The 10 Best Outdoor Activities in Russia, Russia

A large beach with black sand

This popular state reserve offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the magnificent West Caucasus mountains.

This fascinating zoo features 4000 animals representing 399 species, and is active in the preservation and reproduction of endangered species.

"Gorny Vozdukh" is one of the fastest growing ski resorts in the Far East. The unique location - in the heart of the capital of the Sakhalin region, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk city - allows guests be in the center of winter sports very quickly. Ski resort offers 10 traces of various levels of difficulty, for both beginners and professionals alike. Their total length is more than 23 km. "Gorny Vozdukh" provides three ski areas: "green" slopes suitable for those who are just taking their first steps, "red" - for those who are confident in their skills and abilities, and "black" traces which can be tested by experienced ski-professionals. There are also training slopes, ski cross traces and snowboard park at the territory of "Gorny Vozdukh". Soft and snowy winters allows to extend the season that begins in December and lasts until the end of April. The thickness of snow is usually two meters. But just in case Sakhalin weather suddenly shows its capricious nature, there is a system of artificial snow covering in "Gorny Vozdukh". The slopes of "Gorny Vozdukh" are in operation not only during the daytime, but in the evening also. When twilight comes, traces change due to artificial lighting. An active rest on the slopes of ski resort, undoubtedly requires post-replenishment. For this purpose, "Gorny Vozdukh" has a chain of restaurants and cafes, that will satisfy even the most demanding gourmet. "Gorny Vozdukh" is an all-season tourist complex. In summer the resort becomes a place for recreation for islanders and visitors of the regional capital. "Gorny Vozdukh" offers travel escorts for visitors and residents of Sakhalin Region. Today, "Gorny Vozdukh" is one of the main organizers of tours along Sakhalin Region. Among the main directions such as sports, sightseeing, business tourism, "Gorny Vozdukh" focuses on environmental tourism. Today there is a network of paved hiking and biking routes available to all residents of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is developed by the ski resort. Each of them exposes familiar to islanders scenery from a new side: lush green valleys, dense forests, pure mountain springs, magnificent panoramas of the regional center. In addition, the "Gorny Vozdukh" is the center of mass entertainment: almost every weekend sports and cultural events, music festivals and art exhibitions, children's and youth festivals are held on the grounds of the complex.