Waterlane Riverside – SPA, Pool, Gym & Parking by Downtown Apartments

Waterlane Riverside – SPA, Pool, Gym & Parking by Downtown Apartments Overview

Waterlane Riverside – SPA, Pool, Gym & Parking by Downtown Apartments sits on 11 Szafarnia, right where the Old Town buzz fades into the quieter lanes of Gdańsk’s modern heart. I pulled into the underground lot—no hassle, just a quick swipe of my parking pass, and I was already a few minutes from the front desk. The lobby is surprisingly airy, with a touch of industrial chic that feels less like a hotel and more like a local café that’s decided to open up its doors. Check‑in was quick; the staff greeted me with a nod and a quick scan of my passport, then handed over a key card that glows a faint blue in the dim light. I guess that’s the vibe they’re going for—efficiency with a hint of mystery. The only thing that caught my eye was a small sign in Polish that read “Poczuj spokój” (Feel the peace), which instantly made me think of a quiet spot for a late‑night coffee.

Moving into my room, the first thing you notice is the window overlooking the Motława River. The view is a mix of the city’s skyline and the gentle sway of the river, so you can hear the distant hum of traffic and the occasional gull cry. The bed is a solid, comfortable thing—no fluff, just a good mattress that keeps you from tossing over the night. The bathroom is sleek, with a glass shower that’s surprisingly spacious; the water pressure is strong, which is a relief after a long day of walking. The minibar has a few Polish craft beers (a nice touch for locals or anyone looking to try something different), and the Wi‑Fi is fast enough to stream a movie or check your emails without buffering. The only downside? The room’s window is a bit on the drafty side during the winter months, so you’ll want a warm blanket if you’re prone to chills. But that’s a small price to pay for the view and the overall quiet—there’s no noise from the plaza or the bustling around, except for the occasional siren in the middle of the night.

Outside of the room, the real showpiece is the spa and pool area. The indoor pool is a clear, blue pool that feels like a private oasis, surrounded by comfortable loungers and a small bar that serves smoothies and light snacks. The spa itself has a sauna, a steam room, and a small massage corner—though the massage chairs were a bit too firm for my liking, so I ended up skipping that part. The gym is a no‑frills space with a treadmill and a few free weights, which is handy if you want to keep up with your routine while away. The real treat is the patio garden, where you can sit on a bench, lean back, and listen to the gentle trickle of the river. I’ve been there during both the busy summer evenings—when the city lights reflect off the water—and the quieter winter mornings, and the atmosphere stays consistently relaxed. In terms of nearby spots, just a five‑minute walk takes you to Stramska Street, where you’ll find a handful of cafés and a small boutique that sells local art. For a quick bite, the restaurant at the hotel’s corner serves pierogi that are surprisingly good—soft dough filled with a mix of mushrooms and cheese, and the broth is a comforting, savory hit. If you’re looking for nightlife, the party scene starts a bit later around the nearby beach clubs, but that’s usually after midnight, so the hotel remains a peaceful refuge.

Overall, I’d say Waterlane Riverside is a solid 4‑star spot with an 8.5 rating for a reason. It offers a blend of comfort, accessibility, and a touch of local flavor without the over‑the‑top marketing buzz. If you’re planning a trip to Gdańsk and want a place that feels like a home base rather than a tourist trap, this is a good pick. Just remember to bring a blanket for the winter draft and maybe a lighter for the warm pool nights. And if you’re a foodie, the nearby street stalls along Szafarnia are a must‑try—especially the smoked fish and the classic Gdańsk coffee. Happy travels!

Exploring Gdansk offers visitors an unforgettable journey through Poland’s maritime heart, from its magnificent Gothic churches to its amber workshops and legendary shipyards where Solidarity was born.

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