In search of interesting new places, tourists go to distant countries. Sometimes they don’t even realize that “near home” there are amazingly beautiful places with ancient history and unique monuments. The sights of Arkhyz are amazing.
If you spend your vacation traveling around Arkhyz, you will remember this adventure for a long time. Moreover, the weather conditions seem to be designed for a comfortable holiday - 300 sunny days a year, mild snowy winters and summers without sweltering heat.
Advice! In addition to the camera, it would be nice to take a video camera with you.
Arkhyza is part of the history of civilizations that paved the Great Silk Road back in the second century BC.
Having reached Mineralnye Vody, Kislovodsk or Pyatigorsk, you need to transfer to a regular bus, taxi or car and go to a mysterious world hidden among the mountain ranges of the Western Caucasus. These places have everything except the sea - snowy peaks, alpine meadows, ancient forests, waterfalls, lakes, rivers...
10 amazing places
These are must-see attractions. But besides them, there is still a lot of entertainment available in Arkhyz.
Astrophysical Observatory
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In the late sixties of the last century, the scientific complex of the Russian Academy of Sciences was built on the territory of Nizhny Arkhyz, at the foot of Mount Pastukhov. Its main building is observatory 115. This is the largest astronomical center for ground-based space observation in Russia. The observatory was designed specifically for the Large Telescope with a mirror diameter of 6 meters.
The center is divided into two observation platforms
the lower one with the administrative building, residential buildings, and laboratory is located in the village; higher (2100 m) along the slope at a distance of 17 kilometers there are three telescopes. The main one is the six-meter optical reflector BTA, which is now the largest in Europe. When it was installed, it occupied first place in the world and was the “ancestor” of modern large telescopes of this level. The guides tell the story of the construction of this facility, which has become a legend.
All observatory news is published on the official website.
Ski paradise
In winter, there are eight trails at Arkhyz. In the future, six more will be added to them on the Northern Slope. Currently, the total length of the routes is 24 kilometers. The longest reaches 4370 meters. The ski range includes “green”, “blue”, “red” and “black” slopes. This means that the conditions are suitable for skiers of any level - from beginners to professionals. The slopes are divided into four skiing areas.
Ski paradise
On the Northern Slope there is the Northern Lights lift with ten-seater gondolas. It is divided into three sections, serves six routes and is capable of lifting up to 2,500 people per hour. The lower station is located on the main square of the Romantic village. On this section there is the longest Arkhyza route, which belongs to the “blue” category. Its length is just under 4.3 kilometers, and the elevation difference is more than 800 meters. There is also a “black” track 2318 meters long with a drop of 544 meters.
The second zone is called the Milky Way. Eight-seater gondolas are used for lifting. In one hour, the cable car can lift up to 2,400 people up the mountains. The length of the line is 2354 meters. The delivery time for skiers to the final station ranges from 6 to 15 minutes. There are two routes on this section: the “blue” one, 3 kilometers long with a vertical drop of about 600 meters, and the “red” one, 1.7 kilometers long with a vertical drop of 485 meters.
Resort "Arkhyz"
The Sputnik lift is a chairlift. It can lift up to 1,800 skiers per hour. The length of the cable car is 859 meters. It takes passengers to the upper station in 6 minutes. There are two “green” slopes in the ski area. Their length, respectively, is 880 and 920 meters with a height difference of 118 meters. There is also a “blue” track about 600 meters long with a drop of 60 meters.
The list of ski areas is completed by “Moon Express”. There is a six-seater chairlift with a capacity of 2,400 people per hour. The chairs are protected from wind and rain. Its length along the slope is 2122 meters. The ascent takes seven minutes. Skiers have three slopes at their disposal - two “blue” and one “black”. The length of the “blue” trails is 2287 and 2905 meters with a height difference of 536 meters. The length of the “black” route is 1460 meters with a drop of 380 meters.
In the village of Romantik, located at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level, there is an open-air skating rink in the winter. Its length is 40 meters, width – 20 meters. The riding session lasts one and a half hours. The skating rink is open during the day, and on Fridays, Saturdays and holidays also in the evenings.
The resort has a children's club "Arkhyzenok"
The resort has a children's ski club "Arkhyzenok". For children aged three years and older, skiing lessons are organized in groups of five to eight people. The training course lasts two to three days. The School of Ski Instructors is intended for training adults. Skiers and snowboarders of the same level of training practice in groups. There is no way for a beginner to get into a group for professionals or vice versa.
Equipment rental points operate in the tourist villages of Romantika and Lunnaya Polyana. Their arsenal includes more than 2 thousand sets of ski equipment. Convenient electronic queuing system. The advantage of local rental is the ability to take equipment at one point and return it at another. This is important when you use different ski areas.
Sofia lakes and waterfalls
It is best to go to them in the summer, although you need to take warm clothes and a sleeping bag with you if the excursion is designed for several days - the nights are cold
You can get to the waterfalls on reinforced SUVs, horses or... on foot. The path to them goes along the river and along the bed of Sofia. Ninety-meter streams of glacial water flow from the highest mountain, Sofia. In winter it looks like giant icicles.
At the confluence of the Gormash-Chat stream and the river, the road to the three Sofia lakes begins. The deepest of them reaches 17 meters.
The lake water is so pure that you can drink it. Only “walruses” can swim - the temperature is no higher than five degrees.
The routes pass through the territory of the reserve through the forest, giving way to alpine meadows to Lake Nizhnyaya Pyataya. It goes up the rocky steps to the Upper Comma. It will only be half an hour to get to the Sofia Lakes. It is not uncommon to see wild animals here. And in August the time of wild berries begins - strawberries, blueberries, raspberries.
Sophia Gorge
The Sofia Gorge itself begins twelve kilometers from the village. Two tourist routes have been developed. The easier one is through the valley to the Glacier Farm, almost to the Sofia Col. It is suitable for unprepared tourists and teenagers.
The beginning is considered to be the crossing over Psysh, on the other side of which there is a Memorial to the Defenders of the Caucasus during the Great Patriotic War.
At the end of the path, a “test stone” awaits everyone - a boulder with a smooth surface that must be climbed. On the slope of Cheget-Chat, the observation deck offers a beautiful view of the valley and waterfalls.
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.
Nizhne-Arkhyz settlement (Alanian)
Picturesque mountain slopes are a magnificent setting for the Nizhne-Arkhyz historical and architectural complex. It consists of ancient Christian temples and even earlier Alanian religious buildings located on the banks of the river. It occupies almost sixty hectares.
It was in this place that in the tenth century the city of Meuse, the capital of the Alan state, was located.
Little remains of the city. But you can still see the ancient Alan calendar - a Circle, 88.5 m in diameter with pronounced sectors, into which the central street of the city abutted. It is also called the “Solar Circle” and part of the oldest observatory.
Excavations of a pagan sanctuary are underway on Church Hill. Throughout the valley you can see idols, dolmens, and menhirs. Antiquities found during excavations are kept in the Nizhny Arkhyz Museum.
The Alans were among the first to accept Christianity. Therefore, the surviving temples are considered the oldest in the country:
The Northern Cross Church was built in the tenth century and has survived to this day. Unfortunately, the beautiful frescoes that decorated the interior walls of the temple can only be seen in sketches by nineteenth-century artists. The baptismal room, located inside the building, speaks of the introduction of the modern rite of baptism in ancient Alanya.
The average temple is distinguished not only by the material of the walls and geometry, but also by a well-thought-out acoustic system. The vaults have “voices” - small through holes.
The southern temple of St. Elijah was built in the same style as the other two, but much smaller in size. This is the oldest operating Christian church in Russia.
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.
Face of Christ
In the last year of the twentieth century, under a stone canopy on a rock not far from Arkhyz, another Christian value was “discovered” again. This is the miraculous Face of Christ facing the Northern Temple.
This attraction was first opened before the First World War.
Scientists believe that the age of the image coincides with the creation of the Alan diocese. Although disputes about the origin of the icon do not stop.
The ascent to the Face begins from the Temple of the Miraculous Image, which began work in 2008, along a staircase of 526 steps. There are benches on the sites for relaxation.
But the icon of the Mother of God can only be seen from a helicopter or paraglider through binoculars. It is located in a completely inaccessible place.
And again to natural attractions.
What to see in Arkhyz: other interesting places
If you are interested in these or other interesting places in Karachay-Cherkessia, and you want to see the beauty of this region with your own eyes, as well as enjoy a vacation in Arkhyz in the summer by visiting its attractions, then use the services of a guide in Arkhyz. He will organize a program for you according to your budget and wishes. Upon arrival on vacation, you will not have to rush to look for a company or individual that provides high-level excursion services. This will save your time, which can be spent on precious vacation.
Descent to Arkhyz from Abishir-Akhub. Arkhyzsky reserve
You can plan a trip not only in the summer. Arkhyz is beautiful at any time of the year. Mountains and rivers acquire a special charm in winter, and harsh winter does not come to this area - the temperature always remains comfortable. The sights of Upper Arkhyz and Nizhny are in good condition, since the state annually allocates funds for the maintenance and restoration of the country's cultural heritage.
Birch Grove. Arkhyzsky reserve, Zelenchuksky district
In addition to hiking and natural water treatments, the village is famous for its ski resort. Its infrastructure is under development, but experts predict a great future for the resort. Prices for winter holidays in Karachay-Cherkessia are strikingly different from prices at famous European resorts for the better. At the same time, the quality of the tracks and climatic conditions are in no way inferior to expensive analogues. If you look at the photos of the sights of Arkhyz in summer, you will undoubtedly want to find yourself here, but Arkhyz in winter also attracts with its beauty and peace. Therefore, do not rush to conclusions, but listen to yourself: what type of vacation are you more predisposed to? Although you don’t have to choose, it’s better to come to this wonderful land every year in different seasons.
Observation deck of the cable car at the Arkhyz resort
Lake of Love
The most romantic heart-shaped lake splashes at an altitude of two and a half thousand meters not far from Arkhyz. This is a decoration of the Teberda Nature Reserve, to which official access is closed.
Only with special permission from the forester can you admire this miracle up close. Nine hours of “romantic journey” through the most beautiful natural places will not leave even skeptics indifferent.
Those who managed to get to the Lake of Love are obliged to give him a coin. Or drink lake water... or even swim in it. The reward is eternal love and a happy marriage.
Contact details
Arkhyz, whose sights deserve special attention, is located at the geographical coordinates: 43°33′54″ N. and 41°16′42″ E. The height of the village center above sea level: 1470 m.
The exact postal address of the location of the ski resort: 369152, Russian Federation, Karachay-Cherkess Republic, Arkhyz rural settlement, Arkhyz village, tourist village “Romantic”, house No. 1.
Local phone numbers for the ski resort:
- +7(928)851-21-01;
- +7(909)493-20-79;
- +7(928)851-17-00.
The official website of the ski resort is arhyz-resort ru. You can contact and find out the information you are interested in regarding your holiday by calling toll-free numbers throughout Russia: 8 (800) 100-555-9 or 8 (800) 550-16-50, daily from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.
Resort dispatch phone number.
The ski resort has 24-hour medical assistance, which can be contacted by phone or by email ooo [email protected] ru or [email protected] ru.
Lake Seven Colors
For visiting the most unique lake in the world without documents, you face a fine and proceedings with border guards.
When the formalities are settled, the most fabulous journey to the rainbow Seven-Color Lake begins.
Not only the multi-colored surface of the water in the upper reaches of the Dukka River attracts travelers, but also the road to the lake itself, painted by nature in the incredible colors of rare plants.
Until the end of summer, small icebergs float on the lake. It looks fantastic against the backdrop of the surrounding landscapes.
To see the lake in all its glory, one day is not enough. It changes depending on the weather. On a cloudy day it is dark, deep and dangerous. When it’s sunny it’s gentle, transparent, shimmering with all colors from silver, soft green to purple.
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.
Crater Lake
A few kilometers from the Sofia Lakes, in a basin similar to a volcanic crater, lies the cold blue Crater Lake. Even in June it is covered with ice. You can get to it through the Karadzhash pass.
The lake is surrounded by steep rocky shores, but there is a descent where it drains. Those who dare to plunge into the water say that fatigue “takes off like a miracle.” 99% of tourists prefer to simply enjoy the beauty and air of this area.
Barite Falls
One of the easy routes in Arkhyz leads to the Barite Falls. The walk to it is only three kilometers north from the village, but the climb is 700 m. The path to the waterfall leads through the forest along the stream.
The waterfall received its name due to the extraction of barite in the ravine of the same name. A stream of water falls like a silver ribbon from a single sheer rock. The air is filled with freshness and coolness.
From the height there is a beautiful view of the village, the valley of the Kizgych River with the stone Tyubeteyka in the upper reaches.
People come here for solitude and philosophical contemplation of nature.
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.
