If there’s one autumn activity that brings out the explorer in everyone, it’s mushroom picking. Known in Poland as grzybobranie, this outdoor adventure is as much about relaxing in nature as it is about finding delicious mushrooms to take home. Poznań, with its lush surrounding forests, is the perfect starting point for your next mushroom foraging trip. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total beginner, this guide will help you discover the best spots and tips to make the most of the season!
Why is Mushroom Picking So Popular?
Mushroom picking has a special place in Polish culture. It’s not just about the mushrooms — it’s about the experience. Imagine wandering through peaceful forests, breathing in the fresh air, and stumbling across clusters of golden chanterelles or sturdy porcini mushrooms. It’s like a treasure hunt, and the prize is a basket full of nature’s tastiest treats! Plus, it’s a great excuse to escape the city, slow down, and reconnect with nature.
The Best Spots Near Poznań
If you’re in or around Poznań, you’re in luck. There are plenty of great forests just a short drive away, each offering a rich variety of mushrooms. Here are some top spots where locals often head for a successful foraging trip:
- Puszcza Zielonka – Just northeast of Poznań, this forest is a favourite for mushroom hunters. You’ll find a variety of mushrooms here, including porcini and boletes.
- Czerwonak – North of Poznań, this area is known for its thick woods and is perfect for finding chanterelles and slippery jacks.
- Suchy Las – A bit closer to the city, Suchy Las is a convenient and popular spot for a quick mushroom hunt.
- Biedrusko – Another excellent location just north of the city, ideal for a peaceful day of wandering through the woods.
- Morasko – If you want to stay close to Poznań, the forests around Morasko are a great choice. You can combine mushroom picking with a scenic walk around the area’s nature reserve.
What Mushrooms Can You Find?
Wielkopolska’s forests are rich in a variety of mushrooms. If you time your trip right, especially after some rain, you can expect to find a good selection of edible species. Some of the most popular ones to look out for include:
- Porcini – A favourite for soups and sauces.
- Chanterelles – Perfect for frying up in butter or adding to creamy sauces.
- Slippery jacks – Easily recognisable by their shiny, sticky caps.
- Boletes – Great for drying or adding to stews.
- Parasol mushrooms – These large, umbrella-like mushrooms are a real find!
Tips for Beginners
In Wielkopolska, the peak mushroom season is between September and October, especially after some rain followed by a few warm days. This is when you’re most likely to find the biggest variety and quantity of mushrooms. If you’re planning a trip, go early in the morning to beat the crowds and get the freshest picks.
If you’re new to mushroom picking, don’t worry — it’s easier than you think! Just follow these simple tips to make sure your adventure is safe and successful:
- Know Your Mushrooms – Make sure you can identify what you’re picking. Some mushrooms look alike, but not all are safe to eat. Using a mushroom guidebook or a reliable mobile app is a good idea.
- Start with Safe Choices – Stick to easily identifiable mushrooms like chanterelles and porcini. They’re less likely to have dangerous look-alikes.
- Bring the Right Gear – Use a basket, not a plastic bag, to keep your mushrooms fresh. A small knife will also help you cleanly cut mushrooms from the ground.
- Dress for the Occasion – Wear long sleeves and sturdy boots. Forests can be muddy, and ticks are common, so cover up!
- Be Patient – Mushroom picking is like fishing. Sometimes you’ll have a great haul, and other times not so much. Enjoy the process, not just the results!
Safety First: Forage Smart
While mushroom picking is fun, it’s important to stay safe. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Don’t Eat What You Can’t Identify – If you’re unsure about a mushroom, leave it. Better safe than sorry!
- Keep an Eye on the Time – Forests can look the same after a while, so make sure you know how to get back to your starting point. It’s always a good idea to bring a phone with GPS.
- Tell Someone Where You’re Going – Especially if you’re foraging alone. Let someone know your plans and when you expect to be back.
- Stay Hydrated – Bring water and maybe a snack. Mushroom picking can be surprisingly tiring!
What to Do With Your Harvest
So, you’ve filled your basket — now what? The great thing about mushrooms is that they’re incredibly versatile. You can sauté them in butter, add them to soups, dry them for later use, or even pickle them. In Poland, marinated mushrooms are a classic autumn treat, and a hearty mushroom soup can warm you up on chilly days.
Foraging for mushrooms isn’t just about finding ingredients; it’s about making memories and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re out with friends, family, or on your own, the forests of Poznań have plenty to offer.
Embrace the Tradition
Mushroom picking around Poznań is more than just an autumn activity — it’s a way to connect with nature, take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you find a basket full of mushrooms or just a few, the experience is what counts. So grab your basket, head to the woods, and see what treasures you can find!
