Hidden paradise in Ukraine: Turquoise water, soft white sand and forest escape

Where the Blue Lakes are located and how they formed

The Blue Lakes are in the Zhytomyr region, near Nova Borova, Druzhba, and Radovel. This is not a single lake but a whole system of bodies of water that formed in the place of former quarries.

Natural magic or human footprint?

Like many other uniquely colored lakes in Ukraine, the Blue Lakes are flooded quarries where quartz sand was once extracted.

This sand on the bottom reflects sunlight and gives the water its incredibly rich blue or turquoise hue.

The sand mining process created deep pits, which eventually filled with underground water and turned into true oases of purity and beauty.

The lakes are surrounded by dense pine forests, creating a special atmosphere there. The air is filled with the scent of pine, and the silence is only broken by the sounds of birds.

Why the Blue Lakes of Zhytomyr attract visitors

Otherworldly water color

The main feature of the lakes is their water. It’s so clear and bright that it creates the impression of a tropical resort. Lakes' depth allows the water to shimmer in different shades of blue depending on the lighting.

Clean sandy beaches

The shores are mostly sandy, with soft, light-colored sand, ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, and playing.

Fragrant pine forest

Majestic pines grow around the lakes, providing shade on hot days, purifying the air, and offering perfect conditions for walking or collecting mushrooms and berries during the season.

Tranquility and connection with nature

The Blue Lakes retain their wild beauty thanks to the less developed infrastructure. This is an ideal place for those who want to escape city noise and enjoy solitude.

Tips for visiting the Blue Lakes

The Blue Lakes are perfect for those who prefer wild camping and eco-tourism. There are no luxury hotels or extensive entertainment complexes, but there is everything you need to connect with nature.

How to get there

By car

This is the most convenient way. The drive takes about 2–3 hours (approximately 140–160 km) from Kyiv (via Zhytomyr). It is around 1 hour from Zhytomyr. The roads leading directly to the lakes may be dirt roads, so keep that in mind.

By public transport

You can take a train or bus to Zhytomyr or Korosten, then continue by local transport or taxi to the nearest villages and from there to the lakes. This will take more time and may be less comfortable.

Where to stay

Camping

This is the most popular and essentially the only option. You can pitch a tent on the lake shore or in the forest and enjoy the natural surroundings. Many tourists come here for the weekend with their tents.

Local accommodations

You can stay in private homes in Nova Borova, Radovel, Druzhba, or nearby villages, but places there are limited.

Recreation bases

There are no developed recreation bases right at the lakes. There is a glamping site near the Druzhba quarry.

What to bring

• Everything for camping: tent, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, hiking gear
• Food and drinking water: there are no stores or cafés onsite, so bring everything you need
• Swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat
• Insect repellent: especially important in summer in the evening
• First-aid kit
• Trash bags: please take all your garbage with you! Keeping this unique place clean is the responsibility of every visitor. Locals treasure their forest oasis and kindly ask all tourists to keep it clean.

You may be interested in:

• 10 beautiful places in Ukraine you may not have known about
• Where the power places in Ukraine are located that you should visit at least once in your life

Sources: Wikipedia, Pershyi Zhytomyrskyi, Zhytomyr Journal, Guide.in.ua