Šarkaŭščyna Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure in Šarkaŭščyna with this comprehensive guide on the top things to do, places to visit, where to eat and stay, and more.


A Complete Travel Guide to Šarkaŭščyna, Belarus

Interested in exploring the beautiful countryside of Belarus? Šarkaŭščyna, located in the Vitebsk Oblast, is a wonderful place to start. With its breathtaking nature and rich culture, this region promises an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

We’ve created this ultimate guide to help you plan your Šarkaŭščyna adventure. Discover the top activities, attractions, food, and accommodations for your perfect trip.

Introduction to Šarkaŭščyna

Šarkaŭščyna is a rural region in the northeastern part of Belarus. It is known for its vibrant green landscapes, picturesque villages, and unique cultural heritage. The name Šarkaŭščyna is derived from the word “shark”, which means tree in the Northern Russian dialect. The local forests are abundant with pine, birch, oak, spruce, and maple trees, all of which contribute to the region’s natural beauty.

The area is home to several rivers, including the Polota and Drissa. These provide a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the many nature reserves and parks, where they can enjoy stunning views of waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and unique flora and fauna.

List of Places to Visit in Šarkaŭščyna

There are a variety of cultural and natural attractions to explore in Šarkaŭščyna. Here’s a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Drissa Museum of Local Lore: The museum showcases the unique history, culture, and crafts of the Drissa region.
  2. St. Michael’s Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is located in the town of Braslaw and is known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate woodwork.
  3. Mikhavichy Palace: The palace is an impressive example of 18th-century Baroque architecture and serves as a museum.
  4. Old Castle (also known as Lida Castle): This is a well-preserved medieval castle with a rich history of battles and royal affairs.

Natural Attractions of Šarkaŭščyna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Braslaw Lakes National Park: It is one of the region’s most popular natural attractions, consisting of about 30 interconnected lakes, which are perfect for kayaking, fishing or hiking.
  2. Narochanski National Park: This park is the largest lake in Belarus and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and skiing in winter.
  3. Ivyanets Reservoir: One of the hidden gems of Šarkaŭščyna is the Ivyanets Reservoir, surrounded by dense forests and picturesque villages, the area is perfect for a peaceful hike or a bike ride.
  4. Drutsk Martyrdom Memorial: A memorial park to commemorate the tragedy that happened during World War II.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Šarkaŭščyna

Šarkaŭščyna boasts some of the most beautiful hiking and biking routes in Belarus. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, there is an option for everyone. Here’s a list of the most popular routes:

  1. Braslaw Lakes National Park trail: It’s a 40km-long trail passing through the natural beauty of the park, perfect for hikers of all levels.
  2. Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve: The reserve is home to over 60 species of mammals, including elk, wolves, and lynx. Visitors can explore the reserve’s unique biodiversity on the hiking trails.
  3. Cycling route around Naroch Lake: The 65km-long trail passes through the scenic views of the lake and its surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Šarkaŭščyna: Activities and Tours

There are many activities to enjoy in Šarkaŭščyna, suitable for all ages. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  1. Take a boat ride on the Braslaw Lakes and explore the natural beauty of the park.
  2. Go fishing in one of the many rivers of the region, a popular pastime.
  3. Visit a local farm and learn about traditional Belarusian agriculture.
  4. Explore the region on horseback with a guided tour.
  5. Attend a traditional festival or market to experience local culture and food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Šarkaŭščyna

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a hotel in Braslaw. Explore the town and visit St. Michael’s Cathedral.

Day 2: Spend the day at the Braslaw Lakes National Park, taking a boat ride or hiking up to Mount Minduny for a panoramic view of the lakes.

Day 3: Visit the Drutsk Martyrdom Memorial and learn about the region’s history. Continue to Ivyanets Reservoir for a peaceful hike by the water.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve to explore the various hiking trails and learn about the reserve’s wildlife and biodiversity.

Day 5: Visit the Mikhavichy Palace and take a guided tour. In the afternoon, explore the town and try some traditional Belarusian food.

Day 6: Explore the Narochanski National Park on a biking tour and enjoy the scenic views around the lake.

Day 7: Departure day with enough time to visit Old Castle on your way out.

Food and Drink Scene of Šarkaŭščyna

Belarusian cuisine is hearty and comforting, often consisting of meat dishes, potatoes, and hearty soups. Here are some of the best dishes and beverages to try in Šarkaŭščyna:

Must-Try Dishes:

  1. Draniki: A type of Belarusian potato pancake, usually served with sour cream or mushroom sauce.
  2. Kaldouni: A hearty soup made with vegetables, meatballs, and barley.
  3. Bulbash: A type of potato dish unique to Belarus, consisting of grated potatoes, egg, and flour, usually served with sour cream.
  4. Svytannie: A light, sweet cheesecake-like dessert made with cottage cheese and served with berries.

Local Beverages:

  1. Krambambula: A traditional Belarusian sweet liqueur, made with honey, spices, and vodka.
  2. Kvas: A refreshing fermented drink made from rye bread and served cold.
  3. National beer: Belarus brews its own national beer, offering a range of styles and flavors.

Where to Stay in Šarkaŭščyna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Šarkaŭščyna offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to comfortable guesthouses. Here are some of the best:

  1. Braslaw Lakes Hotel: Located right on the shores of Lake Belaye, offering picturesque views and comfortable rooms and amenities.
  2. Park Naroch Hotel: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with a stunning view of Naroch Lake.
  3. Usadba Girskich Guesthouse: A traditional guesthouse with a homely atmosphere, offering comfortable rooms and a warm welcome to guests.

What to Buy in Šarkaŭščyna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local handicrafts, Šarkaŭščyna has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  1. Woven blankets and rugs: The region is known for its colorful and beautiful woven textiles.
  2. Traditional clothing: You can find traditional Belarusian clothing, such as scarfs, socks, and shirts, from local makers.
  3. Handmade Jewelry: Local artisans often make unique and beautiful jewelry from amber, silver, and other natural materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Šarkaŭščyna

Belarusians are proud of their traditions and culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as removing shoes when entering someone’s home and offering a small gift to hosts. Religious traditions are also important to locals, and tourists should be mindful of their behavior when visiting churches and cathedrals.

Best Time to Visit Šarkaŭščyna

The best time to visit Šarkaŭščyna is between May to September, during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and pleasant. The park’s hiking trails will be less muddy, and the weather will be ideal for all outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Šarkaŭščyna

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine and beverages
  2. Be respectful of Belarusian customs and culture
  3. Explore the region’s natural beauty and hiking trails

Don’t:

  1. Wear shoes inside someone’s home
  2. Interrupt a Belarusian when they are speaking
  3. Ignore the designated hiking trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Šarkaŭščyna

Šarkaŭščyna is a relatively safe region with few major safety concerns for travelers. Visitors should take the usual precautions, such as keeping valuable items in a secure place and traveling in a group when possible.

Health in Šarkaŭščyna

Belarusian healthcare standards are high, and medical facilities in the region are generally of good quality. In case of an emergency, dial 03 for medical assistance.

Getting to Šarkaŭščyna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Šarkaŭščyna is easily accessible from Minsk, the capital of Belarus. Here are some ways to get there:

Airports Near Šarkaŭščyna

The nearest airport to Šarkaŭščyna is in Minsk, which serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Šarkaŭščyna

There are a few bus stations in the region providing regular connections with various cities in Belarus. The largest bus station near Šarkaŭščyna is located in Vitebsk.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car if they prefer to drive themselves. It is a good idea to have a GPS or map, as roads in rural areas may not be well-marked.

How to Get Around in Šarkaŭščyna

Public transportation in Šarkaŭščyna is not very extensive, and it can be difficult to get around without a car. However, it is possible to rent a car or hire a local guide to explore the region’s rural areas. Bicycles are also a great option for exploring the nearby scenic areas at a leisurely pace.

Where to Go Next from Šarkaŭščyna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other parts of Belarus while staying in Šarkaŭščyna. Here are some destinations that are within a day trip’s distance:

  1. Vitebsk: This charming city is known for its art, architecture, and cultural events.
  2. Daugavpils: The second-largest city in Latvia, only a few hours away from Šarkaŭščyna.
  3. Vilnius: The capital of Lithuania is an excellent destination for its Old Town, the art galleries and museums, and other attraction throughout the city.

Conclusion

Šarkaŭščyna is an amazing destination that offers some of the most beautiful natural landscapes and cultural heritage in Belarus. With this guide, you have everything you need to plan your unforgettable trip to Šarkaŭščyna. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, take a boat ride on the Braslaw Lakes, and explore the beautiful countryside on horseback or bike. Enjoy your trip!