The Galichya Mountain Nature Reserve is located in the Lipetsk region near the village of Donskoy. It consists of several areas with a unique nature for these places. Here, on the Central Russian Upland, uncharacteristic plants were discovered that are usually found in the Alps, the Caucasus and Altai. The reserve belongs to Voronezh State University and is a scientific center where the flora and fauna of the area are studied, and measures are developed to preserve the natural resources of the area. Students often come here to consolidate their knowledge of flora in practice. Tourists are attracted by the beauty of nature and the opportunity to visit a nursery where birds of prey are kept.
Interest in the place arose in the 1880s, when several scientists, during a one-day study, discovered unique representatives of vegetation on Galichya Mountain, which essentially should not have been found in this area. The information received attracted the attention of many scientists who began to come and study the flora on Galichya Mountain. In 1923, the nature of the place was in danger - they planned to establish limestone mining in one of the areas. However, thanks to some researchers, it was possible to avert the threat and recognize the tract as a natural monument. After another 2 years, the area received the status of a nature reserve. Over time, in addition to Galichya Mountain, other objects were included in its composition.
Areas of the reserve
The reserve unites several unique natural sites.
Galichya Mountain
The tract is located on the right bank of the Don River; picturesque rocks attract attention here. This territory contains the most valuable representatives of the reserve's flora. On the slopes of limestone rocks you can find Don cinquefoil, Altai bellflower, Alpine skullcap, Danish astragalus and many other interesting plants. In the spring and summer, when greenery covers the rocks, their amazing relief is hidden from view, but in the fall you can admire the view of the rocks. Access to this territory is officially closed; Galich Mountain can be admired from the opposite bank.
© Alexey Anokhin
Morozova Gora
Located on the other bank of the Don, various types of relict plants are found on the territory. The main tourist attractions are concentrated in this place; the administration of the reserve, a nature museum, a nursery and a souvenir shop are located here. Tourists can explore the main attractions on their own or join an excursion. An independent visit to the museum costs 50 rubles, and as part of an excursion - 100 rubles.
Near the museum there is an unusual flowerbed with rare plant species that can be seen on Galichya Mountain.
Of particular interest is the nursery, which houses rare species of birds of prey. The goal of the nursery staff is to restore the population of birds; they are raised here and then released into their natural habitat. In the nursery you can see saker falcon, peregrine falcon, imperial eagle, owl and other birds. Birds are kept in open aviaries and cages. The staff strives to revive the ancient tradition of falconry. At the end of summer and beginning of autumn, you can even see how it happens.
Not far from the reserve on the banks of the Don there is a sandy beach with a beautiful view of Galichya Mountain.
© Svetlana Sarycheva
Vorgol rocks
The Vorgol rocks are located approximately 10 km from the city of Yelets in the valley of the Vorgola River. The place is interesting for its unusual topography and variety of rare plants.
Raven stone
Located near the Vorgol Rocks. There are high cliffs, caves and crevices here.
Plyushchan
This is a forest tract on the right bank of the Don. Of interest is the so-called chrysanthemum meadow, which displays plants of Altai meadows.
Bull neck
It is located approximately 10 km from Plyushchan. This is a steppe area with relict plant species, including quite rare representatives.
© Svetlana Sarycheva
Taldykin's estate and water mill
The history of Taldykin's estate in the Lipetsk region goes back more than 150 years. I. A. Taldykin was a merchant and built the largest mill complex in Russia:
- 1867 - construction of the estate;
- 1875–1913 - the heirs erect a water mill, an administrative building, stables, and plant an orchard;
- 1941 - soldiers burn the mill so that it does not fall into the possession of German troops;
- 1990–2021 - the territory of the Lipetsk region was privatized, but was not repaired, and is now in disrepair.
The administration of the Lipetsk region is looking for sponsors for the restoration of a historical monument in the region. The estate has great tourism potential, but at the moment it is interesting to look at it only from the outside. The entrance to the territory is not closed, but it is undesirable, as it can be dangerous inside.
How to get to the Galichya Gora Nature Reserve
The most convenient way to get to the museum and nursery is by personal car, since not a single bus takes you directly to the reserve. From Lipetsk you can get there by regular buses that go in the direction of Yelets or the village of Donskoy. You need to warn the driver that you are heading to the reserve. You will have to walk from the place where you will be dropped off.
By car from Lipetsk it is about 52 km to the reserve. You need to go towards Yelets and, before reaching the bridge over the Don River, turn at the sign to “Galichya Mountain”.
From Voronezh to the place it is approximately 141 km, you need to drive along the M4 highway towards Moscow. Turn onto the road leading to Lipetsk and drive until the sign for the Galichya Mountain nature reserve.
You can also get from Lipetsk to the protected area using taxi applications: Yandex.Taxi, Gett and others.
Reserve "Galichya Mountain": video
Legends of the Vorgol Rocks
Several legends are associated with this place in the Lipetsk region. According to legend, at the end of the 14th century, Tamerlane left part of the treasure in a cave called “Smoked Stone”; it is shown in the photo of the Vorgol Rocks in the Lipetsk region: the walls of the cave are cut by a crack. It has an entrance that supposedly leads to many kilometers of labyrinths with treasures. The real facts are the finds of Lipetsk archaeologists: household items, armor and weapons of the 14th century.
Another legend is associated with the Lipetsk region “Raven Stone”, which is also located on the territory of the Galichya Gora nature reserve. According to legend, the Tatar cavalry pursued a detachment of Cossacks led by Ataman Voron. The Cossacks did not want to be captured and led the Tatars to the top. The brave chieftain Raven and his warriors rushed into the abyss at a gallop, and their pursuers fell with them. Since then, the area has been named after the rebellious chieftain.
Tips for tourists
Be sure to bring enough provisions with you, because there are no shops in the area, and warm clothes, as it is cool at night. Please note that driving in the reserve is only possible on roads; a fine is issued for driving off-road.
It is better to go to this Lipetsk reserve for a few days, since the nearest Vintage Hotel is located in Yelets.
Relaxing among the rocks is perfect for both active recreation lovers and those who prefer to spend time in peace. This is a great place in the Lipetsk region to recuperate and improve your health.
Manor Balovnevo
If you are traveling around Lipetsk Land, we recommend checking out Balovnevo. Here, on the main estate road, you can stroll under the majestic arched entrance gate and go to the mysterious two-tier water tower, the style of which is reminiscent of English Gothic. Unfortunately, only wings remain of the estate itself, which could compete in beauty with the royal palaces. But a real masterpiece of architecture has been preserved - the Church of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God. Today the church has been restored and is operational.
Sights of the Lipetsk region
Estate " Polibino "
Located in the village of Polibino, Dankovsky district, Lipetsk region. The main decoration of the estate is the palace building, built at the end of the 18th century. It has been well preserved to this day, although it has been abandoned for a long time. It is very sad that the authorities do not pay any attention to such a valuable architectural and historical monument.
The name of the estate comes from the name of its first owner - steward B.F. Polibina. Then the estate belonged to the noble Nechaev family. In addition to the palace, the estate had an English park, a large garden, a cascade of ponds, a stable, an arena and many outbuildings. buildings
The remains of some buildings can be seen if you walk through the old park.
The palace itself consists of 3 parts - a house and two pavilions adjacent to it. The pavilions are connected to the house by arcades with covered galleries. The central building is two-story, but there is a mezzanine floor on the main facade.
Before the revolution, K.A. Korovin, L.N. visited this estate. Tolstoy, I.K. Aivazovsky, I.E. Repin, V.V. Vasnetsov, Anna Akhmatova, A.N. Benoit and other famous creative people.
The remains of this estate were declared an architectural monument of federal significance back in 1974. However, since then no attempts have been made to restore the estate. Let's hope that this historical monument will not be allowed to perish.
It should be noted that next to the Nechaev estate there is another attraction - a steel mesh water tower built by the famous engineer Shukhov. Shukhov then built the same tower in Moscow, on Shabolovka, but for radio communications.
* Lev Tolstoy station
In former times, the railway station was called Astapovo. In 1910, at this station, in the house of the stationmaster, Leo Tolstoy died.
Before his death, he lived in this house for a week. This was enough for the station to gain worldwide fame. Later, the station and the station village were renamed in honor of the great writer. A museum was opened in the station building. The furnishings of the room in which Tolstoy died have been completely preserved.
* Ryazanka Estate Museum
It is located near the village of Urusovo, Lipetsk region. The estate is famous for the fact that the famous Russian naturalist, scientist and traveler P.P. was born here. Semyonov-TyanShansky. Today, the estate remains a one-story wooden building with a mezzanine on a stone foundation, two outbuildings, several outbuildings and a park with exotic trees and shrubs. In the park you can admire the mighty Siberian cedar, which was planted by the scientist himself. In addition to local beauties, you can see a museum exhibition in honor of the Semyonov family.
* Dankovsky Museum of Local Lore
The museum is located in the city of Dankov, on Karl Marx Street, 3. It is housed in the oldest building in the city, which was once the Church of Dmitry Thessalonica.
The exhibitions are located on an area of 420 sq.m. They cover everything related to the Lipetsk region - archaeology, flora and fauna, economics and architectural sights.
* House-Museum of G. V. Plekhanov
Located in Lipetsk. The museum is organized in a house purchased by the Plekhanov family in the second half of the 19th century. The current house-museum is an exact copy of the ancient Plekhanov mansion. It was reproduced in 1977. A monument to G.V. Plekhanov was erected next to the house.
* Bunin Museum in Yelets
The museum is located in a one-story building from the nineteenth century. The young high school student Bunin lived there in the eighties of the 19th century. The museum's exposition consists of the furnishings of that time and Bunin's personal belongings.
* Lipetsk Regional Art Museum
This museum is of particular value as it is located in a magnificent architectural monument - the Gubin House. Some historians believe that Alexander II stayed in this mansion in 1837. The museum's exhibitions are dedicated to Russian masters of the past and present. In total, the museum houses more than 2,000 exhibits. The museum is actively involved in educational activities.
* Leaning tower in the village of Political Department
This is similar to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. This water stone tower was built in the 1950s, in the village of Dobrinsky district. Who would have thought that it would become a landmark of the Lipetsk region. Until the eighties, the tower stood normally. Then they installed automation in it, which caused a malfunction. As a result, the water washed away the foundation and the tower tilted heavily. But it still stands.
* Borkovsky castle
This castle in Borki is simply an outstanding architectural monument! It is a palace in the English Gothic style. This majestic palace is in light colors, as sandstone and rubble stone were used during construction.
The palace was built at the beginning of the 19th century for Grand Duke Andrei Romanov, the emperor’s cousin. During Soviet times, it housed an orphanage and a school. Now the castle has been purchased by a private investor and is undergoing deep restoration.
* Volotovo-Cherepyan Bridge
A beautiful hanging pedestrian bridge over the Don, between villages in the Lebedyansky district. It was built in the seventies of the last century. Its length is 200 m. The bridge is very spectacular, and local residents need it. It needs a major overhaul.
* Museum-estate of the Dololrukovsky region
Located in Dolgorukovo on Likhachev Street. A very original museum. The museum exhibits are made of glass, paper, stones, plastic, so to speak - from scrap materials.
The museum's exposition is dedicated to Russian history. Original sculptures are installed in the museum courtyard.
* Monument to Peter 1 and A. Menshikov in Chaplygin
This monument was created by sculptor A. Sulin. It consists of sculptures of Peter 1 and Menshikov on horseback. The sculptures are installed on a high pedestal. The total height of the monument is 6.5 m.
* Gryazinsky Museum of Local Lore
Located in the village Mud, on Red Square street. Its exhibitions are located in a house that once belonged to the merchant Belkin. The museum covers the history of the Lipetsk region and the city.
Temples, cathedrals and monasteries of the Lipetsk region
Nativity Cathedral in Lipetsk
This is the main temple of Lipetsk. The temple is located on Cathedral Hill. It began to be built in 1791 and construction lasted 50 years! The temple has revered shrines - the Lipetsk Passionate Icon of the Mother of God, the icon and cassock of the holy martyr Uar.
Troyekurovsky Monastery
Located in the village of Troekurovo. It was founded in 1857. The monastery complex consists of four churches, a monastery building, a water tower, a bell tower, residential premises and outbuildings. At the moment it is a functioning convent.
Grand Ducal Church of Yelets
This is the main attraction of the city. The church was erected at the beginning of the last century in honor of the visit of Grand Duke Mikhail Romanov to the city. The appearance of the temple is simply luxurious. The walls are lined with majolica tiles, crystal crosses are installed on the domes, and the royal doors and throne are made of silver.
Vladimir Church in the village of Balovnevo
In 1628, a wooden temple was erected on this site. At the end of the 18th century, a luxurious stone temple arose on the site of a wooden church. It was built by the landowner Muromtsev. The appearance of the church contains many elements of Western European churches, which is not entirely common. After the revolution, the temple was closed.
In 2013, its restoration began, and the temple was again handed over to believers.
Eletsky Znamensky Monastery
This convent was founded in 1683. By the 19th century, the monastery complex was quite large. During Soviet times, most of the buildings were in a dilapidated state. In 2004, restoration of the monastery began.
Tikhonovsky Transfiguration Monastery
Monastery founded in the 19th century. Located near Zadonsk. It was closed during the Soviet years. The monastery complex housed a children's colony, a military unit, a mental hospital and a hospital. In the nineties, the monastery was returned to the church and restored. Nowadays it is a functioning convent. The monastery has shrines - the relics of St. Tikhon and a source of holy water named after him.
* Factory "Eletsk Lace"
This company has been operating since 1801! It produces high-quality towels, tablecloths, women's and children's clothing, bed linen and other natural products, with skillful lace applied to them. The factory's products are in great demand.
* Zhukov Museum in Yelets
Opened in 1992, the museum is dedicated to the painter Nikolai Zhukov. He lived in this house in the first half of the 20th century. The museum's exhibition consists of the painter's personal belongings - documents, photographs and manuscripts. The exhibition of paintings by the outstanding master is especially interesting.
Sports complex "Forest Park"
It is located in a forest area, a few kilometers from Zadonsk. An excellent place for an active holiday. The complex consists of a climbing wall, trolls and a rope town with a large number of routes for different ages. There is entertainment for both summer and winter - a swimming pool, skating rink, ski and tubing trails, gazebos, barbecue area, beach and sports equipment rental. On vacation you can stay in a hotel complex.
* Lower Park in Lipetsk
They say that springs with healing mineral water were discovered by Peter the Great. After this, a sanatorium with a park appeared.
This park is developing and getting better. It has many monuments, exotic trees and shrubs, a zoo, a planetarium, an amusement park cafe and much more. The park regularly hosts festive events and concerts.
Kurapovskie rocks. Beautiful Sword River
Kurapovskie Rocks are a natural monument of the Lipetsk Land. They are located in the Lebedyansky district on the left bank of the Krasivaya Mecha River. The place is impressive not only with its beauty, but also with its age - the rocks were formed millions of years ago. We can observe the Kurapovsky Rocks thanks to the Krasivaya Mecha River - 16 thousand years ago, its rapid current cut through the thickness of the earth here and exposed the rocks.
This unique place has its own legends and traditions. One of the legends explains the name of the river - the Beautiful Sword - either Yaroslav or Mamai crossed its waters and dropped his beautiful sword into the river. And the maple grove, which is located nearby, is called “The Witch” - the trunks of the trees growing in it are intricately curved, and some local residents claim that even today sparkling blue lights can be seen among the maples at night.
Picturesque landscapes, the mesmerizing flow of the river and its crystal clear water make Kurapovskie Rocks a favorite place for tourists, fishermen and those who just want to relax.
What to do here in Vorgol Rocks
In the Lipetsk nature reserve "Galichya Gora" hiking and tent tourism, river rafting, paragliding and even mountain biking are developed. There are no hotels or recreation centers on the territory of the reserve. It is worth taking tents with you or staying in the nearest town.
Rock climbing
There are 30 routes, but for experienced climbers it is possible to open new routes. Height: 6–20 m.
The difficulty of the Lipetsk trails is average; insurance is provided at all stages. Special tours are organized from Yelets and Lipetsk. Some operators also offer equipment rental services.
Trolls
Zip Line is a descent at high speed along a tight rope. It is located in the area of the Zvonari rock massif.
Entertainment is available to everyone. The cost of the service is 1,500 ₽, which includes a zipline jump from a height of 60 m and subsequent descent on a trolley. Does not require special training; instructions are provided on site.
Lower Park
The Lower Park was founded by Alexander I at the beginning of the 19th century on the territory of the mineral water resort. This is the oldest and largest park in Lipetsk and a favorite place for walks and recreation for residents and guests of the city.
In addition to neat and beautiful alleys, the park attracts with a source of healing waters (Lipetsk pump room), a water museum, the travel house of Peter I and the Temple-Chapel of the Supreme Apostles Peter and Paul. The Lower Park hosts major events, and in winter the ice skating rink is filled. For those who want to enjoy the views of the park and the city from a height of 37 meters, there is a Ferris wheel.
Meshchersky Arboretum
This is the largest forest-steppe experimental breeding station in Russia, the main specialization of which is lilac. But other rare and valuable species of shrubs and trees are also grown here. The collection includes about 2 thousand species, 74 of which are listed in the Red Book. In May, the arboretum opens its doors to a festival of hundreds of types of blooming lilacs, comparable to the cherry blossom festivals in Japan. In June you can also see blooming jasmine here. Many of the plants can be purchased here, and you can also get advice from a specialist on cultivation and care.
Tours of the arboretum are conducted by appointment; those interested can stay here overnight.
Nechaev-Maltsev Estate
When traveling around Lipetsk Land, be sure to stop by the village of Polibino. Here is the Nechaev-Maltsev estate, built at the end of the 18th century. The main building of the estate is made in the style of early classicism.
Also, next to the estate, a water tower designed by V.G. Shukhov. It was the world's first hyperboloid-shaped structure and was exhibited as an exhibit at an industrial exhibition in Nizhny Novgorod in 1896. The tower was purchased by Y.S. Nechaev-Maltsov, disassembled and delivered to the estate and installed on its territory. You can climb the tower and observe the surroundings from a height of 40 meters.
Silicate lakes
The complex of artificial lakes is a favorite vacation spot for Lipetsk residents and guests of the city of Lipetsk. There is everything for relaxation here: picturesque views, clean water, comfortable and neat beaches. This is also a great place for fishing. About 12 species of fish are caught in the waters of silicate lakes. Silicate lakes are located on the left bank of the Voronezh River. Previously, silicate sand was mined here in four quarries, but over time they were filled with spring waters and formed a system of lakes, the depth of which in some places reaches 20 meters.
Traveling around Lipetsk Land can give you a lot of emotions.
And the holiday here is absolutely varied. Someone will relax their souls, contemplating the beauty of nature and being imbued with the atmosphere of historical places. And some will get a boost of vivacity and energy by choosing active and extreme types of recreation. On the website Liptur.ru and the Instagram page “Travel to Lipetsk Land” you can find out about the best places to relax on Lipetsk Land. All images and photographic materials are provided by the site: liptur.ru News on Notepad-Voronezh
Story
At the end of the 19th century, scientists showed interest in this territory. Plants were discovered here that, according to all laws, could not grow in this area. This data began to attract botanists. They began visiting the park and exploring the flora.
In 1923, limestone mining was planned here, but these activities were stopped. The danger was removed and the site was recognized as a natural monument.
In 1925, the botanical phenomenon found its calling - the reserve was officially documented in order to preserve it for detailed study and increase in the number of inhabitants. In the middle of the 20th century, the proud title of this location was taken away, but research continues, new unique territories are added to the existing ones. And so, in 1969, Galichya Mountain, under the control of VSU, was again included in the number of nature reserves in Russia.
Since the mid-1970s, workers have been contributing data to help assess future climate change and also predict the state of living organisms in this area. This is called the chronicle of nature.
In 2011, an accident occurred here - a terrible fire destroyed a large number of trees, but this is not only an easy region, but also a home for the birds living here. These trees are not cut down to emphasize that everything in the reserve will forever remain the way Mother Nature created it.
Now 40 people work here, including scientists, laboratory assistants, and government inspectors.
