in Petryki in Greater Poland, is a facility that defies simple definition. It's not a typical hotel or guesthouse. Rather, it's a private enclave, created for those seeking a true respite from the hustle and bustle of civilization and wishing to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort. The entire concept is based on the exclusive rental of two buildings – a meticulously restored forester's lodge and a spacious, converted barn, making it ideal for larger groups of friends or families.

The heart of the property is a charming 19th-century house, which the owners, Michalina and Bartek, saved from ruin by putting a tremendous amount of work into its renovation. This attention to detail is evident in every corner. The interiors are decorated in a warm, rustic style, where wood meets brick, and a fireplace in the center of the living room adds a cozy touch. This fireplace becomes the center of social life in the evenings. Guests have access to a fully equipped kitchen, which is connected to the dining room and living room, fostering integration and spending time together. This type of accommodation is designed with building relationships in mind, as emphasized by the deliberate absence of a television.

Accommodation structure and options

Ginkgo in the Forest offers flexible and thoughtful accommodations for groups of up to 16 people. The main building, the forester's lodge, has five bedrooms. The ground floor houses three double rooms and two bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy. The first floor, accessed by a rather steep staircase (which is worth bearing in mind when planning a stay with people with limited mobility or small children), houses two larger bedrooms – one for three and one for five. A sofa bed in the living room provides additional sleeping space. This layout makes it ideal for family gatherings, anniversaries, or holidays with friends, offering much more than standard holiday apartments .

The Barn – the heart of integration and events

The second key element is the barn. It's not just an additional building, but a fully functional space for meetings, workshops, or small celebrations. It's equipped with its own second kitchen, bathroom with shower, fireplace, and an impressive seven-meter table, perfect for entertaining the entire group. The barn provides a unique added value, transforming a typical cottage rental into a private retreat where yoga, culinary, or art workshops can be held, away from prying eyes.

Advantages: What makes Ginkgo stand out in the forest?

The greatest advantage of the facility is its location. Nestled in the middle of the forest, a kilometer from the nearest paved road, it guarantees absolute peace and quiet. Guests unanimously emphasize that this is a place where the only neighbors are wild animals – deer, wild boars, and hares – and the evenings are filled with the sound of crickets. It's the perfect setting for a true digital detox. Among the amenities most appreciated by visitors are:

• Outdoor relaxation area: The outdoor hot tub, also known as a hot tub, and the sauna located in the dugout are extremely popular. The opportunity to soak in hot baths under a starry sky, surrounded by forest, is a memorable experience and the epitome of relaxation.
• Family-friendly facilities: The facility is ideal for families with children. There's a playground on site, and indoor amenities include a highchair and a bathtub. The spacious, fenced area allows children to play safely.
• Fully equipped: Guests don't need to worry about basic appliances. Both kitchens are fully equipped (dishwasher, oven, coffee maker, and dishes), and outside there's a grill and fire pit with plenty of wood.
• Hospitality of the owners: Reviews often praise the hosts, Michalina and Bartek, who are described as extremely helpful, flexible and professional, taking care of every detail of the stay.

Disadvantages and aspects to consider

Despite its near-perfect ratings, there are some things potential guests should consider to avoid disappointment. Ginkgo Forest isn't for everyone, and its greatest strengths for some may be its greatest weaknesses for others.

Internet connectivity problem

The most frequently cited drawback is the very weak, even nonexistent, internet and cell phone reception. While many consider this a benefit, in line with the idea of a digital detox, those planning to combine their vacation with remote work will be sorely disappointed. This isn't an albergue with fast Wi-Fi for digital nomads; it's a place that encourages you to put away your electronics. It's worth keeping this in mind when packing your bags.

Availability and design features

As mentioned earlier, the stairs leading to the first floor of the lodge are very steep. This may pose a problem for the elderly, small children, or those with mobility issues. Furthermore, accessing the lodge itself via the last section of the forest road can be challenging for lower-slung vehicles, especially after heavy rainfall.

Summary: Who is this place perfect for?

Ginkgo in the Forest is a unique offering in the short-term rental market. It's the perfect choice for organized groups of friends or families looking to spend time together in comfortable surroundings, yet far from civilization. This isn't a luxurious, modern villa , but an authentic, rural retreat with soul. It's perfect for a weekend retreat, a family anniversary, a small workshop, or simply a vacation with loved ones, where being close to nature and each other is paramount. However, if constant internet access, proximity to city attractions, or the luxurious amenities typical of chain hotels are your priorities, it's worth considering other options.