You are in the Heart of Arkhyz

Arkhiz – a place where every corner is infused with the magic of the Caucasus. Mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, scenic trails, and ancient monuments – here you can find everything you need for an unforgettable holiday. Lovers of active tourism, nature, and history will find their paradise here. Ready for adventure? Then head to Arkhiz and discover everything this amazing corner of Russia has to offer!

What to bring with you

In addition to the standard hiking gear, bring:

- A bright swimsuit, sweater, or raincoat – for memorable photos;

- Passport – always keep your documents with you (the border with Georgia is nearby);

- Sunscreen – for protection from the Caucasian sun;

- Sunglasses – with maximum eye protection;

- Clothes for various weather – be ready for climate changes;

- Trekking shoes – comfort for long walks on mountain trails;

- Trekking poles – they help reduce the load on your knees;

- Thermos – to enjoy tea "with a view" in the mountains;

- Microfiber towel – compact and quick-drying;

- Power bank – to charge all your gadgets on the go;

- Cash – not everywhere accepts cards;

- Quality raincoat – protection from rain and wind;

- Snacks, energy bars – to keep your energy up on the trail;

- First aid kit – always handy to have essential medical supplies.

How to get there

- Nearest airport: Mineralnye Vody;

- Nearest railway station: Nevinnomyssk;

- After that, the most convenient way to get to Arkhiz and explore is by personal car or taking guided tours with transportation in Arkhiz.

Where to stay

- Hotels – in Arkhiz, you can find both modern hotels with amenities and cozy accommodations ideal for family vacations;

- Tourist bases – if you want to be closer to nature, tourist bases and campsites offer simple yet comfortable living conditions;

- Chalets and cottages – for those who value privacy and a special atmosphere, there are cozy chalets located right among the mountains;

- Ski resorts – if your goal is active winter rest, the "Arkhiz" resort offers various accommodation options near the slopes and ski lifts.

30 exciting adventures in Arkhiz

Gum-Bashi Pass
You haven’t seen the mountains until you’ve driven on this "Troll’s Ladder"! A thrilling serpentine road with stunning views. At the top, a cafe with hichins and ayran awaits you – try if you can tear yourself away from these views!

Alan Settlement
Prepare to immerse yourself in history – many ancient temples and mysterious stones await, and if you find a stone idol, make a wish – you'll believe if you feel the energy of the place!

Russian Academy of Sciences Astrophysical Observatory
In Arkhiz, you can become an astronomer for the day! Look at the stars through the country’s largest telescopes and feel the universe opening up before you.

Local Signposts
Join an exciting quest and collect names of villages with inspiring names – Reliable, Progressive, Comfortable, Calm, Fearless.

Christ’s Image on the Rock
Hidden for centuries, the image was accidentally discovered only in 1999. Its origin is shrouded in numerous legends. To see the image up close, you’ll have to overcome more than 500 steps, and each step brings you closer to this mystical discovery.

Arkhiz Cable Car
When planning your route, keep in mind that the cable car stations are located in the Romantic settlement and at the Lunar Glade, just 10 kilometers from Arkhiz. Immerse yourself in a "starry theme" while riding the cable car – from the "Milky Way" to the "Lunar Express", surrounded by the magic of the "Northern Lights" and breathtaking views!

Hiking
Set yourself the goal of completing one of the most beautiful trails in the Caucasus: from easy walks to hikes that will leave the brightest memories!

Arkhiz Biosphere Reserve
Feel like you’ve become part of the untouched nature of the Caucasus by exploring the wild corners of the reserve.

ATV Rental
Want to feel real adrenaline? Ride through the mountain trails on an ATV and feel the excitement with every turn!

Mushroom and Berry Walks
Breathe in the mountain air while picking the tastiest berries and mushrooms. In this corner of nature, everything feels so lively and natural!

Blooming Meadows
Catch the moment among the bright mountain flowers and take home not only unforgettable memories but also photographs filled with vibrant nature colors.

Caucasian Air
Discover the forests filled with pine scents and feel the pure mountain air filling every cell of your body, infusing it with life-giving energy and strength.

Photo Shoot with Horses and Buffaloes
Dive into the world of Caucasian legends, becoming their living hero. Freeze the moment by taking a photo with majestic buffaloes and horses against the mountains, where every peak seems part of the story itself.

Sofia Waterfalls
Where water falls from great heights, and the mountains stand as silent witnesses to this spectacle. Here, you will feel part of something grand that words can’t fully convey – you have to experience it for yourself.

Sofia Lakes
Three emerald lakes that embody Caucasian magic. Walks in these places are a direct path to harmony with yourself.

Sofia Glacier
A crystal-clear glacier surrounded by wild mountains. This trail is a meeting with the greatness of nature, where you feel the force of the elements and touch eternity.

Sofia Saddle Pass
If you dared to overcome this pass, you are a true conqueror of the Caucasus! This is where the journey full of adventures and incredible discoveries begins.

Dinnik Peak
Up to the summit, where the air is so fresh, and the panorama is so endless, that you forget about everything else in the world.

Russian Bathhouse
What could be better than finishing the day by passing through a traditional Russian banya, warming up in its steam after an active day in the mountains?

SPA Procedures
Not only thrilling adventures but also true recovery! The SPA with a hammam and pool is the perfect way to relax and restore energy after a full day.

Taulu Glade
The heart of all the Arkhiz routes. Exciting journeys begin here, and the delicious local hichins become a real culinary discovery amidst the breathtaking landscapes of this mountain valley.

Seven-Color Lake
Mountains shimmering in bright hues, water like a precious gem, and the air filled with freshness. Take a shot, and this moment will become a magical memory for a lifetime.

Dukkinsky Lakes
Ten lakes hidden among the forests and meadows. Follow trails leading into a world where nature has not yet been disturbed by humans.

Baduk Lakes
Frozen lakes where nature holds its breath. Everything here seems magical – even the icy water attracts with its mysteriousness.

Lake of Love
A mountain lake in the shape of a heart that will occupy a special place in your journey. Know that only horseback rides will lead you to this secret place.

Rafting on the Big Zelenchuk River
Feel the power of the swift waters rushing through majestic mountains. Immerse yourself in an exciting adventure and test your strength in a real rafting experience!

Barite Waterfall
The smooth waters washing over alpine meadows and the powerful stream that absorbs all the elements. For true beauty connoisseurs!

Cossack Waterfall
The roaring water in the very heart of nature. A place for those who crave to see even more water wonders of the Caucasus.

Thermal Pools in the "Valley of Geysers"
Forget about the hustle and bustle, dive into the thermal waters where each drop brings relaxation and comfort.

Thermal Complex "Pearl of the Caucasus"
Eight thermal pools where even on the coldest days, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.

What to try in food

- Hichin – round flatbreads made of unleavened dough with various fillings;

- Dishes made from Karachay lamb, such as shulum – a mountain lamb soup;

- "Pear" lemonade from the Karachay brewery;

- Jam made from pine cones;

- Bukov nuts or Arkhiz’s chinariki.

What to bring

- Jam made from local berries;

- Mountain honey and tea;

- Warm products made of natural wool;

- National clothing: papakha or burka;

- Jewelry made of mountain crystal.