Belarus (white Russia) has a complicated history that combines history, landscapes, and warm hospitality.
- Minsk: Begin your adventure in the capital city, Minsk, which perfectly blends old-world charm with modernity. Explore Independence Square, Victory Park, and the Trinity Suburb to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Belarus.
- Belarusian State Museum of the Great Patriotic War: Gain an in-depth understanding of Belarus’ role in World War II at this museum. Its vast collection showcases artifacts, exhibits, and stories from the war.
- Białowieża Forest: Escape into natural beauty at one of the last primeval forests in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the European bison and offers fantastic hiking and wildlife spotting opportunities.
- Mir Castle: Transport yourself to the medieval era at the magnificent Mir Castle, a UNESCO-listed fortress adorned with towers and defensive walls. Take a guided tour and explore the castle’s history and architectural beauty.
- Nesvizh Palace: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nesvizh Palace, will captivate you with its opulence and grandeur. Wander through its beautiful gardens, visit the museum, and learn about the Radziwill family, who once resided here.
- Vitebsk: Visit the birthplace of renowned artist Marc Chagall in Vitebsk. Stroll along its streets adorned with colourful buildings and visit the Marc Chagall Art Centre to admire his extraordinary works.
- Polotsk: Delve into the country’s ancient past in Polotsk, one of the oldest towns in Belarus. Explore the Saint Sophia Cathedral and Polotsk Historical and Cultural Museum-Preserve, which showcases Belarusian heritage.
- Braslaw Lakes National Park: Discover a hidden gem in Belarus’ lake district. Braslaw Lakes National Park mesmerises visitors with its crystal-clear lakes, forests, and over 300 species of birds. Enjoy hiking, boating, and picnicking in this serene paradise.
- Brest Fortress: Journey to Brest and pay tribute to the heroic defenders of the Brest Fortress during World War II. Explore the interactive museum and experience the emotional impact of the legendary fortress.
- Gomel Palace and Park Ensemble: Admire the elegance of Gomel Palace, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens. Be sure to visit the nearby Rumyantsev-Paskevich Residence, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Russian nobility.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Experiences:
- Kamenets Tower: Venture to the small town of Kamenets and climb the Kamenets Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The tower is part of a medieval castle complex with a history.
- Khatyn Memorial: A poignant reminder of the horrors of war, the Khatyn Memorial pays tribute to the Belarusian villages destroyed during World War II. This memorial will evoke a strong emotional response and promote reflection.
- Zhirovichi Monastery: Visit the Zhirovichi Monastery, an important pilgrimage site in Belarus. Admire the monastery’s architecture, explore its holy grounds, and witness the spiritual practices of the monks.
- Pripyatsky National Park and Chernobyl Exclusion Zone: Embark on an extraordinary journey to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone within Pripyatsky National Park. Explore the abandoned city of Pripyat and witness the eerie remnants of a tragic event while being immersed in nature’s resilience.
- Dudutki: Travel back in time at Dudutki, an open-air museum showcasing Belarusian traditional crafts. Witness demonstrations of pottery, blacksmithing, and traditional food preparation, and ride a horse-drawn carriage through the landscape.
- Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve: Uncover the beauty of one of Belarus’ best-kept secrets. The Berezinsky Biosphere Reserve is a wilderness of wetlands and forests, providing a haven for rare bird species, including the greater spotted eagle.
- Zaslavl Open-Air Archaeological Museum: Step into the past at the Zaslavl Open-Air Archaeological Museum, where reconstructions of ancient Slavic buildings and fortifications are brought to life. Participate in interactive workshops and gain insight into Belarus’ early history.
- Polynecia (Polesie): Wander into the lesser-explored Polesie region, a land of marshes, rivers, and lakes. Experience the tranquility of this enchanting area and enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing, and bird watching
