Ratamka: Church, Equestrian Sports and Routes by the Water

For a stay in Ratamka, three main areas of interest can be distinguished: the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, routes to bodies of water, and equestrian sports. When it comes to horse-related activities, the timing is important: a competition took place in October 2024; there are also tours and riding activities.

The Church of Saints Peter and Paul

The Church of Saints Peter and Paul stands on a hill among old trees. It was built in the late 1990s on the grounds of a former children's home. Mosaic icons shape the exterior, while the interior features intricately carved wooden furnishings. The church's history, location and distinct design features can therefore be considered as separate aspects.

Routes to the Water and the Regional Landscape

A route from Ratamka leads to a small reservoir on the Ratamka River, built between Kryzhovka and Ratamka. The route can continue to Ratamski Bay on the water reservoir, considered the deepest and largest bay of this reservoir. The route description thus covers both the small reservoir and a possible continuation to the bay. Before setting out, check the route and local access conditions, as they may change.

The water reservoir in the wider area around Ratamka is popularly known as Minsk Sea. It was created in 1956 after the floodplain of the Ratamka River was inundated. The forest area between the Ratamka and Chernushka rivers is also in the wider area and is home to more than 500 plant species, including eleven species on the Red List of Belarus. For the current conservation status of these species, check the relevant nature conservation information.

Equestrian Sports and Visitor Activities

From October 7 to 14, 2024, the Republican Center for Olympic Training in Equestrian Sports and Horse Breeding in Ratamka hosted the dressage competitions of Maxima Masters Eurasia MME Belarus. The program included international dressage competitions for juniors, young riders and children. This dated competition is a historical reference point for equestrian sports in Ratamka.

A one-hour tour is offered for primary school groups. It includes the riding school, watching training, the stables and contact with horses. The center also offers riding for visitors of all ages and instruction in basic horse-handling skills. Confirm dates and availability before your visit.

The Believe equestrian club in Ratamka offers guided rides in the forest; each ride lasts 45 minutes. It is also advisable to confirm availability for this activity in advance. For comparison, the group tour lasts one hour and the guided ride 45 minutes; the tour is also aimed at primary school groups, while riding is offered to visitors of all ages.

Ratamka also has a museum of equestrian sports and horse breeding. Check in advance whether and when it is currently open to visitors.

Discover more destinations: Astrašycki Haradok, Zaslauje.

For the broader travel guide: Minsk District.