Alupka is a resort town on the southern coast of Crimea, located at the foot of Mount Ai-Petri. The history of the city began back in 960. Then it was under Khazar rule and was called Alubka. Later (in the 14th-15th centuries) the village came under the rule of the Genoese, who owned most of the settlements on the peninsula. They gave him a new name - Lupico.
Interesting fact: Lupiko translates as “fox hole,” and fox holes are known to be underground and well protected from attackers. The city of Lupico was precisely one of the stronghold military points of the Genoese.
At the end of the 15th century, Lupico was captured by the Ottoman Empire. The city was under her rule for almost 100 years. During the Crimean Wars, the peninsula was annexed by the Russian Empire and was transferred to the power of Prince Grigory Potemkin. In 1823, the Alupka territories came into the possession of Prince Mikhail Vorontsov.
Since the beginning of the 20th century, Alupka began to actively develop as a resort; the 20-30s can safely be called “golden” for the city. During this time, as many as 22 health resorts were built in Alupka, which were visited at different times by Fyodor Chaliapin, Valery Bryusov, Maxim Gorky, Ivan Bunin, Lesya Ukrainka, Mikhail Kotsyubinsky, Sergei Rachmaninov and many others. During the Second World War, Alupka suffered from hostilities. Many buildings in the city were destroyed, but the most iconic and important objects remained untouched.
There are many interesting places around Alupka that you can get to in less than an hour: these are Simeiz and its rocks, the palaces of Koreiz, and, of course, Yalta and its Swallow's Nest.
City of Alupka (Crimea)
Alupka is a small city in the southwest of Crimea, 17 km from Yalta. Located on the Black Sea coast at the foot of the picturesque peak of Ai-Petri. Alupka is one of the most popular resorts on the southern coast of Crimea, which is famous for its clear sea, beautiful nature, small cozy beaches, as well as a calm and measured atmosphere. The main attraction of the city, which attracts tourists from almost all surrounding areas, is the famous Vorontsov Palace with a magnificent park.
Tasting rooms "Massandra" - a favorite place for tourists
- Address: Palace Highway, 26.
The wines of southern Crimea are famous all over the world for their excellent taste and high quality. Vacationers in Alupka have an amazing opportunity to look at the wine production process from the inside. This opportunity is provided to city guests. You will be taken around the entire territory, shown wine cellars and cellars, told an interesting history of creation, shown valuable specimens and, of course, allowed to taste the products.
Geography and climate
Alupka is located in the extreme southwest of the Crimean Peninsula on the Black Sea coast at the foot of the picturesque Mount Ai-Petri (1234 m). The city is located near Yalta, 100 km from Simferopol and 70 km from Sevastopol. Alupka has a warm Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by very mild winters and warm summers.
View of Ai-Petri
Temple of the Archangel Michael
And again we return to the temples. In Alupka there is one of the oldest temples on the entire Crimean peninsula.
It was built in 1908. The same sad fate awaited him as all churches during Soviet times - the temple was looted. It was restored only in 1991, at which time worship services were resumed here.
The temple amazes with its beauty and construction. His style is Russian-Byzantine. Reminiscent of the temples that once adorned Constantinople.
Another interesting fact is that before the construction of the temple there was a church of Count Vorontsov. Therefore, the place is considered by pilgrims to be prayed for and holy.
Address: Alupka, st. Lenina 4. You can get there by any minibus that runs around Alupka. Stop: "City Council". The cafe nearby is the Central Cafe, right on Lenin Square. It has already been mentioned above.
Holidays in Crimea will give you an unforgettable experience and you will want to come back here again, find out more about the peninsula. Koktebel invites tourists to look at the splendor of the mountain peaks, stunning nature, as well as the attractions of the resort, find out all the necessary information.
Glade of Fairy Tales in Yalta is a unique opportunity to plunge into childhood, fairy-tale characters are waiting for their guests, details on this page.
Alupka beaches
- Vorontsov baths are considered the city beach of Alupka. Located directly under Vorontsovsky Park.
- The children's beach is located a little away from the Vorontsov baths near the Tea House. It is formed by huge stones and is divided into two parts. There is a gentle entrance to the water, shallow depth and comfortable small pebbles. Therefore, the sea here is always a little warmer.
- The Cote d'Azur is located in the center of Alupka near the bus station. This beach is known for its beautiful sea water with a turquoise hue.
- Cape Verde is an excellent natural small-pebble beach.
- Frog is the most remote of Alupka’s beaches, named after a rock reminiscent of this amphibian. It is considered one of the most beautiful and convenient beaches in the city.
Aivazovsky's Rock - a romantic date place
- Coordinates: 44°25′5″N (44.418058), 34°3′24″E (34.056699).
Famous marine painter I.K. Aivazovsky really loved visiting Alupka, and he especially liked the rock near Vorontsovsky Park. Here he painted his best paintings. The rock also attracts tourists with its unusually breathtaking views from above. This place also serves as a haven for couples in love: indeed, where else can you enjoy each other’s company in a romantic setting?
Story
The first mentions of Alupka date back to Byzantine times (late 10th century). In the 14th and 15th centuries there was an outpost of the Genoese here. Then, until the 17th century, the Ottomans ruled on the southern coast of Crimea.
Streets of Alupka
In the 18th century (after the annexation of Crimea to the Russian Empire) there was a settlement of Crimean Tatars here. At the beginning of the 20th century, Alupka began to develop as a climatic resort. In 1938, the settlement received city status.
Amet Khan Museum - a reminder of the legendary man
- Address: Yaltinskaya street, 22.
The museum's exhibitions are dedicated to different years of the life of Amet-Khan, a brave and courageous military pilot, twice a hero of the USSR. Every resident of the resort is proud of his famous countryman and knows his history since childhood. During the Great Patriotic War, Amet-Khan accomplished many feats, participated in numerous military operations and knocked out more than 30 enemy vehicles. In peacetime, he was involved in testing the latest space equipment. The sights of Alupka also include a monument to the famous pilot.
How to get there
The nearest airport is located in Simferopol, which has direct connections with Moscow and St. Petersburg. The nearest railway station is in the city of Sevastopol, where trains go from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg and many other cities.
How to get to Alupka:
- from Simferopol: first get to Yalta station.
- from Yalta: minibus No. 132 (from the city center) or bus No. 102 (from the bus station), as well as buses 107 and 115 from the Yalta bus station to the Alupka bus station.
- from Sevastopol: take the “Sevastopol-Yalta” bus to the “Pitomnik” stop, cross to the other side of the road and take bus No. 1A to the “Alupki Bus Station” stop or take a direct bus to Alupka.
Night in Alupka
Temple of Alexander Nevsky
The temple was opened back in 1913 in honor of Alexander III and his heavenly patron Alexander Nevsky. During Soviet times, the temple did not function. But since 1996, restoration has been carried out here and worship has been resumed.
It is believed that the temple is installed on a holy place. Hundreds of pilgrims come here every year. This temple is a must visit for everyone who considers themselves a believer. The architecture of the temple itself and its interior decoration, as well as the centuries-old icons, are amazing.
The nearest cafe where you can have a snack after visiting the temple is
the Central Cafe , on Lenin Square.
To find it, just leave the temple and move up the street. In 5-7 minutes you will be there. Average check of the establishment: 300 rubles. Menu - local national cuisine.
Address: Alupka, st. Lenina 60. You can get there by minibus number 10. The temple is located in the western part of Alupka.
Stop: "Cape Verde". The temple is located right two hundred meters from the bus stop. Crosses and domes can be seen as you approach the place.
Attractions
Vorontsov Palace is the main and most famous landmark of Alupka, an architectural monument of the mid-19th century with a magnificent English park. It is a whole complex of buildings that harmoniously combine classic English castle style, neo-Moorish and neo-Gothic architecture.
Vorontsov Palace
The Vorontsov Palace consists of five buildings, which, thanks to the towers, gates, stairs and passages, resemble a medieval castle. It is built from natural diabase stone, quarried nearby. The main facade of the palace faces the sea, where the famous Lion's Terrace and a beautiful staircase made of white marble by an Italian master are located.
Upper Park
The Vorontsov Palace was part of the Alupka Museum-Reserve and includes a large picturesque park, an example of gardening art. It consists of two parts: Upper Park and Lower Park. The lower park is planned in the Italian Renaissance style with shady alleys. It once included many sculptures, fountains, vases and columns. The upper park is designed in a traditional English style with picturesque rock formations and several ponds where swans and ducks live.
Ai-Petri
Ai-Petri (from Greek “Saint Peter”) is one of the most picturesque peaks of the Crimean peninsula. The mountain has a height of 1234 m and is visible from Alupka from almost everywhere (unless, of course, there is low cloudiness). Ai-Petri is the windiest and most foggy place in Crimea. You can climb to its top by cable car, which starts in the town of Miskhor.
Prices, opening hours and map are presented on the official website - https://kanatka.com/ay-petri/
How to get to Miskhor station:
- from Yalta by shuttle buses No. 102 (from the bus station) and No. 132 (from the clothing market)
- By car from the Southern Highway we go to Miskhor (turn next to the TES gas station). At the roundabout we turn to the second exit, then at the first intersection to the right, we drive along the main road until we see the lower cable car station on the right side.
You can get to the top of Ai-Petri by your own car. The journey from Alupka will take about 40 minutes (30 km).
On the southern slope of Ai-Petri there is the highest waterfall in Crimea - Uchan-Su (98 meters).
Church of St. Michael
The Church of St. Michael is the main church of Alupka. This is a beautiful building from the early 20th century, built in the neo-Byzantine style. The temple is crowned with five golden domes and is recognized as a historical and cultural monument.
Another famous religious building is the Alexander Nevsky Temple, built in 1913 in the traditional Russian style. During Soviet times, the church was part of a sanatorium.
Amet Khan Sultan Museum
The Amet-Khan Sultan Museum is dedicated to the famous Soviet pilot, twice Hero of the Soviet Union and a native of Alupka. Here you can learn not only about the life and exploits of the famous ace, but also explore exhibits dedicated to military aviation.
Vorontsovsky Park
This park is surrounded by the palace of Count Vorontsov. It spreads over 40 hectares. It was created back in the 19th century by the German Karl Kebach.
The uniqueness of the park is that you will find exotic plants (about 200 species) specially planted here. The park also attracts visitors with its fountains, commissioned by the count.
Tourists are also delighted with the South Terrace. On it, marble lions “bask” regally under the Crimean sun. The sculpture was made by V. Bonnani.
Getting to the park is exactly the same as getting to the Vorontsov Palace. This is a single museum complex. You can walk around the park for free. However, tourists note that the excursion will be more educational.
Its cost: 100 rubles. (for an adult) and 50 rub. (for a child). Tours start at 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00. The group consists of 20 people. You can have a snack in the same cafes that are listed in the “Vorontsov Park” section.
House-Museum of S.N. Sergeev-Tsensky
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House-Museum of S.N. Sergeev-Tsensky.
Sergei Nikolaevich Sergeev-Tsensky is known as the author of many novels, poems and poems. Even before the revolution, in 1906, the writer bought an estate in Alushta, on the southern slope of Eagle Mountain. After the death of S.N. Sergeev-Tsensky, in the house where the author created most of his works, a literary memorial museum was founded in 1962.
Estate S.N. Sergeev-Tsensky appears before visitors in the form it had during the writer’s lifetime. The house has preserved a unique library, archive and all the original furnishings. Part of the estate is a park surrounding the house-museum. Cypress, almond and fruit trees planted and grown by the writer grow here. Literary and Memorial Museum of S.N. Sergeev-Tsensky in Alushta is the only museum in the country with a complete collection of exhibits related to the life and work of the writer.
Address: St. Sergeeva-Tsensky, 5, Alushta.
Popular entertainment
In addition to visiting the sights, Alupka offers its guests no less interesting options for spending time.
So, on the city beach and on the Cape Verde beach you can ride a tablet, water ski, and try other equally interesting water activities. Fans of underwater sports are invited to go diving. Tourists can also take boat trips. No less interesting for vacationers will be the water park located near Simeiz, the main advantage of which is the use of exclusively sea water. Not only children, but also adults can have fun in the park. Those interested can also take part in bungee jumping and play beach volleyball.
In Alupka there is guaranteed to be entertainment for every guest, so fishing lovers can go by boat to “Rybkolkhoz”; on the coast you can go fishing for mussels and rapana.
See the following video about the features of holidays in Alupka.
Hotels
Despite its small size, Alupka has a sufficient number of hotels and guest houses to suit every taste and budget.
Hotel "Aquilon"
The hotel is located almost in the city center, at the address: st. Kalinina, 38. A standard room for two will cost from 1000 rubles. per day. The hotel has a bar, a summer terrace and a restaurant serving European cuisine.
Hotel Forest
The hotel is located in a private park area at the address: st. Lenina, 42D. The cost of a room for 2 people is from 1500 rubles. per night. The hotel has a sauna with steam room, a cozy restaurant and a small cafe overlooking the sea. There are adult and children's pools.
Hotel "Alupka"
The hotel is located at the address: st. Frunze, 8. The average cost for a double room is 1300 rubles. Breakfast is included in the price.
The main and indisputable advantage of the hotel is in close proximity to the Black Sea - 10 minutes on foot and Vorontsovsky Park - 2 minutes on foot. There is free Wi-Fi and parking.
Estate "At the Count's Park"
You can find the estate at the address: st. Krutoy Spusk, 1. The hotel is located a 5-minute walk from Vorontsovsky Park. There is a summer terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, a sauna with a steam room. There are both economy class rooms and superior rooms available. The restaurant serves dishes of European, Russian and Ukrainian cuisine. The cost of a standard room is from 1400 rubles. per day.
Mount Krestovaya
You can admire Alupka from the top of Mount Krestovaya, a breakaway part of the Crimean Mountains. It is located a kilometer from the city, towering above the Yalta-Sevastopol highway. The mountain received its name in 1837, when during the visit of the Russian Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, a wooden cross was erected on the top of the mountain. Later the cross was replaced with a metal one.
On Mount Krestovaya you can see the ruins of the ancient fortress Alupka-Isar, dating back to the 12th-13th centuries. Once upon a time, the fortress was a powerful defensive structure - three rows of its thick, two-meter walls stretched for 600 km. Today, what remains of the fortress are the remains of the outer wall and citadel, as well as the ruins of a small church.
The ascent to Mount Krestovaya is not a difficult route - it takes about half an hour. In addition to the beautiful panorama, tourists can expect the healing effects of the local healing air - the mountain is surrounded by forests of pine and juniper trees. From the top of a 250-meter mountain you can see not only Alupka and its surroundings, but also other picturesque places on the southern coast of Crimea - from Mount Koshka in Simeiz to the Swallow's Nest and Cape Ai-Todor.
What to bring as a souvenir
Souvenirs from Alupka will be little different from any other Crimean souvenirs.
So, as a local “zest” you can bring:
- herbal teas from Crimean herbs. A package of Crimean tea costs about 350-400 rubles;
- natural essential oils. The price depends on the original component;
- shell crafts. On average, a sea trinket costs from 100 rubles;
- wood products. Crafts made from juniper, a very valuable shrub, are very popular in Alupka and Crimea. Wood with a pleasant aroma has a positive effect on human energy. The price depends on the purpose of the product, on average – from 200 rubles;
- T-shirts, magnets, dishes and key rings with images of the city and its surroundings. Price – from 120 rubles;
- local wine. It's no secret that the Crimean regions are famous for their vineyards and, accordingly, wine of amazing taste and quality. The price for a bottle of local wine is from 500-600 rubles.
Every year Alupka becomes more and more popular among those who like to relax in small and cozy towns.
The city has everything you need for a good holiday: a gentle warm sea, beaches with soft sand, comfortable accommodation for every taste, all the necessary infrastructure and a number of historical attractions that will make up a worthy cultural component of your holiday.
Article design: Oleg Lozinsky
Similarity of weather conditions
If Alupka has a different history from its neighbors, then the weather in this section of the South Coast is the same as in Yalta, Simeiz, and Alupka. Along the entire coast, where the mountains come close to the seashore, there is a dry subtropical climate.
In winter it is damp and slushy, in summer it is warm and pleasant. The mountains protect a narrow strip of coast from the northern icy winds, so snow is rare. And in summer the heat within +30 is softened by a light breeze.
The slope of the seashore is steep. A few meters and it will hide a person completely. Because of this, the water does not warm up even in July-August above +22+24. If it’s stormy, you won’t be able to sit on the beach: the Black Sea waves completely cover the narrow strip of shore.
Ecology
The last 30 years have significantly affected the state of the peninsula in general and Alupka in particular.
The consumer attitude towards natural resources, landscape and architectural heritage has borne fruit: at the moment there is land squatting, almost complete privatization of land suitable for habitation, a ban on the general use of some sections of beaches and limited access to some cultural sites of Crimea.
Particularly noteworthy is the increased development of residential complexes and private buildings on lands related to cultural heritage or coastal areas. Green spaces are mercilessly cut down, open landscape views are built over and lose their postcard appearance.
This is especially true for the Alupka park and palace ensemble, in which panoramic views have completely disappeared as a result of development. A similar fate also affected the Nikitsky Botanical Garden, Bear Mountain and the Miskhor park area.
Sea Animal Theater
Not far from Alupka, in the village of Vinogradnoye, Bakhchisarai highway, 17-A, there is the Aquatoria Marine Animal Theater. Many families with children come here during their holidays in Greater Yalta.
Here you can watch an amazing show with the participation of dolphins, walruses, sea lions and fur seals. And then you can visit the unusual House No. 13, which was built upside down, and take unusual photos as a souvenir.
Shaan-Kaya rock – a paradise for climbers
- Coordinates: 44°26′8″N (44.435659), 34°1′10″E (34.019346).
The Shaan-Kaya rock, or “Shanghai” as the Crimeans call it, attracts mountaineering and rock climbing enthusiasts from all over the country – all thanks to its height (871 m) and the location of the slope. There are many routes of varying degrees of difficulty along this slope. Mountain climbing competitions are often held here. Just nearby there is a lake of amazing beauty, attracting lovers of natural picturesque corners.
House of the merchant Stakheev (villa “Otrada”)
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House of the merchant Stakheev (villa “Otrada”).
Nikolai Dmitrievich Stakheev was a merchant of the first guild and gold miner, a famous art collector and a generous philanthropist. He was also the nephew of the great artist I.I. Shishkin. It was by order of N.D. Stakheev's villa "Otrada" was built. The author of the project for this mansion was the famous Yalta architect N.P. Krasnov. The villa, built in 1882, was considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Alushta.
At one time on the estate of N.D. Stakheev, at his invitation, was visited by the painter I.I. Shishkin and the owner’s cousin, romantic writer D.I. Stakheev. Currently, this two-story mansion houses the Children's Creativity Center. In the ancient landscape park, which stretches around the Otrada villa, there are about a hundred species of trees and shrubs. The mansion is a cultural heritage site.
Address: House of merchant Stakheev, Perekopskaya street, Alushta.
