Those who have started planning their vacation may well choose a winter vacation in Russia from a variety of options. And if the prices for a trip to the tropics are now too high for many, then you can have a great time in your free time in the vastness of our vast country. Fortunately, there are plenty of tourist destinations in Russia for this.
But before you stop at the most interesting and affordable vacation itinerary, you should familiarize yourself with those places in our country where, judging by the numerous reviews, winter holidays will be bright, unforgettable, and help improve he alth, which is especially important for residents of many cities, which are distinguished by not entirely favorable ecology.
Krasnodar Territory
Where to go on vacation in winter in Russia? The hospitable land of the Krasnodar Territory has recently become increasingly popular. She pleases her guests in summer and gives a lot of impressions in winter. The time spent in these parts will have a positive effect on he alth and restore efficiency.
Recreation in the winter in the Krasnodar Territory offers manysanatoriums located here. During this period, various types of treatment are available in them: water, sea s alt and air. You can also come here with children. Animation teams and experienced teachers will take care of the leisure of the little guests.
Reviews of numerous guests of the Kuban say that in winter no one is bored here. You just have to choose the right place for yourself.
Tourists interested in history, the Krasnodar Territory offers a large number of attractions that can be found in every area of the region. Those who prefer an active holiday in ski resorts are recommended to visit the recreation centers in winter (see photos below) of Krasnaya Polyana and Lago-Naki.
Let's get to know them better.
Krasnaya Polyana
Where can I choose a place to stay in winter? Of course, in Sochi! An unforgettable impression on every person will certainly leave a village located in the Adlerovsky district, in the valley of the Mzymta river. This place is considered unique. After all, Krasnaya Polyana (this is the name of this settlement) is located not far from the Caucasus Range and forty kilometers from the Black Sea coast.
In 1924, a recreation center first appeared here. But this place became especially popular after the Sochi Olympics. To date, Krasnaya Polyana is considered the best, but at the same time one of the most expensive ski resorts in Russia, where guests can stay in excellent hotels and spend their time comfortably thanks to a well-developedinfrastructure.
Recreation in winter in Sochi is chosen by more and more tourists every year. And Krasnaya Polyana is glad to see its guests, whom it can receive up to 20,000 daily.
Mountain holidays in winter in Sochi are preferred by many Russians. They are also attracted by the place where Krasnaya Polyana is located. It is surrounded by the National Park and Biosphere Reserve. Often, due to the subalpine nature located here, the resort is called "Russian Switzerland".
Recreation in the winter in Sochi is to many liking and because of the weather conditions of this area. In the coldest period, the thermometer does not fall below 10 degrees below zero here, but, as a rule, its values are in the range from 0 to -5. January is considered the coldest in Krasnaya Polyana. February is full of snowfalls. At the same time, there are practically no winds here in the last winter month.
Snow cover in Krasnaya Polyana begins to form in December. Subsequently, it sometimes reaches 7 m. The snow in this area is special - it lies light and fluffy almost until the end of March. And this should also be borne in mind by those who prefer to come to Sochi in winter for a vacation (the photo of the ski resort is presented below).
Most of all tourists Krasnaya Polyana takes on New Year's and Christmas holidays. However, the Sochi resort offers not only skiing. In winter, you can go on a variety of excursions, visiting museums and famous mineral water springs, of which there are 126 in these places.
Many touristsleave excellent reviews about the large entertainment center "Galaktika". Especially popular here is the bowling alley, which has eight lanes and a pleasing space design.
Diversify your holiday in winter (photo can be seen below) travelers will be able to visit the oceanarium, dolphinarium, Olympic Park and ostrich farm. In addition, the guests of the resort are offered excursions to Abkhazia or Mount Akhun.
Lovers of nightlife will not be bored in Sochi either. There are many clubs and bars for them here.
Lago-Naki
Winter holidays attract many tourists with the opportunity to ride on sleds, skis and snowmobiles. All this allows you to forget about the bustle of the city and life's problems for some time. Do not be upset for those who do not know how to snowboard and ski. In the mountains there are many instructors who can help vacationers in this matter. There are also in Lago-Naki. This modern ski resort is located in the Apsheron region. There is everything for a comfortable and unforgettable pastime. These are ski slopes of different difficulty levels, and well-designed skiing and recreation areas.
The winter season at this resort opens in November, and it lasts until April. What attracts tourists to this area? Numerous reviews of Lago-Naki say that there is surprisingly clean air and winter landscapes of incredible beauty.
The one who decided to choose this ski resort for their vacationresort, can always stay at a tourist base or at a hotel.
Hot Key
What other places in the Krasnodar Territory attract lovers of winter recreation? Judging by the reviews of those who have repeatedly visited these places, many people plan their holidays during the cold season of the year in order to visit the Goryachiy Klyuch resort with family or friends. Holidays in winter here are by no means worse than those offered in hot countries. And this despite the lack of beaches and the sea. The fact is that Goryachiy Klyuch is a universal drinking and balneological resort due to the healing mineral water springs located here. There are more than ten of them in total. The waters are used for drinking cures as well as baths.
One of the options for recreation and recreation in winter is thermal springs. Since ancient times, water, the temperature of which ranges from +42 to +60 degrees, is considered a universal medicine that allows you to get rid of many ailments. Water, which has a complex chemical composition, has a beneficial effect on the human body, starting all the processes necessary for normal life.
Veliky Ustyug
This fabulous city, located in the east of the Vologda region, is associated with many people with the New Year. The residence of Santa Claus himself is also located here.
Veliky Ustyug is a place that is perfect for winter holidays with children. This is a city-reserve, surrounded by dense forests, pleasing with its clean air.
Travellers Veliky Ustyug offers acquaintance with a variety of monumentsarchitectures that are of considerable historical importance.
The most popular place in the city is Cathedral Yard. This is a unique complex of temples located on the left bank of the Sukhona River. All the structures located here were erected in the period from the 17th to the 19th centuries. and are considered examples of urban planning of Ancient Russia. All the buildings of the Cathedral Court are in perfect harmony with each other and make this place very picturesque.
In Veliky Ustyug there is a museum dedicated to the history of this region. Among its exhibits are weapons and household items of the 12th-20th centuries.
Judging by the reviews, city guests are happy to visit the famous Veliky Ustyug Patterns factory. Its products are birch bark products, decorated with all kinds of carvings, patterns and paintings. Within the walls of the factory, visitors are invited to purchase various boxes and baskets, boxes and cutting boards, decorative plates, etc.
And, of course, those who prefer to rest with children in the winter in Veliky Ustyug certainly visit the residence of Father Frost. Reviews about it confirm that this is an amazingly fabulous place in which the kindest Grandfather in the world lives. Moreover, it is interesting to visit the residence not only for small tourists. Adults, who are so charged with the atmosphere of magic and the festive mood of Veliky Ustyug, speak well of this place that they return to their childhood for a while.
On the territory of the residence there is Santa Claus Post Office, there is a cafe here offering national dishes, various playgrounds, a real village,souvenir shop and guest houses.
You can come here not only during the New Year holidays. The residence of Santa Claus is open to everyone at any time of the year. Yet most travelers tend to get here in the winter. However, judging by the reviews of tourists, there are not very many hotels in the city. That is why it is recommended to take care of where to stay in Veliky Ustyug in advance.
Karelia
Where in Russia can winter holidays be compared to a real snow fairy tale? Of course, in Karelia. This republic is beautiful in any season of the year, but holidays in Karelia in winter become especially interesting and exciting.
What is offered here for tourists in the snowy season? Dog sledding is the most popular Karelian pastime among vacationers. They are loved not only for having fun in the frosty fresh air. It is also an opportunity to meet hardy and kindest sled dogs. Tourists here can learn how to harness and drive a sleigh, setting off with a breeze through the endless expanses of snow or through the winter forest.
Fans of high speeds are offered snowmobiling. This entertainment is also an integral part of winter holidays in Karelia.
Physically well-trained tourists are offered excursions to the protected lakes and forests of Paanajärvi Park. Here is also the highest point of Karelia - Mount Nuorunen (580 m). Those who can conquer it will have a breathtaking and magnificent view of the landscapes surrounding the peak.
Wishing to relax insilence is invited to visit winter fishing. Unlike summer, it has its undeniable advantages. In winter, you can fish in those places where it was not available in the absence of ice. At this time of the year, fishermen take out a lot of walleye and pike, salmon and trout, as well as other fish from the holes.
Winter Karelia attracts hunters as well. This season, capercaillie, black grouse, partridge, as well as hare, fox and even elk or wild boar can be brought here as a trophy.
Those who prefer romantic trips are invited to take a hot air balloon ride in the village of Derevyanoe, located 30 km from Petrozavodsk. From a bird's eye view, tourists will be able to appreciate the beauty of winter Karelian nature.
Judging by the reviews of vacationers, many of them choose a route that involves a tour to the Holy Island of Valaam. Here, from the village of Velikaya Guba, you can go to Kizhi on a hovercraft. This is an open-air museum offering to admire the masterpieces of wooden architecture.
Snowshoe walks are also popular in Karelia. These are small devices that make it much easier to hike along the snow-covered paths of the winter forest.
Located in Karelia and the residence of the local Grandfather Frost - Pakkaine. Here, every year on December 1, everyone can become spectators of the Olonets Games. To participate in them, Santa Clauses come from all over Russia to try their hand at various competitions, including throwing felt boots.
Crimea
What could be the optioninexpensive holiday in winter in Russia? Y alta is able to surprise its fans. Her visit will give tourists non-winter weather, deserted embankments and low prices. It is at this time of the year that you can enjoy leisurely excursions to museums and palaces, as well as long walks. These winter activities are the main ones.
As for boat trips, most likely they will not be available for guests of the Crimea. But they can be replaced by climbing Mount Ai-Petri and a walk through the botanical garden in Nikita. Not far from Y alta is the Livadia Palace. At one time it was a resting place for the family of Nicholas II. The palace has a unique decoration and is known as the place where the famous Y alta conference was held. Judging by the reviews of tourists, it will be interesting to visit other sights of the peninsula as part of a variety of excursions.
So, after getting acquainted with Y alta and Alushta, it is recommended to visit such Crimean cities as Feodosia and Sudak, Kerch and Koktebel, Evpatoria and Sevastopol, Bakhchisaray and Simferopol.
It will be interesting to get acquainted with the Vorontsov and Masandra palaces, with the Bakhchisarai fountain, which was once glorified by Pushkin, with the Lighthouse Church - the church of St. Nicholas of Myra, on the ground floor of which there is a museum of marine disasters.
In winter, before the onset of spring floods, experienced tourists recommend seeing the waterfalls of Uchan-Su, as well as Dzhur-Dzhur. Until the snow begins to melt abundantly in the mountains, they look very impressive.
Moscow Region
Is it necessary to go in the snowy winter tothe Swiss Alps or enjoy the splendor of the resorts of the Krasnodar Territory? Judging by the numerous reviews of vacationers, you can have a great time in the suburbs. Moreover, residents and guests of the capital will only need to drive a dozen kilometers from the Moscow Ring Road. And that's it. You can enjoy your holiday in winter.
The Volen tourist resort and sports park invites guests to the Moscow region, which resembles Switzerland, but only in miniature. It has all the necessary equipment for lovers of the Russian winter who prefer outdoor activities.
Guests of the resort can stay in chalets and cozy cottages, visit boutiques and chic restaurants. Rest in the winter in the Moscow region for those who visited the park "Volen" will be an unforgettable pastime. There are three trails open here, which will appeal to both those who are already confident on skis and beginners. Of the additional entertainment in the park, there is tubing, an indoor skating rink and much more. Anyone who prefers a winter holiday with a pool can also come here. In the cold season, you can swim here right under the open sky. After all, the park has a pool filled with warm water. Stepanovo resort is 5 km away. It is known for its significant vertical drop of 110 m, which is quite rare for the Moscow region.
Unlimited opportunities for winter recreation for both adults and children are provided by the natural resort of Yahonty. It is located on the shores of Lake Kovershi, and, judging by the reviews of those who have already been here, it can be considered one of the best places for a family vacation in the Moscow region. There is a legend that saysthat Lake Kovershi arose after the fall of a huge meteorite. That is why the places around it have long been considered healing.
What does this amazing resort, located near the city of Noginsk, offer vacationers? Here you can enjoy a full range of winter activities, including quad biking, kick sledding, skiing and ice skating. There is a small zoo "Russian Compound" on the territory of the resort. Here, little vacationers get the opportunity to feed hamsters, rabbits and chickens. Zoo guests can ride horses.
But most of the rave reviews are left by vacationers about the Aquamarine water park located on the territory of the resort. Panoramic pools, a Finnish sauna, a gym, cosmetology services, and a large number of wellness treatments are available here.
Baikal
Have you chosen your final winter itinerary yet? Then pay attention to Baikal. According to information provided by Russian tour operators, the number of vacationers who prefer a trip to this huge lake is steadily growing every year.
Recreation on Lake Baikal in winter is available to all categories of citizens. On the coast of the lake, there are many houses and recreation centers that offer their services at affordable prices.
What is Baikal interesting for tourists? Those who intend to spend their winter holidays with benefits for body and soul are offered skiing from Mount Sobolina, located not far from Baikalsk. You can also walk on the mirror ice of the lake on a sailboat, which is equipped with a sail. Judging by the reviews of tourists, such a pastime leaves an indelible impression and gives an unforgettable experience.
The fans of ice fishing also get great pleasure at Baikal. In winter, grayling, omul and whitefish are perfectly caught here. Moreover, such fishing is considered a truly extraordinary activity. Indeed, on Lake Baikal, through the transparent thickness of the ice, you can see how the fish approaches the bait and swallows it.
Photo hunting enthusiasts also specially come here to capture one of the defenseless and wonderful treasures of this great lake - seals, as well as the beauty of Baikal nature. Beautiful pictures are obtained from tourists and while overcoming the slopes of ice cliffs.
Kaliningrad
Winter holidays can be spent in this Russian city, which is famous for its beautiful German architecture. Kaliningrad offers its guests numerous excursions around the surroundings, where ancient castles and villas are located, visits to military bastions and a fish village, Kant Island with the Cathedral located on it, and much more.
The weather here is very changeable in winter. Sometimes the sun peeks out from behind the clouds, but most of the time the sky is overcast.
In addition to an extensive excursion program, vacationers can try real B altic eel in restaurants and cafes in Kaliningrad, as well as purchase magnificent amber jewelry in stores.
