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Blue Lakes of Lyuban
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The Blue Lakes of Lyuban are a group of artificial water bodies formed from former chalk and limestone quarries near the town of Lyuban. After industrial mining ceased in the second half of the 20th century, the pits filled with groundwater and precipitation. The characteristic turquoise to deep blue coloration of the water results from suspended chalk particles and high mineral content. The lakes are surrounded by dense coniferous forests, creating a stark visual contrast with the white chalk banks and blue water. Due to the steep embankments and the great depth of the pits, swimming is often officially restricted, yet they attract numerous visitors. Geologically, these sites provide an insight into the region's chalk deposits, which were formed millions of years ago.
- Location: Belarus
- Nearby: Lyuban (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -7 | -6 | -1 | 7 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 14 | 7 | 1 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 50 | 41 | 45 | 47 | 78 | 83 | 92 | 68 | 41 | 62 | 52 | 51 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The lakes are located near Lyuban and are typically accessible via country roads, though the final kilometers to the pits often lead over gravel tracks.
Best season
The warm summer months are generally the most popular time for a visit in order to see the intense turquoise water shining brightly under the sunny skies.
Terrain & paths
The terrain around the former chalk pits can be uneven and steeply sloping in parts, which requires surefootedness when walking on the dusty paths around.
What to bring
Sturdy shoes are highly advisable for the uneven banks, as is sun protection, since there is often very little natural shade provided by trees in the area.
Parking
Vehicles are normally left in informal parking spots or on wider roadside verges near the lakes before visitors cover the final short distance on foot.
Safety
Since these are old industrial sites, the banks can be unstable; swimming is mostly not recommended due to unknown depths and mineral residues in the water.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts about one to three hours, which is often sufficient to walk around the lakes, take photos of the fascinating water, and enjoy views.
Geography
Facts
- The lakes are located near the village of Mordvilovichi.
- The maximum depth of some pits reaches up to 30 meters.
- Water transparency often ranges between 3 and 5 meters.
- The pH value of the water is slightly alkaline due to the chalk.
- The slope angles of the banks can be up to 45 degrees.
- The lakes are not an official nature reserve but local landmarks.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is unique about the Blue Lakes of Lyuban?
They are former chalk quarries with turquoise blue water.
Is swimming allowed in the Blue Lakes?
Officially, swimming is often prohibited as the banks can be unstable.
How do you get there?
Best by car from Lyuban or Soligorsk.
Are there tourist facilities there?
There is almost no infrastructure; bring everything you need with you.
When is the water most beautiful?
On sunny summer days, the turquoise color shines most brightly.
Blue Lakes of Lyuban: where is it located?
Blue Lakes of Lyuban is located in Belarus.
Blue Lakes of Lyuban: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Blue Lakes of Lyuban: why is it worth visiting?
The Blue Lakes of Lyuban are a group of artificial water bodies formed from former chalk and limestone quarries near the town of Lyuban.
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