The most beautiful places in the North Caucasus. Natural and man-made sights of the Caucasus: description, photo

"Komsomolskaya Pravda" tells how to spend a vacation with benefit

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Arkhyz, Elbrus, Dombay: for tourists, the North Caucasus is primarily skiing and snowboarding. But winter is over, folks! And the tourist season in the Caucasus is just beginning. We will prove to you that it is worth going to these beautiful places not only in winter. You can get from Moscow to Nalchik, Vladikavkaz, Makhachkala by plane in about 2.5 hours, a one-way ticket costs from 4 - 4.5 thousand rubles. One of the main issues that worries tourists is safety.

For tourists, the North Caucasus today is one of the safest regions of the country, this is evidenced by the statistics of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (out of 85 subjects, they occupy the last places in terms of the number of crimes, including serious ones), and our experience in operating resorts, - said Ekaterina Zhigalo, head of the press service of the "Resorts of the North Caucasus". - Employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations are on duty at the resorts, rescuers of the security service are on the slopes, mounted police, cynologists work. But it is important to remind vacationers that when going on a trip to mountainous areas in summer, especially when it comes to “wild”, natural tourism, groups must register routes and report them to the North Caucasus Regional Center of the Russian Emergencies Ministry

Scuba diving in the mountains

Blue lakes in the Cherek region of Kabardino-Balkaria are a popular place for divers: the water is so clear that the bottom can be seen up to a depth of 22 meters. True, none of the extreme sportsmen has yet reached the bottom of the deepest Lower Lake. Even the famous Jacques Yves Cousteau, who was here on an expedition in the 1960s. For fishing, the Upper Lakes are more suitable. Trout, carp, grass carp are found here.

Road and prices

From Nalchik to the lakes an hour by car, a taxi will take you for 500 rubles. You can stay at the camp site, the price of a room per day is from 500 rubles. Dive into the lake - 3 thousand rubles (includes instructor services and equipment rental).

On a note

Scuba diving is possible from the age of 14. If you want to dive without an instructor, a certificate is required

We love the waterfalls

Experienced "walkers" in the Caucasus say that it is nowhere more beautiful than the Midagrabin mountain waterfalls near Vladikavkaz. Best of all here in July, August, early September, when they are full of water. In height, these waterfalls are second only to the Venezuelan Angel (979 m) and Norwegian (860 m).

Road and housing

Almost all local travel agencies organize excursions here - about 3 thousand rubles per person. 2 hours drive along the steep serpentines of the Kurtatinsky Gorge, another 2 hours on foot and you are there. You can stay in the hotels of Vladikavkaz - a room from 1700 rubles per day.

On a note

Midagrabinskie waterfalls - the border zone with Georgia, you need to take your passport with you. On weekends and holidays, a pass can be obtained at the checkpoint. On weekdays, contact the FSB Border Guard in Vladikavkaz.

Tour of the city of the dead

The Dargav necropolis in North Ossetia is listed as a UNESCO heritage site and has been compared to the Valley of the Kings in Egypt. There are almost a hundred stone crypts here. The more noble and wealthy the family was, the higher the family crypt. The deceased were placed in it in their clothes along with weapons and small household items. The microclimate in the gorge is such that the bodies mummified themselves.

Road and prices

The village of Dargavs is two hours away by bus "Vladikavkaz - Dzhimar". Departs from the central market at 16:30. From Dargavs to the necropolis, a little over a kilometer on foot. The cost of the entrance ticket is 100 rubles. Opening hours - from 10:00 to 18:00 daily, except Monday.

On a note

The crypts are very dark, if you want to look inside and see the burials, take a flashlight. And do not listen to the stories of the locals about the danger of contracting the plague. As early as 1967, researchers found that there were no plague pathogens in the burial.

Walks around the Museum-Reserve

The Dzheirakhsky Gorge in Ingushetia is a whole architectural and natural museum. It takes at least a week to see all the monuments. These are the medieval tower cities of Egikal, Khamkhi and Targim, the Christian temple of Tkhaba-Yerdy (VIII century), the castle complexes of Vovnushki and Erzi. The latter has almost 60 towers, 30 meters high. And also mountain rivers, gorges, springs, pine forests and rare animals - tour, chamois, bezoar goat, forest cat.

Road and prices

From Vladikavkaz to Dzheyrakh there is a regular bus, the ticket is 100 rubles. From here, for 500 rubles, taxi drivers will take you to the villages of Egikal, Targim, Erzi, Vovnushki, where the tower complexes are located, to the temple of Tkhaba-Erdy. You can walk: it's 6-12 km depending on what you want to see. Guide services - 3-5 thousand rubles.

How to get there

Regular buses and minibuses go from the Makhachkala bus station to the village of Korkmaskaly, the price is 100 rubles. But the most convenient way is to take a taxi (500-700 rubles) along the federal highway E50 / M29. At the village you need to turn onto a dirt road and after 2 km you will see Sarykum.

On a note

Bring sunglasses and cream, hats, so as not to burn. The sand of the dune warms up to +60 degrees, the air - up to 40.

The Caucasus sounds proud and majestic! Picturesque places, mountain peaks, pristine beauty of nature, culture, traditions and customs - there are many pleasant memories and associations with the Caucasus. The Caucasus is always attractive. What is the gray-haired wise giant - Elbrus worth. And the ancient Derbent is the oldest city in Russia. And sacred family traditions… You can't count them all.

Many legends, facts and myths are associated with the Caucasus. Let's talk about some of them today:

No. 1. Kefir - both tasty and healthy

Kefir is a very popular drink in Russia. Did you know that his homeland is the foot of Mount Elbrus, from where this invigorating drink spread to Russia. It has been known in the Caucasus for many centuries. In those parts there are even legends about how kefir sourdough appeared. The most common legend says that the grains of kefir grains were transferred to the mountaineers by the prophet Muhammad himself, who brought them in his staff.

The secret of making kefir was kept secret by Caucasians for a long time, passed down from generation to generation, and did not spread anywhere further than the Caucasus. It was impossible to transfer grains of leaven even to neighbors.

In Russia, they learned about kefir only at the end of the 19th century. There is also a romantic story, overgrown with many myths, related to how kefir was able to get for Russia.

One Russian doctor who worked in the Caucasus wrote in his report about the healing properties of kefir. But the scientists failed to artificially remove lactic acid bacteria, so it was decided to get these bacteria in any possible way.

The All-Russian Society of Doctors decided to turn to Nikolai Ivanovich Blandov, a well-known entrepreneur in the field of selling cheeses and dairy products at that time. Blandov had several shops and cheese factories in Kislovodsk and slowly increased production. The young Karachai prince Bek-Mirza Baichorov was the supplier of milk for its production. Like any Caucasian, he knew the secret of making kefir. But how to approach it? As you know, Caucasians are great lovers of female beauty. Blandov's assistant, 20-year-old beauty Irina Tikhonovna Sakharova, was chosen for the secret mission.

The prince fell in love with her, but never wanted to reveal the secret of kefir. Irina, in despair, was about to leave with the engineer of the cheese factories Vasiliev, when they were attacked by mountaineers with sabers and with their faces covered and grabbed the girl. As it turned out later, according to Caucasian customs, this prince decided to steal the bride. Vasilyev turned to the gendarmerie. The culprit was quickly identified, but since it was not an ordinary mountaineer, but a prince, they decided not to make the case public. And Irina demanded kefir fungi for her forgiveness. The prince had no choice but to agree.

Thus, in Russia, the production of this fermented milk drink was quickly established. He soon became popular throughout Russia, as well as beyond its borders.

No. 2. Caucasian means European

If the Caucasian is translated into English, then the English word "Caucasian" will turn out. An interesting fact is that in English the word "Caucasian" is used not only in relation to people from the Caucasus. The word "Caucasian" in English refers to all representatives of the Caucasian race, that is, all those whom we call white Europeans in Russian.

This happened thanks to the famous German anthropologist Johann Blumenbach. At the end of the 18th century, he published a scientific work in which he divided all of humanity into 5 races, namely:

americanoid,
Negroid
Malay
Mongoloid
Caucasian race.

He called the Caucasian race white Europeans, since he believed that the first Europeans appeared precisely in the Caucasus, and from there they had already spread throughout Europe. This theory in science was the main one for a long time, but was later refuted. But, nevertheless, the term "Caucasian" took root in German and English, and is still used there in relation to all white Europeans, including those living in America and Australia.

No. 3. "Wild division

In the Russian Empire, the inhabitants of the Caucasus were not subject to military conscription, and therefore did not serve in the army. But there was one exception: during the First World War in 1914, the "Caucasian native cavalry division", better known as the "wild division", was formed. The division was commanded by the brother of Emperor Nicholas II, Prince Mikhail Alexandrovich, modest, but at the same time not a timid dozen people. The division was 90% Muslim volunteers. People from Dagestan, Chechnya, Azerbaijan and other regions of the Caucasus served in it.

Mountain customs were strong in this division, such as respect for elders and hospitality. Subservience and sycophancy were not recognized, they were respected not for ranks, but for courage.

The "Wild Division" during the First World War distinguished itself by many military merits and took an important part in many battles of that war. For military merit, soldiers were not awarded as usual. Since Muslims predominated here, instead of the orders of St. George, St. Anna, the heroes were awarded the coat of arms of the Russian Empire - a double-headed eagle.

Shortly after the revolution, in January 1918, the "wild division" was disbanded.

No. 4. Legends of Elbrus

In the Caucasus is the highest mountain in Europe and Russia - Elbrus. Its height is 5642 meters above sea level.

Under the name Elbrus, the mountain is known all over the world, but this majestic peak has more than four dozen names. The Karachays and Balkars themselves, who live at the foot of the giant, do not call it Elbrus. This name is not consonant with any of the words of these Caucasian peoples. It is believed that "Elbrus" has Iranian roots, since in ancient times Iranian-speaking tribes of Ases lived here. Translated from Persian "Elburs" means "high mountain".

There is also a romantic legend about Elbrus. They say that heroes lived here in ancient times - father and son. Their names were Kazbek and Elbrus. Both were in love with the beautiful Mashuko, and no one wanted to concede in conquering the girl's heart. And then they decided to fight in a duel. Son Elbrus defeated his father in a deadly duel. But the price of victory was too high - the death of a loved one, and Elbrus no longer wanted Mashuko's love. He stabbed himself with the same dagger as his father. Mashuko wept over them for a long time. God listened to her wailing, and turned father and son into the most majestic and beautiful mountains. And Mashuko also turned into a mountain, but smaller. Now Mashuko stands from century to century and cannot decide which of the heroes is more to her heart. This is such a love triangle.

Mount Mashuk is located in the central part of Pyatigorsk on the Caucasian Mineralnye Vody, in the north-eastern part of the city of Pyatigorsk. Height 993.7 m. On the southern slope of the mountain is the famous Pyatigorsk Proval - a deep natural well-cave with an underground lake. In the story of M. Yu. Lermontov "Princess Mary" about the Failure, it is said that "according to the local scientists, this failure is nothing more than an extinct crater." By the way, there is now a monument to Ostap Bender near the "Proval".

No. 5. Two weddings instead of one

Many peoples of the Caucasus have an unusual tradition - to celebrate two weddings instead of one. This tradition did not come about by chance. The fact is that earlier, according to strict Muslim rules, boys and girls could not be together at the same event. Therefore, at one wedding, the groom walked with his friends and relatives, and at the other, the bride walked with her friends and relatives. Now there are no longer those strict rules as before, and both girls and boys are now present at the wedding, but at the same time, the wedding is still held twice.

No. 6. Hospitable Caucasus

Everyone knows that Caucasians are very hospitable, this is not a secret for anyone. This is already a tradition. One of the reasons for the emergence of such a custom is the fact that the Caucasus is a high-mountainous region, which is very difficult to get to. Therefore, in ancient times, travelers who reached the Caucasians were the only source of information about the outside world. If a guest came to the house of a Caucasian, then they took great care of him - they fed him the best food, gave him the best drinks and put him to bed in the best place in the house. And men from all around came to this house to listen to interesting stories about the rest, a strange world hidden from Caucasians behind high white peaks.

No. 7. Many nationalities

More than 50 nationalities live in the Caucasus, speaking more than 20 different languages. But most of them know Russian. The largest peoples speaking Caucasian languages ​​​​and currently living in the Caucasus, I Georgians, Chechens, Avars, Lezgins, Dargins and Kabardians are included. Outside the Caucasus, the largest is the Circassian diaspora (about 3-4 million) living in more than 40 countries of the world.

No. 8. Meat in Caucasian style

Many Caucasians believe that using a meat grinder to grind meat is blasphemy. Therefore, for the preparation of traditional Caucasian dishes for chopping meat, only knives are used, with which they chop meat.

Caucasian cuisine is one of the most sought after in the restaurant business in Russia. The very first associations with Caucasian cuisine are saturation, a lot of meat and vegetables, spices, divine taste. Pilaf, satsivi, kharcho, achma, chakhokhbili, shish kebab - just by listing these dishes, appetite begins to wake up.

Caucasian national food should be cooked on an open fire - this is the most important rule. All products, including even dairy products, such as cheese, are necessarily roasted by Caucasian cooks on a spit over hot coals.

No. 9. The secret of longevity

It is known that almost half of the planet's centenarians live in the Caucasus. Of these, at least half are in the North Caucasus. Scientists - both Russian and foreign have long been exploring the phenomenon of longevity of mountaineers.

One of the fundamental discoveries is this: they live long not because they drink goat's milk or this particular type of wine, in which substances that slow down aging are found, and not because they eat cheese, in which some useful substances are found that strengthen the walls of blood vessels. . They eat and drink, of course. But!

More importantly, they eat exactly the same foods that their ancestors ate. It is to these products that their body has adapted, over many centuries, and sometimes millennia. To this we must add the pure ionized air of the mountains and the sea. It can be said with certainty that such cakes were baked in this village a hundred and three hundred years ago. Also, there is no doubt that a resident of mountain villages drinks from the same source from which 12-15 generations of their ancestors drank.

Highlanders' food is not intended to be warmed up, used the next day (three days, a week). Mostly highlanders eat lamb, goat meat, less often - poultry and beef.

And yet - in the mountains, the humidity is low, so the loss of moisture through the lungs is significant. And dehydration affects the well-being, mood. Therefore, in the diet of the highlanders there is a lot of water, ayran, tan, milk, herbal decoctions. Scientists say that in the mountains you need to drink at least 4 liters. per day.

No. 10. Fewer divorces, more children

Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan are the regions of Russia with the smallest number of divorces. Also, these regions are leaders in Russia in terms of the birth rate per capita. This is facilitated by the strong influence of religion and the reverence for sacred family traditions in the region. Divorce, for example, in Dagestan is the exception rather than the rule. According to tradition, if during a life together a husband utters the phrase “You are no longer my wife!” three times, this means a divorce. In order to "register" it, the spouses go to the imam, who fixes their decision with certain actions.

Interestingly, just over a century ago, the Russian family was one of the largest in the world. In Russia, it was believed that 8 children in a family is regrettably small. It was normal to have 12-14 children. Today, large families are called families from 3 children. But for the modern Caucasus, this is the usual minimum, and like a hundred or two hundred years ago, Caucasian families are among the strongest and largest families.

Well, I would like to finish with one more fact, very significant: Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan are the most sober regions of Russia. For example, in Chechnya, as a result of another major accident in 2016 on the Kavkaz highway, which claimed 8 lives, alcohol fell under the final “tacit ban”. It is known that in Chechnya since 2009 alcohol could be sold only from 8-10 am. In the light of recent events, alcohol sellers in the republic have voluntarily abandoned this activity and it is no longer possible to buy alcohol in the region. Perhaps this was facilitated by the appeal of the head of the Chechen parliament, Magomed Daudov, to businessmen:

“When we rightly equate drunk drivers with terrorists, then we can only speak of those who supply them with alcohol as accomplices of terrorists.”

I think modern Russia has something to learn from the Caucasus. Less alcohol, more sports and respect for elders - it's that simple!

That's all for today! What interesting facts about the Caucasus do you know? Leave your comments.

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The North Caucasus is a land of unforgettable impressions, where, once you get there, you will want to return again and again. The Caucasus is the splendor of nature, which has conquered more than one generation of tourists, talented people, historical figures. These are the purest mountain air, azure lakes, sparkling transparent rivers, springs of healing mineral waters, rebellious peaks of the great Caucasus Range, untouched forests, breathtaking canyons, caves, waterfalls... The Caucasus is not only rich in nature! From time immemorial, its lands were inhabited by a variety of peoples who created their own history and spread their culture. The Caucasus is a whole encyclopedia of nationalities, their rich history and cultural diversity.

Currently, the tourism potential of the Caucasus is greatly underestimated by travelers. The reasons for this are the lack of awareness about recreational opportunities, the existing stereotypes (a la "The Caucasus is a hot spot" or "They say wild people live in the Caucasus"), the high cost of recreation, poorly developed infrastructure and services, the habit of "package" rest, with which our compatriots were spoiled by Turkey and Egypt. Each reason can be devoted to a separate post, but we will limit ourselves to the main theses.

As for awareness - the Internet is full of information about the tourist Caucasus, there would be a desire to search and read. This post is also helpful. Alas, no one has created a single portal where all the most detailed information for a tourist would be collected, although the idea has been repeatedly voiced.

As for stereotypes - just throw them out of your head. There have been no hostilities here for a long time, special operations, I will not conceal, occasionally happen in certain areas, which, rest assured, are often not included in the tourist zone. As for the "savagery" of the local population - also an old myth, Caucasians are a very cultured and hospitable people. However, remember that everyone has a layer of ill-mannered haml.

For the majority of Russians, holidays in the North Caucasus can hardly be called budgetary. A significant part of the cost of the trip will be the cost of transport. Well, if you live in the North Caucasus or South Federal District, you will spend less than, for example, tourists from Siberia or the Urals (I am silent about the Far East). Low-cost airlines do not fly to the Caucasus. An air ticket from Moscow to any Caucasian city will cost an average 5000 rubles one way. It is worth waiting for the sale of tickets or special promotions for the necessary destinations. For example, in October of this year, I purchased a ticket "Mineralnye Vody - Moscow - Mineralnye Vody" for only 6500 rubles.

With regards to service and infrastructure, the situation changes from region to region, from resort to resort, and "package" vouchers are sold only for spa treatment, which is also not offered by every region. I will break the post into sections, each of which will be devoted to recreation in a particular region of the North Caucasus Federal District. All the mentioned hotels and resorts were visited by me personally, what I liked - I recommend it to others. You can also recommend places that you like in the comments.

For the lion's share of what I saw, I thank the company "Resorts of the North Caucasus", which, through a series of blog tours, showed bloggers the best places in the regions of the North Caucasus Federal District and allowed them to "test" the rest in the North Caucasus.

1. Karachay-Cherkess Republic
TOP 5 places: Dombay, Arkhyz, Teberda, Honey waterfalls, Khabez district.
Nearest airport: Mineral water.

There is no own airport in KChR, so get ready for a long road. For a transfer from the Minvod airport to Cherkessk - the capital of the KChR and the largest transport hub of the republic - 1500 rubles, and in time - 1.5-2 hours drive. There are not many places for recreation in the city, but there is a bus station from where you can go to the glorious resorts of Karachay-Cherkessia. I advise you to use Yandex.Schedules to plan your trip.

If you still want to stay in Cherkessk, I recommend the Grand Caucasus Hotel for accommodation. It is located near the center and has a good level of service. Almost all the sights of Cherkessk are within walking distance from you. These are Pervomaiskaya pedestrian street, Victory Park, Zeleny Ostrov, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. In the near future, the construction of the Cathedral Mosque will be completed. On Pervomayskaya, be sure to go to the cafe "Dakhanago" (the average check is 500-1000 rubles), where you will find delicious cakes of our own production. "Glamorous" youth of Cherkessk gathers in a cafe "Richie"(average check - 1000-1500 rubles), where sometimes visiting DJs play club sets in the evenings. You will find a slightly different flavor (a la east) with hookahs and private booths in the only 24-hour restaurant "Padishah"(average check - 1000-1500 rubles) . On weekend nights, a concert or humorous program awaits visitors, on other evenings - live music performed by our friend, the permanent host of the Arkhyz 24 TV channel and theater actor Aslan Astezhev.

In general, we rested in Cherkessk - it's time to get out to the big resorts. Two competing tourist meccas of Karachay-Cherkessia are Dombay and Arkhyz. They are located in neighboring gorges, but have completely different nature and different resources for recreation.

Dombay is probably one of the most popular ski resorts in the North Caucasus. There are several cable cars - the price is here. Climbing to the top will cost 900 rubles. Several ski slopes of different difficulty levels - for beginners, amateurs, experienced skiers and snowboarders, and for professionals. The season starts here in mid-December, in mid-April - ends.

As for accommodation in Dombay, I can not recommend anything. I lived in a Dombay hotel once and I remember it as a nightmare, so I will not advise anything. The village itself is built up with private mini-hotels, so if you wish, you can easily find an acceptable option.

On the way to Dombay, you can stop by Teberda, as well as the Ossetian village of Kosta Khetagurova (this is a great Ossetian poet) and see the Shoanin temple with your own eyes, sending you back to the 10th century. Teberda will delight you with stunning nature, clean air and mild climate. Teberda is a resort city, a center of mountaineering and hiking. It also houses a number of sanatoriums for those who are interested in improving their health.

In Arkhyz, the tourist village Romantik is developing at a powerful pace. The hotel complex "Romantic" has been launched there, a service center has been opened and a cable car launch station is operating. So far, there are only two hotels in Romantik - "Romantik-1" 4* and "Romantik-2" 3*. I lived in the hotel "Romantic-2", now there is a double one-room (standard twin) room 3300 rubles for two per day, including breakfast. The hotel is nice, comfortable and brand new.

What to do in Arkhyz? There are many options for both winter and summer programs.
In winter, it is, of course, skiing and snowboarding. There are great trails of different difficulty levels. The season here also comes in December. You should not be afraid that the weather will let you down with snow - now artificial snow systems are being installed on Arkhyz. There are gondola and chair lifts (at a cost of 150-200 rubles for lifting).
Horseback riding is popular in summer 350 rubles per hour), passing the rope park ( 200-300 rubles per person) hiking to Sofia lakes and waterfalls, sightseeing - Byzantine temples, the Face of Christ, the observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences, jeeping ( 400 rubles per person).

At an altitude of 1750 meters above sea level in the summer you can live in a tent camp. It will be much cheaper than staying in a hotel: per day per person - 450 rubles+ for 450 rubles You get three meals a day. The territory of the camp is provided with the necessary sanitary and hygienic facilities (showers, toilets, washbasins), water and electricity, and wireless Internet. There is a cafe of Caucasian and European cuisine, snack bars.

On the way to Arkhyz you will pass Khabezsky district. Why is he remarkable? The most beautiful mosque of the republic was built there, the Adiyuh tower rises on the mountain, covered with myths and legends. Under the tower there is a hotel and recreation complex "Adiyukh Palace", which has long become a venue for elite weekends among the Circassian beau monde.

For a more budget-friendly vacation, you should go to Honey Waterfalls. Here you can walk under the spray of cool waterfalls, try dishes and drinks of the national Karachay cuisine (khychin, ayran, susab), saddle a horse. By the way, this small place is full of events: horse riding championships, ayran festivals and other celebrations are regularly held here.

2. Caucasian Mineralnye Vody (Stavropol Territory)
TOP 5 places:Kislovodsk resort park, Mount Mashuk, Mount Beshtau, Proval, Kurortny Boulevard in Kislovodsk.
Nearest airport:Mineral water.

By rest in the Stavropol Territory, I can only mean rest in the Caucasian Mineral Waters: where, if not there, are all the recreational resources of the region collected? A long-known fact: Caucasian Mineral Waters is a national granary and health resort. During the Soviet Union, streams of holidaymakers from all over our vast Motherland flocked here. The intoxicating magic of the Caucasian Mineral Waters was clearly felt by the very first "brand manager" of this region - the famous poet and writer M.Yu. Lermontov. In the monologues of his protagonist in "A Hero of Our Time" we are imbued with the same love that Lermontov felt for the elite resort city of Pyatigorsk at that time.

“Yesterday I arrived in Pyatigorsk, rented an apartment on the edge of the city, on the highest place, at the foot of Mashuk: during a thunderstorm, clouds will descend to my roof. This morning at five o’clock in the morning, when I opened the window, my room was filled with the smell of flowers growing in a modest front garden. Branches of flowering cherries look out my windows, and the wind sometimes strews my desk with their white petals. The view from three sides is wonderful. To the west - the five-domed Beshtau turns blue, like "the last cloud of a scattered storm"; Mashuk rises to the north like a shaggy Persian hat, and covers this entire part of the sky; it’s more fun to look to the east: below, in front of me, a clean, brand new town is full of colors, healing springs rustle, a multilingual crowd rustles, - and there, further, an amphitheater - mountains are piled up all blue and foggy, and on the edge of the horizon stretches a silver chain of snow peaks, beginning with Kazbek and ending with the two-headed Elbrus... It's fun to live in such a land! st and fresh as the kiss of a child; the sun is bright, the sky is blue - what would seem to be more? Why are there passions, desires, regrets? .." M. Yu. LERMONTOV. "Princess Mary" May 11, 1838

Magic lines, right?

Traditionally, 4 cities are attributed to the CMS cities - Pyatigorsk, Kislovodsk, Zheleznovodsk, Yessentuki, but geographically much more territories are included in the Kavminvody. In these four cities there are strings of sanatoriums, drinking galleries, healing baths, healing parks. It is believed that each resort city has its own medical profile, however, modern equipment and the desire to withstand a competitive race have forced most sanatoriums to practice treatment and rehabilitation for the widest range of diseases. Unfortunately, there is not yet a single portal that would collect and organize all the information on the health facilities of the Kavminvod, so the sanatorium will have to be selected through an independent search for official sites or with the help of an agency.

At one time, I made a good choice in favor of the sanatorium "Elite" (from 2900 rubles per person per day). This is a real Turkish "all inclusive", though in Kislovodsk. The mentioned price includes accommodation, three meals a day, treatment, free access to the SPA (pool, hammam, Finnish sauna, jacuzzi with hydromassage), gym, air solarium (this type of summer you can sunbathe on the sunbeds on the roof), free use of fireplace rooms for your own needs, cultural program. The sanatorium is private and new, without "sovietness", accommodates up to 80 guests, which means that your vacation will be almost like a family.

And my soul still lives in the city of Pyatigorsk. This is my favorite city. There is more life here compared to other cities of the CMS due to the younger population (in Pyatigorsk there are many universities) and the status of the capital of the North Caucasus Federal District near the city, which makes it the center of event tourism in the North Caucasus. Here I recommend hotels "Pyatigorsk" (from 1300 rubles), "Nautilus" (from 2000 rubles), "Intourist" (from 2200 rubles), "Beshtau" (from 3100 rubles) and "Golden Hotel" (from 3500 rubles). All of them are located in the city center and have a fairly pleasant number of rooms for every taste and pocket. I especially appreciate the last three hotels for the gorgeous view from the window / balcony.

From catering establishments, I can also advise a lot of things, but the art club "Picasso" immediately comes to mind (live program, creative audience, excellent service), summer lounge cafe "Big Balcony" in the shopping center "Gallery" (outdoors, beautiful view of the city, author's cuisine), "Rendezvous" in "Intourist", "Khantama" on Ordzhonikidze and "Proval" near Proval are not bad. Price tags are different, geography too. In general, restaurant life in Pyatigorsk is in full swing, so over the weekend you yourself will be able to make your own shortlist of your favorite establishments.

However, you did not come to the Caucasian Mineral Waters to eat and sleep. In Pyatigorsk, a lot of attractions are waiting for you - Lake Proval, where at the entrance to the grotto the sculpture of Ostap Bender is still collecting money from tourists; the grotto and the Lermontov Museum, the Aeolian Harp, the Chinese gazebo, drinking galleries, the famous sculpture of the eagle - the symbol of the Caucasian Mineral Waters, "Broadway" - Kirov Avenue with mass celebrations of holidaymakers, mountains Mashuk and Beshtau. A hint for those who want to be in trend: morning jogging on Mashuk and hiking on Beshtau are popular among Pyatigorsk youth.

You will feel a different spirit in Kislovodsk: life here flows more measured and calmer. Fewer opportunities for parties, more kilometers for walking: at your disposal is the second largest in Europe - the Kislovodsk resort park. Walk to your health! Also remember that Kislovodsk is the birthplace of "Narzan": you can follow it to the Narzan gallery on Kurortny Boulevard. There you can also find the building of the Narzan baths - a magnificent architectural monument. It is a pity that the institution is not working today. In the suburbs of Kislovodsk, you can visit the Ring Mountain - a gate formed by nature. From there, a stunning view of Kislovodsk opens up. Another interesting place is the Castle of Treachery and Love, full of legends. True, now there is a restaurant ... :(

3. Kabardino-Balkarian Republic
TOP 5 places: Elbrus, Blue lakes, Chegem waterfalls, Upper Balkaria, Dolinsk (Nalchik).
Nearest airport: Nalchik.

Kabardino-Balkaria is a territory of world-famous beauties and upcoming amazing discoveries. The highest peak in Russia and Europe - the handsome Elbrus, the unexplored depths of the Blue Lakes and the unexplored paths to the Shadkhurei lakes, the grandiose Chegem waterfalls, Upper Balkaria - the land where mountains meet the sky. Such is the amazing beauty of Kabardino-Balkaria, in short.

In the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria there is a resort area - the Dolinsk region. There are many sanatoriums, recreation centers, a huge park area. If you need to stay in Nalchik for a couple of days, I recommend the Korona Hotel (from 1500 rubles per day). In the city, I advise you to visit the Atazhukinsky Garden, the observation deck near the Sosruko restaurant, to see the sights of the main avenue of the city. You will like the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria - it is a pretty, cozy garden city with a measured life.

But you should not stay too long in Nalchik, since you have already decided to come to Kabardino-Balkaria. In the Chegem Gorge, Chegem waterfalls are waiting for you - one of the most picturesque places in the republic. In the Cherek Gorge there are popular Blue Lakes, a group of 5 karst lakes. The most interesting is the Lower Lake. It houses a diving center, but despite this, no one has ever reached the bottom of the lake. According to approximate data, it is 368 meters. If you want to see more than the average tourist, I suggest you go in search of the Shadhurey Lakes, which is in the Zolsky district of the KBR. It's an underrated, unpopular tourist destination, but the beauty of the lakes is sure to win you over. Other interesting places are the remains of ancient settlements in Upper Balkaria, the crypts in the village of El-Tubyu, the healing lake Tambukan and the Djily-Su waterfall.

Regarding the organization of recreation in Kabardino-Balkaria, I recommend contacting the tour operator "KBR Travel". I trust these people.

Well, and of course, what kind of vacation in the KBR is without visiting the largest tourist and recreational complex in the North Caucasus "Prielbrusye"? It is a world center for tourism, mountaineering and skiing. Both amateurs and professionals of mountaineering and winter sports come here. In the Elbrus region there is also a balneological zone - Polyana Narzanov, famous for its carbonic mineral waters. In the Narzanov Glade, you can enjoy the mountain beauty and clean air, try the healing narzan straight from the spring spring.

I recommend staying at the new European-class hotel Azau Star (from 3000 rubles per day per room) in the village of Elbrus. The hotel is located near the gondola cable car station on the Azau glade at the foot of Elbrus (2200 meters above sea level). It is possible to ski from the door of the hotel. The hotel has its own SPA-center and a cozy restaurant with delicious cuisine. Many windows, a lot of light, a magical atmosphere is created by the radio "Relax FM", enveloping the corridors of the hotel with melodic sound.

A one-time cable car ticket costs 400-500 rubles. There are four stations on the slope of Elbrus: the starting station is "Azau" (2300 m.), the second is "Staryi Krugozor" (3000 m.), the third is "Mir" (3500 m.) and on the chairlift), the fourth - "Garabashi" (3780 m.) (only on the chairlift).

4. Republic of North Ossetia-Alania
TOP 5 places:Kazbek, Uastirdzhi monument, Dargavs necropolis, Midagrabin waterfalls, historical center of Vladikavkaz.
Nearest airport:Vladikavkaz (Beslan).

Long before I moved to the Caucasus, I felt at home on Ossetian soil, and even now I like to come to this beautiful republic. Accordingly, as in Pyatigorsk, I have several hotels here, in which I constantly stop. This is "Planet Lux" (from 1600 rubles per day) near SOGU named after Kosta Khetagurov and "Vladikavkaz" (from 2450 rubles per day ) on the banks of the Terek near the Sunni mosque - an architectural monument. The first option is cheaper, and I love the second one for the incomparable view from the window (you need to ask at the reception for a room with a view of the Terek) and cheesecakes for breakfast :) The panorama from the balcony of the room in Vladikavkaz noisy waters and the Costa Khetagurova Park, and if you're lucky with good weather, then Table Mountain.

If you have free time in Vladikavkaz, then I suggest you go for a walk around the city. There is a wonderful walking route along the most beautiful streets: from the monument to Isa Pliev - over the bridge to the other side of the Terek - past the Armenian Church, then - along Mira Avenue (pedestrian zone, trees, benches, scurrying trams, city radio that sets a great mood) or through the park Kosta Khetagurova - and again through the Terek - to the hotel "Vladikavkaz" and the mosque. Or you can continue your journey along Prospekt Mira, reach the Evgeny Vakhtangov Theater and the monument to Mikhail Bulgakov.

Be sure to try the famous Ossetian pies. And - Ossetian beer, which leaves indifferent even the opponents of beer. Of the catering establishments where I have been, I will recommend "White Cafe" (average check - 700-1000 rubles), "Salvadore" (average bill - 1000-1500 rubles) and "Our" (average bill - 500-700 rubles).

Probably the most famous landmark of North Ossetia is Mount Kazbek, the highest peak in the republic and a popular destination for climbers from all over the world. From the Russian side, climbing it is possible from the Genaldon Gorge through the villageKarmadonNorth Ossetia. This route can only be mastered by physically prepared climbers.

But in order to love the mountains, it is not necessary to be a climber. The magnificence of the nature of the mountainous North Ossetia is also available to a simple tourist. Moreover, in this part of the republic, a lot of surprises await you - the Uastirdzhi monument, the Dzivgis cave fortress, the Mykalgabyrt sanctuary, the Dargavs necropolis, the Midagrabin waterfalls and much, much more.

If you want to stay overnight in the mountains, I recommend going to the Fiagdon Gorge. Firstly, it is fabulously beautiful there, secondly, you can visit the holy places (Alan Assumption Monastery and its font), thirdly, there is some kind of tourist infrastructure, though for lovers of increased comfort. You can stay overnight at the Fiagdon Art Hotel (room - from 6000 rubles per day). Here I recommend visiting the restaurant "Valley of the Sun" (average bill - 750 rubles) with a picturesque view outside the window, delicious cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.

5. Republic of Ingushetia
TOP 5 places:Armkhi, Vovnushki, Erzi, Magas, Memorial of memory and glory.
Nearest airport: Magas.

What can be interesting for a tourist in Ingushetia? The republic has its own all-season resort - Armkhi. The vast territory of Ingushetia - the Dzheirakhsky district - can be safely called an open-air museum for its countless tower complexes and ancient temples. And, finally, it is a pleasure to look at the new capital of Ingushetia - the city of Magas with its majestic sights. An important point is that you can travel around the whole republic in a couple of hours, so even over the weekend you will have time to enjoy the first, second, and third.

From 3500 rubles worth a night in one of my favorite hotels - Artis Plaza in Magas. The rooms here are reminiscent of the Sultan's chambers. In addition, the hotel has a sauna, a hot tub, a Turkish bath and a massage room - for a fee, you can feel even more like a sultan.

Before reaching Nazran, it is worth stopping at the Memorial of Memory and Glory. This object will tell you about the historical events that the Ingush people experienced - deportation, participation in various military operations. On the way to the Armkhi resort, you will pass many places in the Dzheyrakhsky district that are also worth your attention. These are the ancient Christian temple of Thaba-Erda, the tower complexes of Vovnushki, Erzi, Egikal and other tribal villages.

And, when you pass the strongest test of the beauty of the national treasure of Ingushetia, the doors of the Armkhi health-improving complex at the all-season resort of the same name will hospitably open before you. This is the oldest health resort in the Caucasus: for the treatment of ailments, hydrotherapy, mud therapy, massage and much more are practiced here. The cleanest spring water flows from the tap in the rooms, and the air "overboard" is especially healing - due to the maintenance of linden and coniferous trees in the park of the resort. Room prices here start from 1500 rubles, separately 1475 rubles there is a day of spa treatment with three meals a day.

For entertainment - a swimming pool, a fitness center, a Russian bath, in winter - skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling, in summer - a rope park and walks along the health paths. There is a cable car.

6. Chechen Republic
TOP 5 places: Grozny City, the mosque "Heart of Chechnya", the mosque named after Aimani Kadyrova, Kezenoy-Am, the memorial complex "Walk of Glory".
Nearest airport: Grozny.

Recently, a tourist complex of the same name was opened on Lake Kezenoy-Am. So far, guests can only entertain themselves by visiting a restaurant, a gym and walking around the lake. Also on the territory of the complex is a mosque. Work on the development of the resort is no end, but there is already a place to stay on the popular lake. Lake Kezenoy-Am - of incredible beauty, is considered the largest alpine lake in the North Caucasus. And the most beautiful, I think.

In the tourist complex, prices do not bite yet. For example, in an economy class room, you can stay for 700 rubles from a person. If I'm not mistaken, the price includes half board meals (breakfasts + dinners).

Kezenoy-Am is located two hours drive from Grozny, and, of course, it is worth starting any trip around the Chechen Republic from it. In the city itself, you can find a lot of interesting places. Firstly, this is the Akhmat-Khadji Kadyrov Mosque called "The Heart of Chechnya" - one of the largest in Russia and one of the leaders of the sensational Internet voting "Russia 10", in which the 10 best sights of the country were chosen. Secondly, this is a complex of high-rise buildings "Grozny City" - there is a hotel, and a business center, and an apartment building, where the famous citizen of the Russian Federation Gerard de Pardie now has housing. Thirdly and fourthly - The memorial complex "Walk of Glory" and the National Museum of the Chechen Republic are places where the history of the Chechen Republic and the entire North Caucasus is carefully preserved.

In the spring, one of the most beautiful mosques in Russia was opened in Chechnya - the mosque named after Aimani Kadyrova in Argun. However, do not think that all the sights of Chechnya were built in recent times. Very ancient monuments of history have been preserved on the territory of the republic - the crypts of Tsoi-Pede (14th century), Pkhakoch Castle (12th century), and only recently the Ushkaloy towers (12th century) have been reconstructed.

If you want to see the sights of mountainous Chechnya and travel without a car, I recommend contacting the Chechnya Travel tour operator. In addition to individual excursions, they will be happy to offer you package tours in Chechnya with accommodation, meals, excursions, a cultural program and transfers.

For those who want to improve their health in Chechnya, there is a resort "Sernovodsk-Kavkazsky". There are many treatment profiles, but the main therapeutic factor is the hydrogen sulfide thermal springs.

7. Republic of Dagestan
TOP 5 places:Caspian Sea(!), Derbent, Sary-Kum dune, Sulak canyon, Irganai reservoir.
Nearest airport: Makhachkala.

I put an exclamation point in front of the Caspian for a reason: Dagestan is the only republic in the North Caucasus with access to the sea. While other subjects of the North Caucasus Federal District are busy building and developing their ski resorts, Dagestan is calm: it has no competitors in a beach holiday with its sea and climate.

As an option for accommodation - the base of FC "Anji" in Kaspiysk. The base consists of several apartments, a swimming pool and bars on site. The beach is within walking distance. You can also look at other offers - in Kaspiysk, Makhachkala and Derbent. I warn you right away: this is not Spain or even Turkey, so do not expect high-class service.

In Makhachkala, you can comfortably stay at the Abu Dagi Hotel ( 3000 rubles per day), which is considered one of the best hotels in the capital of Dagestan. Here are spacious rooms, luxurious interior of the premises, own fitness room and SPA-center. A significant minus: it is still far from the city center and the Gorsky beach.

It is worth going to Dagestan not only for a beach holiday, but also for a wide excursion program. Probably, you still have no idea how beautiful Dagestan is and how rich its history is! Places to visit:
- Sand dune Sary-Kum - a sudden discovery among the mountains of Dagestan;
- Sulak Canyon - the second deepest canyon in the world;
- Derbent - the most ancient and southern city of Russia;
- Gunib - a village with breathtaking views of the surroundings, as well as an important historical place: the legendary Imam Shamil was captured here;
- Chirkeyskaya HPP - the largest hydroelectric power plant in the North Caucasus;
- The Irganai reservoir - not inferior in beauty to the Chirkey reservoir ...
... and many many others!

And further:
1) In any city you can find accommodation options for any pocket.
2) The Caucasus is a great option for a weekend getaway, but for this option it is reasonable to spend money only for residents of the North Caucasus and South Federal Districts. I advise Muscovites to catch discounts on air tickets.
3) If you are going to the Caucasus on vacation in the off-season, it would be great to combine visits to several regions in one trip. The distance between the largest cities is small, 1-2 hours drive. The exception is Makhachkala. I planned my first trip to the Caucasus in this way: I arrived by train to Kislovodsk, spent 2 weeks on rest and treatment at Kavminvody with excursions to neighboring Karachay-Cherkessia, then by bus to North Ossetia, spent one day there, the next day - in Ingushetia , in the evening she stopped in Grozny, in the morning - flew from Beslan to Moscow.

When traveling in the Caucasus, remember that you are exploring the most popular tourist destination in the country. The development of engineering infrastructure is in full swing here, new hotels are being built, new resorts are being launched, new tourist trails are being laid. If you have ever been to the Caucasus, do not dismiss the idea of ​​visiting it again - it changes from year to year, and, perhaps, having arrived at familiar places, you will no longer recognize them!

So, welcome to the resorts of the North Caucasus! :)

The Caucasus is one of the most diverse places in Russia, there is the sea, and high mountains, and beautiful nature, it is warm all year round, but the snow in the mountains lies almost all year round, and the climate for many is even curative. The North Caucasus has been the most important tourist destination for Russians for many years, of course, most travel for the sake of the sea and the sun, but in the Caucasus, and besides this, there is something to see and where to relax. The sea, mountains, sun, amazing nature and wonderful climate, everything in this place is created for a great holiday.

Blagoveshchensk station is the most remote resort of Anapa, but no less popular are Vityazevo and Dzhemete. This place is perfect for a relaxing and moderate holiday with the whole family, where there is a great opportunity to improve your health.

Snow-covered, sharp and impregnable, covered with glaciers, the mountains of the North Caucasus constantly attract numerous tourists from all over Russia. They are cordially greeted by the Karachay-Cherkess region of Russia, which contains some of the most picturesque mountains of the Greater Caucasus.

Fortunately, more and more people are striving to get out of the city at least for a while and admire the beauty of unique parks, forests, lakes, and mountain ranges. After all, there are many such places in our country. In the city of Sochi, for example, there is an amazing arboretum, which is rightfully considered one of the brightest sights.

Mountainous Adygea allows you to travel the world without leaving the territory of Russia. Colorful meadows, copied from the Alps, give way to an Antarctic landscape with glaciers and fell peaks. And desert canyons coexist with relict forests. A vivid example of such a combination is the Geimanov glade on the Dakhovskaya-Lagonaki highway.

Unusual underground formation in Pyatigorsk. The place is very remarkable and famous, and even popular among thousands of tourists. In their works, this place was mentioned by Lermontov, and also by Ilf and Petrov in their famous book "The Twelve Chairs", where Ostap Bender was going to earn his millions at this place.

The National Natural Park of the city of Sochi hides many picturesque corners in its expanses, but one of the most luxurious decorations of this valuable natural object is the Zmeykovskiye waterfalls. The winding ribbon of water fully justifies its name, winding between rocky ledges and ravines, descending from the Caucasus Mountains to the Black Sea. The river belongs to the Matsesta valley. Geographically, this place belongs to the Khostinsky urban district.

The three oldest temples, which were built in the 10th century, are lost among the mountainous gorge washed out by the Bolshoi Zelenchuk River. In that distant century, the capital of the ancient state of Alanya, the city of Maas, stood here. Now three ancient dilapidated buildings of the Nizhniy Arkhyz settlement, located near the village of Nizhniy Arkhyz, remind of this.

One of the longest caves in Russia. Vorontsov caves have been known to people for more than a hundred years. Their most active study took place in the second half of the 20th century. Then groups of caves with different entrances were studied, their connections were found and it was proved that the caves are a single underground network. The natural miracle is located in the Khostinsky district of the city, and it is not difficult to get here.

Like the distant and mysterious Himalayas, the mountains of the Caucasus have long attracted the attention of numerous travelers, explorers and poets. They beckoned a person to them, enchanted with their beauty and rebelliousness, hid a great many mysteries and dangers. Yes, this is the Caucasus. The peaks of its peaks rest in icy silence, at a height inaccessible to the highest points of the famous Alps.

The Caucasus Mountains are a paradise for rock climbers!

Dearly loved by climbers for their pristine harsh beauty, the Caucasus Mountains have long been a place of pilgrimage for the most skilled rock climbers from both Russia and Europe. Many hundreds of brave daredevils were ready to risk their lives for the right to climb the cherished Caucasian peak and look around. But what is all this for? What makes people move up? The answer is likely to be: beauty. Yes, let this familiar word sound trite, but still “beauty”. It was the beauty of these proud blue ridges that Lermontov reveled in his time, and Vysotsky conveyed the euphoria of being among them in his songs.

The Caucasus Mountains are the best place for active tourism!

Today, the Caucasus Mountains are one of the favorite tourist regions. Outdoor enthusiasts storm their picturesque slopes, trying to understand and feel for themselves what it means to be in the mountains. The best means to achieve this goal is "trekking", a hike along a certain ecological route. Taking long walks and filling the lungs with the purest mountain air, the “guests” of the Caucasus are gradually approaching their goal: to feel and recognize it.

Nature has generously rewarded this corner with wonderful views, allowing you to admire the surrounding landscape at any time of the year. Speaking about the sights of the Caucasus Mountains, many will immediately call: "Elbrus". Of course, the highest and most famous point in Europe cannot but attract the eyes of tourists and professional climbers. Elbrus rises to 5,642 meters, and a truly magnificent view opens from its top.

In addition to Elbrus, those wishing to conquer new peaks are happy to climb the fabulous lonely Kazbek (5,034 m), the magnificent slopes of which remember a bunch of ancient stories and legends; impregnable Ushba (4,690 m) will be opened only by the most experienced and trained climbers; the favorite mountains Fisht (2867) and Belalakaya (3861) are not so high, but the bizarre peaks also riveted the human eye and cut into memory forever.

However, Elbrus, Kazbek or Ushba are not only snowy peaks. In addition to climbing ridges of varying difficulty, tourists can enjoy magnificent panoramas of the slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. Visitors are offered the purest waterfalls and fast cold rivers, many small mountain lakes, beautiful gorges and a carpet of green grasses are waiting for everyone. Luxurious alpine meadows delight the eye and amaze the "guests" with the diversity of their vegetation: more than six thousand different plants grow in the Caucasus!

The unique "Valley of Roses"

Not far from Kislovodsk there is a wonderful "Valley of Roses", reminiscent of a real sea of ​​flowers, into which admiring tourists plunge. There is also a park where visitors have the opportunity to walk between beautifully trimmed trees and massive stone sculptures along neat alleys.

Winter in the Caucasus is no less beautiful than summer. The snow-covered slopes of the Caucasus Mountains not only cause admiring exclamations with their snow-white beauty, but also provide considerable opportunities for active winter recreation. Crowds of those wishing to go skiing or snowboarding storm the slopes of Elbrus and other peaks, driven by a thirst for movement, speed and adrenaline. When making ski trips, tourists can independently choose whether to stay on the route and spend the night in the bosom of nature by the fire or go to one of the many cozy hotels where visitors are greeted with unfailing cordial hospitality and surrounded by care.

Perhaps not everyone knows, but the Caucasus is famous for its mineral springs. Even in the time of Lermontov, people suffering from various ailments went to the Caucasus to improve their health. The city of Kislovodsk just serves as a place that is ideal for restoring the body. The city itself is located on an 800-meter hill, which provides its inhabitants with a constant supply of clean, oxygenated air. Absorbing large portions of oxygen, the body is cleansed and renewed. But air is not the only positive aspect of “Caucasian therapy”. Kislovodsk has long been famous for its mineral waters. Many thousands of people come to the sanatoriums of Kislovodsk just for the sake of Narzan.

Wildlife lovers and photographers can have a happy chance to see representatives of the fauna of the Caucasus: rare Caucasian aurochs, mighty bison, wild boars, chamois, bears, roe deer and other amazing animals.