In the Vyborgsky district of St. Petersburg there is a wonderful corner of nature - the Olginsky pond. It would probably be more correct to say - this is a piece of a huge natural massif, Sosnovka Park.
This place is loved by many residents of the city who come here to relax. Everyone can find activities to their liking, be it a seeker of loneliness, a family with children or a group of friends. Holidays in St. Petersburg in the bosom of nature and not far from the city are a success.
Story
In 1941, the city needed quartz sand and clay, which were the material for making molds used in the manufacture of shells and mines. The city was surrounded by the enemy, it became impossible to import them from the region, and then, after conducting reconnaissance in different parts of St. Petersburg, they decided to set up a mining quarry here. So a foundation pit appeared on the outskirts of the city. Quartz sand was mined here.
The sand was loaded with shovels, taken out on gas-generating machines. Later, tram lines were brought here, they were extended as the quarry was developed. Then they arranged belt conveyors, which helped the workers a lot. The quarry was called the "feeding point" of the foundry workers. Sand was also mined here in the post-war years. In addition to the foundry, builders began to use sand.
The present
Subsequently, in the early 70s, this quarry was filled with water, it was domesticated. Holidays in St. Petersburg on the banks of the Olginsky quarry have become popular.
The water here is clean, despite the fact that vacationers often leave behind mud. The water is purified here every year, samples are taken for analysis. So the state of the reservoir is monitored. There are more than ten springs in the pond, enriching it with clean water.
There is a sandy beach on the shore, where vacationers gather for sunbathing and water procedures in hot weather.
Among the representatives of energy practices, this place is known as a place of power. They come here to pump energy, to put their thoughts in order through meditation.
The beach on Olginsky pond has been popular since April, from the first warm days, when the water, it seems, has not yet warmed up, and the first bathers are already appearing here. It is not empty even in winter. This place is popular with walruses who have organized a winter swimming club. For beach lovers, there are changing rooms on the shore. Vacationers complain that there is only one toilet on the beach, but someday this problem will be solved. After all, the city authorities take care of this wonderful natural area.
Animal world
Olginsky pond is famous among fishermen. There are legends about what crayfish were caught here. They say that crayfish are still found, and the fish is found. Fishing in St. Petersburg attracts many, so here you can often see vacationers with fishing rods.
Whole flocks of birds gather near the water. Ducks, seagulls, pigeons. Who catches fish, who begs for food from vacationers. The pigeons are so tame that if they reach out, they will stick around it in the hope of a treat.
And in the park, on the outskirts of which the Olginsky pond is located, there are Korean squirrels. They, too, can easily take food from the hands of vacationers, which delights everyone, especially the kids. 
Sport
These places have long been chosen by athletes. Swimmers and kayakers can often be seen on the water. By the way, there is a rental of catamarans for vacationers, who can also join lovers of water travel.
Sosnovka Park has sports grounds for playing football and volleyball. The shooting range of the Olympian club is located here, various competitions are often held. There is a motorcycle riding school and a real motorcycle track in the park.
There are platforms with horizontal bars, parallel bars and other devices for exercise. 
For lovers of various wheeled vehicles, Sosnovka Park is a real expanse. The many tracks are conducive to skiing. Transport, in the absence of your own, can be rented here. Bicycles are especially popular. There are electric cars, tandems for family travel in the park, and scooters.
Skate rental is available in winter. Many skiers can be found on the paths of the park.
For children
Olginsky pond is a great place for a family vacation. Children are happy to swim, feed birds, squirrels. There are playgrounds and an amusement park for them in the park. Sports competitions are organized for older children. Children's voices are heard from the sports grounds, where children and adults play together.
Sosnovka park
Sosnovka Park is a historical place. In the old days, these places attracted duelists here. Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov also fired in a duel here, for which he was sent into exile in the Caucasus.
Not far from the park were the dachas of Vissarion Grigorievich Belinsky and Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev. They loved to walk along the paths of the park. The place is fertile for walking and health improvement. The name of the park indicates that pines prevail here, so valued for their healing properties.
During the war years, there was a cover airfield for the city. Now, in that part of the park, there is a memorial to the fallen soldiers and a cemetery for fallen pilots. 
Along the well-groomed alleys of the park, there are a large number of benches, so there is always where to sit and relax from an intense walk.
It is also remarkable that mushrooms and berries grow in the park, because if you turn away from the beaten path, you can get into a real forest. And besides the Olginsky pond, there are also a couple of smaller reservoirs. Fishing in St. Petersburg becomes possible not far from the city and at the same time practically in the forest. 
Concerts, folk festivals, various festivals are often held in the park, which attracts even more visitors here. Amateur groups and famous artists perform at several open areas on holidays.
It is remarkable that environmental landings are often held in the park to clean up the territory. Activists hang garbage bags on its territory, which helps in maintaining order.
How to get there?
Olginsky pond in the Vyborgsky district of St. Petersburg is located closest to the metro stations "Polytechnicheskaya" and "Akademicheskaya". You can walk from them. The distance is about 2-2.5 km. Tram number 61 from "Polytechnic" will bring you closer to the goal or bus number 93 "from Akademicheskaya". You need to go to the stop "Tikhoretsky Prospekt" / "Svetlanovsky Prospect".
You can also take trolleybus # 40 from Svetlanovskaya Square to Jacques Duclos Street and walk.
Travel time from the city center to the desired place (Olginsky pond, St. Petersburg) will take about an hour.
There are vacationers who come here on bicycles.
Where to have a snack?
There are a couple of cafes and a large restaurant in the park, and a mobile hot dog kiosk appears here during the season. So you will not die of hunger. Although many come here with their own supplies, or even settle in some meadow for barbecuing, although this is prohibited here.
DREAM VACANCY
- Everything is new on Tolbukhin now: the lighthouse itself, and the lighthouses, - the head of the Tolbukhin lighthouse of the hydrographic service of the Leningrad naval base Pyotr Efimov, whom colleagues call simply Uncle Petya, conducts an educational program on the shore.
The previous caretakers of the country's oldest lighthouse, husband and wife, retired this summer.
- They lived on it for three years and, apparently, tired, - says Uncle Petya, getting into an inflatable motorboat. - Not everyone is able to live on the island: apart from desire, you need to understand diesel engines, electrics, construction. A good uncle will not come in a blue helicopter and nail your board.
All summer, the lighthouse was renovated for the three hundredth anniversary. And in August, a dream job appeared on the network. For three weeks now, new owners have settled on Tolbukhin - captain of the second rank Dmitry Masko and his wife Yulia.
- Well, how is Petersburg? What is happening in the world? - the rangers meet the "guest" boat with a smile.
Next to them are a couple of dogs. The dog Fran, or, affectionately, Funtik, is an old-timer, remained from the former lighthouses. But the couple bought a four-month-old Malamute girl on the eve of moving to the island. Called Maya.
The entire island, from the pier to the lighthouse doors, is littered with feathers. Tonight, together with Fran, Maya tore an old pillow that was taken outside to be burned (there are no garbage chutes at the lighthouse, so everyone is sent to the furnace). Until she knows how to watch, only to indulge.
TO IGNITION AND PROTECT
First of all, the owners are invited to the "tower".
“This is the only lighthouse in the world where the staircase is not spiral, but floor-by-floor,” Dmitry proudly notes. - My main task is to wipe the lantern. Of course, not every time. But I go up twice a day at least: I see if everything is normal.
At the oldest lighthouse, fires, of course, have not been made for a long time: Tolbukhin's "stuffing" is quite young - LED blocks and automation. It blinks in all directions in three rows at once, three more are spare.
- The heart of the lighthouse is a diesel generator, - Dmitry continues. - We also have wood heating, and we are going to cook on gas: we brought a stove with us.
Dmitry's duties include not only the maintenance of the lighthouse, but also its ... protection. In summer, over the lighthouses of Kronstadt, "cornmen" circle, and in winter, on the ice - on sleds, skis and bicycles - a string of curious people rush to them.
- The empty lighthouses remain plundered by the spring, - explains Uncle Petya. - For example, both lighthouses of the St. Petersburg Sea Canal are hacked every winter for beautiful photographs. Even metal bolts don't stop!
The only ones who are always welcome at a strategic facility, without the consent of the military, are the rescuers. From the lighthouses, the guardians of security learn the situation in the area. Dmitry also oversees the neighboring lighthouses - Shepelevsky, Krasnaya Gorka and Stirsudden. If at night the light of one of them is not visible, then reports to the person on duty by radio communication.
“I’m ashamed to admit, but I have climbed upstairs only twice so far,” Yulia admits. - High, the gangway is narrow. In general, it's scary.
WATERMONS FOR NEW YEAR
The "tower" grows out of a two-storey building, which accommodates service premises and two apartments - the master's and the guest's. In which window from the dwelling of the lighthouses you do not look, a delightful view opens up.
- They brought a plasma with them, I thought I would watch films. I set a condition for Dima: I won't go without a TV and a dishwasher. Naive! - Yulia throws up her hands. - Until now, the TV is still packed. Once. We get up at five in the morning, we go to bed at eight in the evening, along with the sun. I redo so many things in a day that I am amazed at myself. But so far I like everything: life should consist of difficulties, even everyday ones, otherwise life will be simply lazy.
While the lighthouse keeper Dmitry looks behind the lighthouse, his subordinate "technician" is in charge of the kitchen. Products are delivered to the islands every six months. You can order what you like, but within the framework of the norms: some choose frozen meat, others - canned food. No power problems, thanks to the refrigerators. In the corridors - boxes of canned food. Nearby are two watermelons. They should become a decoration for the New Year's table.
But sometimes there are difficulties with water.
“In a harsh winter, a well froze over here, the caretakers were left without drinking water,” notes Pyotr Efimov. - Then we delivered water on an air cushion together with rescuers. Otherwise, you can't get there.
SEA, TWO BEACHES, ZOO
Together with Captain Masko we go around his new possessions. In the yard there is a garden: a pine tree and a bench under it. On the other side of the island, behind the woodshed, is a vegetable garden of two greenhouses. Tomatoes, turnips, parsley with dill and sorrel, strawberries, wild strawberries, currants, gooseberries, even tobacco. So far, all this is the fruit of the work of the previous caretakers, but next spring Maskos will rebuild the greenhouses and sow their crops.
Nearby there is a compost pit where worms are “bred” for fishing. It is impossible to leave the lighthouse without approval or urgent need, but it is not forbidden to sail a little from the shore in a boat to throw a float. But, although the spouses are avid fishermen, and there is a whole sea around, there is no catch yet. The reason is all the same household chores.
There are two private beaches on the Baltic hacienda. On "beach number one" they walk dogs, "beach number two" - for romantic evenings and sunbathing. Dawn Dmitry and Yulia meet with a cup of coffee on the "terrace" - a bench on the shore.
- This is the only place where it doesn't blow, - the spouses clarify. - And this is without a storm. And if there is a storm, bricks fly around the yard.
Animals are also available. Funtik and Maya share an island with four cats - Mura, Murzik, Sonya and Mishka. All rescued: someone was picked up on the street, someone was taken from the shelter.
- A long time ago we had a kitty, but she was pinched by the door, - Julia sighs. - They gave a lot of money, but nothing could be done. I went to the vet to cremate her. And there I was offered to take Mura. The hostess brought her for vaccination, but she never returned: she died in a car accident ... I took it. I'm going happy with Mura, calling Dima. And he: "And I took it!" Picked up Murzik on the street.
Dmitry says that there are few animals at the lighthouse. There are birds that the caretaker feeds with biscuits. There are two flies - Olya and Masha. And then there is the ferret Igorek, who has lived under the roof for many years. How he got to the island is a mystery, but, most likely, he ran from the mainland on the winter ice. The lighthouse treats him too, puts the cookie on the cornice.
LAST CLOT
The spouses plan to live at the lighthouse for at least five years.
- This step is not for six months: we turned our whole life, in which there was practically everything - parents, apartment, dacha, car, - says Julia. - But we didn't have such a house!
“She was more happy than me,” Dmitry smiles, looking at his wife. - In the city every day you get up and run to work, pushing in transport, in traffic jams. And here in the morning I woke up with my feet in slippers. And that's it, you're at work.
Dmitry is a captain of the second rank. He does not speak about the fact that somewhere among the things his uniform, medals and a dagger are hidden: his spouse proudly whispers to us about this in private. The only child in a military family, Dmitry graduated from the Frunze Naval School and, according to distribution, went to serve in Sakhalin, in Korsakov.
At that time, Yulia studied to be a doctor at the school and attended preparatory courses to enter Mechnikov.
- First lieutenant leave. February 23, - recalls the captain. - My girlfriend refused to go with me to Korsakov. I bought an armful of carnations, approached every girl on the street, handed a flower and asked: "Will you go with me to Sakhalin?" Girls shied away from me. The carnations were running out. When the last one was left, at the bus stop on the Black River, I saw this miracle with huge eyelashes. She was at Malikov's concert, but did not sit out until the end: for some reason, her friends did not come, she was in a bad mood. She was sixteen, I was 24. She replied: "If I fell in love, I would go."
Two weeks later Dmitry left for Korsakov. He returned a year later. We met again.
- When Yulia turned eighteen and I came to ask her hand in marriage to her father - and he, by the way, was a retired FSB officer, ate with Vladimir Vladimirovich in the same dining room - I got the go-ahead. But on condition that I won't take Julia to Sakhalin, - Dmitry shares. “We got married on January 31st. I left. And on April 2, she herself flew to me.
- I ran secretly: dad would not let me in, - Yulia smiles. - He wanted me to become a doctor. But life decreed otherwise. And I have no regrets. If there was a second chance, I would have done everything exactly the same.
"EVERYTHING COMES TRUE"
On Sakhalin, Dmitry served for five years at a meteorological station, Yulia stayed there with him for two and a half years. Both spouses call this time the best in life: the harsh climate, everyday difficulties - all the young lovers did not care.
In 2000, Dmitry was transferred to St. Petersburg, to the Central Cartographic Production of the Navy. The wife got a job there, came to the editor. Her husband has been her boss for the last four years. When the military was laid off, Dmitry remained a civilian at the enterprise.
“I want to organize a museum at the lighthouse,” says Dmitry, showing copies of old maps with Tolbukhin. - Just in time for the 300th anniversary.
All friends knew that the Masko couple would not mind moving to the lighthouse. The vacancy was announced to Dmitry on the eve of his birthday. Julia agreed immediately. They did not dare to inform Dmitry's mother about the decision for a long time: after all, seventy years old, the only son. Julia herself had her mother and brother on the shore.
- In August it was six years since we got married in St. Nicholas Cathedral, Dima was in uniform, - the captain's wife admits. - Since then, we have had positive changes.
- Just when I promise something ... - Dmitry begins.
-… everything always comes true! - Julia finishes.
- He promised that we would live in our house on the shore of the lake ...
- ... and it came true ... It so happened that we have no children: there was a baby, but he died ... Maybe God willing, who knows. If you believe.
REFERENCE "KP":
Tolbukhin lighthouse stands on an artificial stone island in the Gulf of Finland, about five kilometers from Kotlin. It was erected in 1719 by order of Peter the Great himself. Then the lighthouse "on the Kotlinskaya spit" was made of wood. In 1736 he was given the name of Colonel Fedot Tolbukhin, the first commandant of Kronstadt, who distinguished himself in the Northern War.
Only under Alexander the First, the temporary wooden lighthouse was replaced by a stone one according to the project of the architect Andreyan Zakharov.
In 1990, the oldest lighthouse in Russia was included in the World Heritage Site.
Height - 29 meters
Height above sea level - 30 meters
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Visibility range - 19 miles (more than 30 kilometers)
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“We had everything except such a house!” Life at the oldest lighthouse in Russia.Artem KILKIN
Where you can swim, and where - just sunbathe
Photo: Timur KHANOV
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REST IN PETERSBURG
Immediately make a reservation, swim in the city Rospotrebnadzor does not recommend. The water is not clean enough for this. Although, in good weather, people still disregard these rules and plunge into the water. But even if you do not plan to swim, then on the beaches you can relax, sunbathe and admire: the Neva, the bay, lakes.
THE BEACH OF THE PETROPAVLOVSKAYA FORTRESS
How to get there: on foot from the Gorkovskaya metro station through the Aleksandrovsky Garden, fifteen minutes on foot.
What we have: several dressing booths. There are cafes and toilets on the territory of the museum.
Why it is good: both the beach and an excellent observation deck. The wall of the Ioannovsky ravelin, which protects the sandy coast from the wind, is a kind of indicator: there are people in swimsuits (and sometimes without them), which means the sun is already warming up. And while sunbathing, you can admire the beautiful view of the city center. However, do not be surprised if tourists admire you.
BEACH IN THE PARK OF THE 300TH ANNIVERSARY OF PETERSBURG
How to get there: from the metro station "Staraya Derevnya" - minibus number 232, tram 19, bus 93, from the metro station "Komendantsky Prospekt" - bus number 134, from the metro. "Black River" - tram number 48, minibus number 132, from the metro station "Pionerskaya" - bus number 93
What you have: volleyball net, trash cans, dry closets, shops with snacks and drinks. Nearby there is a shopping complex with a water park and bicycle rental.
Why it is good: a very spacious area, which is looked after. They swim here, despite the prohibitions, regularly. If you are tired of basking on the beach, you can move to the park itself. Cultural events are often held here on weekends, so you can get involved.
BEACH OF SEASIDE VICTORY PARK
How to get there: from the metro station "Krestovsky Ostrov" to the left, at the intersection of Ryukhin Street with Krestovsky Prospekt turn right.
What is there: beach volleyball, cafes, booths.
Why it is good: a cozy beach with a beautiful view - on the sailboats of yacht clubs. Nearby there is a small zoo, the park itself, where you can walk. Only here it is definitely not necessary to climb into the water here: not even because of the mud, but because of the serious depth and strong current.
OLGINSKY POND
How to get there: the beach is located on Svetlanovsky Prospekt, opposite Sosnovka Park. From the metro station "Polytechnicheskaya" or "Akademicheskaya" on foot about twenty minutes, you can also get there by trolleybuses No. 40 and 50 from Svetlanovskaya Square.
What is there: changing cabins, trash cans, restaurant, cafe.
Why it is good: small, cozy and very picturesque. Some may not like the proximity to residential buildings, but locals are glad that in a few minutes you can reach the reservoir. In addition, although you cannot swim, there are lifeguards on the beach.
SUZDAL LAKES (UPPER AND MIDDLE)
How to get there: from the Ozerki metro station. Cross the Vyborgskoe highway and go down the path. The upper one is a little closer to the metro, the middle one a little further.
What we have: changing cabins, toilets, trash cans, cafes. On the Srednee Lake there is a rental of ATVs, water skis.
Why it is good: Sandy beaches are located on the shores of the 1st Suzdal and 2nd Suzdal lakes. There is a forest nearby. Clean enough, there are many people who want to sunbathe here on a sunny day. Rescuers are responsible for safety. The upper lake is considered to be more popular and better equipped. Wakeboard competitions and all kinds of events are often held on Srednee Lake. But on weekends you probably shouldn't go here, it's too crowded.
SEA OAK
How to get there: the beach is located in the village "Lisiy Nos". You can get there from the metro station "Chernaya Rechka" by minibuses No. 305, 425.
What is there: changing cabins, toilets, beach umbrellas, benches. But with food it is more difficult, it is better to take a snack with you.
Why it is good: Fox Nose is a significant place. Due to circumstances, Sea Dubki is the only public beach in the village and it is very good here in summer. Nature, fresh air ... the impression is spoiled a little by the smell - it is not the most pleasant here. And mosquitoes, which by the evening are ready to "eat" anyone in their path.
KRONSTADT BEACH
How to get there: by minibus to Kronstadt from the metro stations "Chernaya Rechka" and "Prospect Prosvescheniya". However, you will not get to the beach itself - from the Gostiny Dvor stop (it is the final one) you still need to walk about 15 minutes on foot.
What is there: A parking lot for bicycles, changing cabins, sun loungers, benches with "peaks", children's and sports grounds, a volleyball court, a parking lot for bicycles, a medical center, boat rental, a cafe.
Why it is good: located in the historic center of the city. You will have a rest with views of the dilapidated fort. The beach is quite clean and well-groomed, there is a rescue station. There is a bookcase with books that are freely available. You can read it and then return it.
BEACH ON AN IDEAL LAKE (KRASNOE VELO)
How to get there: take an electric train from the Baltic railway station to Krasnoe Selo station. Minibuses and buses run from the Kirovsky Zavod metro station: No. K-245, K-546, from Prospect Veterans - No. K-145, K-650b, K-445v, K-650v, from Moskovskaya - No. K -449, K-403, K-431. To the stop "Svoboda Street" in Krasnoe Selo, cross the road and go down the path through the park.
What is there: changing cabins, awnings, sun beds, dry closets, children's entertainment, a cafe next to the beach. Rescue station.
Why it is good: periodically (we emphasize, not always) it is even officially allowed to swim here. And in recent years, this is the only beach in the city that manages to obtain such a permit from Rospotrebnadzor. Sandy shore, gentle entrance to the water. Cleanliness is monitored. And a lot of people. Beach equipment on weekends may not be enough for everyone.
CHILDREN'S BEACH (RED STREET, KOLPINO)
How to get there: from the metro station "Zvezdnaya" there is a minibus No. K-201, from "Rybatsky" - No. K-220.
What we have: changing cabins, dry closet, urns. Rescue station.
Why it is good: Not the most crowded beach in the city. Suitable for lovers of a relaxing holiday. On the bank of Izhora it is clean, the beach looks well-groomed. Only now there is nowhere to have a bite: maximum, buy water and ice cream. Things can be hung under the "fungi" that are on the beach. You can rent sun loungers and tents, and in the evenings they play volleyball here.
BEACH IN KOMAROVO
How to get there: train from Finlyandsky railway station to Komarovo station
What is: rescue station, parking, changing cabins, toilets, playground, benches, trash cans
What is good: "For a week until the second ..." - this is about this village in the Kurortny district of St. Petersburg. This is one of the oldest beaches on the north coast. There are two zones: sandy and
stony. As they say, not for everybody. It is good to come here with tents to spend a couple of days in nature. But there is no special entertainment. There is a High-Dive beach entertainment complex nearby, but it is most often closed for various events.
PIKE LAKE
How to get there: by train from Finland Station to Komarovo station. Then walk or drive another four kilometers along Ozernaya Street.
What is: Benches, changing cabins, dry closets, gazebos for companies, trash cans are placed everywhere
Why it is good: This lake is loved by fishermen for the diversity and richness of its inhabitants. But in recent years, they have been pushed aside by ordinary vacationers. A nature reserve has been operating here since 2011. Around the lake there is a forest with good paths: they have long been chosen by cyclists. The lake is very beautiful. Convenient entry into the water, a well-groomed beach, although there are those who litter. But on weekends people here are like on Nevsky.
COLONIST BEACH (PUSHKIN)
How to get there: from the metro station "Kupchino" there is a minibus No. K286 or bus No. 186. Go to the stop "Moskovskie Vorota". By train to the railway station "Tsarskoe Selo - Pushkin", then by any minibus to the same stop.
What we have: changing cabins, trash cans, dry closet. But with food - problematic, there are no "grocery" places.
Why it is good: a small fenced beach. You can lie on a large green lawn, it is even more pleasant to sunbathe on the grass. The colonistsky pond remains a popular recreation area for the townspeople, and in winter it hosts Epiphany bathing. Rospotrebnadzor does not allow swimming, but the townspeople periodically still go into the water.
SESTORETSKY BEACH
How to get there: By minibus 417 from the metro station "Chernaya Rechka" or by train from the "Finland Station" or the platform "Staraya Derevnya". Get off at the Kurort station.
What is there: changing cabins, trash cans, small cafes, umbrellas
Why it is good: It is good to come here in the evening and admire the sunsets. Sand dunes surrounded by pine forest are soothing. But the beach is not bad during the day. Sandy, gently sloping bottom, decently warming water. The beach is very large and, although St. Petersburgers call it one of the most popular, there is enough space for everyone.
BEACH "GREEN MOUNTAIN" (SESTORETSK)
How to get there: by train from Finland Station to the Razliv or Tarkhovka station. By minibuses: from the metro station "Staraya Derevnya" No. 305, from the metro station "Chernaya Rechka" No. 425, 417, from the metro station "Lenin Square" No. 400. Stop "Spill".
What we have: changing cabins, toilets, a rescue station, places for sports games. Nearby there is a pine forest. Private parking at the beach. Cafe - no.
Why he is good: He is called one of the most comfortable. Vacationers say the water is clear and the bottom is visible. But swimming, as we remember, is still impossible.
WE HAVE REST IN THE LENOBLAND
It is better to go swimming to the neighbors. The Leningrad Region is rich in beaches and, although Rospotrebnadzor is just as picky there, there are still places to plunge into. However, we note that the quality of water is so changeable: today it is possible, tomorrow it is impossible.
KORKINSKOM LAKE
How to get there: take the Koltushskoye highway to the intersection with Vsevolozhsk. At the crossroads - straight ahead (along Voeikovskoe highway) about 800-900 meters. Minimize at Kirpolye, Korkino. Continue for approximately 4.5 km.
What we have: parking, beach volleyball, toilets, cafe, rental point, gazebos.
Why is it good: here you can go into the water! It is clean and warms up well. In the gazebos, you can grill barbecue, and here it is also allowed to fish, however, with a license. But there are special places for fishing and even fishing competitions are held. There is a recreation center on the shore, you can come with a company, arrange a corporate event.
DONZO (KYURLEVSKY QUARRY)
How to get there: By car, turn right from Vyra towards Volosovo and once again to the right behind the bridge over Oredezh. But public transport does not go here, alas.
What we have: no special infrastructure. But there are beautiful views and clear water.
Why it is good: If you are looking for a comfortable relaxing stay, this is the place for you. At first glance, the water may seem not transparent, but this is a deceiving impression. In fact, it is pure, azure shade, and the sand on the beach is snow-white. What is not the Maldives. Due to the shallow depth, the lake warms up well, so it is comfortable to relax here with children. As soon as you move away from the coast, it immediately becomes clear why the place is popularly called "Blue Lakes".
OSINOVETS BEACH
How to get there: after driving along the Road of Life (A 128) the monument to the broken ring of the blockade, turn right at the Osinovetsky lighthouse.
What we have: parking, beach volleyball, toilets, cafe, hotel, restaurant, rental point, sports ground, gazebos.
Why it is good: A picturesque place, with the main attraction - Osinovetsky lighthouse. You can go for a ride on Ladoga by boat or catamaran. White sand, clear water. However, be prepared to be admired by Chinese tourists. According to local residents, there are now unrealistically many of them. Recently, concerts with live music are often held on the beach.
KOLTUSHSKOE LAKE
How to get there: from the Ladozhsky railway station there are several fixed-route taxis: K-429, K-453, K-531, K-532 or K-533.
What is there: toilets, changing rooms, rental and rental point, children's and sports grounds, cafes and restaurants.
Why it is good: There are several beaches on the shore of the lake, which are completely landscaped and adapted for relaxation. There is fishing, however, paid. Here you can rent a brazier and fry your catch yourself. Or ask one of the restaurants to cook fish. In addition, they provide a warm pavilion or tent for rent. Bathing this year, however, is not very good: the water does not meet the standards for sanitary-chemical and microbiological indicators.
LAKE OTRADNOE
How to get there: by train from Finland Station to the Otradnoye station, Sosnovskoe direction
What we have: "wild" beaches, a recreation center where you can rent a house and ride a boat, as well as go fishing.
Why it is good: Otradnoye is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Karelian Isthmus. Sandy shores and no steep cliffs. Here, both "savages" and guests of the recreation center spend their time comfortably.
BEACH VILLAGE KUZNECHNOE (WATER LAKE)
How to get there: by train from Finland Station to the village of Kuznechnoye, Priozerskoye direction.
What is: dressing rooms, parking on the territory of the village
Why it is good: this is a beach on the shores of Ratnoe Lake, which is also called Maloe Travkino or Maloe Okunevoe. In fact, this is the only convenient swimming area in this reservoir. Here the gently sloping entrance to the water and the shore is covered with fine light sand, and in other places there is a pile of stones. Climbers train and orienteering tournaments not far from the lake. From Kuznechny, the popular Ho Chi Minh Walking Trail begins, which leads to the Big Rocks.
BEACH VILLAGE KOKKOREVO (LADOZHA LAKE)
How to get there: along the Road of Life to the "Broken Ring" monument, then 2-3 kilometers to the right. Public transport practically does not go there.
What is: To be honest, practically nothing. Parking, from which the lake is literally 20 meters. Restroom. Extremely poor infrastructure.
Why it is good: very clean water, shallow enough, so families with children come here with pleasure. The beach is sandy and wide enough.
ZERKALNOE LAKE
How to get there: by train from Finlyandsky railway station to Zerkalny station (86 km)
What we have: changing cabins, toilets. You can rent boats, catamarans.
What is good: there are uncomfortable beaches and recreation centers. Moreover, it is very close to them from the station. The water in the lake is very clean and transparent, it's not for nothing that it is called that. Around - a pine forest. There are sandy beaches with a very comfortable and gentle approach to the water, suitable for swimming. The lake itself is very deep.
SYASSTROYSKY CITY BEACH (RIVER SYAS)
How to get there: by bus from the bus station on the Obvodny Canal or the Northern bus station of St. Petersburg (Murino) to the bus station in Syasstroy. By car, move east along the Murmansk highway and further along the M18 highway.
What is: changing cabins, trash cans, toilets
Why it is good: Sandy bottom, with a small amount of silt and rare flat stones. The water is clear, but slightly reddish. There is pure quartz sand on the shore.
ON A NOTE
Where in the Leningrad Region it is allowed to swim (data of Rospotrebnadzor for July 2017)
Boksitogorsk district
Lake Loshevo (settlement Somino); Lake Pavlovskoe (Boksitogorsk)
Volosovsky district
Lake Dontso (village Dontso), river Luga (village B. Sabsk);
Vsevolozhsky district
Lake Ladoga (near the village of Kokkarevo), Lake Zhdanovskoe (Vsevolozhsk); Korkinskoye lake (Voeikovo settlement), Kurgolovskoye lake (Toksovo settlement);
Vyborgsky district
Roshinka River (village Roshchino);
Kingisepp district
Gulf of Finland (Vybye village); the Luga River (Kingisepp);
Kirishi district
Lake Svetloye, Lake Avdetovo; Lake Cheremukhovoye (Budogosh village);
Lodeynopolsky district
Lake Ozerko and the Svir River (Lodeinoe Pole);
Luzhsky district
Lake Toloni (Luga), Lake Zelenoe (Shalovo village);
Priozersky district
Lake Krugloye (village Larionovo), Lake Okunevo (village Kuznechnoye), Lake Razdolinskoye (village Sosnovo), Lake Otradnoye (village Plodovoye); the Vuoksa river (Priozersk);
Slantsevsky district
River Kushelka, river Plyussa (Slantsy);
Tikhvin district
lake Tsaritsyno (Tsaritsyno village);
Tosno District
Lake Nesterovskoye, quarry of the village of Shapki, Lake Dolgoe (village of Nadino).
IMPORTANT
Water safety rules for adults and children
Swim only on organized beaches.
Don't dive in unfamiliar places.
Don't swim behind the buoys.
Do not come out into the waterway and do not approach the ships.
Do not play games involving grappling or drowning others in the water
Do not swim while drunk.
Children should only bathe under the supervision of their parents.
Children should not swim in high temperature and unwell.
Babies should not be in the water for more than 30 minutes, and if the water is cool - 5-7 minutes.
You can not swim immediately after a heavy meal. You must wait 30-45 minutes.
Even if the baby knows how to swim well, he cannot swim in deep places.
You cannot jump into the water from elevations that are not suitable for this.
On hot sunny days, it is necessary to swim in hats.
You can not swim in a storm and with a large wave.
In the Vyborgsky district of St. Petersburg there is a wonderful corner of nature - the Olginsky pond. It would probably be more correct to say - this is a piece of a huge natural massif, Sosnovka Park.
This place is loved by many residents of the city who come here to relax. Everyone can find activities to their liking, be it a seeker of loneliness, a family with children or a group of friends. Holidays in St. Petersburg in the bosom of nature and not far from the city are a success.
Story
In 1941, the city needed quartz sand and clay, which were the material for making molds used in the manufacture of shells and mines. The city was surrounded by the enemy, it became impossible to import them from the region, and then, after conducting reconnaissance in different parts of St. Petersburg, they decided to set up a mining quarry here. So a foundation pit appeared on the outskirts of the city. Quartz sand was mined here.
The sand was loaded with shovels, taken out on gas-generating machines. Later they were brought here and extended as the quarry was developed. Then they arranged it, which helped the workers a lot. The quarry was called the "feeding point" of the foundry workers. Sand was also mined here in the postwar years. In addition to the foundry, builders began to use sand.
The present
Subsequently, in the early 70s, this quarry was filled with water, it was domesticated. Holidays in St. Petersburg on the banks of the Olginsky quarry have become popular.
The water here is clean, despite the fact that vacationers often leave behind mud. The water is purified here every year, samples are taken for analysis. So the state of the reservoir is monitored. There are more than ten springs in the pond, enriching it with clean water.
There is a sandy beach on the shore, where vacationers gather for sunbathing and water procedures in hot weather.
Among the representatives of energy practices, this place is known as a place of power. They come here to pump energy, to put their thoughts in order through meditation.
The beach on Olginsky pond has been popular since April, from the first warm days, when the water, it seems, has not yet warmed up, and the first bathers are already appearing here. It is not empty even in winter. This place is popular with walruses who have organized a winter swimming club. For beach lovers, there are changing rooms on the shore. Vacationers complain that there is only one toilet on the beach, but someday this problem will be solved. After all, the city authorities take care of this wonderful natural area.
Animal world
Olginsky pond is famous among fishermen. There are legends about what crayfish were caught here. They say that crayfish are still found, and the fish is found. Fishing in St. Petersburg attracts many, so here you can often see vacationers with fishing rods.
Whole flocks of birds gather near the water. Ducks, seagulls, pigeons. Who catches fish, who begs for food from vacationers. The pigeons are so tame that if they reach out, they will stick around it in the hope of a treat.
And in the park, on the outskirts of which the Olginsky pond is located, there are Korean squirrels. They, too, can easily take food from the hands of vacationers, which delights everyone, especially the kids.
Sport
These places have long been chosen by athletes. Swimmers and kayakers can often be seen on the water. By the way, there is a rental of catamarans for vacationers, who can also join lovers of water travel.
Sosnovka Park has sports grounds for playing football and volleyball. The shooting range of the Olympian club is located here, various competitions are often held. There is a motorcycle riding school and a real motorcycle track in the park.
There are platforms with horizontal bars, parallel bars and other devices for exercise.
For lovers of various wheeled vehicles - a real expanse. The many tracks are conducive to skiing. Transport, in the absence of your own, can be rented here. Bicycles are especially popular. There are electric cars, tandems for family travel in the park, and scooters.
Skate rental is available in winter. Many skiers can be found on the paths of the park.
For children
Olginsky pond is a great place for a family vacation. Children are happy to swim, feed birds, squirrels. There are playgrounds and an amusement park for them in the park. For older children, they arrange Children's voices are heard from the sports grounds, where children and adults play together.
Sosnovka park
Sosnovka Park is a historical place. In the old days, these places attracted duelists here. Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov also fired in a duel here, for which he was sent into exile in the Caucasus.
Not far from the park were the dachas of Vissarion Grigorievich Belinsky and Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev. They loved to walk along the paths of the park. The place is fertile for walking and health improvement. The name of the park indicates that pines prevail here, so valued for their healing properties.
During the war years, there was a cover airfield for the city. Now, in that part of the park, there is a memorial to the fallen soldiers and a cemetery for fallen pilots.
Along the well-groomed alleys of the park, there are a large number of benches, so there is always where to sit and relax from an intense walk.
It is also remarkable that mushrooms and berries grow in the park, because if you turn away from the beaten path, you can get into a real forest. And besides the Olginsky pond, there are also a couple of smaller reservoirs. Fishing in St. Petersburg becomes possible not far from the city and at the same time practically in the forest.
Concerts, folk festivals, various festivals are often held in the park, which attracts even more visitors here. Amateur groups and famous artists perform at several open areas on holidays.
It is remarkable that environmental landings are often held in the park to clean up the territory. Activists hang garbage bags on its territory, which helps in maintaining order.
How to get there?
Olginsky pond in the Vyborgsky district of St. Petersburg is located closest to the metro stations "Polytechnicheskaya" and "Akademicheskaya". You can walk from them. The distance is about 2-2.5 km. Tram number 61 from "Polytechnic" will bring you closer to the goal or bus number 93 "from Akademicheskaya". You need to go to the stop "Tikhoretsky Prospekt" / "Svetlanovsky Prospect".
You can also take trolleybus # 40 from the street to the street and walk.
Travel time from the city center to the desired place (Olginsky pond, St. Petersburg) will take about an hour.
There are vacationers who come here on bicycles.
Where to have a snack?
There are a couple of cafes and a large restaurant in the park, and a mobile hot dog kiosk appears here during the season. So you will not die of hunger. Although many come here with their own supplies, or even settle in some meadow for barbecuing, although this is prohibited here.
