Zmeinogorsk district in the Altai Territory has always been famous for its unique natural features and a promising territory for the development of the tourism industry. A significant role for this area is played by Kolyvan Lake. It is deservedly called a comprehensive natural monument.
Lake location
Kolyvan Lake is located at the very slope of the Kolyvan Range, and the village of Savushki is located three kilometers from it. It is one of the largest bodies of water in the southwestern territory of the Altai Territory. Its length is about four kilometers, its width is more than two, and its depth reaches 28 meters.
Very often, tourists call Lake Kolyvan Savushkin. This name appeared because of the nearby village of the same name. Not far from Kolyvan is also White Lake. And this whole area is called Mountain Kolyvana.
The best way to get to the lake is to visit the village of Savushki. Turning east, barely reaching the center of this village, you will see the road leading to the reservoir. This route is most often chosen by tourists to visit their favorite vacation spots.
Unique phenomenon
Of course, Kolyvan Lake is famous not only for its indescribable beauty. The fact is that its shores are framed by cliffs in the form of various figures. Thanks to the human imagination, for some they become similar to majestic columns, huge palaces, fabulous animals, and even human faces. Scientists explain their formation as a consequence of the movement of waves of the ancient sea, which was once located on the territory of the West Siberian Lowland, as well as the natural process of weathering. This phenomenon is unique to the Altai Territory. The lake itself is often called a blue gem, set in unusual cliffs.
Water value
Beautiful, calm, and most importantly - unusually clean today Kolyvan lake. Reviews of its beauty and purity of its waters are numerous and truthful. Confirmation is the presence in the lake of a rare water nut (chillim), which is listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation and is on the verge of extinction. This is a relic plant, which began its existence in the preglacial period. In Altai, chilim is also found in Lake Manzherok and some small lakes. This water chestnut contains a lot of protein and starch. Previously, it was not only eaten, but also was the basis for talismans and amulets. Chillim shells make excellent souvenirs. Similar to little devils with horns, they are present not only in the water area, but also on the shores of Lake Kolyvan.
Tourism
Of course, the local authorities are trying to financially contribute to the development of active tourism that swept Lake Kolyvan. Recreation facilities located in the surrounding area are trying to provide vacationers maximum comfort and coziness.
And even in the cold season there is something to do, as you can have a great time in the Zmeinogorsky ski resort, which has three ski slopes with lifts.
The obligation to organize excursions in the Mountain Kolyvan lies with the Museum of the History of the Development of Mining. A. Demidova in the city of Zmeinogorsk, which, in turn, is the best in Altai.
Today, the lake is actively contributing to the development of wild tourism. There are many beautiful places for lovers of a relaxing family holiday or fishing enthusiasts. However, getting to such wonderful places is quite difficult. In these cases, either hiking or powerful SUVs are suitable.
Recreation facilities
On the territory of Gorny Kolyvan there are also tourist camps that perfectly complement the holidays of those who visit Kolyvan Lake - “Sunny Beach”, “Golden Fish”, “Edelweiss”, “Azure”, “Pearl”. All of them are trying to provide vacationers with the necessary amenities, entertainment, and wellness treatments.
So, the camp "Sunny Beach" has 13 houses for up to fifty people, as well as two saunas. In addition, ATV rental services are provided on the lake shore, interesting excursions are organized, there are aquazorb and bungee.
On the territory of the sanatorium "Lazurny" there are 16 houses accommodating up to 70 tourists. There is a sauna and a fast food cafe, as well as wellness services for vacationers, such as massage and phytobarrel.
Lake Vacation Reviews
Most of the people who visited Kolyvan Lake respond with genuine admiration. Its main advantages are magnificent nature and rocky piles.
The lake itself is an amazingly beautiful place. Its beaches are strewn with rather coarse sand, and farther from the coast the bottom becomes muddy. The water is very clean and warm.
The lake is ideal for fishing lovers. Crucian carp, pike, tench, perch, roach and ruffe are found in it.
The disadvantages noted by vacationers include the not very close location of shops and a small selection of products in them. However, all this fades into the background compared to the unforgettable, extraordinary beauty of Lake Kolyvan.