Valaam in Lake Ladoga

Russia's largest lake, Ladoga, lies a five hour drive away from Petrozavodsk. Out in the middle of the Lake is an island on which the monastery Valaam lies. The monastery is still inhabited by monks and they show tourists around the special church, icons and other treasures. Valaam is a great cultural and historical attraction in Northern Russia. Located on an island in Lake Ladoga the Valaam monastery is run by monks who show visitors around the unique churches, icons and other treaures. The Russian Orthodox monastery has owned the island for over 600 years, while the monastery itself was built over 1000 years ago making it Russia’s oldest monastery. The monastery is understandably the main attraction on the island but the beautiful surroundings including coves and beaches and other monuments are well worth exploring. A trip to Valaam will certainly make an impression on you not only because it is different from other monasteries but especially because it lies on an island. You can either take a day trip to Valaam or extend your excursion by staying overnight in the small town of Sortavala located on the edge of Lake Ladoga.



More things to do and see
» Solovki
» Kivach - Nature reserve
» Kizhi Island
» Petrozavodsk city tour

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