In the mountains of the Western Caucasus, at an altitude of 1450 m above sea level, there is a small village of Arkhyz. It was founded in 1922 and was first called “Old Dwelling,” but this name was not popular. Later, the settlement began to be called Arkhyz, and then the entire area received this name.
In 2013, a ski resort opened here, which received the name of this area - “Arkhyz”, which quickly became extremely popular and receives a huge number of tourists every year. People come here to admire the beauty of the untouched nature of the Caucasus Mountains and enjoy the climate. And it is so comfortable and soft here that, despite the fact that the resort is high in the mountains, people of different ages feel great at Arkhyz.
Arkhyz is magnificent at any time of the year and has many interesting places. These are mainly natural attractions, but there are others that are no less tempting and attractive. We offer photos and descriptions of them below for viewing.
Lake of Love
The question of where Arkhyz is located will be resolved if you have an idea about Karachay-Cherkessia. The settlement is located in the most picturesque corner of this region. It is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls roar nearby, and green valleys lie below. The weather here is always wonderful and windless. People come here all year round.
Every year thousands of loving couples gather at the Lake of Love. The reservoir received this name because of its shape. Its contours are similar to the heart. A trout is splashing in the azure-colored water; it seems like you are about to catch it with your hands.
There is a belief that couples who visit here never separate. Their union is eternal.
To get to a natural monument, you will have to spend a lot of effort. It will be difficult for unprepared people. It is necessary to overcome more than 1000 km of mountainous terrain. But, believe me, you won’t regret it. The views will take your breath away and will remain in your memory for a lifetime.
Astrophysical Observatory BTA
The building is located in Nizhny Arkhyz. It amazes with its scale. The observatory was founded in the second half of the last century. Today it is considered one of the largest institutions of this type in Russia.
To look at the starry sky through a telescope, you will have to sign up in advance or come as part of an excursion group. Here they give lectures for tourists and talk about the structure of the Universe. The pride of BTA is called a unique telescope; it is listed in the Guinness Book as the largest in the world.
Mineral water production plant
The first thing Arkhyz is associated with is mineral water of the same name. There is a factory for its production in the village. Water is extracted from a well located at an altitude of 1500 km above sea level. The source is the glaciers of the North Caucasus mountain system.
Huge ice floes are melting and flowing deep into the Sarmatian Sea. Water is saturated with useful microelements and substances. It is then further processed downhole. You can also buy a bottle of the drink here.
Surrounded by mountains
The lands in the vicinity of present-day Arkhyz have been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeologists claim that people lived here 4 thousand years ago. The Alans left behind the most material traces. They settled in the mountains more than 2 thousand years ago, building cities and temples. The modern village of Arkhyz appeared on the map in 1922. It was built on the banks of the Bolshoi Zelenchuk River. Now it is home to about 400 people.
The Kyudi lived here 4 thousand years ago
Sources of carbon dioxide mineral water were discovered in the Arkhyz Valley. This determined the resort destiny of the village. Sanatoriums, boarding houses and tourist centers appeared in the area. Then they built the Arkhyz water bottling plant. The area has become popular with climbers, mountain hikers and mountain river rafting enthusiasts. The opening of the Arkhyz ski resort gave a new impetus to the development of tourism. The first season started in 2013. Currently, Arkhyz is considered one of the main tourist centers of the Caucasus.
Edelweiss
Mountains protect the village on all sides, providing a comfortable microclimate. There are no strong winds here, and the air temperature is usually higher than outside the basin. Summer temperatures average +15 degrees, winter temperatures – minus 6 degrees. In this case, snow falls at the end of October and melts in April. The thickness of the snow cover can reach 2.5 meters. The climate provides ideal conditions for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Rock face of Christ
At the end of the last century, a carved image of Christ was discovered on a rock on the shore of Bolshoi Zelenchuk. The shrine immediately attracted the attention of pilgrims. They equipped a staircase along which they climb to a height of 150 meters in order to honor the holy face. Then the ascent was equipped with gazebos and observation platforms.
The dimensions of the image are impressive: 140x80 cm. This is an example of rock painting. The icon is revered; hundreds of pilgrims come here every day. You can visit the place on your own. It's free. Climbing to Lik is considered one of the popular tourist routes in Arkhyz.
Northern Temple
The largest temple in the Northern Caucasus, dating back to the medieval period. The monastery dates back to the 9th-10th century. Historians suggest that it was founded in honor of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, but this is not a reliable fact.
The structure is architecturally complex. Its dimensions:
- length – 25.5 m;
- width – 19.5 m.
The interiors are divided by three naves. The middle nave is slightly wider. There are also vestibules on the sides. Penitents and those who were just waiting for baptism gathered here. When laying, they used methods characteristic of Byzantine churches.
Alexander-Athos Hermitage
Address: Karachay-Cherkess Republic, Zelenchuksky district, Nizhny Arkhyz village Phone: +7(87878) 46-411 Opening hours: 9.00 - 18.00, closed on Monday Entrance ticket: free
A monastery created in 1887 on the territory of the settlement. A complex of three temples that ceased to exist with the decline of Alanya, standing “idle” for several centuries.
The oldest, dedicated to Nicholas the Wonderworker, was decorated with frescoes, which have partially survived to this day. The Church of the Holy Trinity has a similar architecture to St. Nicholas Church and the third one, consecrated in honor of the Prophet Elijah, is the only church still in use today, rebuilt in the 19th century in the Russian style.
The history of the Alexander-Athos Hermitage is as sad as the history of all churches - with the advent of Soviet power it was plundered and closed.
Now the temple complex has been restored, it is visited not only by pilgrims, but also by history buffs.
Elijah Temple
Known as the Southern Temple. This landmark is often seen in photos of Arkhyz. A monastery was founded at the monastery. The opening took place in the 80s of the 19th century. The icon of the Mother of God of Grebnevskaya was kept here. She was considered the patroness of the mountains and the people living here.
This place is revered in the Orthodox world. The relics of St. George were kept here. They were brought from Athos by wandering monks. The monks living in the monastery were engaged in weaving baskets, and the residents gave them food for this. With the communists coming to power, the monastery fell into disrepair, but now the temple is operating again and welcomes everyone.
Sofia lakes and waterfalls
If you are planning a vacation in Arkhyz in the summer, be sure to check out the route known as “Sofia Lakes and Waterfalls.” Mount Sofia is covered by a glacier. It's melting. It was the waters of this glacier that formed a group of lakes and waterfalls.
The route is considered a one-day route. But some tourists stay overnight, as the climb is not easy. Tour groups usually travel by horse and cart or bus. But this only makes the task half easier; the transport will have to be left at the foot of the mountains and continue on foot.
FAQ Frequently asked questions about Arkhyz
What is the fastest way to get to Arkhyz?
The fastest way is by plane to Mineralnye Vody, and from there by taxi to the resort. The distance is just over 200 kilometers. The estimated cost of travel is 3 thousand rubles. This option is beneficial for a group of several people.
What time of year is best to vacation in Arkhyz?
The Arkhyz ski resort operates all year round. In winter, skiers and snowboarders come here, and in summer, hikers come here.
What kind of hikes are organized in Arkhyz?
There is a route that starts in Nevinnomyssk, passes through the village of Teberda, the Muhu and Khadyuka passes and ends in Arkhyz. There are also routes through the mountains along the Main Caucasus Range. They offer holidays in a mountain camp with daily radial hikes. The routes to the protected lakes of Arkhyz are interesting.
What attractions are there in the vicinity of the resort?
Near Arkhyz there are the most beautiful Sofia and Dukkinsk lakes, as well as Sofia and Cossack waterfalls. Thermal springs and ruins of ancient Alan settlements are of interest.
Barite Falls
The natural attraction is included in the list of beautiful places in Arkhyz. You can visit it for free and on your own. You will find a waterfall on the territory of the Teberda Nature Reserve. Start the route from the north side of the village.
The barite waterfall is not considered full-flowing. But he is quite tall. The pool at the foot is not equipped. This does not bother tourists; they bathe directly in the streams of water. Note that the water cascades remain cold even in the hot season.
The route to the waterfall is impressive. Travelers walk through a picturesque forest. It is impossible to get lost here. Only one trail has been paved. From here they bring mesmerizing photographs as souvenirs.
Observation deck
If you want to look at the village from above and see it completely, climb one of the rocks. It is 2 kilometers away from the village. The journey will take less than an hour. Visiting is free.
The site is not equipped, but this does not stop guests of Karachay-Cherkessia. All residents know about the open area on the rock and will accompany the traveler if he is afraid to go alone. The views are stunning; a trip to Arkhyz will not be considered complete if you do not visit here.
Characteristics of lifts
The ski resort called “Arkhyz” is equipped with 3 cable cars, one of which is a gondola and two chairlifts.
Technical characteristics of the lifts:
| type of lift | chairlift | gondola lift |
| Name | "Satellite" | "Milky Way" |
| capacity | 4-seater | 8-seater |
| cross-country ability | 1,800 people per hour | 2,400 people per hour |
| length of the cable car | 859 m | 2,354 m |
| altitude changes | 115 m | 585 m |
| travel time | from 7 to 12 minutes | from 6 to 15 minutes |
By the beginning of the ski season 2015 – 2021, a 6-seater lift called “Moon Express” was equipped. It is designed for a traffic capacity of 2,400 people per hour and is equipped with shelter against precipitation and strong winds. On holidays and weekends, in winter, evening and night skiing is practiced.
Lift fares:
- for an adult from 300 rub. up to 600 rub.;
- for children 6 – 13 years old from 150 rub. up to 300 rub.;
- for children under 6 years old and pensioners over 75 years old - free;
- from 65 to 75 years old a 10% discount is provided;
- for disabled people of group 1 and disabled children - free of charge.
Alan settlement
The open-air museum will allow you to get acquainted with the period of existence of the Alanian kingdom. It was founded in the supposed location of the capital of the ancient state - the city of Meuse. The protected area occupies an impressive area. It is better to rent a car or bicycle for a walk, otherwise you will not have time to explore the entire territory. A visit will be the answer to the question of what you can see, the most interesting things in Arkhyz.
Objects worthy of attention include:
- ancient temples (one church is active);
- stone figure of a Turkic warrior (pictured);
- solar calendar in the form of a stone circle.
Signs lead to attractions. The walk can be done either independently or as part of excursions in Arkhyz. The food stations are not yet equipped, so take a couple of sandwiches with you.
30 main attractions of Arkhyz (1 photo)
Teberdinsky Reserve
The natural landscapes of the reserve include mountains, rivers, hundreds of lakes, glaciers and waterfalls. Every year the Teberda Nature Reserve is visited by 200,000 to 400,000 tourists. There are ecological trails along it, along which you can move either independently or as part of organized groups under the guidance of an experienced guide. Tourists should definitely visit the arboretum and the estate museum on the territory of the reserve.
Ski resort "Arkhyz"
A popular place for active recreation among tourists, located in the spurs of the Caucasus Range. The lowest point of the Arkhyz resort is located at an altitude of 1650 meters in the village of Romantik. The main infrastructure facilities are concentrated above – in the village of Lunnaya Polyana. There are service points and equipment rental points, ticket offices and cafes here. There are 8 trails of varying difficulty levels for athletes, and there are different types of lifts.
Arkhyz cable cars
The cable car ride to Arkhyz is possible at any time of the year. Boarding stations for the rope tow and chairlifts Milky Way, Sputnik, Northern Lights and Lunar Express are located in the villages of Lunnaya Polyana and Romantik. The highest station is located at an altitude of 2500 meters. There are observation decks with magnificent views of glaciers, snow-covered mountain slopes and the tops of centuries-old pine trees.
Glade Taulu
A popular place for a tent camp in the valley of the Sofia and Psysh rivers. Many routes to popular natural attractions of Arkhyz begin from here. The clearing does not have the usual resort infrastructure, so the Taulu clearing is perfect for lovers of “wild” recreation. Local residents have set up a small market next to the clearing, where you can buy national dishes, wool products and souvenirs.
Sofia Lakes
Three picturesque alpine lakes, which are quite difficult to get to. Tourists who want to see them will have to climb the mountains for many hours to an altitude of 2800 meters. Experienced tourists advise going on at least a two-day hike to fully enjoy the beauty of the lakes among pristine nature against the backdrop of majestic mountains. The water in the Sofia Lakes has a rich turquoise color with a hint of azure.
Sofia waterfalls
Powerful streams of water falling from the slopes of Mount Sofia attract hundreds of tourists. The height of the mountain is 3636 meters. Most often, travelers combine visits to the Sofia Waterfalls and Sofia Lakes, located 15 km from the village of Arkhyz. The road to the waterfalls runs along the Chaget-Chat ridge along the picturesque Sofia Gorge. On the way to the waterfalls, it is worth stopping by the Glacier Farm, where buffalos and Karachai horses live.
Lake of Love (Lake Suuk-Dzhyurek)
A pond of amazing shape in the shape of a heart. A small original lake is located on the Morg-Syrty plateau on the territory of the Teberda Nature Reserve at an altitude of 2350 meters. The water in the lake is crystal clear and very cold. Its name Suuk-Dzhyurek is translated as “Cold Heart”. However, local legend says that if a couple in love dares to plunge into the waters of the Lake of Love, their feelings will last forever.
Cossack waterfall
One of the most visited waterfalls. The route to it is considered one of the easiest; it is suitable even for people with poor physical fitness. The optimal period for visiting the Cossack Falls is considered to be from May to July. In August, the water flow dries up and a thin trickle remains from the waterfall. From the foot of the waterfall there are beautiful views of the valley of the Bolshoi Zelenchuk River and the village of Arkhyz.
Barite Falls
Another waterfall, the route to which from the village of Arkhyz is considered simple. A walk to the Barite Falls will take no more than two hours, and the difference in elevation during the climb is practically not felt. The waterfall is a narrow stream of water that dramatically falls from a sheer cliff. The height of free fall of water is 20 meters. From the waterfall you can clearly see the Chaget-Chat mountain range and the Kizgych River gorge.
Mount Pastukhova
Three-headed mountain 2733 meters high. There is snow on its top until June. At the foot of the mountain there is a unique telescope of the Russian Academy of Sciences - one of the largest in the world. From the slopes of the mountain there is an unusual view of its dome. From the top of Mount Pastukhov, the ridges of the Caucasus Mountains, the valley of the Marukha River, and the peaks of Big and Small Karabek are clearly visible. The route to the mountain is one-day, in 6-7 hours you need to cover about 10 km.
Chigordali waterfall
A well-trodden path without stone screes leads to the waterfall. The length of the route is about 7 kilometers in one direction, the elevation gain is 400 meters. The trail passes by Dead Lake among a protected forest. The height of the Chigordali waterfall is 15 meters. A brilliant stream of clear water falls from a cliff surrounded by a coniferous forest. At the foot of the waterfall there is a small clearing where you can have a picnic and pitch a tent.
×
Waterfall on the Belaya River
One of the most picturesque and accessible places near Arkhyz. The full-flowing waterfall is located within walking distance from the Taule clearing at the confluence of the Belaya River and the Psysh River. The stream of water after the fall flows through the narrow Ayulu-Chat canyon and is a stunning sight. The path to the waterfall leads through a forest with centuries-old pine trees and past glades with blooming crocuses. The waterfall looks most impressive between April and December.
BTA optical telescope
A large azimuthal telescope, part of the astrophysical observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Located on the Upper Scientific Site, 45 km from Arkhyz. This is one of the largest telescopes of its type in the world, and it is of great interest to tourists. They have day and night excursions. During the excursions, visitors are told about the structure of the telescope, and at night they can view the starry sky through the telescope.
Radio telescope RATAN-600
Located 25 km from Nizhny Arkhyz in the village of Zelenchukskaya. This object is less visited by tourists than the BTA telescope, but it is just as interesting. Its reflective mirrors have a diameter of 600 meters. You can examine the unique and large-scale radio telescope as part of an organized group. The guides are the observatory's research staff, who will explain complex cosmic phenomena in accessible language.
Nizhne-Arkhyz settlement
Archaeological complex from the times of Ancient Alanya. Built in the 7th-14th centuries. It is located 1.5 km from the village of Nizhny Arkhyz and is popular among tourists who are interested in the cultural and architectural past of the peoples who lived on the territory of modern Karachay-Cherkessia. The three surviving Christian churches are of greatest interest. In addition to them, you can explore the quarries, the astronomical circle and burial grounds.
Northern Zelenchuksky Temple
It is the most impressive and monumental of the three surviving temples of the Nizhne-Arkhyz settlement. This is a wonderful example of the architectural art of medieval masters. The special status of the temple is emphasized by the finds discovered during excavations of burials near the temple. These are jewelry, gold stripes from clothes. One of them belonged to the king from the Bagratid dynasty, who ruled Armenia in the 9th century.
Middle Zelenchuk Temple
Built at the beginning of the 9th century from large sandstone blocks held together with limestone mortar. The temple has interesting architectural solutions - its length is equal to its height, and the size of the drum windows is equal to the radius of the dome. In the western arm of the temple, original frescoes with images of saints have been preserved. In the 19th century, two chapels were added to the ancient church building and christened as the Church of the Holy and Life-Giving Trinity.
Southern Zelenchuksky Temple
The most modest and small of the three Christian churches of the Nizhne-Arkhyz settlement. It is located among residential buildings within the block. At the same time, the Southern Temple suffered more than the others from carelessly carried out restorations by the monks, which destroyed the ancient wall paintings. The masonry technique of the Southern Zelenchuk Temple indicates that it was erected by local craftsmen at the beginning of the 11th century.
Stone statue "Turkic Warrior"
Monument of medieval Alan culture. Created approximately in the 8th-12th centuries. It is a stone figure with an oriental type of face, looking at the Bolshoi Zelenchuk River. Facial features are characteristic of ancient Alans - short chin, straight nose, artificial deformation of the skull, large eye sockets. The statue of the “Turkic Warrior” is located on the territory of the Nizhne-Arkhyz settlement, next to the South Zelenchuk Temple.
Rock Face of Christ
It measures 140*80 cm. It is located on a rock under a stone ledge that protects the image from bad weather. The exact date of the image is not known; scientists and religious representatives have not yet come to a consensus. For pilgrims who want to venerate the shrine, a staircase of 526 steps has been erected. There are benches for resting from the heavy climb and observation decks from which you can see the Nizhne-Arkhyz settlement.
Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands
A small and modest in appearance church, built of stone next to the popular and famous shrine - the Rock Face of Christ. Every year thousands of pilgrims come to the shrine; it was this fact that influenced the decision to build a temple in this place of the Arkhyz Gorge. The temple was built in 2010 and consecrated in 2012. Nearby there is a small market and cafe, as well as souvenir and church shops.
Valley of the Kizgych River
A picturesque valley through which many tourist routes pass to popular natural attractions. There are 17 lakes in the Kizgych River basin, including high-mountain lakes, where the ice does not melt even in summer. Melt water from glaciers hanging over the valley forms several waterfalls, including the Cossack Waterfall. From the Kizgych valley you can go to the Devil's Mill tract, where a fast mountain river flows.
Memorial in the Taulu clearing
Built in 1967 in memory of the defenders of the passes of the Western Caucasus mountains. The memorial complex consists of a mass grave, a map of military operations in the Arkhyz region made of metal, a memory pavilion, a mountain gun taken from the Nakra Pass in 1980 and a stele in the form of a bayonet. A 45 mm mountain gun is located next to the reconstruction of a bunker. There are always fresh flowers at the mass grave and bayonet.
Dukka Lakes
They are one of the most visited lakes in Arkhyz. They open up from ice earlier than other lakes in the area and later become covered with snow. Tourists are attracted by the unusual color of the lakes - depending on the time of day, the water can be dark blue or almost black. There is a trail leading to the lakes; most of it can be driven by an all-terrain vehicle. However, the last 3 km can only be covered on foot.
Lake Seven Colors
The lake is located at an altitude of 2450 meters, 26 km from the village of Arkhyz. The lake received its unusual name because of the original color of the water. The surrounding landscape, minerals that are deposited at different depths of the lake, as well as the reflection of the blue sky and white clouds make the lake water shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow. The best period to visit the lake is July and August. During these months, the water in the lake is most saturated with bright colors.
Lake Aimatly-Dzhagaly-Kol
Located near the Sofia Lakes group. It attracts tourists with the amazing color of the water, which changes shades from emerald to turquoise depending on the angle of incidence of the sun's rays. The lake has an unusual shape - it has uneven, as if rugged shores, on which you can take a break and set up a tent. The depth of the lake is shallow, but the water in this alpine reservoir does not warm up above 13 degrees.
Dolmens of the Leso-Kyafar settlement
The ancient settlement of Leso-Kyafar is located 50 km from the village of Arkhyz. It is best known for its ancient dolmens; according to some sources, their age is about 10,000 years. Dolmens are especially attractive to lovers of esotericism. They believe that the unusual energy of the ancient necropolis has mystical powers - it can heal diseases or provide answers to hidden questions. Near the dolmens, the remains of stone figures and sanctuaries have been preserved.
Crater Lake
The second largest lake located on the Sofia ridge. Most tourists pass by it directly to the Sofia Lakes, so the shores of Lake Kraternoe are often sparsely populated. Here you can relax alone with alpine nature at an altitude of 2838 meters. The location of the lake is similar to the crater of a volcano - this similarity gave it its name. The water in the lake is dark blue and it seems bottomless.
Lake and waterfall Belkau-Kol
Located on the Morg-Syrty ridge on the territory of the Teberda Nature Reserve at an altitude of 2265 meters. People go on both walking and horseback excursions to the lake and waterfalls. The route is considered easy and takes several hours. The water in the lake has a rich azure color; it looks especially beautiful in clear weather. A waterfall falls directly from the snow-capped mountain peaks into the reservoir, which is an incredibly picturesque sight.
Marukh Gorge
Located away from the main tourist routes. The picturesque 60 km long gorge can be overcome even by inexperienced tourists under the guidance of an experienced guide. The relief of the gorge is varied - wide river valleys give way to sheer steep cliffs. There are grottos, caves, small rivers and waterfalls. The vegetation consists of both dense coniferous forests and alpine multi-grass meadows.
Cable cars
Currently, guests of the region can use one of 4 cable cars. The highest station operates at an altitude of 2.5 thousand meters. The cable cars are open all year round. Occupancy depends on the season.
The lifts are popular in the winter season. With the onset of cold weather, fans of alpine skiing come here. Tourists who are interested in information about which Arkhyz attractions are most popular in summer can take advantage of excursion offers. In this case, they offer programs during which the guide talks about what is visible from above.
There are observation platforms at the top. From here you can see the tops of the oldest glaciers and mountain slopes. The views are mesmerizing. Impressive footage is brought back from these places.
Ski slopes
The area of the ski resort is almost 20 thousand hectares. The height differences of the resort territory (relative to sea level) are from 1,329 m to 3,144 m. The total length of all ski slopes is almost 15 km.
In total, the ski resort has 8 trails of varying difficulty:
| track | quantity | symbol |
| easy trails for beginners and children, called “Sputnik” and “Juliet” | 2 | marked in green |
| medium difficulty trail for beginners | 1 | marked in red |
| routes of medium difficulty for professionals, under the names: “Milky Way”, “Moon Express – 1”, “Moon Express – 2”, “Cupid” | 4 | marked in blue |
| extreme track called "Comet" | 1 | marked in black |
All routes differ from each other in length and elevation changes.
Brief characteristics of some routes:
| track | length in m | height of the starting mark in m | height of finishing mark in m |
| first green track | 923 | 1 771 | 1 669 |
| second green track | 884 | 1 771 | 1 710 |
| red track | 1 710 | 2 240 | 1 753 |
| blue track | 3 084 | 2 240 | 1 664 |
At the ski resort there are connecting (additional) slopes: red ones with a length of 160 m and blue ones with a length of almost 600 m.
Data on the characteristics of additional trails for the opening of the alpine ski season in 2015 and 2021:
| track | length (in m) | height difference (in m) |
| Blue colour | 2 278 | 506 |
| second route blue color | 2 900 | 535 |
| black track | 1 460 | 380 |
Arkhyz, whose attractions include numerous ski slopes, is awarded the Federal International Skiing Certificate (FIS). This award allows you to organize international alpine skiing competitions on the red slope.
Lake Seven Colors
At an altitude of 2.5 km there is a beautiful lake with a magical name - Seven Colors. In guidebooks with the sights of Arkhyz with photos and descriptions, it is always mentioned. The reservoir is considered almost the most beautiful on the entire planet. Take some time to look here.
The natural reservoir got its name because of the color of the water. In sunny weather it shimmers with all the colors of the rainbow. The color effect is achieved due to the reflection of the surrounding landscape in the water and the minerals that are located at the bottom. During the warm season, all guests of the region come to the valley of the Bolshaya Dukka River to appreciate the beauty of the extraordinary lake.
How to get there
You can get to Arkhyz by plane, train, bus, car and taxi. The nearest airport is in Mineralnye Vody. There are direct flights here from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Volgograd, Rostov-on-Don, Kazan and other major Russian cities. The flight from Moscow takes 2.5 hours, from St. Petersburg – 3.5 hours. There is a regular bus between the airport and the resort. The distance is 220 kilometers. The trip will cost 350 rubles.
The nearest railway station is in Cherkessk. To get here from the Moscow line, you will have to change at Nevinnomysskaya station. Depending on the train, the journey from Moscow will take from 22 to 35 hours, from St. Petersburg – from 30 to 40 hours. There is a regular bus from the station to the resort. Ticket price – 200 rubles.
You can get to Arkhyz by intercity bus, which runs from Stavropol, Pyatigorsk, Kislovodsk, Nevinnomyssk, Cherkessk and the village of Zelenchukskaya. By car you can travel along the A157 highway, leading from Minvodsk to Kislovodsk, and then along the A165 road to Cherkessk. A taxi from the Minvoda airport to Arkhyz will cost 2,700 rubles, from the station in Nevinnomyssk you will have to pay 2,100 rubles.
Fedoseev Pass
This object also made it into the TOP attractions of Arkhyz. The pass is located near Moon Glade. A funicular will take you to the place. The landmark was named after the writer Grigory Fedoseev.
The pass is located at an altitude of almost 3000 meters. It won't be easy to climb unaccompanied. Tourists recommend using the services of experienced guides. Then the climb will not be so difficult.
From the height you will have views of the legendary Elbrus and other mountain peaks of the North Caucasus. There is also a monument to the writer in whose honor the object is named. Admirers of Fedoseev’s work often organize ascents here. Romantic people call the tourist route the main attraction of Arkhyz and the surrounding area.
What to take with you on a trip
In addition to the standard camping kit, take with you:
- A bright swimsuit, sweater or raincoat - for memorable photos.
- Passport is near the border, always keep your documents at hand.
- Sunscreen.
- Warm windbreaker - even in summer there is snow at altitude.
- Trekking shoes.
- Trekking poles.
- Thermos – drink tea “with a view” in the mountains.
- Microfiber towel.
- Powerbank. There will be a lot of photos!
- Cash - cards are not accepted everywhere.
- High quality raincoat.
- Small and nutritious snacks.
Beech forests
From what to see in Arkhyz in autumn, we will highlight the rich beech forests located on the territory of the Teberdinsky Nature Reserve. At this time they are unusually beautiful. The foliage is painted in golden, crimson, purple colors. The forest background makes for great shots.
The beech forest is considered a natural monument. Some trees are 200 years old. They reach a height of almost 30 meters. And even an adult man cannot grasp a beech tree. The trunk diameter exceeds 3.5 meters.
If you are in the upper reaches of the Kizgych, pay attention to the fir trees. The age of trees is determined by their height. Some specimens grew up to 60 meters. Experts believe that they are more than 7 centuries old.
In the forests of the region, like nowhere else, you can feel the grandeur and power of nature. The sights of Arkhyz in autumn are just as attractive as in summer or winter. Don't delay your trip. You won't have to regret it.
Season, opening hours
The tourist recreational ski resort is suitable for summer and winter recreation. According to Decree No. 833 of October 14, 2010, the resort was included in the list of independent units managed by the joint stock company of North Caucasus Resorts.
The beach season in Arkhyz, as in almost the entire territory of central Europe, lasts approximately 4 months:
- June;
- July;
- August;
- September.
The height of the ski season is from the beginning of December to the end of April.
Dead Lake
You will find a reservoir in the valley of the Kizgych River. This is the last lake in the group. Natural reservoirs were formed due to the melting of glaciers. There is a hiking trail to Dead Lake that passes through the protected area. Along the way, be sure to meet representatives of the region’s fauna and see ruins preserved from the time of the Alanian kingdom.
The chain of lakes located here was discovered by the researcher of the North Caucasus N. Dinnik. He suggested that the reservoirs are over 10 thousand years old. Over time, the water in the reservoirs began to dry up, and now many lakes are swampy. Dead, or as it is also called Sleeping Lake, is a swampy clearing. In summer it is full of rare flowers.
Content
What to take with you on a trip
How to get there
Where to live
What to see and do
What to try
What to bring from your trip
In the meantime, everyone rushed to Crimea and the Krasnodar coast, we compiled a guide to the North Caucasus and its resorts. First in line is Arkhyz. We have collected all the most useful information, save it!
Arkhyz has a mild climate, alpine meadows, blue lakes, snowy peaks and untouched nature. Resorts and ski lifts operate here year-round, tourist groups go on hikes and there is always something to do - from skiing in winter to picking berries and photo sessions in the picturesque mountains in summer.
Where to eat deliciously?
Well, according to tradition, for all guests of the village, we have selected the best restaurants and cafes where you can eat tasty and inexpensive food in Arkhyz. All establishments have positive reviews and good ratings among experienced tourists. We also made a selection based on comfort; you can easily come in the evening and relax with the whole family in a calm atmosphere.
- Cafe Khizhina well st. Lenina 8 is rightfully considered the best establishment every year. We recommend having lunch here and be sure to order the kebab. The average bill for one adult is 900 rubles.
- A small and cozy establishment - Mariv Ski Restaurant on Khubieva 21. It is immediately clear that the owners give their preference to each guest, a very good attitude. And the view of the mountains from the panoramic windows will be a huge plus. You can taste all combinations of Caucasian cuisine. The average bill for one is 900 rubles.
Video review of interesting places
A visit to Arkhyz is possible at any time of the year. Select the period according to your personal preferences. In winter people come here to ride the mountain slopes, but in summer tourists are offered a lot of entertainment. They can go rafting, rock climbing, cycling or horseback riding. Whatever you choose, be sure to take the time to explore the local attractions.
* The author of the title photo is Yuri Budaev.
Infrastructure
For the convenience of tourists, the ski resort is equipped with the necessary infrastructure. Numerous service centers offer sports equipment rentals, a repair service for damaged equipment, and spacious storage rooms.
The following organizations are open near the ski slopes:
- grocery stores;
- restaurant for evening visits;
- cafe-dining room for a snack during the day;
- souvenir shops;
- equipped with a medical center.
During the summer holidays, an additional program has been developed that offers entertainment:
- high-altitude ropes course;
- open pool;
- archery range;
- paintball game;
- jeep riding;
- playing table tennis;
- playing billiards;
- outdoor cinema;
- Board games;
- riding electric cars;
- horseback riding;
- rental of bicycles and Segways;
- bus excursions to local attractions.
There is a children's playground with numerous attractions.
How to plan a trip cheaper?
With the help of practical tips, you can arrange a vacation at sea or a trip to the sights much more profitable:
- ROOMGURU will help you stay in any city on a budget . The search engine compares prices across all housing databases and displays the result. It is very convenient to use the HOUSING SEARCH via a smartphone. It is especially helpful upon arrival, when you need to immediately book an apartment or hotel.
- Before each trip, you must purchase an insurance policy; we recommend TRIPINSURANCE , the service works only with the best insurance companies that you can trust.
- Where to buy cheap air tickets? We definitely use the AVIASALES , it looks for the most profitable options from all airlines.
