Top 5 Things to See in Belarus!

The ex-Soviet country of Belarus is not well-known to most people around the world (it is one of the least-visited countries in Europe) and is still somewhat shrouded in mystery and retains much of its Soviet past. This landlocked Eastern European land is a fascinating mix of Stalinist architecture, deep forests, and possesses a rich cultural heritage ripe for exploration. For those lucky few who obtain the visa and make the effort to visit, all are rewarded with a memorable trip in a land that few people see.

Here are our top 5 things to see and do in Belarus.

Minsk

Still dominated by Stalinist architecture and holding such oddities as the massive KBG Headquarters, Minsk is on the way to becoming more modern each year with trendy restaurants and cafes popping up constantly, but its fascinating and troubled past is still very evident to the visitor. In addition to a couple museums of note worthy of visiting, within an hour of two of the city is several places that are among the very best sites in the country, including the Mir Fortress, a stunningly preserved, UNESCO-listed fortress that was built in the 15th century.

Brest

The beautiful city of Brest is arguably the most attractive city in Belarus, is located near the border of Poland and is a very pleasant city to stroll around and get a feel for the country among the stunning architecture and monuments. The Brest Fortress is also a highlight.

Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park

Located on the Belarus/Poland border and home to over over 800 free-roaming bisons, it is one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe. This national park is more than worthy of exploration for nature lovers and is one of the most peaceful areas in the region and was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979. The forest is also known for its ancient oak trees, some over 600cm in trunk diameter and thought to be over 450 years old.

Polotsk

Founded in 862 and conquered by Ivan the Terrible in 1563, Polotsk is the oldest city in Belarus and one of its most attractive, occupying a choice position on the Dvina River. Full of gorgeous old buildings and dominated by the Cathedral of Saint Sophia in the center, Polotsk is one of the most impressive towns in the country and well worth a visit.

Grodno

No visit to Belarus is complete without at least a day in the city of Grodno. Although not well-known, Grodno was one of the few cities not bombed during WWII and retains a distinctive look and feel about the town that nowhere else in the country can match and is home to Belarus’ largest Jewish community.

** If you are interested in a journey to the fascinating country of Belarus, we would be happy to arrange a bespoke/private tour to the country, or you can join us on our Hidden Europe: Belarus, Ukraine & Moldova adventure over May/June 2017.  Please contact our tour specialists for more information — info@outofboundstours.com **

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