If you travel to Belarus, make sure to go far off the beaten path and check out the “other” Blue Lakes.
Last updated: July 1, 2025
Belarus off the Beaten Path
Chances are you’ve never heard of Belarus. Located in the heart of Eastern Europe, this landlocked country is surrounded by Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. As a result, its complex history, traditional cuisine, rich culture, and stunning architecture have inspired and been influenced by its neighbors.
There is something to see in the country all year round. But if you travel to Belarus in the summer, make sure to visit its beautiful “Blue Lakes”. Not the better-known Blue Lakes Nature Reserve in National Park Narochansky, but hidden reservoirs in the Lyuban District.
The History of Blue Lakes in Belarus
Blue Lakes appeared on the map of Belarus by accident. A few decades ago, the plain area provided gravel for massive construction work. Somehow, the workers miscalculated the depth of the pit and dug it way too deep. Water came out and filled up the pit. The digging activities had to be stopped and never resumed.
The place, however, slowly but surely, turned into a local phenomenon. One human error gave life to three beautiful lakes with emerald blue water that leave you speechless.
The Name of the Lakes
Locals call the lakes Chalky Lakes or Blue Lakes. Both names have their own meanings. The blue color of the water gave the site its first name. The second name, Chalky Lakes, has a direct connection to chalk and white clay that exist in the area in abundance and keep the water crystal clean.
Visiting Blue Lakes in Belarus
Visiting the “other” Blue Lakes in Belarus is a controversial topic. Since the area doesn’t have proper beaches and lifeguards on site and the lakes are pretty deep, swimming in Blue Lakes is not allowed. For years, many locals have been disregarding it. Fines have been issued. Nothing has stopped people from visiting the picturesque area.
Sadly, the local’s love for the lakes is a two-sided saw. When I first visited Blue Lakes, it was such a charming and clean hidden gem that you wanted to spend a day walking along its shore and taking in the views.
A few years later, the quarries region looked more like a dumpster area. Garbage and plastic bottles left after weekend excursions by the lake piles under every tree. The lakes were still blue and beautiful. But their immediate surroundings needed care and love.
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