Suzdal Lakes beach
Suzdal Lakes is a picturesque natural area in the northern part of St. Petersburg and a popular holiday destination for citizens. During Soviet times, a cozy holiday village named "Ozerki" was established there, where the local bohemia would gather for the summer. Now, the territory is being actively developed with luxurious mansions belonging to representatives of the modern elite, who, shamelessly, protect their properties with high fences, thereby blocking ordinary citizens' access to the water.
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Beach description
Suzdal Lakes are a picturesque chain of three interconnected reservoirs. Verkhnee Lake, the most popular among tourists, is conveniently situated just a five-minute walk from the "Ozerki" metro station. It boasts a length of 600 meters and a width of 450 meters.
This idyllic spot is perfect for swimming, featuring a stunning sandy beach embraced by fragrant pine trees. The water depth near the shore does not exceed three meters, ensuring a safe environment closely monitored by vigilant lifeguards. For added safety, comfortable swimming areas are cordoned off with buoys, while risk areas are clearly indicated with warning signs. The beach comes well-equipped with amenities such as toilets, changing rooms, picnic pavilions, and shopping tents. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, including water sports, beach volleyball, tennis, and boat rentals. Anglers will be delighted to know that the lake is teeming with fish, promising an excellent fishing experience.
During the peak of the summer season and on weekends, the atmosphere is vibrant and bustling with noise, music, and lively chatter. The scent of pine needles occasionally mingles with the smoke from campfires. Those seeking a more tranquil retreat often opt for Srednee Lake, which is less crowded.
Although slightly smaller than Verkhnee Lake, Srednee Lake features a hilly, sandy coastline with a comfortable and secure bottom. Lifeguards are also present to ensure the safety of swimmers. The lake is bordered by a sports training base, offering lessons in windsurfing, wakeboarding, and water skiing. Boating and fishing are additional activities available for guests.
Nizhnee Lake, the largest of the trio, stretches over two kilometers. Swimming is prohibited due to its proximity to the Shuvalov cemetery; however, it remains a delightful place for a leisurely stroll along the shore, especially to admire the breathtaking sunsets. Regrettably, a significant portion of the area suffers from unregulated development, and the once-pristine wild beaches are now marred by litter and household waste left by inconsiderate visitors.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Baltic coast of Russia for a beach vacation is during the summer months, specifically from June to August. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for enjoying the seaside.
- June - The beginning of summer brings milder temperatures and longer days, perfect for beach activities and exploring the coastal towns.
- July - Typically the warmest month, July offers the best chance for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The water temperature is also at its most comfortable.
- August - While still warm, August signals the end of the peak season. Visitors can enjoy the warm weather with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a more relaxed vacation.
It's important to note that the Baltic coast can be quite unpredictable, and even during these months, the weather can change rapidly. Therefore, it's advisable to check the forecast and pack accordingly. Regardless of the month you choose, the Baltic coast's unique charm and beauty are sure to provide a memorable beach vacation.
Video: Beach Suzdal Lakes
Infrastructure
The surroundings of the Suzdal Lakes are densely populated with country houses, elite cottages, and multi-storey residential complexes. Roads lead to all water bodies, and in some places, you can park your car right on the shore. There are hiking and cycling routes along the woodland. Additionally, the area boasts sports grounds, a ropes course, and a club for horse riding.
You can stay at the three-star Sunpark Hotel for a few days. Located on the shore of Srednee Lake, it offers cozy, quiet rooms with picturesque views, an on-site restaurant featuring excellent cuisine, children's play areas, private parking, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The hotel's highlight is an artificial wave for surfing, created in the indoor pool within the complex. During summer, guests can enjoy wakeboarding, windsurfing, and water skiing on the lake at a substantial discount. In winter, they can partake in skiing, snowboarding, and skating. The hotel is pet-friendly and provides complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.
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Despite the fact that Suzdal lakes are one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Northern part of St. Petersburg, the water quality and the environmental situation leaves much to be desired. In 2018, a number of measures were carried out to clean up the lakes and surrounding areas, which, unfortunately, did not have the proper result.
Suzdal lakes did not enter the list of reservoirs safe for swimming again in 2019. The main cause of pollution of the water area is uncontrolled development of the coastal area, which was given to private business. In the pursuit of profit, merchants do not pay attention to the ecological state of the Suzdal lakes, which, if you do not take urgent measures, will soon face a very sad fate.