(Source: https://pixabay.com/ru/photos/озеро-тростник-закат-пейзаж-696098)

Ilmen is a large lake located in the Novgorod region. About 50 rivers flow into it. It used to be a trade route, while now  it is a popular holiday destination.

Features of the lake

There are many different versions of the origin of the name of the reservoir. Some believe that the word has Finnish roots and it translates as a lake of bad weather. The lake could have earned such a nickname because of the whims of nature; a strong wind often blows here causing storms. There are no separate islands on the lake, and this contributes to the formation of large waves. Lake Ilmen also impressed our distant ancestors, it is not for nothing that it is mentioned in the works of Russian folk art: in the cycle of epics about Sadko - the Novgorod guslar.

The length of Lake Ilmen is approximately 45 km, the width is about 35 km. You can feel the scope of this endless lake if you stand at one of the shores and look into the distance, no matter how hard you try, you will not see the opposite shore. The depth of the reservoir reaches 10 meters, it is believed that Ilmen is gradually drying up, because before it was three times deeper.

On the southwestern coast, near the village of Korostyn, you can observe an interesting natural monument - Ilmensky glint. This is the name of the limestone cliffs, which stretch for about 10 km along the shore of the lake and give it additional attractiveness.

Vacations

The picturesque lake is visited by many vacationers, especially summer time. The shores of the lake are swampy in many places; reeds grow abundantly along them, so you will have to look for a comfortable place for swimming. You can find both sandy and pebbly beaches. The color of the lake water is yellowish-brown, but this is not associated with pollution, this shade arises from the presence of peat. The water here is really clean. This is due to its constant and natural renewal thanks to the circulation of the rivers flowing into the lake.

Hiking is no less interesting, the nature in the area is truly beautiful. Walking through the forest, you can pick up mushrooms and berries. You can also purchase organic products from local residents.

Recreation centers

You can enjoy your rest in equipped recreation centers. The bases are located not only on the banks of the lake, but also near the rivers flowing into it. Wooden houses are in harmony with the surrounding nature and provide comfort with modern amenities  both in summer and in winter. In summer, you can also camp in a tent at some of the bases. You can either cook your own food in the kitchen or in the barbecue area, or eat in a cafe located on the territory of the bases. Recreation areas offer various types of entertainment - boat rental, fishing, baths, mini-farms, paintball, laser tag, rope parks have been created for children at some bases. Excursion tours are also organized. They introduce the rich history of Veliky Novgorod and its environs, the traditions and crafts of the peoples living on the territory.

In winter, recreation   is no less exciting:  ice skating, sleigh rides, snowmobiles, etc.

Fishing

Fans of fishing will definitely like the lake. Winter fishing is no less popular; at this time, perch is the main object of fishing.

Weather

Summer on Lake Ilmen and in its vicinity is not hot, the water in the lake warms up best in July and August. Winds are frequent guests of this area, which is due to the change of air masses. Winter is usually mild here, spring is cold and long, and autumn is warm.