Imagine: instead of scorching sun — a cool breeze from the lake, instead of sand dunes — endless emerald forests, and instead of skyscrapers — majestic mountains reflected in crystal-clear water. Russia opens up a completely different world — a world of freshness, seclusion and pristine nature, where every corner is filled with tranquility and harmony.

Karelia: Land of a Thousand Lakes and Ancient Forests

Karelia is the northern gem of Russia, where more than 60,000 lakes intertwine with dense coniferous forests. Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega — the largest in Europe — amaze with their scale and water purity. Here you can spend hours sailing by boat among rocky islands, have picnics on the shore under the shade of pine trees, or simply enjoy the silence that is so rare in the modern world.
Ladoga Skerries — a national park with otherworldly landscapes: pines growing right out of the sand, wide beaches and a labyrinth of hundreds of islands. Kizhi Island on Lake Onega preserves unique wooden churches included in the UNESCO list. Walks along nature reserve trails, fishing on forest lakes and white nights in summer create the atmosphere of a true fairy tale.
Where to Stay in Karelia
For guests who value privacy and comfort, Karelia offers secluded cottage complexes with resort-level service:
• SPA Hotel «Karelia» — an urban spa hotel on the shore of Lake Onega with an indoor pool, hammam and panoramic water views. The perfect base for day trips on boats and walks along the Petrozavodsk waterfront.
• Cosmos Karelia — a countryside complex with separate cottages by the water, where you can organize fishing, boat trips and picnics in the pine forest in family resort format.
• Forrest Lodge Karelia — an intimate lodge complex near Sortavala with an emphasis on quiet and privacy, from where it’s convenient to take private boat trips to the islands of Ladoga.
• Shishki Karelia — a cottage complex on the lake shore in a coniferous forest with barbecue areas and the possibility to organize private picnics.
• Chernye Kamni (Black Stones) — a stylish lakeside hotel on Ladoga in Scandi-eco style with panoramic views of the lake and forest, created for secluded relaxation.

Baikal: The Sacred Lake of Siberia

Baikal is the deepest and most ancient lake on the planet, more than 25 million years old. Its water is so clear that in some places you can see the bottom at a depth of 40 meters. In summer, air temperatures reach +25–30°C, while the fresh breeze from the lake creates an ideal cool climate. The taiga around Baikal is filled with the aromas of pine and wild herbs — a contrast impossible to find in hot countries.
Here you can take a yacht cruise on the lake, explore protected bays, have a picnic on a sandy beach or go on a helicopter excursion to hard-to-reach mountain peaks. Baikalskaya Residence — a luxurious lodge hotel on the first shoreline — offers accommodation in secluded suites with lake views, where the entire territory and staff are at the guests’ disposal.

Altai: Mountains Meeting the Sky

Altai is a symphony of mountain peaks, glacial lakes and alpine meadows. Lake Teletskoye, surrounded by protected taiga, is called the «younger brother of Baikal» for its crystal purity. Lake Kucherla with turquoise water lies at the foot of snow-white mountains, and the Karakol Lakes change color from emerald to sapphire as you climb into the mountains.
The premium resort Altay Village Teletskoe 5* on the shore of Lake Teletskoye offers chalets made of solid cedar with signature cuisine, a spa complex and individual programs: from boat rides on mountain rivers to helicopter excursions to the most picturesque places. This is the perfect combination of wild nature and impeccable service.

Russia, Open for You

Russia is actively developing infrastructure for guests from Muslim countries. The country has national halal standards, and many hotels and restaurants offer certified food. The attractive ruble exchange rate makes premium vacations significantly more affordable than in European countries.
A family vacation in Russia is an opportunity to show children real nature: teach them to fish, pick berries in the forest, sail on a boat and observe the stars far from city lights. Separate cottages and villas provide complete privacy, and personalized service takes into account all guests’ wishes.

Start Your Journey with Vizit Russia

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