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Kallavesi
Koski-laiva.JPG
Koski ship on Kallavesi.
Kallavesi.png
Location Northern Savonia
Coordinates 62°49′N 027°47′E / 62.817°N 27.783°E / 62.817; 27.783
Catchment area 16,270 km2 (6,280 sq mi)
Basin countries Finland
Max. length 90 km (56 mi)
Max. width 15 km (9 mi)
Surface area 472.76 km2 (182.53 sq mi)
Average depth 5–10 m (16–33 ft)
Max. depth > 60 m (200 ft)
Surface elevation 81.8 m (268 ft)
Settlements Kuopio, Vehmersalmi


Kallavesi is a large and beautiful lake located in Finland. It's a very important part of the landscape in the Northern Savonia region. This lake is known for its many islands and clear waters. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Kallavesi covers a huge area of about 472.76 square kilometers. That's like having more than 66,000 football fields! The lake is also quite deep in some places. Its average depth is around 8.9 meters, but the deepest point goes down to about 75 meters. That's taller than a 20-story building!

Discovering Kallavesi Lake

Kallavesi is one of the biggest lakes in Finland. It stretches for about 90 kilometers long and 15 kilometers wide. The lake is located near the city of Kuopio, which is a lively place. The lake's surface is about 81.8 meters above sea level.

Where is Kallavesi Located?

Kallavesi is found in the central part of Finland. It's in a region called Northern Savonia. This area is famous for its many lakes and forests. The lake is a key part of the Vuoksi basin, which is a large water system. This system includes many lakes and rivers that eventually flow into Lake Ladoga in Russia.

How Big is Kallavesi?

Kallavesi is a truly massive body of water. Its area of 472.76 square kilometers makes it one of Finland's largest lakes. The lake's length of 90 kilometers means you could travel a long distance across its waters. Its width of 15 kilometers shows how wide it is in some parts.

Depth and Water Features

The lake's average depth is about 8.9 meters. This means that in most places, the water isn't extremely deep. However, there are much deeper spots. The deepest point in Kallavesi is an impressive 75 meters. This deep area is a special habitat for different kinds of fish and other water creatures.

Life Around Kallavesi

The area around Kallavesi is home to many plants and animals. The lake's clean water supports a rich ecosystem. Many different types of fish live in the lake. The surrounding forests and shores provide homes for various birds and mammals.

Animals of the Lake

Kallavesi is a great place for fishing. Common fish species found here include pike, perch, and zander. These fish are important for the local economy and for recreational fishing. Birdwatchers can also spot many different bird species near the lake. These include various waterfowl and migratory birds.

Plants and Nature

The shores of Kallavesi are lined with forests, mostly pine and birch trees. These forests are part of the beautiful Finnish landscape. The lake also has many small islands. These islands are often covered with trees and offer peaceful spots for nature lovers. The natural beauty of Kallavesi makes it a popular destination.

Activities and Importance

Kallavesi is very important for the people living nearby. It provides fresh water and supports local industries. It's also a major hub for tourism and recreation. People enjoy many activities on and around the lake throughout the year.

Fun Things to Do

In the summer, people love to go boating, swimming, and fishing on Kallavesi. There are many boat tours available, including trips on historic ships like the Koski ship. The city of Kuopio is right on the lake, offering easy access to its waters. In winter, when the lake freezes over, people enjoy ice skating, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing on the ice.

Kallavesi and Kuopio City

The city of Kuopio is closely connected to Kallavesi. The lake provides a beautiful backdrop for the city. Many of Kuopio's attractions are located near the lake. The harbor is a busy place, with boats coming and going. The lake also plays a role in the city's culture and traditions.

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