Augustow Canal

The Augustow Canal is a unique hydraulic structure on the territory of Belarus, created by human hands. This is a shipping canal that connects the Vistula and Nyoman rivers.

Along with the Caledonian Canal in Scotland (UK) and the Göta Canal in Sweden, it is one of the largest canals in Europe. Its length is almost 102 km, 79 of which flow through the territory of Poland and 22 through the lands of Belarus. The canal included 11 rivers and 7 lakes, as well as several locks and bridges.

Tourists flock here from all over the world to see the majesty of the canal. It rightfully bears the name of a monument of hydraulic engineering architecture and is included in the list of preliminary UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Augustow Canal fits harmoniously into the natural landscape of Belarus and runs through the most picturesque places. Traveling along it, whether on foot, by boat or ferry, you can admire the valleys and forests. Around the canal lies the Grodno Pushcha - a relict forest in which trees with a 200-year history grow. The flora and fauna here is also very unique. Several dozen species of rare animals and birds live in the vicinity of the canal. A particularly important resident of the Grodno region is the black stork, which you will not find anywhere else. In the depths of impenetrable thickets there are bears, wolves and lynxes, deer and roe deer, as well as hardworking carpenters - beavers. In the waters of the canal you can find trout, grayling and even barbel - a species listed on the pages of the Red Book.

On the banks of the Augustow Canal you can arrange both family and corporate holidays. Lovers of solitude and silence come to relax with tents, have barbecues and simply admire nature. You cannot swim in the waters of the canal - there are no equipped beaches here, since the canal is still intended for navigation. But finding a lot of gazebos, barbecues and tables is not a problem.

After a swim on the boat, you can rent a catamaran, kayak or yacht to explore the surrounding area on your own. Hikers will not remain indifferent either. It's full of colorful trails that you can explore on foot or by bike.

The Augustow Canal is a meeting place for many peoples and large-scale celebrations:

· “Augustovsky Canal in the Culture of Three Nations” is a festival that is held every year in August. Musicians, ensembles and craftsmen come here, each of whom wants to share their art.

· “The Augustow Canal invites friends” is a May festival of folk art, where you can visit an exhibition, master a craft or enjoy the taste of Belarusian cuisine.

· “Neman Spring” is an annual sports competition for boaters and kayakers, which has been held since the end of the 20th century.

· “Susedzi” – a cycling marathon in July, uniting all cycling and sports enthusiasts from Belarus, Poland and Lithuania.