Top 10 Lakes around Ingria
Lakes around Ingria, a historical region primarily located in northwestern European Russia, offer diverse aquatic landscapes. The area, largely encompassed by the modern Leningrad Oblast, features vast freshwater bodies and smaller, picturesque lakes. This region is characterized by its significant natural beauty, historical importance, and varied recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around Ingria
- The most popular lakes is Lake Santanel, a lake that is a quiet alpine lake a few steps from the border with the Aosta Valley. It is…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Lago Vercoche
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bivacco Alpe Bellono
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lake Santanel
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Ascent to Colle del Nivolet from Locana
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake La Reale
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Ingria.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Ingria
Tips from the Community
The view just before the hill is magnificent. In early autumn, with the first snow and no one around, it's unique.
0
0
Unforgettable and unmissable climb, with a minimum of preparation and calm, doable by everyone
0
0
The never-ending climb to Colle del Nivolet (2612 m) begins in Locana, in the Orco Valley and takes place within the Gran Paradiso National Park. It is about 40 km long, overcoming almost 2000 meters of altitude difference. The most challenging sections are after Noasca and especially in the magnificent finale between the Serrù and Agnel lakes.
0
0
Alpeggio destination for easy walks, with green meadows, picnic table and lake. Nice to reach with the whole family
2
0
one of the most beautiful lakes in the Aosta Valley, both for its position and for the rocky bottom which makes the water very beautiful to see
0
0
quite isolated lake in a very quiet environment with little traffic
0
0
The Vercoche barrage was built in 1953. Even if it is very low, because it does not reach a height of 2 m, it contains a basin of over 965,000 m3 of water (represented by Lake Vercoche together with Lake Piana, connected to each other) . The significant capacity is given by the considerable depth of Lake Vercoche which, in the centre, reaches 28 metres. The waters of the Vercoche and Piana lakes, released in the winter period in the bed of the Legna torrent, are then withdrawn, with those released from the Miserin lake with the intake work of the Hône 2 plant, on the torrent at an altitude of 1,140 m asl. The most suitable months to go to the barrier are those between May and October.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly lakes to visit around Ingria?
For families, Bivacco Alpe Bellono is an excellent choice, offering easy walks, green meadows, a picnic table, and a lake. The southern shores of Lake Ladoga also feature beautiful sandy beaches suitable for seaside activities and picnics.
Which lakes offer good opportunities for hiking and nature walks?
Lake Ladoga's untouched northern banks provide scenic rock faces and numerous coves for hiking, especially within the Ladoga Skerries National Park. The Oredezh River basin, with lakes like Antonovo, Khvoylovo, and Chiginskoe, offers nature walks along its unique red sandstone banks. Additionally, an eco-route leads to the tranquil Shimpalatovskoye Lake, perfect for a forest walk.
Are there any lakes with significant historical or cultural importance in the Ingria region?
Yes, Lake Ladoga is historically significant as the 'Road of Life' during World War II. It also hosts cultural sites like the Valaam Monastery on Valaam Island and the Konevets Monastery on Konevets Island. Near Shlisselburg, the UNESCO-listed Orechek fortress guards the Neva River mouth. Lake Onega, though partially outside strict Ingria, features Kizhi Island, a UNESCO site with ancient wooden architecture, and ancient petroglyphs on its eastern shores.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes of Ingria?
Lake Ladoga is home to 48 fish species and an endemic Ladoga ringed seal, along with diverse bird species. Lake Onega also boasts 47 fish species and numerous bird species, surrounded by ancient coniferous forests, making it ideal for observing wildlife in the taiga biome.
What outdoor activities are popular near the lakes in Ingria?
Popular activities include boating, sailing, fishing, and birdwatching on Lake Ladoga. The Oredezh River basin is known for paddleboarding. For those interested in land-based activities, there are numerous routes for MTB trails, running trails, and cycling available in the wider Ingria region.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Ingria?
The period between May and October is generally suitable for visiting the lakes, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities. This timeframe is particularly recommended for exploring sites like Lago Vercoche.
Are there any lakes that are good starting points for mountain excursions?
Lake Eugio is noted as a starting point for numerous peaks in its valley, located in a wild mountain setting, making it ideal for those looking to combine lake visits with more challenging mountain adventures.
Where can I find a quiet alpine lake experience?
Lake Santanel offers a quiet alpine lake experience, situated a few steps from the border with the Aosta Valley and reachable via a pleasant walk from Piamprato. It's known for its isolated and tranquil environment.
What unique natural features can be found at the lakes in Ingria?
Lake Ladoga features stunning granite cliffs and islands in the Ladoga Skerries National Park, while its southern shores offer sandy beaches. The Oredezh River basin is notable for its steep, red banks composed of Devonian sandstone, creating picturesque geological formations and small caves.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes of Ingria?
Yes, the southern shores of Lake Ladoga offer beautiful sandy beaches suitable for swimming and other seaside activities. Many other smaller lakes in the region also provide opportunities for wild swimming, depending on local regulations and conditions.
Which lake is known for its depth and unique water appearance?
Lago Vercoche is one of the most beautiful lakes, known for its significant depth of up to 28 meters and a rocky bottom that makes its water very appealing to see. It is connected to Lake Piana.
Are there any lakes that are easily accessible for a casual visit?
Lake La Reale is easily accessible if you come from the La Reale valley, with paths that pass between mountain pastures, making it suitable for a casual visit.
Most popular attractions around Ingria
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Ingria? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
