In order to see another reality, it is not necessary to look for an opportunity to fly to the other side of the globe. It's enough to pack your bags and head towards, perhaps, one of the most amazing natural places of the Karelian region - Ruskeala Mountain Park. Once in these surroundings, you will surely forget about civilization and urban life. Among the many crystal waterfalls and canyons you will have a real unity with nature and you will catch your Zen. Be sure to check the official website of the park before you travel, you might be lucky to get to the festival. In winter, the Mystery of the Deep is a festival of ice sculpture in the caves. There are even occasional concerts. For example, the park hosted the Ruskeala Symphony Festival, where the Karelian Symphony Orchestra played classics, rock and the Beatles. There were even DJ sets.
The first day of the route will be full of spectacular stops in the protected areas of endless forests and lakes that wash them. In the afternoon you will arrive in Priozersk and visit the famous ancient fortress Korela, and stay overnight at the picturesque coast of the river Vuoksa.
The first stop is the legendary Zubrovnik. You can feed the bison with carrots, ride horses, go to a mini-zoo and walk along forest paths. There is also a rope park for children and play areas. Entrance is free.
The Losevsky rapids are bubbling streams that form the confluence of the Vuoksa River and Lake Sudokholsky. Make a stop and be surprised at this miracle of nature. Here you can also see desperate extremists trying to curb the mighty waters on kayaks, kayaks, rafts.
The first half of the day was so busy that it was time for lunch. Observe the calm of the river surface, listen to the birds singing and enjoy your lunch. Be sure to order some fish from the local catch.
Medieval Korela was the most northwestern city in Russia. The fortress was founded at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries by Novgorodians to protect the north-western borders of the republic from the Swedes. Now it is a museum complex, on the territory of which you can walk a lot of interesting things about the history of that time. Monday and Tuesday are weekends.
This memorial stone is in honor of Rurik. Its burial place is near Korela Fortress. Be sure to make a stop and read the inscription on it.
The restaurant is centrally located, close to the main square and other attractions, and can be reached on foot from the hotel. Visitors praise fish soup in Finnish with cream and saltwater. You will certainly be pleased.
You'll remember this day for a long time. You will finally reach Ruskeala Nature Park and you will realize how creatively nature has approached the creation of these places, as if an artist and sculptor had formed in tandem the images of these beauties. On the way you will also stop at the famous K.A. Gogolev Cultural and Exhibition Centre and admire his skilful woodcarving. Be sure to charge the phones and free your memory, you will have a huge number of new pictures.
Ahead of the Gazpromneft filling station. A good reason to make a stop: refuel with quality fuel, drink coffee and just warm up.
Well-preserved Lutheran temple. You can go inside and walk into all rooms, including the bell tower. There's only one bell you can hit, just save your ears.
The unique collection of Kronid Gogolev, the founder of the exhibition center, is kept here. The artist creates works in a unique manner - sculptural relief in wood. There are works of woodcarving, paintings, graphics. Daily excursions, lectures, master classes are held. The exhibition is open every day from 10 to 20
Have a good lunch before you go to the national park. This cafe has a good selection of Finnish dishes.
Welcome to the majestic Ruskeala Park, the nail of our program! I hope you're wearing comfortable shoes and clothes. An unearthly walk awaits you and will return to you in your dreams. Be sure to walk to the Great Marble Canyon, find a boat station and sail along the river that separates the canyon and, if you have time, take a look at Underground Ruskeala, a complex of illuminated underground caves.
You must be hungry after such an intense hike. The café is located at the beginning of the park. Here you will be offered nourishing and delicious Finnish and Russian cuisine. Bon appetit!
Today you will be moving in the direction from Korela region to Leningrad region. On the way you will meet many no less interesting places. Spend this day in a great mood, there are many adventures ahead!
Wonderful and spacious park, ideal for walks at any time of year. It is a small stone elevation, which can be climbed on steps. At the top there is a view of the surrounding area. The hill offers a view of the ruins of a Finnish hospital. The hospital was operated on by the famous local surgeon Dr. Winter in the early 1900s.
The museum is dedicated to studying the history of the Karelian people and their material culture in Lahdenpoh district. The exposition includes 9 thematic sections with various exhibits. Opening hours: June-August: daily from 11:00 to 17:00. April-May, September-October: daily except Monday from 10:00 to 16:00. November-March: by preliminary requests.
This lunch you will spend on the riverside amidst the forest, an unforgettable experience. Scandinavian motifs of this place will create a special atmosphere this evening. Pay your attention to such gourmet fish dishes as: skoblyanka fish with cranberry, Ladoga dumplings with fish and spruce oil, profiteroles with fish cream.
Should we add another activity to this journey? A great place for both family and friends to relax. Fresh air, adrenaline release and a sea of wonderful emotions. Here you will find routes of any complexity - both for beginners and professionals. Instructors are always polite and friendly.
It's time to eat up before the rest of the journey, remember the highlights of the trip and revise your photos. Simple and very tasty European and Russian dishes are served here.