Sharkawshchyna

Sharkawshchyna (Шаркаўшчына) is an urban-type settlement of about 6,500 people in northwestern Viciebskaja voblasć, located on the Dzisna River. First mentioned in the 16th century, it was a private town of the Zawisza noble family. The settlement is known for its beautiful 17th-century Church of the Assumption, a fine example of Belarusian Baroque architecture. The surrounding lake region is pristine. The climate is continental: warm summers (17–23°C) and cold winters (−5 to −10°C).

By Plane

Vilnius Airport (VNO, Lithuania) is about 170 km southwest. Minsk National Airport (MSQ) is about 200 km south.

By Train

Sharkawshchyna has a railway station on the Krulewshchyna–Lyntupy line, with trains from Minsk (3.5 hr, BYN 9–13).

By Car / Road

From Minsk, take the P3 north through Hlybokaye — about 180 km (2.5 hr). Roads are fair. Buses from Minsk run 1–2 times daily (3.5 hr, BYN 13).

The settlement is walkable.

• Church of the Assumption (Касцёл Унебаўзяцця Найсвяцейшай Дзевы Марыі) — A magnificent 17th-century Baroque church with twin towers and ornate interior decoration.

• Dzisna River — A scenic river with walking paths along its banks.

• Local History Museum — Exhibits on the Zawisza family and local traditions.

• Photograph the Baroque church.

• Walk along the Dzisna River.

• Café "Sharkawshchyna" — Basic meals. Mains BYN 8–12.

• Budget: "Sharkawshchyna" guesthouse — basic rooms from BYN 25/night.

• Hlybokaye (50 km SE) — Baroque Carmelite monastery.
• Pastavy (50 km SE) — Neo-Gothic church.
• Braslaw (50 km N) — Lake district.
• Miyory (30 km NE) — Lake reserve.
• Disna (35 km NW) — Small historic town.