The “Silent Route” as a quiet place. A case study of a walking trail in the Wdecki Landscape Park (Tuchola Forest, Poland)

The article presents a case study of Poland's first “Silent Route”, located in the Wdecki Landscape Park, as an example of a tourist trail serving as a quiet place. The aim of the study was to assess the acoustic climate along the route, identify the sounds occurring on it, and determine the characteristics relevant to its functioning as a quiet place. The study used secondary source analysis, sound level measurements using a VOLTCRAFT SL-100 meter, and field observations covering the development and use of the route. The results confirm that, despite natural fluctuations in sound levels, the route meets the criteria for a quiet place. The measured average values of equivalent sound level (LAeq) at the measurement points along the route ranged from 30.05 to 47.9 dB, depending on the day and weather conditions. The route is characterised by a low and stable acoustic background, the dominance of natural sounds, and only incidental and short-lived signals from anthropogenic sources. It can be described as a sustainable, nature-based trail with a niche character, characterised by minimal infrastructure and low user traffic. The route enables the development of sustainable tourism, particularly forms supporting health and well-being, and can serve as a tool for nature conservation and environmental education in protected areas.