Shatsky Lakes are located on the territory of Shatsky Natural Park and form one of the largest constellations of lakes in Europe, numbering over 30 lakes. This unique natural complex’s main treasure is the lake Svityaz – the second largest natural water reservoir in Ukraine and one of the country’s deepest lakes. The lake is saturated by artesian springs and therefore its water is perfectly transparent and well-heated. Combined with clean sandy beaches, it makes this place a perfect family recreation spot. In addition, the climate is very comfortable here: thanks to lighted forests, summer heat is hardly felt on the park’s territory.
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There is a huge island right in the middle of Svityaz Lake. It is popularly known as the Island of Love. The locals often tell an ancient legend, according to which, there is just one way to wade to the island. Whoever finds it and reaches the island will be lucky in love. Another legend states that a marvelous castle used to stand here, but, when strangers attacked, it sank under the water. Later an incredibly beautiful lake spread on castle’s place.
Read: The Tunnel of Love: Natural Wonder in Ukraine
Shatsky Lakes also offer a range of varied recreation and leisure options. You can choose to go fishing (dozens of fish species, including bass, pike, bream, catfish and even eel, inhabit the lake’s waters) or gathering mushrooms and berries, which grow in abundance in Volyn forests; go out boating or sailing a yacht on the lake and admire local natural wonders or ride horses on the park’s territory.
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However, the most interesting way to see the Shatsky National Natural Park’s sights is to go on a guided tour along one of its environmental and educational trails. Along with protected areas, the park also has a recreation zone with many holiday houses, with roads, parking lots and tent camps. Yearly, thousands of Ukrainian and foreign tourists come here to admire the incredible primeval nature, improve their health and just have a great holiday time. The most convenient way to get here is from Kovel or Lutsk.
Enjoy pure natural beauty at Shatsky Lakes and Natural Park!
