Adygea is one of the most beautiful regions, which is rightfully proud of its history, culture and natural monuments. It is located within the territory of the Krasnodar Territory and borders this region on all sides. The most beautiful miraculous places of Adygea, captured in the photo, have long become business card republics. Fossilized remains are often found on its territory. sea creatures, and this is not surprising, because once upon a time, millions of years ago, the entire territory of Adygea was seabed.
Here forest-steppes give way to oak forests and beech-fir forests. The landscapes are amazing and the diversity water resources simply immeasurable. The water in mountain rivers, lakes and waterfalls is so clean and transparent that you can see everything that happens in underwater world. One of the most famous places in Adygea created by nature is the Lago-Naki plateau, through which all tourist routes pass.
Lagonaki Plateau (Lago-Naki)
Plateau with an area of about 800 square meters located in two regions at once: Adygea and Krasnoyarsk Territory. Once upon a time, a trade route passed through it, connecting North Caucasus and the Black Sea coast.
Today, tourists can admire the pristine nature of this place: rich vegetation, unique topography, breathtaking views and stunning glaciers. Landscapes from lush greenery to cold ice can change quite quickly in a short period of time.
There are many caves in this area, the deepest of which is the “Soaring Bird”, which goes 517 meters deep. There are also parking lots found here. ancient man and traces of massacres between the Tatars and mountain tribes.
Mount Fisht
The ancient Adyghe people named the highest mountain on the Lago-Naki plateau in honor of the gray-haired warrior Fisht, who, according to legend, saved his people from enemies. Its height is 2868 meters and climbing to the top shrouded in clouds is a rather difficult and dangerous undertaking. Those who reach the goal discover the wonders hidden within the mountain, nicknamed the island of treasures.
The territory of Adygea was once the seabed and confirmation of this is the coral island that has preserved the fossilized flora and fauna of the ancient Tethys Ocean.
One of the highest waterfalls in Russia - Pshekhsky - is also located here, its height is 250 meters.
Devil's Gate Pass, Mount Acheshbok
The composition created by nature, consisting of two mountains, captivates with its appearance and intriguing name. The fact is that the mountain peaks curved towards each other look like the devil’s horns, as they are depicted in fairy tales, and griffon vultures nest in the rocks of Acheshbok - representatives of the family of birds of prey, listed in the Red Book.
Local residents can tell many legends associated with this place. According to their custom, they call the Western and Eastern Acheshbok mountains the Right and Left Gates. In ancient times, the route to high mountain pastures passed through the Devil's Gate pass. Thanks to frequent grazing of livestock, a small passage was created under the pass, which local residents immediately named the Devil's Gate.
White River (Shaguashe)
The Belaya River originates from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Fisht. Having made its way through the rocks, the water stream made its way through mountains, valleys and forests.
Along the entire length of the river, which is more than 260 kilometers, the nature of the flow changes all the time. In the valleys it is calm, in the mountains it is swift, and in the forests it is moderately fast.
The Adyghe name of the white river is Shkhaguashe. That was the name of the princess whom her father wanted to force into marriage, but she was able to escape. There are many legends about why the river is called Belaya. According to one version, it got its name in honor of Bela, a young Georgian captive whom the Abadzekh prince wanted to marry. The servants threw her into the water because she had stabbed their master.
Rufabgo Falls
Picturesque waterfalls are located in the gorge of the Rufabgo River, which flows into the Belaya River. They are strikingly different from each other, but together they form a unique composition and each has its own name.
“Cascade” is called so because the water falls over 3 cascades.
“Heart of Rufabgo” got its name because of the stone in the shape of a human heart, from under which a stream of cold water rushes.
The highest waterfall is called “Lace” or “Maiden’s Braid”, its length is 20 meters. The flow at the Maiden's Braids waterfall is divided into three streams, which look like 3 strands of hair intertwined into a braid.
In the "Cup of Love" flows pure water as if flowing into a stone container from a height of five meters.
Lake Psenodakh
A characteristic feature of Adyghe lakes is their ability to appear and disappear according to the unknown laws of nature. One of them is Lake Psenodakh in the shape of a crescent 165 meters long. It is located on the site of an old glacial bowl at an altitude of 1938 meters and is fed by streams and springs flowing through underground channels.
The unusual name is translated from Circassian as “beautiful well”, and from Adyghe – “beautiful lake”. Its maximum depth reaches only 80 centimeters, and the water is so clean that the smooth surface of the lake looks like a polished lens. Sometimes you can see turbulence on the water surface of the lake when the water begins to go into underground channels.
Khadzhokh Gorge (Tuapch Canyon)
This attraction is unique for its unique topography, unpredictability of water and dangerous steep cliffs. Tesnina is located in the southwest of the village of Kamennomostsky, which is also called Khadzhokh.
The gorge is a rocky gap through which the Belaya River flows. Its length is 400 meters, and its depth in some places reaches 40 meters. Due to the very strong noise that occurs as a result of constant collisions of water flows with stones and ledges, the gorge is called Noise.
Tuapch Canyon is also one of the symbols of the gorge on maps. While walking through this amazing and picturesque area, tourists are treated to beautiful views of the fast-moving river, beating against rapids and centuries-old boulders.
Granite Canyon (Blockhouse Gorge)
The canyon appeared literally by the will of nature. Many years ago, powerful streams of the Belaya River began to cut stone blocks and turned the entire massif into an amazing and colorful natural monument.
Lush green vegetation hanging over the abyss against a background of bright red stones - this place seems to have been painted by an artist. The rocky hills are covered with a green carpet, “woven” from various types of trees: chestnuts, barberries, pines and beeches.
On the right bank of the canyon there is the Zolotoy spring, from which the stream of the same name flows, and it is named so for a reason. Once upon a time, local residents panned for gold here, and the places where the stream flows were the most profitable for mining.
Khadzhokhsky quarry
This quarry was once a thriving mining operation for limestone, selenite, yellow-white gypsum and small calcite crystals. Now here you can see the remains of a once thriving industry overgrown with grass.
Not far from the quarry there are dilapidated buildings with pipes. These are old lime kilns. Nearby there is a new mobile plant for processing rocks mined in the vicinity of the village of Kamennomostsky.
At the very bottom of the quarry there is Lake Krasnoye, fed by springs. The reservoir got its name because of the reddish hue of the stones. The water in it is always cold, but at the same time very clean, despite its cloudy color.
Great Azish Cave
This attraction is located in the southern part of the Azish-Tau mountain range in the Krasnodar Territory, but it is always associated with Adygea due to its close location next to the official border of the regions.
The cave officially became a natural monument only in 1973. Its length is 690 meters, and its depth is 37 meters. Traveling through the corridors of the cave, you can endlessly admire the stalactites, stalagmites, sintered forms and columns.
Some of them have their own names, for example, the “Sword of Damocles” - a stalagmite in the shape of a real sword hangs menacingly from the ceiling, and the “Wish Palm”, which grew in this cave, is no different from a real southern tree.
Cave Through
According to legend, the evil giant Rufabgo lived in this cave and, looking at its gigantic size, I want to believe it. You can find it near the Shum waterfall in the valley of the river named after the giant.
The cave got its name “Through” because of its elongated shape and the presence of two exits on the north and south sides. Having a length of 25 meters, it is sufficiently well ventilated, preventing the formation of leaks.
Thanks to the karst hole at the top of the cave, it is quite light inside during the day and you can walk through it even without being an experienced speleologist. The hole in the hole is shaped like an eye, and the back wall of the rock is hidden under Colchis ivy.
Dolmen Hadzhokhsky
The Khadzhokh dolmen is one of the most mysterious archaeological sites in Adygea. Scientists still do not stop arguing about the purpose of these buildings. Some claim that they were used for rituals and burials, others believe that these are the first residential buildings of ancient people who inhabited the area thousands of years ago.
You can find the Khadzhokhsky dolmen in the north of the village of Kamennomostsky. Its height reaches 1.7 meters and width – 2.8 meters. This structure was approximately built in the 3rd century BC.
Next to the dolmen there is another unusual phenomenon of local nature - a tree with 14 trunks from one root.
Cossack stone
A huge block of stone, 35 meters high and 27 meters wide, is located between the village of Kamennomostsky and the Dakhovskaya station. Sometime, due to natural circumstances, perhaps an earthquake or strong winds, it broke off from the wall of the Una-Koz ridge, fell in this place and still blocks the path for tourists.
Like all the sights of Adygea, the stone is shrouded in myths and legends. According to one legend, it got its name because of the unusual greeting of the Cossack chieftain, sitting on horseback at the very top of the boulder. The leader of the camp thus welcomed the Kuban inspection. This stone is also called Circassian, Shaitanov or Maiden.
Caucasian State Natural Biosphere Reserve
Officially, the territories on the southern and northern slopes of the Western Caucasus became a reserve on May 12, 1924. Today it is the second largest in Europe, located simultaneously on the territory of Adygea, Krasnodar Territory and Karachay-Cherkessia. Its total area is about 280 hectares.
This unique area with rich flora and fauna is included in the list of sites World Heritage UNESCO.
There are more than 3,000 plant species in the reserve. Every fifth representative of the local flora is a relict or endemic, growing only in this area.
The fauna of the reserve is also very diverse. Many animals have lived here since the territory of Adygea ceased to be the seabed.
Dendrological Park named after P.V. Bukreev
The history of this park begins in 1970 with the Berezovaya recreation center. 16 years later, the area where tourists and local residents rested, admiring the charming landscapes of grown seedlings, officially received the status of “Nature Monument”. Today there are about 350 species of trees in the park. Its area is about 20 hectares.
This park has a beautiful pond with islands. On its shores you can find ammonites - the fossilized remains of huge sea mollusks.
There are also unusual stones of bizarre shapes in the park. No one can explain where these miraculous stone sculptures came from, but local legends speak of their alien origin.
St. Michael's Monastery of Athos
The monastery is located on the outskirts of the village of Pobeda and occupies a mountain plateau on the northern spurs of the Great Caucasus Range. In clear and sunny weather, magnificent views of the Caucasus Mountains open from the territory of the monastery. Today this place is a major tourist center, whose doors are open to tourists and pilgrims.
On the territory of the monastery there are churches: Holy Trinity, Assumption, Archangel Michael and others.
One of the buildings deserves special attention- This mass grave disabled people killed by the Nazis.
Adygea is a tiny republic of the Northwestern Caucasus in the Laba, Kuban and Belaya river basins. Despite its small size, it has a large and ancient history. The first written mentions of the Circassians date back to the 5th century BC, and their ancient religious buildings - dolmens - are scattered throughout the region.
Sights of the Republic of Adygea with photos and descriptions
In Adygea, the tourist infrastructure is not very developed and there are very few traditional attractions. This is due to the fact that there are only two cities in this region: Adygeisk and the capital of the republic, Maykop. But, nevertheless, the rich nature of this region and its low cost attract thousands of travelers here every year.
Natural attractions
The nature of the Republic of Adygea is unusually rich and diverse, and its mountains are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. More than 30% of the territory of this region are historical, cultural, tourist and natural recreational resources and are protected by the state.
Lago-Naki plateau
Lago-Naki plateauThis unique natural monument is one of the most popular places among tourists visiting the Republic of Adygea. The 2000 m high plateau is located between Mount Abadzesh and the Stone Sea ridge. The height of the surrounding hills reaches 3500 meters.
The Lago-Naki plateau is unusually rich in attractions. Here tourists will encounter the hanging valley Zhelob, many caves and ski slopes, as well as the beautiful flora of alpine meadows.
Caucasian Reserve
State Natural Biosphere Reserve named after. Kh. G. Shaposhnikova is one of the oldest protected areas in the Western Caucasus. It was founded back in 1924 and occupies the territory of three regions of the Russian Federation, the Republic of Adygea, the Krasnodar Territory and the Karachay-Cherkess Republic.
The proximity to the warm Black Sea has created several different climatic zones in this biosphere reserve, in which about 3,000 plant species grow. More than 30 flora specimens are included in the Red Book. In addition, up to 400 representatives of the animal world live here, many of which are also on the verge of extinction.
Dakhovskaya Cave
Of significant interest to guests of Adygea is the main attraction of the village of Dakhovskaya - a cave in the Una-Koz mountain range. It was studied by the famous archaeologist A. A. Formozov, who discovered traces of human settlement in it during the Paleolithic era.
The entrance to the cave is quite small, only 70 cm in size. But inside it is divided into several huge halls, the cultural layer of which suggests that people lived here before the beginning of the Middle Ages.
Kamennomostsky village
The center of mountain tourism in the Republic of Adygea is definitely the village of Kamennomostsky. The name of this settlement comes from the stone crossings across the Belaya River that once existed here. Among local residents, the old name of the village Khadzhokh is more common, which is reflected in the toponyms of most local objects.
Khadzhok Gorge
Khadzhok Gorge Khadzhokh Canyon is a forested gorge through which the Belaya River flows rapidly. In 1979, this attraction was included in the list of natural monuments of regional significance.
The best way to admire the Khadzhok Gorge and its roaring waters is from a height on a suspended pedestrian bridge. This place is also extremely popular among rafters, and in the village of Kamennomostsky you can find everything necessary equipment and instructors for canyon rafting.
Rufabgo Falls
One of the best attractions of Adygea is located in the gorge of the Rufagbo stream. In total, there are more than ten waterfalls along its course, five of which: Cascade, Three Brothers, Heart of Rufabgo, Lace and Noise, are available to all tourists, and to explore the remaining objects you will need special equipment and mountaineering skills.
This place is especially beautiful during heavy rains, when a calm stream turns into a huge roaring stream. Actually, Rufabgo translated from the Adyghe language means “fierce.”
Other attractions of the village of Kamennomostsky in the Republic of Adygea:
- Aminovka River gorge;
- Mishoko River gorge;
- doo-doo-Gushi ridge;
- Khadzhokh dolmen;
- Mount Big Thach.
Architecture
Most of the historical and architectural attractions of the republic are located in two major cities Maikop and Adygeisk. In addition to traditional buildings, ancient dolmens scattered throughout this region are of particular interest to tourists in Adygea.
Cathedral Mosque of Maykop
Cathedral Mosque of Maykop Definitely one of the best architectural sights of Adygea is the main mosque in its capital. A huge building with an azure dome and four minarets was erected in 2000 at the expense of the Arab Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr al-Qasimi. The prince’s main condition for financing was a strict deadline for completing the work - one and a half years.
Did you know? This mosque is very popular among guests of the republic, since entry is free for tourists of other religions.
Mikhail-Athos Trans-Kuban Hermitage
An Orthodox communal monastery on the outskirts of the village of Pobeda, near the city of Maykop. It was built by Hieromonk Martyriy in 1877 with voluntary donations from the Cossacks. IN Soviet years the monastery was closed and its churches were destroyed. Since 2001, the deserts have been transferred to the Russian Orthodox Church, and today the Trinity Church has been completely restored.
Monument "Unity and Harmony"
Memorial complex with an area of more than 100 square meters. m, was opened in 2013. The monument is made in the shape of a classic Adyghe hearth, and it depicts various scenes from the history and legends of this region.
Khadzhokh dolmen
One of the most mysterious architectural monuments in the republic. Scientists still put forward various hypotheses about the origin of dolmens on the territory of Adygea and their purpose.
The Khadzhokh dolmen was founded around the 3rd millennium BC, most likely for religious rites. Today it is a cultural monument Federal significance, and next to it is a museum of paleontology.
Museums
It's quite open in Adygea large number various museums that will introduce tourists to the ancient history of this republic.
Giaginsky Museum of Local Lore
This municipal institution in the village of Giaginskaya was founded in 1989, and Polina Petrovna Tynchenko was appointed its director. The first exhibition of the museum was the “Room of Labor and Military Glory”, created with the active participation of WWII veterans.
Today the Giaginsky Museum owns a collection of more than 11,000 items, which are presented in five exhibition halls. In addition to exhibits, there is also a cinema hall and a local archive.
National Museum of the Republic of Adygea
National Museum of the Republic of Adygea The main historical and ethnographic museum of the republic is located in its capital - the city of Maykop. Its funds contain more than 270,000 items that introduce tourists to the culture and customs of the peoples who inhabited Adygea.
The most interesting for visitors is the ethnographic collection “Culture and life of the Circassians of the late 18th – early 19th centuries.” It presents a variety of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, weapons, clothing and household items, as well as banners of the Adyghe tribes - Natukhais, Shapsugs, Ubykhs.
Museum of Stones
One of the main attractions of the dendrological park in the village of Goncharka. The museum was founded by the chairman of the collective farm in the 1980s, and its basis was the stones left over from the construction of the road.
Did you know? The village of Goncharka is located just thirty kilometers from Maykop and is very convenient for visiting by tourists staying in the capital.
What to see in Adygea with children
The Republic of Adygea, in addition to traditional attractions, offers a lot of opportunities for family pastime for every taste. The best solution for tourists visiting this mountainous region with children is an active holiday in one of the natural parks:
- Khadzhokhskaya Gorge on the outskirts of the village of Kamennomostsky;
- Khadzhokh dolmen;
- waterfalls of the Rufabgo River;
- Lago-Naki plateau;
- extreme park "Mishoko";
- rope park "Tethys";
- climbing wall "Sorcerer";
- Big Thach Mountain Park.
Rope park "Tethys" Fans of quieter entertainment will love it City Park of Culture and Recreation in Maykop or trampoline arena "Freestyle" in New Adygea.
Video review of the sights of the Republic of Adygea
The Republic of Adygea will certainly appeal to fans. And after watching the promotional video we specially selected for you, you will be convinced that Adygea is quite an interesting place.
Perhaps our readers would like to add their favorite places to the list of attractions of the Republic of Adygea? Be sure to share them in the comments!
Hello, dear readers! Keblag! Welcome! With these words, tourists are greeted by the region of waterfalls and picturesque gorges, mountain slopes and hot springs - the Republic of Adygea. The mild climate with warm winters and hot summers attracts tourists from Russia and other countries to the republic all year round.
Adygea is surrounded by the Krasnodar Territory, and in a relatively small area (the length from north to south is just over 200 km) it contains many attractions, natural and very ancient: the Khadzhokh Gorge, the Lago-Naki Plateau, the Mishoko Gorge and many others.
What to see in Adygea in winter? We'll tell you today in our article.
In the winter season, Adygea represents a worthy alternative to other tourist destinations, and holidays here become more popular every year. Therefore, if you want to spend the winter holidays or vacation in the republic, you need to book accommodation in advance.
Most often, tourists stop in the village of Kamennomostsky. This is due to the fact that the main attractions are located near the village.
How to get there?
Experienced tourists advise visiting the Republic of Adygea by personal transport. This option is the most economical and allows you to fully enjoy the beauty of the Adyghe landscapes and visit more interesting places.
This is also due to the fact that the transport infrastructure in the republic is not very developed, and in order to see everything you want, you may need an impressive budget for taxi trips.
If the option of traveling by car is not suitable for you, then you need to go through. Unfortunately, there is no airport in the capital of Adygea, Maykop. Therefore, tourists usually travel by plane or train to Krasnodar, then transfer to a regular bus to Maykop.
And from Maykop they travel by train, minibus or taxi to the village of Kamennomostsky. You can also get to the village from Krasnodar by taxi. It's not cheap, but it's faster.
For online booking air and train tickets, as well as hotels and tours, you can use the site "Ozon.Travel".
Here you will receive information about payment for the order and delivery of tickets, tariffs, and availability.
Where to stay?
In Kamennomostsky, everything is organized for the convenience and comfort of tourists. Depending on personal preference, there are options to choose from: different levels hotel service, tourist centers.
There is an option for renting housing in the private sector - from renting guest houses to rooms with local residents (the cheapest option). There are no problems with food either.
If your stay does not include meals, there are several cafes in the village, as well as chain grocery stores. From infrastructure - Post and Sberbank. You can buy tourist vouchers or order a taxi at any time. Taxi drivers will be happy to also serve as guides for you.
I must say that the Adyghe people are very hospitable people and will be happy to share with you everything they know about their region.
Attractions
Khadzhokh Gorge. This is one of the most popular places among tourists. It is located on the border with the village of Kamennomostsky.
And it is a deep gorge through which the Belaya River flows. In clear weather, the water turns a beautiful blue color. There are observation platforms for tourists, connected by bridges. There is a small zoo on site.
Dolmens. Throughout Adygea there are ancient structures made of large stone blocks called dolmens.
Until now, scientists have not been able to figure out the purpose of these structures. It is believed that the dolmens are 5 thousand years old. There is such a building next to Kamennomostsky.
Mishoko Gorge. From the village to the gorge, the distance is several kilometers, tourists walk, book a horse ride or take a taxi.
Mishoko Gorge is a beautiful place with numerous picturesque waterfalls. Powerful waterfalls do not freeze in winter, but weaker waterfalls can freeze, which professionals in ice climbing enjoy using.
For the comfort of tourists, the gorge area has observation platforms, parking, cafes and toilets.
Thermal springs. Thermal springs in winter are a wonderful attraction for guests. The water temperature is 30 degrees above zero. Air - about 0 degrees or a slight minus.
From history, thermal springs appeared in Adygea not so long ago, only in the middle of the last century.
Scientists were conducting geological exploration of natural resources in these places, and came across hot water. The excavations were mothballed, but the water still found its way to the surface, forming hot springs.
Over time, resort areas were built next to the springs, where, to the delight of vacationers, a full range of therapeutic procedures is presented. Currently, income from the use of thermal springs makes up a significant part of the local budget.
Lago-Naki plateau. Another Mecca for tourists visiting the republic. What is the Lago-Naki Plateau?
These are majestic mountains, endless landscapes, ski slopes, caves, equipped for tourists, and there are also unequipped ones for those who love extreme tourism.
Tourists are entertained here by organizing snowmobile rallies or organizing walking or horseback riding routes along the snow-capped peaks.
Not far from Kamennomostsky there are active amusement parks “Mishoko” and “Tethys”.
Tourists will find attractions and entertainment for everyone here: from horseback riding to flying over the gorge.
What to bring as a souvenir?
Of course, first of all, Adyghe cheese, mountain honey, medicinal herbs.
Also in Adygea, Adyghe tea is grown - the northernmost tea in the world. In terms of its saturation with microelements, it is even better than Ceylon tea.
Nature is truly generous to local residents.
Maybe some of you have already been to Adygea? Share your impressions of the trip with us in the comments. See you soon!
The mountains are covered with dense green thickets and topped with snow caps. Waterfalls attract from afar with the sound of crashing streams. Here flowers grow on the stones, and lonely eagles soar overhead.Simply put, Adygea is a region with amazing nature. Once you go a little deeper into the forests, you will find yourself in a real jungle, surrounded by butterflies and ferns. If it were not for the asphalt roads, this place could at one time be confused with Narnia.
The depth of this winding gorge is about 40 meters. Standing on the equipped platform, you will see the Belaya River noisily rushing through a stone corridor, which either narrows or widens. Centuries-old boulders framed by lush greenery and foamy spray are worth seeing. There is also a small zoo on the territory with wolves, bears and even an ostrich. The best place to start is by visiting the Khadzhokh Gorge.
2. Lago-Naki plateau
The high mountain plateau stretches for tens of kilometers. Thanks to this, it is located in several climatic zones at once, and you can go from broad-leaved forests to glaciers and watch how the nature around you changes. There are several panoramic points with breathtaking views, which can be reached during...
3. Mountains Fisht, Oshten and Pshekho-Su
These peaks are located nearby. According to one of the Adyghe legends, the mountains are named after three warriors who died in battle with foreign conquerors. But travelers are attracted by the grandiose views that open from the slopes. There are many hiking trails leading to the peaks. On the way to the mountains you will encounter endless plateaus, alpine meadows, herds of horses and dazzling snowfields on emerald slopes.
4. Rufabgo Falls
Filling the gorge, the Rufabgo River forms 10 picturesque waterfalls. One of them rushes down in a rapid stream from under a huge boulder resembling a human heart. This waterfall is called “Heart of Rufabgo”. Walking through the waterfalls in time is a real adventure. The rappel descent into the grotto, hidden in the beech thickets and covered with ivy, will be remembered for a long time. But you can look at the waterfalls from the side, for example, during.
Along with Baikal and the volcanoes of Kamchatka, the natural sites of Adygea are included in the World Natural Heritage List.
5. Caves
There are many caves in Adygea. The most popular among tourists is Bolshaya Azishskaya. It is illuminated and equipped with stairs, so anyone can get into it. And those who are not looking for easy ways can go down into wild caves that now look the same as they did thousands of years ago.
The Piketnaya Cave is like a labyrinth about 65 meters long. Narrow and short passages lead to halls full of stalactites, stalagmites and stalagnates. Nearby is the Beautiful Cave, which is almost three times larger. The entrance to it is a hole resembling a hole that leads steeply down. You can go down here only with the help of special equipment used by speleologists. The list of wild caves in Adygea does not end here: Sukhaya, Saxophone, Flute - choose any one or visit them all at once!
If you still have time after all these places, there will still be a lot to see. The Belaya River, flowing through a granite canyon 200 meters deep, forms high rapids and small waterfalls. This place is ideal for. You can get to the canyon, as well as to the St. Michael’s Athos Monastery. Several ancient dolmens have been preserved in Adygea, and you can visit them during. There are many picturesque rocks to which you can make radial trips. For example, .
What to do in Adygea
The landscape of Adygea includes majestic mountains and rushing waterfalls, flowering plains and raging rivers, sheer cliffs and deep gorges. Here you can do almost any type of outdoor activity or.
Forest and dirt roads are ideal for jeeping, and along the way you can see more than one iconic place. A memorable alternative is in an open body. The car will bounce and roll every now and then, like a real attraction, and you can even touch tree branches with your hands (or not with your hands, depending on your luck :)). Don't want to sit in the car? Try an ATV or bicycle.
The best way to feel unity with nature and enjoy panoramic views is during.
Navigating the rushing cascades of water while rappelling is great. But if you are attracted only by the mountains, and you don’t want to get wet at all, you can.
For lovers of heights, Adygea has a real adrenaline bomb in store - extreme parks and the Canyon. Here you will fly on a zipline from one cliff to another and go through a via ferrata. By the way, this entertainment, like canyoning, will cost much more abroad.
Those who love heights can go to one of the mountain peaks, and lovers of depth can go speleotourism and explore thousand-year-old formations inside wild caves.
- something that is definitely worth trying. If only because in different sections it has rapids of varying difficulty, which means that anyone can raft - the guide will select a suitable place.
Plants and animals of Adygea
Thanks to the heterogeneous landscape, the vegetation here is very diverse. There are many relicts and endemics here, for example, Trautvetter maple or Pontic rhododendron. Approximately 230 species of fungi and plants are classified as rare and endangered.
You can find fir and beech forests, meadow and grass steppes, birch forests and alpine meadows - and what not to find here :) And July is generally the height of flowering of herbs, when the ground turns into carpets of flowers. The zonation is clearly expressed here, which means that as the altitude changes, the plant species change.
If you are going on a trip to Adygea in the summer, getting vaccinated against tick-borne encephalitis will not hurt.
Cuisine of Adygea
Everyone knows what they are doing in Adygea delicious cheese. But if you have to visit here, be sure to try not only the cheese itself, but also dishes with it. Here it is fried with vegetables and herbs, added to pies and pasties, soups, salads and cheesecakes.
As in others Caucasian regions, in Adygea there are many meat dishes. When cooking, the meat is sprinkled with garlic salt, which is prepared locally. Be sure to try the shish kebab - the locals know a lot about cooking over a fire.
The region is rich in grains, so many dishes include cereals. For example, chips (sauce) is prepared from broth and wheat flour, butter, onions and spices. And it is served with corn or wheat porridge.
What to bring from your trip
First of all, cheese. It is made here from cow, goat and sheep milk, sold fresh and smoked. Adyghe cheese will appeal to lovers of feta cheese, feta and mozzarella. You can notice a characteristic ribbed pattern on the surface of the cheese. The fact is that during production, cheese is poured into wicker baskets, where it then hardens with patterned indentations.
Locals prepare wine and a variety of liqueurs, which are sold in almost all tourist places. Sunny Adygea has a lot of fruits and berries, so there is a wide variety of jam and preserves (it is even made from pine cones).
Here you can buy warm clothes made of natural wool, stone or wood products.
Weather in Adygea
Thanks to the proximity of the ice-free Black Sea, which accumulates heat, the climate here is moderate.
Winter is mild and with little snow. The coldest month is January. The average temperature at this time is only -2-4°C. But sometimes there are real frosts and down to -30°C.
Spring comes to the plains already at the end of February, and to the mountains another month later. In mid-April it’s already +10°C, and in May it’s quite warm.
Summer is dry and hot on the plains, cooler in the foothills. The average temperature is about +25°C.
In autumn the weather is also warm and dry, so traveling around Adygea in September is just as pleasant as in summer. Significant cooling begins only in the second half of October.
Accommodation in Adygea
Arriving in Adygea on vacation, you can stay in the village. Kamennomostsky, from which it is convenient to get to almost any place.
If you want to be closer to nature, you can stay in a tent camp. For example, accommodation in equipped tents overlooking the Lago-Naki plateau. Sometimes you can literally touch the clouds that have descended from the mountains here.
If you prefer more comfortable conditions, choose one of the many tourist centers.
In you can choose the guest house "Park Hadzhokh" in the center of Kamennomostsky or the bases "Golden Deer" and "Green Guy" in the picturesque foothills.
On the territory of each base there are gazebos and barbecues, and in the rooms and houses there is a toilet and shower with hot water.
How to get to Adygea
The regional center of the republic is Maykop. But you can’t get there directly by plane or train. The most convenient way is to go through Krasnodar.
A plane ticket to Krasnodar will cost about 10,000 rubles. in both directions, and the travel time will be about two hours. It takes longer to get there by train, about a day. But you can find a ticket from 2,909 rubles. one way.
From Krasnodar you will need a transfer to Kamennomostsky. The journey will take about two more hours, and the cost will be about 3,000 rubles one way.
You don't have to worry about logistics. We will organize a meeting at the station/airport and transfer and help with the purchase of tickets.
Where to look for inspiration
To summarize: Adygea is a land of waterfalls and green mountains, steep cliffs and winding rivers, ancient caves and the brightest stars.
To better imagine the beauty of this place, be inspired by Andrey Vasiliskov’s photographs and be sure to read about how our team spent the weekend in Adygea!
The first time we were in Adygea several years ago - just one day. However, he forever left in his memory the most beautiful mountain landscapes with rivers seething in narrow canyons and multi-meter waterfalls. And most importantly, the desire to return to this place someday paradise. Memory is a strange thing, it removes thoughts for a long time to the margins of consciousness and unexpectedly returns them... This spring, the news about the European Rafting Championships being held in Adygea evoked everything that happened in memory, becoming a catalyst for our thoughts and feelings...
Kamennomostsky is famous for the Khadzhokh Gorge - a narrow and deep gorge, and it owes its name to it. This miracle of nature was created by the Belaya River, which, having encountered a limestone strata on its way, laid an intricate half-kilometer corridor in it, and in some places a tunnel.
Later, the “ceiling” in this tunnel partially collapsed, forming stone bridges. The river here is like an angry genie escaped from a bottle: the stream rushes at breakneck speed and with a loud, dissatisfied roar. If you look, you can find a staircase leading to the water itself. And standing above the furious stream, clutching the yellow railings with primitive horror and delight, feel the full power of this element. And at night, lanterns light up over the gorge with a mysterious light... In the morning, you can’t immediately believe that you woke up. It's the end of April, and from the window you can see a blooming garden, blossoming lilacs, and on the horizon - mountains completely covered with lush greenery. Outside there is a warm sun, a light breeze stirs the air, infused with the aroma of coniferous forests and the herbs of alpine meadows...
You understand that mountainous Adygea is one big natural attraction after ten minutes of conversation with the guide, and immediately, no matter how far you come, you begin to regret that there still won’t be enough days to see everything. We only had 4 days to do everything.
In the first of them, we went to the Guam Gorge - an absolutely fantastic place, where the height of the cliffs hanging overhead reaches 400 meters, and multi-meter waterfalls fall from them, like strands of gray hair developing in the wind, or flowing with tears. If the director of the saga "The Lord of the Rings" Peter Jackson would have seen this gorge, then it would still big question, would he shoot all the scenes of the film in New Zealand...
Back in 1934, prisoners used pickaxes to cut a niche in the wall of the gorge for a narrow-gauge railway. Now tourists walk on the sleepers. In the middle of the gorge there is a small house in which an extremely sociable caretaker lives - simply a “treasury” of information. He is ready not only to feed you aromatic shish kebab, but also to tell you a lot of interesting things: about mysterious caves and foreign conquerors who were stopped here by local residents in ancient times.
In fact, Adygea is very rich in colorful gorges. No less picturesque is the Granite Gorge of the Belaya River, which we managed to look into on the second day of our stay in Adygea, heading from Kamennomostsky to Guzeripl - a cult place for Russian watermen. From here begins the water route, the passage of which is a kind of test of professionalism. This year the European Rafting Championship was held here for the first time in Russia.
Teams consisting of 6 athletes not only overcame the most difficult natural obstacles - rapids, but also passed gates built from wooden stakes suspended above the water. The boat takes off, the spectators freeze, watching every stroke of the oars, the raft turns - a collective sigh, the distance is covered - a roar that drowns out the rapids - here they really “get sick”, because this rafting is beautiful and risky at the same time.
In Guzeriple itself there is the largest dolmen in Adygea - a mysterious structure made of huge stone slabs, somewhat reminiscent of a beehive, and the nature museum of the Caucasian State Biosphere Reserve. On the walls of the museum there are all kinds of stands with dried plants, in the middle there is a tree surrounded by three “artificial” brown bears. A significant part of the museum is occupied by materials about the work on restoring the bison population, significant already because there is a stuffed animal of this huge shaggy animal.
We devoted the third day of active recreation in Adygea to a walk to the waterfalls on the Rufabgo River. The waterfalls are located just a few kilometers from the village of Kamennomostsky. A wide path leads to the first waterfall. However, the further path runs almost according to the principle: the further into the forest, the more firewood, or rather stones. The path rises several meters above the ground, interrupted by slippery rock steps. There are alternating steep ascents and slippery descents, the natural staircase for movement along which is the roots of trees.
That’s why most people don’t go far, they only see a couple of waterfalls and back. Many people end their excursion near the “Heart of Rufabgo” waterfall: the river goes around a boulder and falls into the canyon. Ancient legend says that the stone blocking a stormy river is the heart of an evil giant, which he tore out brave young man Hadjokh, who did not want to give up his bride. We passed this and two other waterfalls, and then climbed for a long time along the path to the top to look at the Rufabgo gorge from a cliff several hundred meters away. We also had a small picnic here. Tea, sandwiches with Adyghe cheese, a breathtaking view of the gorge, the sound of waterfalls somewhere below, around there are gorgeous burgundy wild peonies that any flowerbed near Moscow would envy... Isn’t this happiness?
Three days in Adygea flew by instantly. On the fourth day we were greeted with the high mountain plateau of Lagonaki and the Great Azish Cave. By car we went high into the mountains, periodically stopping at observation platforms. The Lagonaki Highlands are rich in caves. Located in the southern part of the Azish-Tau ridge at an altitude of about 1600 meters, the Great Azish Cave is said to be the most visited. About a third of the cave – 220 meters – is equipped for excursions. At the entrance to the cave there is a metal staircase going underground. It leads to halls equipped with walking paths, in which there is huge amount all kinds of stalagmites, stalactites and stalagnates, in which, during their long stay underground, the guides managed to discern different fairy-tale heroes, and now they are trying to convince everyone else that they see Baba Yaga, Father Frost, Don Quixote and many others in the cave.
From the cave, the asphalt road goes higher into the mountains - and somehow ends abruptly at the Azish Pass. Next is the territory of the reserve. From this place there is a view of the Lagonaki plateau - a colossal territory of alpine meadows at an altitude of about 2000 meters. The guide says that standing on the observation deck, almost everyone, with the exception of golf lovers, feels the desire to become a bird... The romance of limitless spaces...