AYA LAKE

After crossing the Katun bridge, you can walk three kilometres on the left side of the bridge to the crossroads where the signs indicate Beriozka (birch) and Ozero Aya (Lake Aya): 1 kilometre away, there is a beautiful lake surrounded by forest.

The blue pearl of the Altai is located in one of the three overhanging mountain hollows on the left bank of the Katoune, 280 meters above sea level and 75 meters above river level. Famous for its warm waters (25°C from mid-June), Lake Aya is a very popular holiday destination. There are several peat bogs (Russian-style leisure centres), equipped beaches, pedal boat and rowing boat rental points all around. In the centre of the lake, a small island with a romantic pavilion serves as a place to relax in the sun.

The lake also attracts many fishing enthusiasts: here you can catch perch, carassins, pike and even sterlets and monkfish. Lake Aya freezes over from November. When the ice is caught, in December-January, it is therefore possible to skate on the snow-cleared (and secured) areas. In order to protect the environment of the lake, the Aya Natural Park was delimited and classified in October 2003 by decision of the Altai Territorial Administration.

In the high summer and winter seasons (July-August; January-March) expect hordes of holidaymakers coming to enjoy the fresh air. This is one of the great holiday resorts of the Altai.