There are many reasons to visit Belarus – its scenery, and sights being just a couple of them. This landlocked country in Eastern Europe is renowned for its Stalinist architecture, stunning primaeval forests, and fascinating natural landscapes.
From lush forests and flowing lakes to amazing man-made mountains and buildings, Belarus is full of captivating images. Whether you’re hunting for natural treasures or examples of humankind’s creative abilities, the entire country offers so much to see and do.
So, where can you go to find the absolute best scenery in Belarus? Below we’ve listed some of the greatest places to visit in Belarus and what you can do there too.
Scenic things to do in Belarus
Aside from the amazing salt formations and incredible bodies of water scattered throughout this country, there is also a list of architectural structures and man-made beauties to view during your Belarus sightseeing.
Visit Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park
This is the oldest wildlife refuge in Europe, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 4-hour drive from the Belarus capital, Minsk, this park is not only rich in surviving primaeval forest, but also has plenty of wildlife. You can see lynx, boar, elk, and so many more forest animals.
Tour Brest Fortress
The fortress in Brest, a small town close to the Polish border, is steeped in war history. It’s also a captivating building and is home to the interesting statue of the stern-faced Red Army soldier – a tribute to fallen soldiers of WWII who were willing to die to protect the fortress. Guided tours are the best way to take in the many, sometimes overwhelming, sights of the fortress and to learn of its rich, sombre history.
View Nesvizh Castle
Considered by residents as the country’s most beautiful palace, this castle should absolutely be on your Belarus tour itinerary. With a long tree-lined driveway leading up to the castle, which is surrounded by a moat, the view from the outside is exceptional. Inside, you’ll find just as much splendour. This castle is just an hour outside Minsk, making it the perfect picturesque day trip.
Travel to the Tower of Kamyenyets
Known as the ‘White Tower’, but it’s actually red in colour, the Tower of Kamyenyets is the very last one left of a collection of towers across Belarus. The tower was built in the 13th century and is a prominent feature in the surrounding landscape. A visit to this site is best enjoyed when paired with a stop at the onsite Brest Regional Museum.
Ski at one of the Alpine ski resorts
Thanks to the moderate Belarus climate, winters provide mild snowfalls that are perfect for skiing. There are many resorts that you can visit throughout the country, and the views as you soar down the snowy hills are unparalleled.
Eat at The View
The View is a skyscraper restaurant in Minsk. Dinner here affords you a view over the entire capital city, as well as much of the surrounding Belarus landscape. This is one of the best ways to enjoy the main Belarus attractions without ever leaving the city.
Belarus mountains and valleys
It’s interesting to note that Belarus has no natural mountains in the country. There are, however, several artificial mountains, formed by salt mines. These formations are incredible to see in person, and some of the most prominent, and most spectacular, are found in Belarus.
Dzerzhinskaya Mountain
The highest point in Belarus at 345 meters above sea level, Dzerzhinskaya is a great place to visit for views of the surrounding countryside. There’s a ski resort on this mountain, and many hikers enjoy trekking up to the top of this fascinating formation. It’s definitely one of the most fascinating Belarus points of interest.
Belarus countryside places to see
Often referred to as the ‘Lungs of Europe’, Belarus has an abundance of forest, lakes, and natural surroundings. Here are some unmissable spots to visit in Belarus if you’re looking for scenery.
Minsk Sea
Of course, Belarus doesn’t really have a sea. But this large man-made reservoir acts as the capital’s very own sea, with sandy beaches surrounding the water. Locals and tourists alike enjoy this spot, particularly in the warmer months, and often you’ll see rented catamarans out on the water.
Volkovysk Chalk Pits
About 3 hours away from Minsk, you’ll find Volkovysk – home to the Belarusian Maldives. The chalk pits are some of the most popular Belarus tourist attractions. This is a picturesque chalk quarry, filled with clear aquamarine water. This brilliant spot is a popular swimming hole and offers some amazing scenes.
Braslav Lakes National Park
Over 300 lakes make up this region, the only remnants left of an ancient glacier. Visit this spot to take in some breathtaking natural beauty. Roam the rolling green hills, watch the many kinds of birds fly overhead, and glance into the waters for a glimpse of some lake fish species.
Naroch Lake
One of the most exquisite Belarus destinations, words can barely describe the beauty found at Naroch Lake. Located only 2 hours from Minsk, it really does need to be seen to be believed. Not only does the large lake and surrounding greenery offer splendid sights, but the unique water birds such as the mute swan and small grebe are special to see as well.
Blue Krynica
Listed in the seven wonders of Belarus, the Blue Spring is found in Slawharad, Belarus. It’s the largest source of clean water in the whole of Eastern Europe, and so serves a purpose further than a wonderful view. The clear blue spring water is what gives it its name, and the low-hanging trees and surrounding greenery encircling this spectacular natural water source offers a serene place to relax.
Belarus’ still-quiet tourism industry allows the natural beauty to stay mostly untouched, and the fortunate few who do get to visit are extremely lucky. So, be on the lookout when in Belarus for some of these beautiful sights along your way.
Whether you stop for just long enough to snap a photograph or plan a day’s excursion to soak it all in, you are bound to fall in love with the Belarus scenery on offer.
Does all this sound like your ideal vacation? Join us on our Helsinki to Warsaw tour and take advantage of guided tours of Minsk, free days to explore the capital and a coach vacation through the striking countryside.