Zmeinogorsky district in the Altai Territory has always been famous for its unique natural features and promising territory for the development of the tourism industry. The Kolyvan Lake also plays a significant role in this area. It is deservedly called a complex monument of nature.
Location of the lake
Kolyvan Lake is located on the very slope of the Kolyvan Range, and three kilometers from it is the village of Savushki. It is one of the largest reservoirs 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 Kolyvan Lake Savushkin. This name appeared because of the nearby village of the same name. Not far from Kolyvansky there is also White Lake. And this whole area is called Gornaya Kolyvanya.
The best way to get to the lake is to visit Savushki village. Turning east, barely reaching the center of this village, you will see a road leading to the reservoir. It is thisthe route most often chosen by tourists to visit their favorite holiday destinations.
A unique phenomenon
Of course, Kolyvan Lake is famous not only for its indescribable beauty. The point is also that its shores are framed by rocks in the form of various figures. Thanks to the human imagination, for some they take on the resemblance to majestic columns, huge palaces, fabulous animals, and even human forms. Scientists explain their formation as a consequence of the movement of the 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 for the Altai Territory. The lake itself is often referred to as a blue gem set in extraordinary rocks.
The value of water
Beautiful, calm, and most importantly - unusually clean and today Kolyvanskoye Lake. Reviews about its beauty and the purity of its waters are numerous and true. A confirmation is the presence in the lake of a rare water chestnut (chilim), which is listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation and is on the verge of extinction. This is a relic plant that began its existence in the pre-glacial 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. Chilim shells make excellent souvenirs. Similar to devils with horns, they are present not only in the water area, but also on the shoresLake Kolyvanskoe.
Tourism
Of course, local authorities are trying to financially contribute to the development of active tourism that has engulfed Lake Kolyvan. Recreation centers located in the surrounding area try to provide vacationers with maximum comfort and coziness.
And even in the cold season there is something to do here, as you can have a great time in the Zmeinogorsky ski complex, which has three ski slopes with lifts.
The responsibility for organizing excursions in Gornaya Kolyvan lies with the Museum of the History of the Development of Mining Production. A. Demidov in the city of Zmeinogorsk, which, in turn, is the best in Altai.
Today, the lake actively contributes to the development of wild tourism. There are many beautiful places for lovers of a relaxing family vacation or fishing enthusiasts. However, getting to such wonderful places can be quite difficult. In these cases, either hiking or powerful SUVs are suitable.
Recreation centers
On the territory of Gornaya Kolyvan there are also tourist camps that perfectly complement the rest of those who visit Kolyvan Lake - "Sunny Beach", "Goldfish", "Edelweiss", "Azure", "Pearl". All of them are trying to provide vacationers with the necessary amenities, entertainment, and wellness treatments.
Thus, the hostel "Sunny Beach" has 13 houses, designed to accommodate fifty people, as well as two saunas. In addition, onATV rental services are provided on the shore of the lake, interesting excursions are organized, there are aquazorbs and a bungee.
On the territory of the sanatorium "Azure" there are 16 houses that can accommodate up to 70 tourists. There is also a sauna and a fast food cafe, as well as wellness services for vacationers, such as massage and a herbal barrel.
Reviews about the rest on the lake
Most of the people who visited the Kolyvan Lake speak of it with genuine admiration. Its main advantages are the magnificent nature and rock heaps.
The lake itself is an amazingly beautiful place. Its beaches are strewn with rather coarse sand, and further from the coast the bottom becomes muddy. The water is very clean and warm.
The lake is also ideal for fishing enthusiasts. Carp, pike, tench, perch, roach and ruff 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.
