Great trip around the Kola Peninsula. The Kola Peninsula: history, description and interesting facts

The kingdom of the Russian North, the Kola Peninsula is one of the most virgin, picturesque and harsh regions of Russia. The land washed by the Barents and White Seas is a real nature reserve: it contains more than a third of all the minerals of the planet, mountains and plateaus are replaced by tundras and lakes, about 100 species of fish live in reservoirs, and the change of day and night obeys the laws of the polar latitudes, giving tourists the spectacle of the northern lights . In winter, mainly skiing enthusiasts come to the Kola Peninsula: there are several "snow" resorts on the slopes of the Khibiny. And in the warm season, you can raft down mountain rivers, relax on amazingly clean ice lakes, go to hiking along the Khibiny passes, hunt, fish and get acquainted with the original culture of the Sami peoples.

The main cities of the Kola Peninsula: the capital and largest port the Russian Arctic - Murmansk, the base of the Northern Fleet - Severomorsk, the gates to the Khibiny - Apatity and Kirovsk.

How to get to the Kola Peninsula

From Moscow and St. Petersburg, it is most convenient to arrive on the Kola Peninsula by landing at Murmansk Airport. From three Moscow airports, at least 5 flights depart daily for Murmansk; the route is served by UTair, Aeroflot, Nordavia, S7 airlines. Travel time - 2.5 hours. There are even more flights from the northern capital - up to 10 per day. Petersburgers will spend less than 2 hours on the road. The carriers are the same, plus Rossiya airline.

In winter, there are direct flights to Apatity, on which skiers arrive on the slopes of the Khibiny.

Adventure lovers and beautiful landscapes can get to the Kola Peninsula by train, also arriving in Murmansk. Muscovites will have to spend at least 30 hours on the road (ticket price from 3200 RUB), St. Petersburg residents - about 25 hours (from 3000 RUB). Prices on the page are for November 2018.

By car, residents of both Russian capitals get to the capital of the peninsula along the M18 federal highway.

The main thing that attracts tourists to the Kola Peninsula is the incredibly beautiful, harsh and solemn nature, almost untouched by man.

A bit of geography

The Kola Peninsula is a battlefield of primeval nature, pushing, grinding and heaping up tectonic plates. Therefore, the landscape here is remarkably diverse: mountain ranges Khibiny, rising to 1200 m, and high plateaus covered with coniferous forests Lovozero tundra with unique circuses - ice bowls several kilometers long and up to 200 m high, depressions and lowlands, rivers, lakes, swamps, tundra and taiga... More than thousands of varieties of minerals - a third of all known on the planet, of which 150 are found nowhere else on Earth.

The Kola Peninsula is the border of Russia with Finland and Norway, thanks to which there are three international checkpoints for cars. So if you have a Schengen visa, you can easily drive for a few days to our nearest northern neighbors.

Weather on the Kola Peninsula

The cold breath of the north affects the climate of the Kola Peninsula throughout the year: weather conditions change as if by magic: morning frosts are possible in summer, and lingering snowstorms in winter. However, the warm current North Atlantic rewarded the north-west of the peninsula with a moderately mild subarctic maritime climate: in particular, in Murmansk and Severomorsk, the average January temperature is only -8 ° C. In Apatity and Kirovsk, it is noticeably colder in winter - down to -15 ° C, and on the slopes of Khibiny "working" ski snow lies until May.

polar days and nights, and northern lights- the main spectacular "chips" of the peninsula. You can admire the sun that does not set beyond the horizon in June-July, and plunge into the darkness of the night - in December-January (then it is worth hunting for the aurora borealis).

Popular hotels in Kola Peninsula

Entertainment and attractions

The main thing that attracts tourists to the Kola Peninsula (most of which are foreigners) is the incredibly beautiful, harsh and solemn nature, almost untouched by man. Among all the natural heritage, the Khibiny are the favorites: in winter people go skiing here, in summer they go hiking, rafting down mountain rivers and relaxing at lake bases. In addition, in Khibiny you should definitely go on an excursion to mining enterprises and visit the Apatit Museum and Exhibition Center in Kirovsk with an interesting exposition telling about mining.

The Tersky coast and the Kuzomensky sands are two amazing natural areas of the peninsula. The first is unanimously recognized as the most picturesque: the desert coast of the White Sea is strewn with sparkling treasures - fragments of rocks, including real amethysts.

Kuzomensky sands is a mini-desert in the northern latitudes: dunes of multi-colored sand stretch for almost 13 km along the coast.

The largest and picturesque lakes Kola Peninsula - Imandra, Lovozero and Umbozero. Imandra is ideal for a relaxing holiday without frills in the bosom of a stunningly diverse nature: pebble beaches are replaced here by sharp rocks, sandbanks alternate with heaps of boulders. Fishing and hiking in the forests and valleys are the most popular leisure activities. Lovozero with an area of ​​almost 200 km is surrounded low mountains under the unobvious name Lovozero tundra. Seasonal camp sites operate on the lake, climbing is organized in the tundra.

Umbozero is the deepest on the peninsula: its depth reaches 100 m. It is remarkable not only for its picturesque shores, but also for several islands where you can feel like one hundred percent Robinson.

Teriberka is the recent cinematic star of the Kola Peninsula. After the release of the film "Leviathan", the village, forgotten by God and people, received a second birth: people come here for specific impressions of the abandonment and devastation of the once prosperous settlement. In Teriberka, you can stand on the coast of the Barents Sea, see the skeletons of ships and the remains of military batteries, wander along deserted beaches dotted with boulders, and look into abandoned houses.

Most interesting nature reserves peninsulas - Lapland, Kandalaksha and Russian-Norwegian Pasvik. In the first, relic forests up to 10 thousand years old with 400-600-year-old trees grow, reindeer, elk, bears, wolves and many other animals live. On the shores of Lake Chuna, there is another residence of Father Frost - this time in Lapland. In the Kandalaksha Reserve, the tundra and the northern taiga are adjacent, where 67 species of mammals and 250 species of birds live. And in Pasvik, tourists can admire pine forests and glacial lakes and see numerous waterfowl.

The Challenger, together with Volkswagen, went on an expedition to the Kola Peninsula and at the same time tested the Tiguan model. In this material we report about everything - and about impressive places on the peninsula, and about the impressive features of the machine.

Nuclear icebreaker "Lenin"

Nuclear icebreakers are a unique phenomenon. They were built only in the USSR and continue to be built in Russia. "Lenin" - the first nuclear-powered icebreaker - became a real breakthrough in the scientific and technical field.

The first thing that strikes you is, of course, the size. The ship is 134 meters long, almost 28 meters wide and over 16 meters high. The icebreaker could move at a speed of 36 kilometers per hour through clear water and more than three kilometers per hour, breaking ice about two meters thick.

All the "insides" of the icebreaker have been preserved in their original form - now there is a museum. The interior is impressive. In the corridors and cabins - wooden trim, reminiscent of Soviet chic. In the dining room, all the chairs are still well attached to the floor - this was done in case the icebreaker got into a storm. Any visitor can also enter the compartment of the nuclear reactor, which was protected by lead. Now this is not required - the equipment was dismantled before the nuclear-powered ship was withdrawn from the fleet. For entourage, there are mannequins in protective suits near the compartment.

Previously, the crew of the ship consisted of more than 200 people. They could stay in the Arctic on a ship for a year without touching the shore. It was a real city on the water: a club, a recreation center, a library, a cinema hall, several canteens, a laundry, baths, a bakery, a hairdresser's and even a hospital. Despite the eternal parking in Murmansk, the ship still has a crew of 19 people - they constantly monitor the state of the ship and conduct excursions.

There is a beautiful view from the wheelhouse. You can see Murmansk, although not so long ago, completely different landscapes could be seen from the windows of the ship.

The memorial complex is located in Murmansk - on one of the highest hills of the Kola Bay. main object- the figure of a soldier who holds a machine gun. It is the unofficial symbol of the city. The warrior looks towards the Valley of Glory - there at the time Patriotic War there were fierce battles.

It is better to move around Murmansk by private car. There we were just able to test the new Volkswagen Tiguan: it has good maneuverability, ergonomics, and it’s just comfortable to move around on it. The car is equipped with all-round cameras and parking assist, which helps to park in tight spaces. Volkswagen pays a lot of attention to safety: under the hood of the new Tiguan there is a pedestrian protection system.

Valley of Lake Maly Vudyavr

In the center of the Kola Peninsula is the main attraction of the Khibiny region - the lakes Maly and Bolshoy Vudyavr. The name of the lakes from the Sami (the Sami are the indigenous people of this area) is translated as " Mountain Lake". But lakes are not everything. “Dancing” birch trees grow nearby, and among them lie large boulders that have rolled down from nearby mountain slopes. The lake, birches, stones - all this together, of course, is impressive.

About 100 films were shot on the Kola Peninsula and in Kirovsk. For example, the filming of the films “Evenings on a Farm near Dikanka”, “Cuckoo”, “Leviathan” took place just in the valley of Lake Maly Vudyavr and the vicinity of Kirovsk. In Kirovsk, by the way, there is a cool museum and exhibition center "Apatit" - we advise you to visit. There is a large collection of minerals from the Khibiny tundra, from the Kola Peninsula and from all over the world.

The test drive track was prepared in such a way as to better reveal the off-road and road qualities of the Volkswagen Tiguan. The new model received a special set of off-road features: Offroad provides the driver with confidence in the passage of dirt, rocky roads, slopes, and also makes it possible to wade a shallow mountain river.

Revda village

This village is known not only for its mines (the history of the village begins in 1950 - when the mining and processing of loparite ore began), but also magnificent nature. Somewhere in the region of Seydozero 11-15 thousand years ago Hyperborea was located - a unique civilization, it possessed many scientific knowledge and left a mark on many cultures and religions. Therefore, the Lovozero tundra and Seydozero are so attractive to adventurers and followers of ancient Hyperborea.

Seydozero is a sacred place for the Saami. They fear him and worship the lake at the same time. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides. There is more vegetation on the coast and it is more diverse than in the neighboring tundra - instead of birches, spruce trees grow, there are bushes of blueberries and cloudberries.

magnetite quarry

The quarry is located near Olenegorsk. Iron ore is mined here. The quarry is located on the site of the Olenegorsk iron ore deposit and has been operating since 1998.

You can drive to the observation deck without any problems if the car is made in an off-road modification and equipped with all-wheel drive. The new Volkswagen Tiguan perfectly demonstrated its power and articulation of the suspension, the efficiency and usability of the off-road descent assistant and the surround view cameras at the exit to the quarry.

So observation deck you can look at the work of mining excavators and BelAZ trucks. From here you can see a beautiful view of the gorge, cutting through the Khibiny mountain range from north to south - the location of one of the scenes of the film "Cuckoo".

Ruins of the Gulag

Since the mid-1930s, geological work has been actively carried out in the Lovozero mountain range to explore the location of rare earth metals: rubidium, cesium, tantalum. To do this, they built a small factory, where the concentrate of rare earth elements was washed by hand - like gold. Then 6,000 prisoners were brought to the banks of the Servan River (mostly those who were captured by the Finns in 1939). All major large industrial enterprises Murmansk region they built it.

These places can only be reached by car. For a comfortable ride, a tall car is suitable, which can overcome mountainous sections of the road, exits and be as maneuverable as possible. It is also important to have other features necessary for long journeys, such as a driver fatigue recognition system, climate control, a heated steering wheel and a front distance control system. The new Volkswagen Tiguan has it all.

This peninsula is located in the north-west of the Russian Federation, is part of the Barents Sea in the north, and the White Sea in the east and south. The western border of the peninsula is a meridional depression that stretches from along the Kola River to

Its area is 100 thousand square kilometers, the northern shore is steep and high, and the southern one is gentle and low-lying, gently sloping. In the west of the peninsula there are mountain ranges - Khibiny and Lovozero tundra. In its center stretches the Keiva Ridge.

Geographical position

The Kola Peninsula occupies seventy percent of the territory of the Murmansk region. It is located in the far north of Russia. Almost all of its territory is located beyond the Arctic Circle.

Climatic conditions

The Kola Peninsula has a very diverse climate. The warm North Atlantic Current warms it in the northwest. Here the climate is milder subarctic, maritime. Closer to the east, center and southwest of the territory, continentality increases - here the climate becomes moderately cold. The average January temperature ranges from -10°C in the northwest to -18°C in the center. In July, the air warms up from +8 °C to +10 °C.

Fully snow cover is established in early October, and disappears only at the end of May (in the mountains, this process drags on until mid-June). Frosts and snowfall are frequent even in summer. Strong winds often blow on the coast (up to 55 m / s), in winter, prolonged snowstorms are a common occurrence.

Relief and nature

The Kola Peninsula is terraces and depressions, plateaus and mountains. The massifs of the peninsula rise above sea level by more than eight hundred meters. Swamps and numerous lakes occupy the plains.

The reservoirs are rich in various types of fish - char and salmon, trout and whitefish, pike and grayling. In the seas washing the territory, flounder and cod, capelin and halibut, crab and herring are found in abundance.

History of the peninsula

Its specialists divide it into four main stages. The first began even before the arrival of the Russians on the Kola Peninsula. At that time there lived indigenous people- Saami. They were engaged in deer hunting, berry picking, and fishing. The Sami lived in huts with a flat roof - blunts, or in huts made of deer skins - kuvaks.

The second historical period begins in the eleventh century, with the appearance of the first Pomeranian settlements. Their inhabitants did the same as the Sami, but, unlike them, they rarely went hunting.

They lived in ordinary Russian huts, but with very narrow windows. They were needed to keep warm as much as possible. In these narrow windows they installed whole pieces ice. When it thawed, a strong connection with the tree was formed.

The third historical period of the Kola Peninsula can be considered the wars against the interventionists. The Norwegians have interfered with the indigenous population since ancient times. They have long claimed the land of the Sami. They had to fight with them, protecting their territory. The British began to lay claim to the peninsula behind the Norwegians. In the 17th and 18th centuries, they burned Kola, a fortress built at the mouth of the river of the same name.

The fourth stage in the history of the peninsula is entirely associated with the emergence of the city of Murmansk. The first prospectors appeared in these places in 1912. Today it is the largest port in the Arctic.

Cities of the Kola Peninsula

The first settlement of Pomors, which appeared on the territory of the present city of Kola, appeared in 1264. It is mentioned in the notes of Simon van Salingen, a Dutch merchant in the 16th century.

At this time, the Pomors began active trade with the Norwegians, Swedes, British, Danes, who arrived by ship on the Kola Peninsula. The city of Cola has become administrative center. Its population was engaged in fishing, poultry and cattle breeding.

In 1814, the first stone church on the peninsula was built here. The townspeople became famous for fearlessly repulsing the attacks of the Swedes and the British.

Murmansk

This largest city in the Arctic is located on the Kola Peninsula. It was founded in October 1916. At first it was called Romanov-on-Murman. The city bore this name until April 1917. It is located on the coast of the Kola Bay, 50 kilometers from the Barents Sea. It is surrounded by numerous hills.

Its area is 15,055 hectares (including a section of the water area of ​​the Kola Bay - 1,357 hectares). The city is made up of three administrative districts- Oktyabrsky, Leninsky and May Day.

Murmansk cannot be classified as one of the largest cities in our country, but it is the largest city in the world, located above the Arctic Circle.

In May 1985, he received the high title of "Hero City", and in February 1971 he was awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labor.

Apatity

The Kola Peninsula, a photo of which can often be seen on the pages of publications for travelers, has not much on its territory. major cities. One of them is Apatity, with a territory under its jurisdiction, which includes the Khibiny station and the Tik-Guba settlement.

The city is located between and on the banks of the Belaya River. Population - 57905 people.

In 1916, on the site of the present city, railroad station due to the commencement of road construction. In 1930, the state farm "Industriya" was organized here.

The laying of the city took place in 1951, and three years later the construction of the academic campus began. Due to Stalin's death, work was suspended until 1956. Then the construction of the Kirovskaya GRES began in the city. In 1956, the first residential building was commissioned.

In 1966 the city was transformed. It included the village of Molodyozhny.

Winter on the Kola Peninsula

This is the longest season in these parts. Winter lasts up to eight months. In October, snow cover appears, and in May, lakes and rivers are still ice-bound. And at the same time, in winter, the Kola Peninsula (you see the photo in our article) is unique, fairy world. Despite the fact that the temperature can drop below 40 degrees, the cold does not hold down at all and is practically not felt, thanks to the low level of humidity.

polar night

Due to the fact that the Kola Peninsula is located beyond the Arctic Circle, from the end of November to the end of January, the polar night reigns here.

Black sky strewn with bright stars, cities are illuminated by electric lights. At noon, the sky brightens a little, purple, dark blue and even pink shades appear on it. Thus pass two short hours of twilight. Then the sky darkens again.

Northern lights

Few of the inhabitants of the European part of our country had a chance to see this extraordinary sight that adorns the Kola Peninsula in winter. The black sky suddenly blooms with tongues of fiery shades - from crimson to blue-green. It's like Laser show You can't take your eyes off him. It can be observed from September to April. Until now, the northern lights are considered a mysterious phenomenon, which even the inhabitants of the Arctic cannot get used to.

The rivers of the peninsula

The reservoirs of this land are mainly fed by melt water (up to 60% of the runoff). The rivers of the Kola Peninsula are full-flowing for 2 months a year (May-June), and then they become much shallower. The water level in them largely depends on the summer rains.

Their length exceeds 50 thousand km. They belong to the basin of two northern seas - the Barents and the White. Some of them are over 200 km long - Varzuga, Ponoy, Tuloma. They occupy 70% of the total basin area of ​​the Murmansk region. Almost all rivers have a meridional flow direction, only the Ponoi River differs in latitudinal flow.

Many Voronya, Umba, etc.) flow from large lakes. The water in them is usually greenish-blue and clear. During floods, rivers carry a large amount of silt, sand, and fallen leaves. The Kola Peninsula is distinguished by a long freeze-up - 7 months, the ice cover remains up to 210 days a year. The rivers open up in May.

Hydro resources

On the Niva, Kovda, Voronya there are hydroelectric power stations and reservoirs built. In contrast to the flat southern rivers, in the northern rivers, due to cooling of the water, bottom ice forms on the rapids during the cold season.

The rivers of the Kola Peninsula are conditionally divided into four groups:

• semi-plain (Varzuga, Ponoy, Strelna);
• canal rivers (Varzina, Niva, Kolvitsa);
• lake type (Umba, Drozdovka, Rynda);
• mountain type (Kuna, Malaya Belaya).

Fishing

The Kola Peninsula is today one of the interesting places for true connoisseurs of fishing for trout and salmon. It is well known all over the world as the best place for catching "noble fish". Conventionally, fishermen divide the rivers of the peninsula into those that flow into the cold Barents Sea, and those that carry their waters to the White.

Fishing on the Kola Peninsula is a pleasure not only for beginners, but also for lovers of this activity with experience. In July, a large number of not very large salmon, “tindy”, enters the rivers of the peninsula, and the August herds contain medium-sized salmon.

This harsh land left an imprint on the inhabitants of the reservoirs. In many rivers there is no grayling, here it is replaced by arctic char and whitefish.

River trout here grows to a very solid five-, and sometimes even seven-kilogram sizes, and trout does not exceed 2 kilograms.

The most famous rivers that attract fishermen from all over the country and from abroad to the Kola Peninsula (Russia), related to the northern coast, are Yokanga, Kola, Rynda, Kharlovka, Varzina, Vostochnaya Litsa. This is where it is organized the best fishing on the Kola Peninsula as a savage.

Kharlovka river

This amazing river is well known to experienced salmon fishers. In addition, travelers often come here who appreciate the extraordinary northern nature. They are attracted beautiful waterfall. Huge masses of water can lead to indescribable delight of a person who has seen this amazing sight at least once.

Kharlovka is known for especially large salmon and no less large trout. True, fish can pass through the waterfall streams only with the proper water level in the river. Sometimes anglers give up fishing and watch as the salmon tries to overcome this obstacle. In the white water foam, the fish jumps out of the water. At the top of the waterfall there is a natural slab from which you can capture this process on film. Residents of the Kola Peninsula have not been surprised for a long time by the unique shots in which a huge fish seems to be flying into the camera lens.

Fishing is excellent in Kharlovka, which is why not only “savage” fishermen come here, but also high-quality organized tours are organized.

Bell

This river attracts with a combination of excellent fishing and natural beauty. Three large multi-stage waterfalls, a huge amount of trout and salmon make this place extremely attractive.

Fishing on the Kola Peninsula on the Rynda River has many fans. Some of them have been coming to these places for fishing tours for 17-18 years.

Tersky coast

The rivers that are located on the southern Tersky coast are very popular among a wide circle of anglers around the world.

This and magnificent river Umba, and rapids and wide Varzuga with tributaries, Kitsa and Pana, inhabited by numerous salmon herds, and the famous Terek rivers Strelna, Chapoma, Chavanga, Pyalitsa.

It should be noted that the rivers of the Tersky coast are distinguished by a very wide list of living fish. Shoals of pink salmon, salmon, and sea trout enter them for spawning.

Brook trout, brown trout, grayling, and whitefish constantly live in these rivers.

Of the carp species, roach and ide are found. And predators are represented by perch, pike, burbot.

Our free guide to the Kola Peninsula is part of a large guide to Russia. In it you will find information about the natural attractions of the Kola, lakes and rivers, unique northern reserves.

Rest on the Kola Peninsula is:

• rafting on northern rivers and lakes;
• ascent to the passes of the Khibiny mountains;
• visiting ancient settlements Far North;
• rest at recreation centers;
• skiing;
• fishing and hunting.

With our guide to the Kola Peninsula, you can easily plan independent trip, book a hotel or a recreation center, choose a full tour or a separate excursion.

Budget (2015)

Tickets

Traveling around the Kola Peninsula, most tourists start from Murmansk, Apatit or Kirovsk. It is in these cities that airports and large railway stations are located, which have direct communication with the center and north-west of Russia.

The prices for economy class air tickets for the main destinations are as follows (per person in both directions):

• Moscow - Murmansk: from 7000 rubles;
• St. Petersburg - Murmansk: from 10,600 rubles;
• Moscow - Apatity (Kirovsk): from 9000 rubles;
• St. Petersburg - Apatity (Kirovsk): from 8000 rubles.

Railway tickets for the same destinations are not much cheaper, especially given the much more long time on the way (more than 1 day):

• Moscow - Murmansk: from 6300 rubles (reserved seat) and 12600 rubles (compartment);
• Moscow - Apatity: from 5300 rubles (reserved seat) and 7000 rubles (compartment);
• St. Petersburg - Murmansk: from 5,000 rubles (reserved seat) and 7,200 rubles (compartment);
• St. Petersburg - Apatity: from 4500 rubles (reserved seat) and 6600 rubles (compartment)

based on one person in both directions.

Intercity bus service is well established on the Kola Peninsula. So, from Murmansk you can get to the most popular cities and towns. Prices for a one-way ticket per person: to Apatit or Kirovsk - from 555 rubles, to Kandalaksha - from 630 rubles, to Monchegorsk - from 345 rubles, to Olenegorsk - from 261 rubles, to Severomorsk - from 160 rubles, to Umba - from 710 rubles, to Titovka - from 280 rubles, to Teriberka - from 331 rubles and Cola - 343 rubles

Accommodation

There are not so many hotels on the Kola Peninsula, although in last years tourism infrastructure is developing noticeably. In Murmansk, a standard double room in a 3-star hotel will cost 2200-3500 rubles per day, in Monchegorsk, Kirovsk and Apatity the prices are higher, apparently due to the proximity to popular ski resorts. Here, prices for a room in the same category vary between 2900-5200 rubles per day. A popular type of recreation on the Kola is various camp sites on the rivers Kola, Tuloma, Viva, Lake Imandra, in the Lovozero region. Here, the cost of living starts from 900 rubles per day per person and rises depending on the complex of included services and the comfort of the residential facility.

Nutrition

Restaurant service on the Kola Peninsula in all its diversity is represented only in major cities- Murmansk, Monchegorsk, Kirovsk, Apatity. For example, the restaurants "Tsarskaya Okhota", "Tundra", "Dekante" top the rating of the best restaurants in the Murmansk region. Here you will be offered delicious dishes of the national Sami and Pomeranian cuisine, for example, venison with a variety of berry sauces. Of course, the average check in such establishments will start from 1,500 rubles per person. You can dine inexpensively in a variety of pubs, pizzerias and self-service cafes. Here, a complex lunch will cost 500-700 rubles per person, depending on the institution. If you go on a trip along the Tersky coast, then most of the settlements that you will meet on the way are small villages, half abandoned. There is no point in looking for a cafe there; at best, you will find a grocery store for organizing an independent picnic in nature. Food prices are basically the same as the average for Russia. The only one is here big variety types of sea fish, from which many national dishes are prepared, it is much cheaper, always fresh and tasty. You can buy from locals or go fishing yourself.

Story

The Kola Peninsula, located in the Far North of Russia on the border with Norway in the waters of the White and Barents Seas, was called Murman until the beginning of the 20th century. The ancient sites of the first people discovered by scientists on the territory of the peninsula belong to stone age. As for the indigenous population of the peninsula - the Saami, their ancestors began to inhabit these northern lands later, only in the 2nd millennium BC. They were engaged in reindeer herding, hunting and fishing on the northern coast. Russians began to actively populate the Tersky coast of the Kola Peninsula only in the 9th-11th centuries: in various historical documents and annals, large settlements of Varzuga and Kola are mentioned. They quickly begin to develop sea routes, organizing a promising trade in fish and furs with European countries in the North and West.

The natural wealth of the Kola land and established trade relations with many European countries attracted the attention of the Russian government. In the middle of the 19th century, active scientific study of the Kola Peninsula began. Numerous expeditions are sent for the purpose of a detailed study of the geography of the area, mapping. In 1916, the Murmansk railway line and the port of Romanov-on-Murman (modern Murmansk) were built. This ensured the connection of the central part of Russia with the Kola Peninsula both by land and by sea.

The peninsula was actively involved in the events civil war in Russia. In addition to the confrontation between the White Guards and the Bolshevik forces, intervention from England and America began in 1918, in connection with which a large-scale partisan movement was organized under the leadership of the Bolsheviks. As a result, foreign troops were forced to leave the peninsula, the White Guards were also defeated, and Soviet power was established throughout the territory.
Since that time, the active industrial development of the region began. Forestry and fisheries were restored. Huge deposits of various minerals, including the richest reserves of apatite, have been discovered in the depths of the Khibiny. The development of these deposits contributed to the development of several industrial sectors at once - the production of fertilizers (in Kirovsk), non-ferrous metallurgy (in Monchegorsk).

During the Great Patriotic War, the line of the northern front passed along the Kola Peninsula. Fierce battles were fought on land and in coastal waters. Ground forces, aviation and the Northern Fleet suffered huge human losses, holding back the active onslaught of the enemy, preventing him from reaching the strategically important Murmansk. Through courage and heroism Soviet soldiers, The port of Murmansk worked without interruption, and the enterprises of the region supplied products for the needs of the front without stopping. The complete liberation of the Kola Peninsula took place in October 1944, and in honor of the heroism of the Soviet people in the north, a special medal "For the Defense of the Arctic" was established.

In the postwar years, the active industrial development of the Murmansk region continued, and today it is one of the most powerful industrial regions of Russia. In the Khibiny, more than 9 million tons of apatite are mined per year, logging and fishing are actively carried out on the shores of the Barents and White Seas, non-ferrous metallurgy is successfully developing in Kovdor and Monchegorsk, and a whole network of hydroelectric power stations and nuclear power plants is operating to meet the large demand of the peninsula for electricity. The Kola Peninsula today is still of great military and strategic importance. The Northern Fleet is based here with headquarters in Severomorsk, there are large ports that provide direct access to open ocean during the whole year. IN Lately Ecotourism and skiing are actively developing. More and more residents of our country and foreigners are striving to explore the amazing nature of the Far North of Russia.

Business card

The hallmark of the Kola Peninsula is undoubtedly the amazing nature of the Russian North, harsh, but no less beautiful. On the one hand, there are endless tundras, lonely peninsulas with half-forgotten villages and a cold ocean beating into sheer coastal cliffs. And on the other hand, these are green river valleys immersed in dense forests, picturesque mountain passes and gorges hidden in the heart of the Khibiny, fabulous northern lights in winter and long white nights in summer.

A trip to Kola really builds character. If you are not afraid of cold and wind, many hours of off-road driving with a constant risk of getting stuck away from civilization when you next try to overcome the ford and you like campfire romance on the coast of the White or Barents Sea, then we can say with confidence that you will be able to see the real Far North Russia.

Go to the Tersky coast - the surrounding landscapes are inspiring there, and under your feet - placers of amethyst brushes, shining in a variety of shades. And someone will certainly want to visit the most northern point of Russia - Nemetsky Cape or wander in silence through the ruins of military fortifications and trenches from the Second World War on the Sredny and Rybachy peninsulas, marveling at the courage and stamina of people who defended their homeland in such harsh conditions. It will be interesting to visit the Sami reindeer herders at Seydoozero or Lovozero, ride reindeer sleds and feel the traditions of this ancient people.

People from different parts of our country go to Kola also for the sake of fishing and hunting. The most popular places: lakes Imandra, Big and Small Vudyavr, Umboozero, as well as the Kola, Tuloma, Varzuga, Teriberka, Umba rivers are rich in valuable salmon species, among which there are truly record specimens. And hunting for fur-bearing animals has been practiced on Kola since the first Russian settlements appeared on the peninsula.

And yet, for most tourists who have visited the Kola Peninsula, the Khibiny leaves the most vivid impressions. This is the oldest mountain range, in the depths of which there are huge deposits of iron ores, semi-precious stones and a wide variety of minerals, many of which are not found anywhere else on Earth. On the slopes of the Khibiny Mountains there are popular ski resorts that can please experienced riders with extreme slopes and wide snowy couloirs for off-piste skiing. Ecological trekking is also actively developing here - fascinating mountain hikes with overcoming passes of various categories of difficulty.

Those who go to the Kola Peninsula can hardly be called tourists. These are real travelers who are accustomed to weather surprises and difficulties on the road, those who value natural beauty above hotel service and familiar tourist entertainment.

Make it a must

Explore the Khibiny

This natural attraction is number one among many tourists planning a trip to the Kola Peninsula. The Khibiny mountains have always been full of mysteries. Previously unknown minerals are still being found here - of course, because this is the oldest mountain range, the geological age of which is more than 350 million years. Unique natural resources attract researchers from all over the world, the largest mines for the extraction of a wide variety of minerals operate here. Khibiny attracts no less interest among lovers of outdoor activities and ecotourism. On the slopes of the Khibiny Mountains there are the best ski centers in the North, climbing routes of various complexity, hiking to mountain lakes and rivers are organized.

Relax on Lake Imandra

Lake Imandra is called the pearl of the Kola Peninsula. Its shores are very picturesque and diverse - these are steep cliffs, and gentle sandbanks strewn with huge boulders, and in some places you can even find comfortable pebble beaches. This place is very popular among tourists. Here you can just relax by renting a house at the base, go fishing, go boating or go hiking in the surrounding forests for berries and mushrooms. And for those who love speed, adrenaline and adventure, there are many developed routes for rafting on rapids that flow into the lake, as well as opportunities for various types of kitesurfing at any time of the year.

Catch your "record" salmon

Even if you are not an avid fisherman, fishing on the Kola is a real thrill. More than 18,000 rivers flow on the peninsula, all of them are different in nature and the surrounding landscape, but they have one thing in common - the wealth of valuable species of fish that come to spawn from the Barents Sea. "Salmon" are mountain-type rivers with a rapid current and shallow, but long rapids. By the way, in order to overcome such a threshold, the salmon must have a strong tail fin, which helps it to jump up to 3 meters high! Not all representatives of the salmon family are capable of this, so only the best specimens rise into the rivers. The rivers Kola, Yokanga, Tipanovka, Kharlovka, Rynda are considered places for first-class fishing. It is absolutely possible to catch a truly huge fish here: reports are full of photos of the lucky ones holding 1.5 meters long salmon in their hands, the weight of which can reach up to 45 kilograms! So feel free to go for your personal record.

Look for amethysts on the Tersky coast

There are especially beautiful place on the Kola Peninsula - this is the Tersky coast - southeast coast White Sea. It was here that the first Russian settlements began to appear, which later became major centers of maritime trade and fishing - Umba, Varzuga, Kuzomen, Kashkarantsy. Nowadays, unfortunately, they look rather depressing, almost nothing reminds of their former prosperity. But the surrounding nature has retained its charm. There is a wonderful place here - Cape Korabl, famous for its colorful amethyst shores. Of course, now you will not find large amethysts worthy of the rings of royal people here. But everywhere there are plenty of natural souvenirs in the form of rock fragments with small crystals of various shades - pale pink, lilac, bright purple, blue or even black. Here you need to walk slowly, completely forgetting about the daily routine, just admiring the magical glow of the coast in the rays of the northern sun.

Wander the Kuzomensky Sands

How do you like the idea to visit the desert in the middle of the northern tundra? It sounds unrealistic, but when traveling around Kola, what you will not see! It is worth coming to the village of Kuzomen to be convinced of this. Getting here is not the easiest thing, but the local scenery is really some kind of fantastic. Instead of the usual rocky shores, there are endless red sands, every year getting closer and closer to the village itself. There is almost no vegetation, except that in some places there are bizarre trees standing on bare roots - this is the wind blowing the soil out from under them, turning into fairy tale characters from the dense forest. And don't be surprised if you meet here free-roaming Yakut horses. They were once brought to the village for collective farm work, but they preferred a free life, and now they roam here on their own.

Visit reindeer herders

The Saami are an indigenous people who have inhabited the Kola Peninsula since the second millennium BC. Since time immemorial, they have been engaged in reindeer herding, preserving the ancient traditions of handling these noble northern animals to this day. Today, tourists have the opportunity to visit the Saami reindeer herders, going on their own to the Lovozero tundra or ordering organized tour on snowmobiles. In any case, it will be an exciting adventure: you can watch or even take part in reindeer sleigh competitions, try the best dishes national Sami cuisine. This is a very hospitable people, so if you want to stay for a few days, you will be offered to spend the night on warm reindeer skins in a chum - a traditional Sami dwelling.

Why and when to go

Walks in the cities of the Far North

When: Anytime during the year.

One way or another, you will begin your journey around the Kola Peninsula by arriving in one of the major cities. Most likely, it will be Murmansk, Kirovsk, Apatity or Severomorsk. These cities initially developed as large industrial centers or important strategic ports with year-round access to the open ocean. Therefore, you should not count on outstanding architecture or a rich excursion program here. However, it is definitely worth taking a walk and feeling the specifics of the harsh northern cities, and at the same time taking a run through the most popular attractions.

The hallmark of Murmansk, the main port city in the Arctic, is the famous Lenin icebreaker and the northernmost oceanarium in Russia. By visiting the first one, you will be able to look at the legendary nuclear reactor, which provided the vessel with a unique speed in the arctic ice. And in the aquarium you will find a wonderful performance with the participation of talented gray seals, ringed seals and the only trained sea hare in Russia. They perform clever tricks and even play musical instruments.

Severomorsk is still an important basing center for Russia's Northern Fleet. A huge K-21 submarine flaunts on the pier near the main square of the city, which gained world fame thanks to a series of successful military operations at sea during the Great Patriotic War. It was a real "ocean storm" that sank 17 enemy ships. Now the submarine has a permanent museum exposition, guided tours of the combat compartments.

Kirovsk and Apatity are located at the foot of the picturesque Khibiny mountains. Lifts lead directly from the city to the famous ski slopes of Aikuaayvenchorr and Kukisvumchorr. And nearby is the Polar Botanical Garden. N. Avrorina is one of the largest in Europe. Here you can look at the collections of plants from all over the world in huge greenhouses, as well as take a walk along the ecological path to the slopes of the Khibiny peaks to get acquainted with the northern flora in natural conditions. Fans of mineralogy should also visit the Geological Museum in Kirovsk, which contains unique samples of rare minerals and precious stones mined in the bowels of the Khibiny. If you come to Kirovsk in winter, be sure to visit the Snow Village. This is a whole city built of ice and snow. Interesting thematic events are held here, you can play hide and seek in the snow labyrinth and even hold a wedding ceremony in the solemn ice hall.

Visiting nature reserves

When: Year-round, the best time to visit is during the summer months.

You can get up close and personal with the interesting flora and fauna of the Far North of Russia by visiting one of the three nature reserves of the Kola Peninsula with an excursion. The oldest biosphere reserve in Russia, the Lapland Reserve, was created to protect the reindeer population. Today it is a unique corner of nature, uniting picturesque mountain landscapes, river and lake valleys and dense centuries-old coniferous forests. In addition to ecological routes to get acquainted with the flora and fauna of the reserve, tourists really like the excursion to "Fabulous Lapland" to visit Santa Claus.

The Kandalaksha Nature Reserve is one of the first and largest marine reserves in Russia, spread over more than 550 islands in the Barents and White Seas. Here is a real bird kingdom: during a tour of the archipelagos, you can see thousands of colonies of gulls, guillemots, cormorants and a wide variety of "flying". However, the most important inhabitant of the reserve is the common eider. This is a species of sea duck, whose down is considered very valuable. It was for the purpose of protecting eiders from mass destruction for commercial purposes that the Kandalaksha Reserve was created in the 30s of the 20th century. Excursions on a boat in the protected waters of the White Sea are popular: in addition to the "bird markets", you can see seals, sea hares, seals, and if you are especially lucky, then a flock of dolphins or beluga whales.

Pasvik is a nature reserve of international format, located on the border of Russia with Norway. This special place on the Kola Peninsula, where the forest-tundra meets northern taiga, which determines the richness of flora and fauna. Here grow magnificent northern forests with centuries-old pines and many beautiful glacial lakes. The most popular tourist routes are visiting Varlam Island with the museum of the Norwegian explorer Hans Skonning and the border village of Rajakoski.

mountain trekking

When: The best time for climbing is from early June to mid-September.

Khibiny - far from the most high mountains on the territory of Russia: the main peak of Yudychvumchorr has a mark of just over 1200 meters. However, this is a very picturesque and ancient mountain range, in the depths of which beautiful gorges and pristine lakes are hidden. Most of the Khibiny mountain passes have a difficulty category of 1A and 2A or are not categorized at all, so special equipment for climbing is usually not required, with the exception of passing through some gorges in winter time. However, the hikers must be in good physical shape and ready for sudden changes in weather conditions, which is a common thing in the conditions of the northern climate, regardless of the time of year. For beginner climbers, many routes have been developed through the low passes of Ramsay, Geographers, Kukisvumchorr, Postman. More experienced athletes choose the Krestovy, Eagle's Nest, Shchel, Chorrgor North passes for climbing - their conquest requires more serious mountaineering experience and endurance. Also popular are the routes to the Lovozero tundra (the most high point- Mount Angvundaschorr with a height of 1127 meters) with a visit to Seidoozero, sacred for the Sami people.

The most beautiful period for trekking on the Kola Peninsula is from late May to mid-July. At this time, the sun does not set below the horizon, and you can enjoy the amazing northern "white nights". They add a special romance to the already beautiful mountain landscapes.

Adventures

When: Anytime of the year, depending on your interests.

In itself, a trip to the Kola Peninsula is already a real adventure, a test of strength in harsh weather and off-road on the way to the most beautiful places this amazing northern region.

Many rivers flow here, different both in landscape (plain, mountainous), and in speed of flow and the presence of rapids. This creates excellent opportunities for organizing a variety of water adventures: sports rafting, family rafting, recreational kayaking, kitesurfing. If you crave speed and have sufficient experience to overcome rapids of different difficulty categories, choose routes along the rivers Umba, Krasnenkaya, Kutsayoki, Tumcha. For calmer rafting, the Kola, Tuloma, Kolvitsa, Varzuga rivers, as well as the tributaries of Lake Imandra, are suitable. The best time for such trips is from late July to early September. Weather conditions are more or less stable, and there are many berries and mushrooms in the surrounding forests.

Traveling along the Tersky coast and to the Sredny and Rybachy peninsulas will appeal to lovers of jeeping and extreme off-road driving. Some coastal villages are like ghosts: many houses are without windows, there are very few locals left, and there are even fewer tourists. This has its own advantage: you can enjoy the endless expanses of the north, colorful rocky shores and bewitching landscapes. harsh ocean. There is also the possibility of diving. For example, in the village of Dalnie Zelentsy on the shores of the Barents Sea, there is a diving school. True, getting here again is quite difficult without a reliable SUV. Alternatively, you can contact the instructors of the school in advance and arrange a transfer.

Popular options for winter adventures on the Kola Peninsula are various ski trips on frozen lakes and river valleys, as well as sports routes for experienced skiers in the mountains - to the gorges and passes of the Khibiny. March is considered the best time for ski tours on Kola.

You can also go on snowmobiles to Lovozero - get acquainted with the traditions of the indigenous people - the Sami and ride reindeer sleds. And if you are attracted by places shrouded in ancient mysticism and legends, go hiking to Seydozero. According to one of the legends, on the site of this lake there was once a highly developed ancient civilization of Hyperborea, destroyed as a result of some kind of natural disaster like Atlantis. Fragments of ancient buildings were even found at the bottom of the lake, and on land - traces of the existence of an old observatory, which has characteristic similarities with Stonehenge. The Saami consider the lake sacred, believing that it is guarded by the giant Kuyva, a legendary character in Saami myths. On one of the rocks surrounding the lake from all sides, its image is carved. For the Sami, this place inspires both fear and awe. Along the banks of the Seydozero there are many so-called "places of power" - ritual structures made of stones that have a special energy.

Fishing and hunting

When: throughout the year, depending on the place and purpose of fishing and hunting.

The Kola Peninsula is known throughout our country for its famous "salmon" rivers and extensive opportunities for salmon fishing, both independently and as part of specially designed tours. The Tersky coast of the White Sea is considered the most popular place: it is from here that whole shoals of fresh and strong fish rise into the numerous lakes and rivers of the peninsula. The fishing season opens at the end of May and continues until September. However, the best time for salmon fishing is the period from the last week of May to the 20th of June. At this time, on the rivers Kola, Varzuga, Pana, Yokanga, Indel, Tipanovka, there are really huge specimens, weighing from 10 to 50 kg! However, experienced fishermen claim that salmon fishing requires special skill and knowledge. This is a very strong, smart and quirky fish that is able to jump out of the water for great height and always fights to the last - the more excitement the fisherman experiences from this fight. In addition to salmon, the coast of the Barents and White Seas, as well as reservoirs in the depths of the peninsula, are rich in cod, trout, grayling, pike, perch, burbot, pink salmon, whitefish and other fish species. So without a valuable trophy, you definitely won’t leave.

As for hunting, the spring season falls on the month of May, and the autumn-winter season opens from the second half of September and lasts until the end of February. It is allowed to hunt upland and waterfowl - partridges, ducks, geese, black grouse and capercaillie, fur-bearing animals, hare, it is forbidden - lynx and otter. However, for some animals the number of licenses is limited. For example, during the season only 40 licenses are issued for bear hunting, about 50 for elk, and there are also restrictions on shooting wolves and wolverines. It should be noted that for the lack of a license or violation of the rules of hunting, a fine of up to 4,000 rubles is levied.

Useful

How to get there

The Kola Peninsula is connected with the central and northwestern parts of Russia by air, as well as by a network of roads and railways. Airports are located in the cities of Murmansk and Apatity, they receive regular flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. From the same cities, as well as from Minsk and Vologda, there are direct trains to Murmansk. A railway connection with Volgograd, Anapa and Adler is added to the summer schedule.

Suburban electric trains connect the main cities and settlements within the region: major railway stations are located in Apatity, Kirovsk, Olenegorsk, Kandalaksha and Kolya. Cities and towns located far from the Murmansk railway can be reached by bus or private car. Main federal highway M18 "St. Petersburg - Murmansk" crosses the Kola Peninsula from south to north. Regular flights depart from Murmansk bus station to Kandalaksha, Umba, Varzuga, Teriberka, Kola and Titovka. From Olenegorsk by bus you can get to Monchegorsk, Revda and Lovozero. There is also an international bus service with Norway (bus Murmansk - Kirkenes) and Finland (flights Murmansk - Ivalo and Kandalaksha - Kemijärvi).

On the Kola Peninsula pass state borders Russia with Norway and Finland, therefore there are three international road checkpoints: "Borisoglebsk" - in the village of the same name in the Pechenga region towards Norway; "Lotta" - near the village of Svetly in the Kola region and "Salla" - near the village of Alakurtti in the Kandalaksha region towards Finland.

Time

Time on the Kola Peninsula coincides with Moscow.

Climate

The climate of the Kola Peninsula is very diverse, weather conditions can change dramatically at any time of the year. For example, thaws are not uncommon in winter, and unexpected frosts can occur in the summer months. Various climatic conditions characteristic of sea ​​coast Kola Peninsula, its central part and highlands. The northern coast is influenced by the Barents Sea with its warm currents. Most cold month here - February, when the thermometers drop to minus 12ºС, the warmest - July (+12-13ºС). In the central part of the Kola Peninsula, the climate becomes continental, which is characterized by relatively warm weather in summer and persistent cold in winter. When moving deeper into the region, there is a decrease average annual temperatures. In the mountainous region, it is already colder summers with an average temperature in July of +10ºС and rather mild winters (the minimum temperature in January is -13 ºС), and the most precipitation falls here. In winter, lingering blizzards are frequent, and in the summer-autumn period - rains, fogs and strong winds (up to 45-55 m/s). Snow falls already in October and completely melts only by the end of May, and in the mountains it does not lie until mid-June.

Another distinctive feature of the Kola Peninsula is the long polar days and nights. In summer, the sun does not set below the horizon for almost a month and a half, and in winter you can watch the beautiful northern lights.

It stretches from the Kola Bay along the Kola Valley, Imandra Lake and the Niva River to the Kandalaksha Bay. The area is about 100 thousand square kilometers. The northern coast is high, steep, the southern one is low-lying, gently sloping. In the western part of the peninsula there are mountain ranges: and Lovozersky (height up to 1120 m). In the central part of the peninsula, along its axis, the Keiva watershed ridge stretches (up to 397 m high).

The nature of the northern and southern coasts, as already mentioned, differs significantly. The former, by its nature, constitutes a continuation, but is lower and less indented. To the east the coast slopes down and coastline becomes less developed. The shores of the western part are most indented: here many bays have a more or less pronounced character of fjords.

Kola Peninsula. Lake Waikis

On the Kola Peninsula, strong and fast fluctuations are not uncommon. During the warm season, the heating is quite strong due to the length of the day. But since the warm time does not last long, heating is also limited to the surface layers with shallow ice. Extremely strong and harmful effects on vegetation are strong: in most of the Kola Peninsula, northwestern winds have a significant effect. In winter there are strong blizzards. quite significant. The amount of precipitation is small, does not exceed 30 cm, and inside the peninsula is much less (hardly more than 15 cm). frequent, especially in autumn; most often in the throat of the White Sea. Although even highest peaks do not cross the snow line, but there are significant accumulations of snow that does not melt according to local conditions. Sea heating reaches its maximum in July-August.

The Kola Peninsula is located on the northeastern crystalline shield, composed mainly of the most ancient igneous rocks - granites, gneisses. The main features of the peninsula are due to numerous faults and cracks in the crystalline shield, and also bears traces of the powerful impact of glaciers that smoothed the mountain peaks and left a large amount of moraine deposits.