Belarus is dotted with lakes that shape local life and landscapes, from fishing villages to quiet forest shores. Many are easy to reach and give a good sense of the country’s freshwater habitats.
There are 8 Lakes in Belarus, ranging from Chervonoye to Vygonoshchanskoye. For each lake the information is organized as Region,Area (km²),Notable; you’ll find below.
How were these lakes selected for the list?
The selection balances size, regional significance and available reliable data, so the list includes both larger well-known lakes and smaller ones noted for ecology or local use; the table’s Region,Area (km²),Notable fields explain why each made the list.
Are these lakes generally open to visitors and what should I check before going?
Many are publicly accessible with swimming, fishing or trails, but some lie in protected zones or on private land and may have restrictions—check local rules, seasonal closures and permit requirements, and use the Notable column below for access hints.
Lakes in Belarus
| Name | Region | Area (km²) | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Narach | Minsk Region (Myadzyel) | 79.6 | Largest lake in Belarus; major resort and recreation area |
| Osveya | Vitebsk Region | 52.8 | Second-largest; remote northern lake with clear waters |
| Lukomlskoye | Vitebsk Region (Novolukoml) | 37.7 | Large reservoir serving power station; fishing and boating |
| Dryvyaty (Drivyaty) | Vitebsk Region (Braslav) | 36.1 | Part of Braslav Lakes National Park; scenic and popular |
| Snudy | Vitebsk Region (Braslav) | 22.8 | Braslav Lakes cluster; popular for boating and fishing |
| Vygonoshchanskoye | Brest Region | 26.8 | Large Polesie lake; important wetlands and biodiversity |
| Strusta | Vitebsk Region (Braslav) | 17.2 | Clear waters and developed tourist infrastructure |
| Chervonoye | Gomel Region | 24.0 | Extensive reedbeds and notable birdlife habitat |
Images and Descriptions
Narach
Lake Narach is the largest lake in Belarus. It sits in northern Minsk Region inside Narachanski National Park. The lake has clear water, sandy beaches, and islands. It serves as a main destination for swimming, boating, and birdwatching, so it appears on lists of notable Belarus lakes.
Osveya
Lake Osveya stands in northeastern Belarus near the border with Russia. It ranks among the country’s largest lakes and has a rugged shoreline and many islands. The lake supports good fishing and quiet nature visits. It appears often in regional lake guides.
Lukomlskoye
Lake Lukomlskoye lies near the town of Lukoml in northern Belarus. It is a large inland lake with mixed sandy and marshy shores. The lake supports local fishing and small boating. It is notable for its size and role in regional water systems.
Dryvyaty (Drivyaty)
Lake Dryvyaty (Drivyaty) is part of the Braslav Lakes area in Vitebsk Region. It has many bays and islands and clear water. The lake suits sailing, fishing, and nature walks. It appears on lists of notable lakes because of its scenery and recreational use.
Snudy
Lake Snudy sits among the Braslav Lakes chain in northern Belarus. It has a varied shoreline with bays and small islands. The lake offers good fishing and calm waters for rowing or kayaking. It often features in guides to Belarus’s most scenic lakes.
Vygonoshchanskoye
Lake Vygonoshchanskoye lies in a lowland area with surrounding wetlands. The lake and nearby bogs form important habitat for birds and wetland plants. It supports limited recreation and scientific study. The lake is included for its ecological value.
Strusta
Lake Strusta is a medium-size lake with clear water and sandy beaches. It attracts local swimmers, anglers, and small-boat users. The lake sits within a mixed forest and farmland landscape. It is listed for its recreational appeal and easy access.
Chervonoye
Lake Chervonoye is a peat-influenced lake with darker water and marshy edges. It supports rich wetland vegetation and provides habitat for waterfowl and amphibians. The lake draws interest for nature study and birdwatching. It is included for its ecological and habitat value.
