The Seven Wonders: close-up of Russian nature
Since I’m a little forgetful, my bad, I might have omitted to tell you that nature is one of the things I love the most. That’s the reason why in today’s article I will list what I called “The Seven Russian Wonders”, that is, breathtaking examples of Russian nature dotted all around the country which I warmly recommend you visit.
Mount Elbrus (Эльбру́с)
This peak is in the Kabardino-Balkar Republic, South-western Russia. This is Russia’s highest mountain and one of the most powerful expression of “Russian” nature.That’s why, it goes without saying, reaching its top is no joke, since it requires training, experience and a local guide. Nevertheless, for trekking and mountain climbing amateurs can be a very challenging and at the same time rewarding experience, since the view up there is something that words cannot express.
If you want to know more about this amazing place just click here, it’ll redirect you to one of our blog posts, or better, an account of a real life experience on Mount Elbrus.
Altai Mountains (Алтайские горы)
Altai Mountains are one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites that can be found in Russia. The whole region is named after this mountain range which goes from Gobi desert to Western Siberia, crossing four different nations, and being full of astonishing and diverse landscapes.
Lake Baikal (озеро Байка́л)
How can I not mention Lake Baikal, a cornerstone of tourism in Russia. Part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites this lake is visited by thousands of people every year, and i suggest you don’t miss out on it when visiting the country. With its amazing landscapes it is a spectacular example of what Russian nature has to offer. In my opinion this location is really worth-visiting, especially during winter, when many different “Siberian” activities are organised by local tour operators (E.G.: Ice fishing, dog sled rides or typical Siberian food tasting). FYI, one of Liden&Denz campuses is in Irkutsk that is only 70 km far from the lake, so that maybe you can think of combining business with pleasure.
Kungur Cave (Кунгу́рская ледяна́я пеще́ра)
Discovered in 1703, Kungur caves are located in the Perm region. This awe-inspiring site is studded with stalactites and underground lakes and all covered in permafrost. But wait, after having tickled your fancy with this dramatic scenery, I must warn you that the experience is not for the faint of heart, since to get there you have to walk your way through a 40-meter tunnel to the caves.
Valley of geysers (Доли́на ге́йзеров)
For those of you that are into geology or just want to live a marvelling experience, i invite you to venture into this magical place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated in Kamchatka, one of the wildest and remotest regions of Russia, where the barren and at the same time spectacular landscape gives a clear representation of how Russian nature can be as harsh as fascinating.
Lena pillars natural Park (Ле́нские столбы́)
This very peculiar rock formation stretches along the Lena river in continental part of Sacha Republic. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, and the recognition is well deserved considering the magnificence and sheer beauty of its 300-meter tall rock pillars whose formation date back to the Cambrian period.
Psychedelic salt mines
Last but not least, an example of how bizarre Russian nature can be. As it is clear from their name, these mines, located in the Sverdlovsk region near Ekaterinburg, are one of a kind. Their colour comes from the infinite number of carnallite layers, a reddish mineral that settled there millions and millions years ago, when the salty water dried up. The only inconvenience is that they are not easy to access, since they have been abandoned years ago. In fact, to go there a special government permit is required, nevertheless I find this place worth-mentioning since it is a miracle of nature.
I hope my post woke the traveller within you and may help you while mapping put the route of your Russian holidays. As for me, I may be boring but I will take leave telling you once again how unique of an experience it is to visit each and every place on this list.
