Valday Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip with this comprehensive travel guide to Valday, full of cultural and natural attractions, food and drink recommendations, where to stay, and transportation options.


Introduction to Valday

Valday is a charming small town in Novgorod Oblast, situated in the northwest of Russia, in the region of Eastern Europe. It is famous for its stunning national park, beautiful Valday Lake, and a range of cultural attractions, including museums, churches, and historical monuments. Valday is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, offering a unique glimpse into Russia’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Valday

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Valday Iversky Monastery

Valday Iversky Monastery is one of the most popular tourist spots in Valday. It is situated on the banks of Lake Valday, and dates back to the 14th century. The monastery is known for its outstanding architecture, including the beautiful Assumption Cathedral, which features intricate frescoes and beautiful iconostasis.

Valday Local History Museum

The Valday Local History Museum is the perfect destination for history buffs. The museum features a vast collection of exhibits, including ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, religious icons, and artifacts related to local trades.

Natural Attractions of Valday: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Valday National Park

Valday National Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers. The park spans over 880 square kilometers and features a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and bird watching. The park is home to numerous protected animal and plant species, including bears, wolves, foxes, and unique birds of prey.

Valday Lake

Valday Lake is the main attraction of the town. It is the largest lake in the region and features crystal-clear waters and beautiful natural scenery. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including swimming, sailing, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valday

Valday National Park offers a range of hiking and biking trails, suitable for all ages and abilities. Some of the most popular routes include the Valday Mountains trail, the Valday Lake trail, and the Butterfly trail, which takes visitors through diverse natural terrain and offers stunning panoramic views.

Best Things to Do in Valday: Activities and Tours

Valday Iversky Monastery Tour

A guided tour of Valday Iversky Monastery is a must-do activity, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture of the monastery, browse through the many religious artifacts, and enjoy the intricate frescoes.

Nature Walks and Wildlife Tours

Nature walks and wildlife tours are popular activities in Valday. Visitors can join a guided tour of Valday National Park, where they can spot a diverse range of plant and animal species, including rare birds and mammals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Valday

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Valday Iversky Monastery
Day 2 Hiking or biking in Valday National Park
Day 3 Sightseeing at Valday Local History Museum
Day 4 Water activities on Lake Valday
Day 5 Bird watching or wildlife tours
Day 6 Shopping and dining in Valday town
Day 7 Relaxation and spa treatments

Food and Drink Scene of Valday

Must-Try Dishes

Russian cuisine is known for its unique flavors and rich history. Some of the must-try dishes in Valday include:

Shchi

Shchi is a traditional Russian soup made with cabbages, meat, and vegetables. It is served hot and is a comforting dish, perfect for visitors during the cool months.

Pelmeni

Pelmeni are a form of dumplings filled with meat and spices. They are served with sour cream and often enjoyed as a hearty meal.

Local Beverages

Visitors to Valday can enjoy a range of local beverages, including:

Kisel

Kisel is a sweet, fruit-based drink, often enjoyed as a dessert or refreshment during hot weather.

Russian Kvass

Kvass is a traditional Russian drink made from fermented bread, water, and sugar. It is a refreshing beverage and perfect for visitors during the summer months.

Where to Stay in Valday: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Valday offers a range of accommodation options, suitable for all types of travelers. Some of the best options include:

Valday Guesthouse

The Valday Guesthouse is a charming property that offers visitors comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a range of wellness treatments.

Park Hotel

The Park Hotel is a luxurious hotel located near Valday National Park. The hotel features comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a sauna.

What to Buy in Valday: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Valday is famous for its rich cultural heritage and natural resources. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

Handmade crafts

Visitors can buy a range of handmade crafts, including authentic Russian dolls, woven baskets, and traditional clothes.

Local food products

Visitors can also purchase local food products, including honey, smoked fish, and herbal teas.

Local Culture and Customs of Valday

Valday is a melting pot of different cultures, with a rich history that stretches back centuries. Visitors should respect the local customs, including dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and following the rules of nature conservation.

Best Time to Visit Valday

The best time to visit Valday is during the summer months, between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water activities are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valday

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
  • Try the local food and drinks

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Ruin the historical monuments or buildings
  • Disrespect the local people or their customs

Safety and Health

Safety in Valday

Valday is a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as securing their personal belongings, avoiding dark alleys at night, and staying alert.

Health in Valday

Visitors to Valday should take the necessary health precautions, such as drinking bottled water, avoiding raw or uncooked foods, and ensuring they have adequate travel insurance.

Getting to Valday: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valday

The nearest international airports to Valday are Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Pulkovo Airport, and Sheremetyevo International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Valday

Valday has a bus station that offers regular connections to other cities in the region, such as St. Petersburg and Moscow.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Valday by train or car.

How to Get Around in Valday

Visitors can get around Valday by taxi or by hiring a car.

Where to Go Next from Valday: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other nearby destinations, including:

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is Russia’s cultural capital, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful waterways, and world-class museums and galleries.

Moscow

Moscow is Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Valday is an excellent destination for visitors looking for a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the town’s many attractions, including the stunning Valday Lake, the beautiful national park, and the many cultural and historical monuments. With a range of accommodation options, excellent food and drink, and a welcoming local population, Valday is an exceptional destination for visitors to Russia.

The church of St. Catherine (1790s, attributed to Nikolay Lvov). The church of St. Catherine (1790s, attributed to Nikolay Lvov). The katholikon of Valday Iversky Monastery (1656). The katholikon of Valday Iversky Monastery (1656).