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. With its complex history, diverse geography, and beautiful architecture, it is one of those travel destinations that you can explore any time of the year. But if you travel to Belarus in summer, make sure to visit its beautiful Blue Lakes.
Chalky Lakes or Blue Lakes (both names have their own meanings, but I’ll explain it a little bit later) is a very beautiful and interesting place. When I first started writing this blogpost, I was not sure how to describe the nature of these Blue Lakes in Belarus. Cultural landscape?.. Oxford Dictionaries defines “cultural landscape” as “a landscape modified by the effects of human activity, such as farming, building, etc. (as opposed to a natural landscape).” By now, I am convinced this is the best explanation for this type of lakes.
History of Blue Lakes in Belarus
Blue Lakes in Belarus started their existence by mere accident. Over ten years ago, digging gravel for construction took place in this area. Somehow, workers miscalculated the depth of the pit and dug it way too deep. Water came out and filled up the pit. Unfortunately, the digging activities had to be stopped and never resumed. The place, however, slowly but surely, turned into a local phenomenon. Thus, one human mistake gave life to three beautiful lakes with such blue waters that it almost leaves you speechless.
Let’s go back to the question about the names of the lakes. The blue color of water gave Blue Lakes in Belarus their first name. The second name, Chalky Lakes, comes from the fact that this area is rich in chalk and white clay that keep water very clean. And people know exactly what to do with this highly beneficial white clay. When visiting the lakes, do not be surprised to see vacationers on the shores completely covered with clay. Why not? You can get benefits of super expensive spa treatments for free, after all. Swimming though is not allowed at these beautiful Blue Lakes in Belarus.
