Lake Ladoga:

Lake Ladoga found to the north of St Petersburg in northwestern Russia is the largest freshwater Lake on the European Continent. The lake drains via the Neva River which is one of the major rivers in Europe into the Gulf of Finland. The lake is shared between the Leningrad administrative region and Karelia.

 Wildlife:

Lake Ladoga is home to an endemic species of Ringed Seal which is considered vulnerable due to increased hunting in recent years. Environmental lobbyists have been pushing for the restriction of hunting for Seal found at Ladoga. The lake is also home to about 40 fish species including; Salmon, Perch, Roach, the Ladoga Cisco, Breach and White Fish.

Islands:

The Lake is home to over 600 islands. The most prominent islands are; Mantsinsari, Tulolansari, Kilpola and Valaam. The island of Valaam is home to a meteorological station and is the most visited of all islands on the lake. Valaam is an island with a lot of religious history. Boat tours are conducted regularly to the island and places to see include; the Valaam Male Orthodox Monastery and Snake Mountain which occupies most of the island’s southern parts.

Popularity: 40% [?]