Augustow Canal: what attracts tourists to the water pearl of the region and what holidays will delight guests here this tourist season
One of the main tourist brands of our country - the Augustow Canal - impresses with the unsurpassed beauty of natural landscapes, its pristine nature and, of course, its rich history. It has become a real attraction zone for tourists, not only domestic, but also foreign. It is hard to believe that even 19 years ago these places were abandoned and deserted. January 8, 2004, when the Head of State signed the Decree "On the organization of work on the reconstruction of a part of the Augustow Canal", became a breath of fresh air for the desolated facility.
For an interesting, eventful and unforgettable holiday for visitors, recreation areas are equipped here, bicycle routes are laid, boat, catamaran and bicycle rentals are available, and boat trips "Neman" and "Olga Solomova" are organized. The infrastructure is constantly being improved. The pearl of the Prynemansky region has turned into a real territory of holidays, sporting events and all kinds of festivals.
Tourist routes
One day will not be enough to enjoy the splendor of the Augustow Canal, to admire its beauties. This is known to everyone who has ever visited the water artery. It is not surprising that much attention is paid to the development of transport and tourism infrastructure here. Representatives of local farmsteads, adherents of outdoor recreation can set up tents on the banks of the canal.
There are several ways to explore the surroundings of the water area: by choosing a boat trip, kayaking or bicycles. For example, for lovers of two-wheeled transport, special routes are provided, following which, it is possible to get acquainted with the features of a hydraulic facility, see nearby sights - fortifications from the war, the palace and park complex in Svyatsk or the Radzivilki manor and park complex.
“Today, close attention is paid to the issues of patriotic education of young people in the country. The Augustow Canal is a unique object in this respect. The former 4th border outpost of the 86th August border detachment in the village of Dorgun, pillboxes, forts of the Grodno fortress during the First World War, located in its vicinity, are examples that contribute to the education of patriotic feelings, remind us of the terrible times of military hard times and that why peace is so important, - says Tatyana Lidyaeva, deputy head of the sports and tourism department of the Grodno regional executive committee. - The Grodno regional executive committee has developed a tourist route to places of military glory with an animation program. The plans include the restoration of pedestrian routes No. 406 “The war began here” and No. 407 “Grodno fortified area”.
Of course, excursions to the Volovichi palace and park ensemble in Svyatsk, the Svyatsk Gursky estate and park complex, the Pysanka Museum in Sopotskin, and the Belarusian Towel Museum in Zarechanka will give positive impressions to tourists.
- The caretaker's house at the Kurkul lock, the museum of the history of the Augustow Canal, located in the caretaker's house at the Dombrovka lock, are also popular. A kind of entrance gate to the Augustow Canal is Sopotskin. A tourist information center has been opened in the town, where you can find out interesting details about each attraction, and they will prompt you with the necessary information about all tour routes. A certified guide works here, - emphasizes Tatyana Lidyaeva.
Holiday marathon
The Augustow Canal is a popular place with vacationers and tourists. Various cultural events and sports competitions help to maintain interest in him and add variety to his “life”. Many of them have become traditional and have already fallen in love with the guests. The current tourist season promises to be full of exciting and colorful events.
As Tatyana Lidyaeva said, the planned marathon of events was launched on May 27. It will start its bright holiday of folk art "August Canal invites friends."
No less expected for the residents and guests of the Grodno region for several years in a row is the “Sea Festival”. In early August, it gathers lovers of unusual spectacles. The swamp football championship, the swim “On anything” are the signature features of the festival, where everyone can find entertainment to their liking.
Visitors also like such mass holidays as “Kupalye”, “August Fresh”, because they are always filled with positive, give explosive emotions and impressions. At the end of summer, the branded event "August Canal in the Culture of Three Nations" will delight. During the festival, representatives of creative teams from the Grodno region demonstrate the national flavor of Belarusian, Lithuanian and Polish cultures.
It became a canal and a venue for sporting events. The Susedzі cycling marathon will be held here, cycling enthusiasts and masters will be united by the Gran Fondo road cycling race and others.
BY THE WAY
Next year, the Augustow Canal will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the start of construction.