Braslav Lakes National Park | National Parks Association

Braslav Lakes Overview

Braslav Lakes National Park is located in the Vitebsk Region of northern Belarus, near the borders with Latvia and Lithuania. Established in 1995, the park covers an area of approximately 270 square miles (700 square kilometers) and is renowned for its picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and diverse ecosystems. The park is part of the larger Braslav Lakes region, known as one of the most beautiful and ecologically rich areas in Belarus.

The landscape of Braslav Lakes National Park is shaped by the last glacial period, which left behind a series of rolling hills, deep valleys, and more than 30 glacial lakes. These lakes, including Lake Drivyaty (the largest), Snudy, and Strusto, are interconnected by rivers and streams, forming a stunning network of waterways that provide breathtaking scenery. The lakes vary in size and depth, with clear, pristine waters that are a magnet for tourists and nature enthusiasts. Forests, wetlands, and meadows are also scattered across the park, creating a varied landscape.

The vegetation in the park is highly diverse due to the different habitats it encompasses. The forests are dominated by pine, spruce, and birch trees, while the meadows and wetlands support a variety of grasses, wildflowers, and aquatic plants. The park is home to several rare plant species, including orchids, as well as abundant mosses and ferns in the damper areas.

The wildlife in Braslav Lakes National Park is rich and varied. The lakes and wetlands are home to numerous species of fish, including pike, perch, and bream, attracting anglers. Mammals such as elk, wild boar, and foxes roam the forests and grasslands, while bird species like cranes, eagles, and herons make the park a prime location for birdwatching. The park’s mix of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems supports a high level of biodiversity, making it a vital conservation area.

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Braslav Lakes National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Popular Species

Braslav Lakes National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, featuring a variety of wildlife species that thrive in its forests, lakes, and wetlands.

Elk are the largest mammals in the park, often seen grazing in forest clearings and near lakes, providing a majestic presence in the landscape.

Red deer are commonly found in the park’s woodlands and meadows, known for their impressive antlers and grazing habits during the early morning and late evening hours.

Wild boars are resilient foragers, often seen rooting through the park’s forests for nuts, berries, and roots, leaving behind characteristic signs of their activity.

Roe deer are agile and shy herbivores that are frequently spotted in the park’s forests and meadows, known for their fast and nimble movements.

Foxes are adaptable predators that hunt small mammals, birds, and insects in both open areas and forested parts of the park, often seen at dawn or dusk.

Beavers are common in the park’s waterways, where they build dams and lodges, creating important wetland habitats that support various other species.

Wolves are elusive predators in the park, forming packs to hunt larger prey like deer and wild boar, though they are rarely seen by visitors.

European hares are fast herbivores often found in the park’s open fields and meadows, feeding on grasses and plants, using their speed to avoid predators.

Otters are semi-aquatic mammals frequently spotted near the park’s lakes and rivers, known for their playful behavior and skill in hunting fish.

Minks are small, semi-aquatic predators that hunt fish, small mammals, and birds along the park’s lakeshores and wetland areas.

Bird Species

Braslav Lakes National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with diverse bird species that thrive in its wetlands, forests, and around the lakes.

White storks are iconic birds of the park, often seen in open fields and wetlands, hunting for amphibians, insects, and small mammals.

Grey herons are elegant wading birds commonly found along the lakes and wetlands, using their long legs to wade through shallow waters in search of fish.

Cranes are tall, graceful birds often seen in the park’s meadows and wetlands, known for their loud calls and impressive courtship displays.

Eagles are powerful raptors seen soaring above the park’s forests and lakes, hunting for fish, small mammals, and birds with their sharp talons.

Kingfishers are brightly colored birds found along the park’s rivers and lakes, diving swiftly into the water to catch fish and small aquatic creatures.

Great crested grebes are striking water birds that are often spotted on the park’s lakes, known for their elegant mating dances and expert diving abilities.

Ospreys are large fish-eating raptors that nest near the park’s lakes, often seen hovering above the water before diving to catch fish.

Coots are small, dark water birds that inhabit the park’s lakes and ponds, using their strong legs to swim and dive in search of aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Swans are graceful water birds commonly seen gliding across the park’s lakes, feeding on aquatic vegetation and small invertebrates.

Terns are agile water birds that often fly over the park’s lakes, diving into the water to catch fish, their sharp calls echoing around the wetlands.

Braslav Lakes National Park Pictures

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Engaging Braslav Lake

Boating & Kayaking

Braslav Lakes National Park is known for its pristine lakes, making it a prime destination for boating and kayaking. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, or small boats to explore the interconnected lakes and enjoy the serene beauty of the crystal-clear waters.

As you paddle, you’ll pass by picturesque islands and lush forested shorelines, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as birds, fish, and even otters. Boating through the lakes allows for a peaceful and immersive experience, with the tranquility of nature surrounding you.

Fishing Excursions

Braslav Lakes is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish species, including pike, perch, and bream.

Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or a beginner, the park offers guided fishing tours that take you to the best spots. Fishing is a popular activity for both locals and tourists, providing a relaxing way to connect with the natural environment while enjoying the peaceful lakeside setting.

Hiking

The park features a network of scenic trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along the shores of its many lakes. Hiking is an ideal way to experience the park’s diverse landscapes, with trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks.

Along the way, visitors can discover stunning viewpoints, wildflower meadows, and the rich biodiversity that thrives in the park. Nature walks often provide opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, foxes, and various bird species.

Related National Parks

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Sources

Belarus (Gov), Braslav Lakes National Park, https://www.belarus.by/en/about-belarus/natural-history/braslavskiye-ozera, retrieved August 2024.
Belarus Travel, Braslav Lakes National Park, https://en.belarus.travel/news/braslav-lakes-national-park, retrieved August 2024.
Park Site, Braslav Lakes National Park, https://braslavpark.by/en/, retrieved August 2024.
To Belarus, Braslav Lakes National Park, https://tobelarus.com/tourism-in-belarus/national-parks/70-braslavlakes.html, retrieved August 2024.
Yes Belarus, Braslav Lakes National Park, https://yesbelarus.com/attractions-culture/top-tourist-attractions/braslav-lakes-national-park/, retrieved August 2024.