Lake Ilmen is a historically important lake in the Novgorod Oblast of Russia, formerly a vital part of the Trade route from the Varangians to the Greeks. The city of Novgorod lies six kilometers below the lake’s outflow.
Lake Ilmen, Ilmen, Lake [Credit: Sergei Rubliov]lake in Novgorod oblast (province), northwestern Russia. Lake Ilmen occupies the centre of the Ilmen Plain, an undulating glacial lowland much of which is drained by rivers flowing into the lake; the lake in turn provides the headwaters of the Volkhov River. The lake occupies a shallow basin almost filled by riverine deposits, and its area varies vastly according to river flow—between 283 and 807 square miles (733 and 2,090 square km). The lake is navigable in summer months and has an average depth of 33 feet (10 m). Among the nearly 50 rivers that flow into Lake Ilmen, the largest are the Msta, Pola, Lovat, Psizha, and Shelon. The Volkhov flows out of the lake.
Lake Ilmen originally formed a vital part of the Byzantine trade route, leading Europe out of the Dark Ages by connecting it with the prosperous Arab cities. Visit to immerse yourself in this history and take the chance to stop off at Lipno Island, home to the 13th century Church of St. Nicholas. History buffs may also be interested in the Yuryev Monastery – a 12th century complex on the banks of Lake Ilmen.
The average surface area is 982 square kilometres (379 sq mi) (it may vary between 733 square kilometres (283 sq mi) and 2,090 square kilometres (810 sq mi) depending on water level). The lake is fed by 52 inflowing rivers, the four main ones being the Msta, the Pola, the Lovat, and the Shelon. It is drained through a single outlet, the Volkhov, into Lake Ladoga, and subsequently via the Neva into the Gulf of Finland. The source of the Volkhov is marked by the Peryn Chapel built in the 1220s.
Starting off, visitors can catch a water taxi from behind the memorial complex and take a tour past Kremlin beach, Rurik’s Fort, the Yuryev village and Lake Ilmen. Local guides will tell of the area’s fascinating history and can provide a tailored tour with whichever sights to include.
The water level is regulated by the Volkhov hydroelectric plant situated downstream the Volkhov River. Water temperature in July is 19-20°C. Bathing season is about 90 days.
Lake Ilmen is navigable. Shipping lines are Veliky Novgorod – Staraya Russa and Veliky Novgorod – Shimsk. There is fishery in the lake.
From November until late April, Lake Ilmen freezes over. However, in the summer months, the ice melts and visitors can enjoy boat trips and fishing in the lake. Lake Ilmen gets warm enough to swim in.