Valdaysky National Park, which includes the town of Valday, Lake Valdayskoye, and the northern part of Lake Seliger, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central Russia and has well-developed tourist infrastructure.

In particular, one of the versions puts the location of the Ignach Cross, a place mentioned in the chronicles where Mongols advancing to Novgorod in 1238 turned back, inside the park limits.

All agricultural lands were already in use by the beginning of the 20th century, and the area developed further as a recreational region.

Red fox, mink, marten, moose, wild boar, brown bear, lynx, and grey wolf are all common in the park.

The area attracted artists and authors since the 19th century, and is currently one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central Russia.