Lake Bele is the only one of its kind, the largest mineral reservoir of the Republic of Khakassia, located 8 kilometers from Lake Shira, a real "Siberian pearl". The water surface of Lake Bele is divided into two pools with different mineral composition in each. The more salty, eastern part of the reservoir is used for recreation and hydrotherapy, while the western, fresher part is used for fish farming and also for recreation. The pools are interconnected by a narrow and shallow neck, a favorite nesting place for migratory birds. This is the uniqueness of the water area of Lake Bele.
The area of the water surface of the lake is 75 square kilometers, the length of the shoreline is 66 kilometers, the depth reaches 48 meters. In translation from Khakas “Pile Kel” means a lake of grindstones. The relief of the coastline is composed mainly of reddish-brown limestone. The highest point (586 meters above sea level) is Mount Chalpan, opening a panoramic view of both pools of Lake Bele. At the foot of Mount Chalpan there is a tourist and recreational area with numerous recreation centers and a picturesque relic larch forest. Part of the shoreland of Lake Bele is included in site of the nature reserve “Khakassky”; these are nesting sites for numerous flocks of migratory birds. Monuments of rock art on Mount Chalpan and ancient burial mounds of various eras witness that this place has been popular since ancient times.
Lake Bele is a favorite vacation spot for many tourists. The beach season starts from the mid-June and lasts until August. The maximum temperatures of the water are only reached in the month of July and makes 22-23 degrees - the most comfortable temperature for swimming. Accommodation is possible in numerous recreation centers or in a tent camp. There are many sports grounds for playing volleyball or table tennis for active recreation on the banks of the reservoir. Plus, there is a rental of sports equipment and water activities. In case of staying in tents, it is necessary to take along some fresh water for cooking and drinking, firewood or coal for a fire, shelter from the sun, insect repellents.
