Protected lake-and-forest country around Valday — eco-trails, rare species and quiet rules away from Novgorod excursion circuits.
Valday National Park
Valday National Park was established in 1990 around Valday, Nakhimovskoye, Selintsovskoye and other lakes. Conifer-broadleaf forest, bogs and shore communities remain; rare plants and birds occur. Trails of varying length — short lakeside walks to multi-kilometre forest routes. Visit rules: fishing limits, fires only in designated spots, quiet zones in parts of the park. Not a single pin on the map: visitor centres and parking are spread out; some trails start from Valday town, others from peripheral villages. For travellers who read maps and plan their own day. Combine with Valday Hills and nearby monasteries. Popular lakes are busy in summer; weekdays and long trails offer quiet.
How to get there
Drive to Valday on M10, then follow park route maps from the visitor centre.
Best season
June–September for trails; winter ski walks when snow is stable
Travel tips & stories
Rules and trail maps on the park site or at the visitor centre.
Midges and ticks — repellent and clothing check after forest.
Swim only where allowed — some shores are protected.
Popular lake parking fills in season — arrive early.
Do not feed wildlife or pick plants — fines apply.
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Local guides
- TR
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