Other named islands are: Skitsky (second by size), Lembos, Sviatoy, Bayonny, Moskovsky, Predtechensky, Nikonovsky, Divny, Emelyanov, Oboronny, Goly, Savvaty's, Zosima's, Skalisty, Lukovy, Ovsiany, Rzhanoi, Nikolsky.

[citation needed] The climate and natural history of the island are unique because of its position in Lake Ladoga.

Spring begins at the end of March and a typical summer on Valaam consists of 30–35 sunny days, which is more than on the mainland.

In the middle of February the ice road to the nearest city of Sortavala (42 km, 26 mi) is traversable.

In 1999, there were about 600 residents on the main island; including army service personnel, restoration workers, guides and monks.