Endless Baikal is without a doubt the deepest and greatest reservoir of fresh water on our planet, stretching for 600 km on the surface of the globe, which once served as a picturesque cradle of ancient tribes. The lake hides a lot of mysterious and interesting places, distinguished by amazing nature and a mysterious atmosphere.
Arriving at Baikal, the first thing to do is visit Olkhon Island with indented shores and a whole mix of unique landscapes. Here, nature itself has created favorable conditions for ecotourism, water, bicycle, horse and hiking tours. For this purpose, thousands of tourists come here every year.
A place shrouded in legends
Olkhon Island on Baikal, the photo of which can be seen in the article, is the pearl of the mainland. In addition, it is the largest island with a length of 73 km and a width of 15 km. From its mountain capes, a panorama of the entire Baikal and its natural heritage opens up. According to local residents, this area is inhabited by mystical creatures. There are legends about Olkhon for a long time andmyths.
It was in its vicinity that the ancient shaman was rewarded with the gift of communication with otherworldly forces. The island has preserved a dragon made of stone, which is worshiped by the Buryats. They consider him a sacred deity - the owner of Olkhon. There is an opinion that this inanimate structure brings good luck and protects against accidents on the road. To appease the spirit, tourists place some kind of offering near its “feet” and pour alcohol on the ground around it.
Climatic and natural conditions
Olkhon Island in Lake Baikal adjoins the territory of the Pribaikalsky Reserve. Its climate is quite different from the rest of the mainland.
In winter, there is little snow in the area and no severe frosts. There are many sunny days on this continent, the hottest months are July and August. There is little precipitation on Olkhon, the reason for this is the presence of the Primorsky Range, which protects the island from the penetration of air masses. However, despite such a powerful natural barrier, there are occasional heavy rains and strong winds.
As for the flora, it leaves indelible memories and emotions. Primordial nature has concentrated steppe landscapes, marble archipelagos and warm bays in one place. The area is covered with mixed forests with relic islands, as well as dense red lichen, dunes and sandy hilly areas.
Olkhon Island on Baikal is quite large, it hosts large lakes Nuku-Nur, Shara-Nur(s alt lake), Nurskoye and Khankoy. Absent in the vicinity of the river, sometimes in the forest thickets you can find small streams after rain, which dry up quickly.
Sacred and outstanding objects
The island of Olkhon on Lake Baikal is famous for its numerous historical archaeological structures, of which there are about 140 pieces on the territory. This heritage of the Baikal region includes ancient settlements, ruins and burial grounds. In the northern part is the Kobylya Golova peninsula with picturesque bays and rocky capes. Otherwise, it is called Khorin-Irgi. According to reliable sources, life originated on this piece of land 5 thousand years ago.
On the northern coast of this peninsula is the famous Kh alte Cape, from the height of which you can see with your own eyes the Small Sea, the Olkhon Gates and the entire Primorsky Range. During excavations, archaeologists found a cult complex of the 17th-18th centuries on the cape. Another popular attraction is Cape Khorgoy with a protective wall built by the Kurykans. Nearby is an earthen rampart. Iron knives and arrowheads from the 6th–9th centuries found here served as evidence of signs of life.
In the north of Olkhon Lake Khankhoi is located, where various fish live. On the western part of this lake, scientists discovered a dilapidated ritual center built in the 7th-10th centuries BC. On its territory there are about 20 ancient stone buildings. The Shaman Rock is especially popular. There is a cave in it, which previously served for sacrifices. Later built herethe altar of the Buddha, which even the locals began to worship.
Travel and rest on Baikal
Olkhon Island has been considered a mecca for several decades. The area is attractive for a secluded, extreme and beach holiday. The peak of the influx of tourists falls on July-August, fans of ethnography, yoga, fishermen and connoisseurs of active pastime come here. The area is famous for its healing mud and mineral waters of the yellow lake (Shara-Nur).
People are staying in private houses, tents and hotel complexes. Olkhon Island on Baikal is famous for its well-developed tourist infrastructure. The camp sites are always full of guests, especially in the summer. The entire territory of this island is officially recognized as safe and reserved, there are no dangerous ticks and animals. We offer you to get acquainted with several complexes.
Lada camp site
Comfortable hotel is a wooden cottages in the middle of a forest. During the cold season, the rooms are heated. The rooms have cozy fireplaces that give the atmosphere a romantic touch. The hotel has on its territory a real Russian bathhouse and a sports equipment rental center. There is a tour desk and a cafe.
Three meals a day are provided for guests. You will definitely try exquisite dishes of Siberian cuisine, you will be able to appreciate unique treats from whitefish and omul, as well as taste vegetable platter. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Complex "PierOlkhon”
An old hotel on the coast of the beautiful Zagli Bay - a secluded place for lovers of a peaceful holiday. In this piece of paradise, you really feel the beauty of natural charm. And the purest air, sunshine and silence act better than any medicine on our body. The housing stock is presented in the form of small seasonal houses with partial amenities. The base has a wide range of entertainment from fishing to educational tours.
Those who want to plunge into the world of peace and pristine natural beauty can visit Olkhon Island on Baikal at any time. Reviews of tourists coming to these parts, in some cases enthusiastic. The majestic, harsh and somewhere magical area hospitably and friendly welcomes guests. Vacationers were satisfied with cozy hotels, comfortable conditions, atmosphere permeated with ancient legends and secrets.
