Arkhyz is a resort village hidden between the spurs of the Caucasus Range in the Republic of Karachevo-Cherkessia. Previously, it was associated only with the mineral water of the same name, but now, actively developing in the field of tourism, it is opening up from new, interesting sides.
Protected by mountains from cold winds, Arkhyz delights tourists with a mild climate and sunny days at any time of the year - winters are warm and snowy, and in summer, despite its geographical location, it is a comfortable +25. Travelers are attracted not only by weather conditions - the village and surrounding areas are rich in natural and man-made attractions. Here mountains, rivers, lakes, ancient history and the present are connected together.
In winter, Arkhyz is a popular ski resort. Here we talked in detail about the slopes, infrastructure, housing and prices of the Arkhyz ski resort.
Bolshoy Zelenchuk
Coordinates: 44.083766, 41.606128
A river originating in Arkhyz with the sources of five mountain rivers from the northern slope of the Main Caucasus Range. Raging and capricious, it attracts tourists with numerous offers of extreme rafting - steep drops, high flow speed, twisting turns.
The left bank of the river is located on the territory of the Teberda Natural Biosphere Reserve.
The reserved part of Bolshoy Zelenchuk, located in the village, is surrounded by fir forests, rare mahogany, and pine groves.
There are also archaeological sites and ruins of an Alan settlement.
Rafting
If you have already seen enough of the natural attractions of Arkhyz and want entertainment, then this is for you. Rafting in Arkhyz in summer is one of the most popular activities.
There are notices about rafting on literally every post here. You can even ride with children. One boat usually seats 6-12 people. You can raft all day or for a shorter period of time.
Adrenaline, delight and a sea of emotions are guaranteed to you.
The asking price is from 800 rubles.
Alan settlement
Coordinates: 43.684412, 41.475207 Phone: +7(87878) 46-411 Opening hours: 9.00 - 18.00, closed on Monday Entrance ticket: 100 rubles
The center of Byzantine culture in the North Caucasus in the 10th-12th centuries, the city through which the Great Silk Road passed.
After numerous Mongol raids, the settlement was destroyed.
Currently, for those who like to plunge into the history of antiquity, the Alan settlement can impress not only with its ruins, but also with three cross-baptismal churches of Abkhaz-Byzantine architecture.
The “Northern”, “Middle” and “Southern” churches were restored in the 19th century, and the icons inside are credited with miraculous properties. There is also a stone circle here - the oldest prototype of an observatory in Eastern Europe, and the face of Christ is nothing more than the oldest rock icon in Russia.
The current museum-reserve has no analogues in our country either in age or in the multi-layered culture.
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.
I'll show you Arkhyz
Noisy waterfalls, refreshing after a journey under the hot sun. Mountain freshness of winds and countless lakes in shades of marengo and emerald. Slopes of ridges with flowers and herbs, ridges of passes with endless views. There are many interesting destinations for an active holiday in Arkhyz for one or several days! You can combine contemplation and care for pristine nature at a volunteer camp in Arkhyz. The natural monuments of Karachay-Cherkessia are not inferior in beauty to foreign mountain valleys, and the history of man-made attractions reveals the secrets of many centuries. Maybe to the mountains?
Rock face of Christ
Coordinates: 43.68786, 41.4716 How to get there: an excursion trail leads from the Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands
Pilgrims visit Arkhyz not only for trips to ancient temples. In 1999, during archaeological excavations, a discovery was made.
Opposite the Northern Temple, on the territory of the settlement, a miraculous Face of Christ was discovered. On a small rocky grotto you can see the Face of the Savior, measuring 140 by 80 centimeters. In bad weather, the rock icon is protected from the rain by a stone canopy.
After much research, it was possible to establish the period of creation - the 10th century, that is, this is the most ancient image of Christ on the territory of Russia. To this day, it remains a mystery who created this rock painting; history is shrouded in mystery, thereby attracting religious and curious tourists.
Barite Falls
Coordinates: 43.35215, 41.16715 How to get there: along Khubieva Street in a northerly direction, to the right along the stream bed, up along the stream
A two-hour leisurely walk from the village of Arkhyz to the north, in one of the many gorges, lies the Barite Falls. It received this name because of the beam located here, where in the 20th century a material in demand for industry - barite - was mined.
The waterfall is not only visible, but also heard from the village, and due to the easy climb and close distance, the climbing route has become very popular.
During the walk, a panorama of Arkhyz, the valley of the Kizgich River, and the ruins of an Alan settlement open up.
Where is Arkhyz located?
When talking about Arkhyz, we mean the entire Arkhyz Gorge, which stretches from the plain and the village of Nizhny Arkhyz up into the mountains to the village of Arkhyz. The most convenient way to get here is by personal transport or with a tour.
For guests of the sanatorium-resort complex “Mashuk Aqua-Term” there are ready-made offers on the most interesting routes.
For tourists arriving in the Stavropol Territory, several route options can be considered. From Stavropol airport (230 km) or Mineralnye Vody (210 km). Next, order a taxi or tourist transfer.
Fedoseev Pass
How to get there: take the cable car of the Romantic tourist complex to Lunnaya Polyana, at the end of the climb, go around the rock on the right
Named after the famous surveyor and writer Grigory Fedoseev, the pass, located near Moonlight Glade, attracts more and more tourists to the mountain expanses every year.
From an altitude of 2880 meters above sea level there is a stunning view of Elbrus and the Arkhyz highlands.
During the walk, many tourists note the difficulty due to the difference in altitude and temperature, and advise going on a trip with a guide.
At the pass itself there is a memorial to Fedoseev.
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.
Lake of Love
How to get there: Azgek Hotel, uphill along the path Entrance ticket: 100 rubles
Arkhyz is called the land of a thousand lakes. There are indeed many bodies of water here, but there is one that attracts hundreds of lovers of long walks. Part of the Teberdinsky Nature Reserve, the heart-shaped mountain lake is a place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
The walk to the lake starts from the village, through the gates of the Azgek hotel. The path lies through winding mountain paths, alpine meadows, and the Arkhyz Saddle pass.
You can go on your own or in the company of local guides who will tell you a beautiful Circassian legend about love. Those who have not yet met their soulmate, according to one of the beliefs, should throw a coin into the lake and swim on a hot summer day.
The water is crystal clear and icy, regardless of weather conditions, and the surrounding nature, coupled with the blueness of the lake, visually makes this place fabulous.
Housing for every taste
There are six hotels at the resort. The Romantic complex includes two hotels of three and four star categories. The rooms have bathrooms with shower, refrigerator, TV. There is a restaurant and a Finnish sauna. Just fifty meters from the ski lift rises the five-story building of the Vertical Hotel. The hotel has a restaurant serving Caucasian and European cuisine, a SPA area, a bath complex, and sports equipment rental.
The Allur Hotel is located on the very bank of the Arkhyz River. This hotel is distinguished by its comfort and original interiors. Wood predominates as finishing materials. There is a cafe, a Russian bathhouse, a heated outdoor swimming pool, billiards and parking. Guests can use the swimming pool free of charge. In winter, a drying room is in demand. From the hotel to the nearest ski lift - 500 meters.
There are many attractions in the vicinity of the resort
One of the newest and most modern hotels is the Arkhyz Royal Resort & Spa, located in the center of the Romantic tourist village. The hotel opened in 2022. It is very close to the slopes and the ski lift. There is a restaurant, bar, fitness center, children's room and equipment rental. The pride is considered to be a SPA with a large swimming pool. After skiing or hiking in the mountains, a massage will seem very pleasant.
The list of Arkhyz hotels is completed by the Flora Boutique - Hotel & Spa hotel. This is one of the most comfortable accommodation options at the resort. Already from the name it is clear that the hotel has the opportunity to relax in the SPA. Each room has a balcony with a magnificent mountain panorama. You can also admire picturesque views from the panoramic windows of the hotel restaurant.
Sofia lakes and waterfalls
How to get there: Taulu glade, up the Sofia River
The most famous natural attraction of Karachay-Cherkessia is located 15 kilometers from the village of Arkhyz. Glaciers from the slope of Mount Sofia feed the waterfalls, which form the turbulent river of the same name.
In the vicinity of the valley there are 6 lakes with clear cold water. The largest and deepest is located at an altitude of 2800 meters above sea level among snow-capped peaks. Scientists consider this place unique in structure and appearance.
The road to the Sofia Falls is long and difficult, so even experienced travelers recommend turning to guides in off-road vehicles.
Even 10 hours is not enough for a walk along waterfalls and lakes, but you should not waste time on such beauties.
What to see and do
- On the way from Mineralnye Vody to Karachaevsk there is the Gum-Bashi pass with its “Troll Staircase” road. The narrow ribbon of road turns into a serpentine and winds along the slope. It’s better to slow down here: both for safety and for the views. At the top you will be greeted by the Gum-Bashi cafe with delicious khichin, ayran, mountain tea and chak-chak. There is also an observation deck, if you are lucky you will see Elbrus. Cafe coordinates: 43.777026, 42.209077.
- Wander through the museum-reserve of the Alan settlement (Nizhne-Arkhyz), built in the 10-12th century. Here you will find three ancient temples, a number of stone sculptures, the remains of temples and buildings, and an astronomical circle. If you want your wish to come true, find a stone idol - a menhir. They say you have to touch it and wish upon it. All monuments are scattered over a large area (from the entrance to the far one you will have to walk more than 2 km), information signs are installed near the main ones. To get there - by car to the village of Nizhny Arkhyz, present documents at the checkpoint to be recorded in the log. Then there will be an entrance to the territory of the archaeological complex, where you need to pay an entrance fee of 100 rubles per adult. Coordinates: 43.682559,41.46799.
- 157 km along a serpentine road up the mountain - and you’re at the RAS Astrophysical Observatory . Arkhyz is one of the best places in Russia for stargazing. On the territory you can visit the Large Alt-Azimuth Telescope (BTA) and the Radio Telescope of the Academy of Sciences (RATAN 600). Excursions are conducted from 9:00 to 15:00 from May 1 to November 6 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and calendar holidays. The cost of an adult ticket is 200 ₽. There are night excursions - in summer they start at approximately 22.00, in winter - 19.00, the total cost of a group excursion for 10 people is 5,000 rubles.
- On the way to Nizhny Arkhyz, collect all the signs with inspiring names of settlements: Reliable, Advanced, Convenient, Calm, Fearless.
- See a rock with the image of the face of Christ - the Image of the Savior Not Made by Hands. The image was hidden for many centuries and was accidentally found only in 1999. Its origin is associated with many legends. To see the face up close, you will have to climb more than 500 steps. Exact coordinates: 43.6865259,41.4707723.
- Ride the cable car at the Arkhyz resorts. When planning your route, keep in mind that the stations are located in the village of Romantik and on Lunnaya Polyana, 10 kilometers from Arkhyz. All titles have a star theme: “Milky Way”, “Sputnik”, “Northern Lights” and “Lunar Express”. Ascent + descent from 400 ₽. Coordinates: 43.544350, 41.181782.
- Go on a hike . There are weekends, 8-10 hours, which even children can do, and longer ones, 7-10 days, with drop-offs. Tickets from 4,000 ₽. You can look at the website of the Arkhyz resort or the websites of tourist clubs, for example, Voskhod.
- Near Arkhyz the Arkhyz section of the Caucasian Biosphere Reserve . Tours and hikes start from here. Don’t forget to pay an environmental fee of 50 ₽ per person or get a pass if you plan to take a long route.
- Ride bicycles (from 250 ₽/hour), motorcycles, ATVs (2,500 ₽. ATV for two/hour). You can rent it at Arkhyz.
- Go mushroom picking or berry picking - raspberries, blueberries, stone fruits. Mushroom walks are organized from the Arkhyz resort.
- Take a photo with flowering meadows, for example, with mountain rhododendron. By the way, it is not only beautiful, but also healthy - it is added to mountain tea.
- Breathe in the mountain air with the aromas of fir, pine and birch forests.
- Take a photo with horses - Karachay breed or with buffaloes.
- See the Sofia waterfalls - one of the highest, they fall from Mount Sofia. Surrounded by emerald forests and clean air, you can stay here with tents. It is convenient to get there either by personal vehicle or by UAZ from the village of Arkhyz (about 4,000 rubles for renting a car). The route starts from the Glacier Farm, from which it is 2 km to the waterfalls. There are souvenir kiosks and cafes in the clearing. Waterfall coordinates: 43.434802, 41.277188.
- Admire the picturesque Sofia lakes - there are three of them. Departure also from the Glacier Farm, from it 4 km to the lakes through passes and valleys, the climb can take several hours. From the mono lakes, continue the route another 5 km to Lake Verkhnyaya Pyataya.
- On the slopes of Mount Sofia, the symbol of Arkhyz, is the Sofia Glacier . Start also from Glacier Farm.
- Climb one of the mountain passes from which you can see the valleys. the Sophia Saddle pass , to which a convenient path leads from the Glacier Farm, or the Fedoseev Pass, starting from the Arkhyz resort, part of the path can be covered on the Milky Way cable car.
- Climb Dinnik Peak - one of the best panoramic points in Arkhyz at an altitude of 3175 m. About 9 km from Arkhyz (round trip about 18 km). It is better to go overnight in the mountains; the difficulty level of the route is average.
- Steam in a Russian wood-fired sauna. For example, in the Allur boarding house, from 2,000 ₽/hour.
- After long walks, relieve tension in a spa , for example, at Arkhyz Royal Resort & Spa with baths, hammam and swimming pool.
- Go to the Taulu clearing : you can’t drive past it and you can’t pass it. Many tourist routes start here, here you will find a guide or transport, you can buy souvenirs and taste the local dish Khychyna. There are tent sites, campsites and guest houses concentrated around.
- Lake Seven Colors is one of the most beautiful must-see places in the mountains at an altitude of 2500 meters. The colorful stones at the bottom shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow, which is how it got its name. If you look for different shooting points, from the water or from the slope, you will get completely different pictures. You can get to the lake on foot or on horseback. Coordinates: 43.487673, 41.076020.
- The Dukka lakes are located in the upper reaches of the Malaya Dukki River. The dirt road along the bank of the Malaya Dukka River ends just before reaching the lakes, so they are easily accessible. There are more than a dozen lakes in total, the most popular are “Rybka”, “Arkasarskoye” and “Fairy Tale of the Caucasus”. The water is very cold, even in summer. You probably won't be able to swim.
- If there weren’t enough lakes, the Baduk lakes are at an altitude of 2000 meters, the water even in summer is no more than +10 degrees. There is trout in the lakes, but you won’t be able to go fishing - the lakes are located on the territory of the Teberdinsky Nature Reserve. Along the way, take a walk through alpine meadows.
- Go on a horseback ride to Lake Love - a heart-shaped mountain lake on the Morg-Syrty ridge or to the Sofia Falls. You can find an excursion in the village of Arkhyz. Prices – from 500 ₽/hour, 3,000 ₽/day. Before going to Lake Love, do not forget to obtain permission to visit the protected area of the Teberdinsky Biosphere Reserve and pay an environmental fee. Documents are processed in Arkhyz.
- Try yourself rafting on the Bolshoi Zelenchuk . Depending on the length of the route – from 800 ₽.
- Don’t limit yourself to just the Sofia Falls and collect a whole collection: for example, Barite Falls (on the border of the forest zone and alpine meadows), Cossack Falls on the territory of the Teberda Nature Reserve or a waterfall on the Belaya River.
- Buy gifts at the roadside bazaar of Caucasian souvenirs ( Nizhny Arkhyz ): hats and burkas, jam and jewelry.
- Soak in the thermal pools in the village. Kazminskoye at the Valley of Geysers recreation center. There you can swim in one of four outdoor pools with a water temperature of 37 to 41 degrees and one indoor pool with a temperature of 28 degrees. From Arkhyz it is about 170 km by car. From 400 ₽ for 1 hour per adult.
- Another thermal complex “ Pearl of the Caucasus ” in the village of Kavkazsky, about 130 km from Arkhyz. There are 8 thermal pools with different temperatures on the territory. There are separate swimming pools for women. The cost of a one-time visit for 1.5 hours is 400 ₽.
BTA telescope
Address: Nizhny Arkhyz, Special Astrophysical Observatory Telephone: +7(87878) 46336 Opening hours: 9:00 - 15:00 Entrance ticket: 200 rubles
The largest optical telescope in Eurasia is located 17 kilometers from the village of Arkhyz. The special astrophysical observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences was built in the 60s of the last century in the valley of the Bolshoi Zelenchuk River at the foot of Mount Pastukhov at an altitude of 2070 meters above sea level.
The large alt-azimuth telescope with a mirror diameter of 6 meters is certainly visible from afar and attracts tourists. There are also two small telescopes with a diameter of 1 and 0.6 meters, accessible not only to observatory workers, but also to everyone who wants to look at space.
For many years now, scientific employees of the Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences have been introducing tourists to the structure of the telescope, talking about their work and allowing them to look at celestial bodies.
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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.
